Product Activation - XP and TMPGEnc

[Robert Simandl]

Well, it looks like my mobo is about to bite the dust and I'll have to install a new one.

I have the OEM version of Windows XP SP2 (bought from Viosoftware.com) and the TMPGEnc AC-3 plug-in. Both of these programs require product activation.

Will I be able to keep using them with the new motherboard (all other components including CPU will remain the same), or will I have to buy them again?

Thanks.

[Xylob the Destroyer]

if the new motherboard is the exact same model as your old one, you shouldn't have to do anything different
but if you get a new motherboard, you will have to do a complete re-install of Windows (as well as everything else)

[Robert Simandl]

Hi Xylob,

It will be a different model mobo.

I'm not bothered by having to reinstall the OS and all the software, I just want to make sure XP and the AC-3 plug-in will still work with my same serial numbers. I don't want to do all that work and then be told "sorry, we can not activate your software. Go buy another copy."

[reboot]

You do NOT have to do a complete reinstall of windows and everything else.
Insert CD, start a new install. Right after you push F8 to agree to the TOS, hit "R" to repair the current one.
When done, immediately load the new drivers for your new motherboard.

[Gurm]

Regardless, even if you have reactivate, you won't have to buy it again. These things (hardware swaps) DO happen, and the folks at Pegasys and Microsoft know that they happen. They want your money, but once they've got it they're pleasant to talk to and willing to help.

So just call them and they'll happily reactivate you with the new hardware.

[Robert Simandl]

Ah, THAT'S the answer I was looking for! Thanks!

[reboot]

Microsoft's activation allows for 2 (If I remember right) major hardware changes, before it asks for reactivation.
Pegasys shouldn't care how many hardware changes you make.