Bruce--M wrote:

> I think I mentioned the HD had been formatted?...... Cupboard is bare as a
> babies ............

>> I bought a 2nd hand computer recently & it looks like the LEGAL product
>> key
>> has been cleaned with some solvent.
>> I can very clearly see the full code.
>> The HD was formatted.
>> I CAN NOT read if it's XP Home, XP Pro or even Windows 2000.
>> Is there some way I can find out?
>> The key starts with ........
>> HDBY3-H3X49-49PWX- etc
>>
>> HELP ! !
>
> http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/
> Download freebee keyfinder (Magic Jelly Bean) and run...........the
> software, I mean! Not you!:-)

Sorry, there isn't going to be any way to find out what the original license
was for. Run a diagnostic from one of the freely available utility disks
like Ultimate Boot CD to see what hardware is in the system and then
purchase an operating system that works with that hardware. Or put Linux on
it for free if you don't want to buy a Microsoft OS.

Malke
--
MS-MVP
Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/#FAQ