So I built my PC myself. Did a pretty good job if I don't say so myself for a first timer. I use Window's XP Pro and yes, I bought the retail copy. I unfortunately don't have any of my docs...can't find them including my product Key. I've now run into some problems with the system and need to re-install XP Pro. (I'm typing from my Gfriends Pc). Before I wipe out the hard drive, is there a way for me to get the Product Key directly off of the CD by searching for it in any way? I did get the utility that reads the key off of a running PC but that won't help me since I can't get my PC to stay up and running long enough to even launch the program.

Thanks!

Nope there's no way of 'finding' the code on the cd. Guess you've got to contact microsoft and explain. They can help you
Or you can try booting in safemode and run the utility to find your key

You can only get the key from the hard drive - use a utility like this: http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4138.html

Thanks for the info.

Problem is...I can't get the PC to run so I have to re-install the operating system. I'm trying to do this without having to dump another $200 on a new XP.

When you contact microsoft they can give you a knew key, provided you have the original winxpcd

Did you also try running that app in safemode as suggested? It might work , or if you explain the problems you are having maybe we can help resolve them without a format.

Well, I actually did find the product key and am up and running...but with another glitch.

I have an overclockable motherboard as well as video card. I pushed 'em a bit too far so I brought my processor speed back down to a safe level but I can't get the PC to stay up long enough to bring down the overclocking of the video card. It just keeps re-booting. I've seen this happen in the past when I've pushed machines but I've always been able to just bring it back stable.

I'm using another video card to stay up and running.

Is there a way to disable the drivers so that the video card will run at default levels or do I need to uninstall the drivers completely then go through the whole thing of reinstalling and updating them?

Thanks again for all the help!