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XP Media Center Edition 2005: Questions & Links
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FAQ
1) I purchased XP MCE 2005. Why does my System Properties say I have XP
2002?
A: This is normal. MCE is based on XP Professional, 2002. To verify the version
of your operating system, click on the MCE desktop icon>Settings>General>About Media
Center>Software Version. For a more in-depth explanation, see Which Version of MCE
Am I Running? and also this MS KB article.
2) How does XP MCE differ from XP Pro?
A: MCE has all the functions of XP Pro, except for the ability to join a
domain (seldom needed, unless your workplace requires it). There is
however, a registry hack that will enable MCE users to join a domain. (See
below). A more detailed comparison of all XP versions currently available
is here.
3) Can I upgrade from XP MCE to XP Pro?
A: No. There is no upgrade available. You would have to uninstall MCE, and
install XP Pro.
4) If MCE is XP Pro with extra media functions, why does XP Pro cost
more?
A: It's a marketing decision. Go figure...
5) So where is this hack that enables MCE to join a domain?
A: The instructions are here.
6) How do I re-install MCE when Dell didn't send the backup disks?
A: Dell no longer routinely includes backup disks for operating systems,
unless specifically ordered at time of PC purchase (typically for about $10
extra). If you did not do this, and are still under warranty, you can
obtain all backup disks for your MCE and applications by contacting Dell
via the "Contact Us" link at ther bottom of the Dell Forums. Using "Chat"
or "email" is your best option. Be polite, but persistent. Most members
report that Dell will send them the disks free of charge. Note that the
backup for MCE may come on a DVD, rather than 2 CD's.
7) How do I re-install MCE without all the Dell pre-installed
junkware?
A: "Alright...After installing MCE2005 (clean install), the Dell CD does
indeed add other uneeded stuff to the computer. Some things I noticed were
samples of videos, recorded shows, music, and pictures. Also, an ESPN
program, a few games, the WildTangent drivers for the games, and other
things were installed. To not have these things installed, I created a
copy of the install CD, but deleted the $OEM$ folder. This way the
installation process does not run the scripts found in the folder when the
installation is complete. Now the completed installation looks like an
original Microsoft installation rather than a Dell customized
installation...I just copied the entire DVD to the HD (make sure you can
view hidden files first); or if you have two drives, just put the install
DVD in one and the DVD to be burned in another. Assuming you know how to
burn CD/DVD's, select all the files/folders but the $OEM$ folder to burn
(so you have an exact copy, but the $OEM$ folder is missing). You will also
need to do a few other steps to make the CD bootable." (Thanks to 03codyn
for this tip).
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Useful Links
The above questions are but a few of those frequently asked in the Dell
Forums. For other answers, I highly recommend the following resources:
The Green
Button Forums devoted to all things MCE (registration required).
The Green
Button Downloads Useful free utilities for MCE, mostly related to
editing and converting files of recorded TV programs.
Aaron Stebner' s Blogs
Updates, tips, and more from a developer...
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