Noob needs help with XP OEM Version

[georgeo]

I've done a couple reinstallations of XP so I'm not a total noob, but now I'm building my first computer and bought XP Pro SP3 in the OEM version. My understanding is that the only difference between the OEM and Retail versions is that I give up Microsoft support in exchange for saving about $200 so it seemed like a no brainer.

Anyhow, there's a label on the package that tells me I need a OEM Preinstallation Kit. (OPK). My questions are:

What is it?
Do I really need it?
If so, where do I get it?

I went to the MS web site and they want me to sign up as a system builder and the info I've been able to find through Google is vague.

Can someone please help?

Thanks

geogreo

[Darthtanion]

Never heard of an OPK and have never used one, even when installing from an "OEM" package. Try the installation and see how it goes... my bet is it will work just fine.