Windows XP Code Purple Message

One of our customers brought their HP Computer that wouldn't finish the installation setup. They were getting a "Code Purple" message on startup and couldn't complete the Windows installation setup. This Code Purple can also happen at any time on newer HP computers as well we've found. If you call HP for support they will tell you that will need to have your PC "retattoed".

I know what you're thinking, a computer has a tattoo? In a round about way, yes. Basically HP creates unique signature of your computer and the install discs and stores it on the motherboard. If your hardware changes too much or if your install CD's signature doesn't match the signature on the motherboard it will lock you out of the machine. This is was intended to prevent piracy, but it causes a lot of headaches for non-pirates.

Fortunately there is a way around it, but it's kind of a pain to do it. Basically you need to delete contents in the following folder:

C:\hp\bin\CheckConfig\

In there are three files that are responsible for the security check. Deleting these files doesn't hurt anything.