Compatibility of I386 File between different Win XP Pro desktops

[OneBigNewbie]

Hi All,

I need help here to help my friend.

My friend just bought a used HP Pro 6005 Desktop which the seller has cleaned up with XP Pro (SP3) installed and running successfully. (There is no Nero or Roxio CD burner software on it, and there is no floppy drive on it). The I386 Folder is also missing. He wanted to create a Bootable Windows Setup CD.

It seems without the I386 Folder, it would not serve the purpose even though he may be able to create a Bootable Windows Setup CD.

He got another friend who has a used but clean HP 7100c Desktop which runs with Windows XP Pro (SP3). His friend (She) copied her I386 folder for him. Now he is completely confused on the following points to create his Boot CD:-
a) can he used this I386 Folder on his HP Pro 6005 copied from an HP7100c Desktop.
b) can he copy an I386 Folder from another Windows XP Pro Installation CD on his HP Pro 6005 Desktop.
c) without Nero or Roxio to create his boot CD (but he only wanted it to be on CD and not on floppy disks), how can he do it.

I appreciate your advice and response to help my friend.

[SpywareDr]

How to Create a Bootable Windows XP Setup Disk
http://www.howtohaven.com/system/cre...etupdisk.shtml

[OneBigNewbie]

Hi Spyware Dr,

Your recommended method require (as PREREQUISITE) the I386 Folder/Directory.

Now, please advise:-
a) can my friend use this I386 Folder on his HP Pro 6005 copied from an HP7100c Desktop.
b) can he copy an I386 Folder from another Windows XP Pro Installation CD on his HP Pro 6005 Desktop.

Thanks.

[SpywareDr]

Yes.

Note that another common location for the i386 folder is C:\Windows\i386.