Kexinger,
IMO your best option is to contact HP to request replacement recovery CDs for your model of HP/Compaq computer.
However, sometimes these CDs are simply not available.
Plan B: contact a reseller of genuine recovery CDs, such as
www.restoredisks.com Plan C: use a set of genuine hologrammed systembuilder/oem CDs for XP Media Center 2005, along with the genuine Product Key on the CoA affixed to your computer, cleanly install XP MCE onto the computer. Once complete, do a telephone activation. If asked, tell the activation reps that you had to do a clean installation but did not have manufacturer recovery Cds so you had to use systembuilder/oem CDs in combination with your genuine Product Key from your CoA.
Genuine Systembuilder/OEM CDs for XP MCE 2005 are not nearly as common as for XP Home or Pro. If none of your friends has the set, you may have to visit a local trusted computer shop to acquire a set.
Under no circumstances should you use downloaded iso copies of MCE CDs, as these are likely loaded with spyware, rootkits, and who-knows-what-else!
For great advice on all topics XP, visit http://www.annoyances.org/exec/forum/winxp
