[Skybird]

Without doubt it will be available on DVD, like there have been SP2 CDs for free as well. That one I will get, but will use it only when I manually install my system new (not using a mirror-image of readied installation).

Does anyone know how MS handles it when you have eaten up all attempts to install XP from CD with the included registration code, and already have needed to call them on the phone to get a new replacement code - will I be able to use that one again in my next manual installation, or do I need to call them again now to get my third code? If so, I may consider to buy a new copy before XP is taken of the shelves inJuly. Just to be independant from that service when wanting to use on my next (hopoefully far away) system too, and MS eventually shutting down the telephone line.

Or could I use my backup image of my then old system despite the different hardware - would that installation then self-adjust to the changed hardware components when it is started the first time (drivers for graphics board for example can be changed manually)? I love these backup images, it is as time consuming as manual installation of all the stuff I have, but I must sit sit 8 hours beside it and nurse it by hand and manually make all the confirmations and adjustements, but can let it run by itself while doing other things.