Will a DSP version of Windows XP work with Bootcamp?

Question

Hi all. I am a semi-recent Mac convert. I have used Windows-based computers my entire life. I am an engineer and I use a lot of 3D modelling and FEA-analysis-type programs, all of which require a powerful computer and all of which are Windows-based. I bought a MacBook Pro with Tiger a couple months ago and will never go back to a PC for regular everyday computing. Very wonderful machine and well worth the money. I only wish now that I had waited for Leopard to come out so I would already have Bootcamp.
I now would like to upgrade to Leopard in order to get Bootcamp so I can set up a partition for XP. I realize that this requires a purchase of a full version of Windows and OS 10.5. I would like to purchase a full DSP version of XP Professional, since it is generally less expensive than OEM and has unlimited installation capability, rather than just a single license. DSP, from what I understand is supposed to be identical to the OEM version, minus a manual, a box, and tech support. I don't forsee a problem installing this on my Mac with Bootcamp, but I wanted to know if there's anyone else out there who has tried this and succeeded/failed at it before I start messing with my system. Remember, this is a full version of XP Professional that I'm referring to...it's just that it's a DSP version with a volume license, rather than OEM, with a single license. Thanks!

Answer 1

James Bond 007,
Alright cool. Thanks for your help. My only prior experience with any operating system was with Windows. Buying a Mac has certainly shown me that I don't have to deal with regular system freezes and crashes as I did with Windows.
Barlsaxshorty,
OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer". OEM versions are usually what comes preinstalled on a new computer. Like DSP (Delivery Service Partner) versions, they don't come with a box, a printed manual, and usually no tech support or rebates. This means the software can be sold for much much cheaper than retail versions.
As per James Bond 007's response, you will be able to install an OEM FULL version just fine. A full version means that you are installing a particular type of operating system (such as Windows) for the first time. An upgrade is only for owners of previous versions of that software line. For example, someone with Windows 2000 currently could buy an UPGRADE to Windows XP at a significantly lower price, which only includes those resources necessary to make the upgrade that the previous version didn't contain. A FULL version of Windows XP is what would be installed on a computer that did not previously have a version of Windows on it, such as a Mac. In order to run Mac OS 10.5 AND Windows XP through Bootcamp, you will need to purchase a FULL version, whether it's a retail, OEM, or DSP version.