Yes

The "Slipstream installation disk" is what I have been trying to track down since after your 1st reply about my conundrum. I searched the Dell site and they spoke of such a thing like it's already a done deal, but it is only offered in conjunction with the proprietary XP install package. As I am already in possession of a generic copy of XP pro installation CD I wasn't interested in forking out $199 for the package. Unable to get anyone on the phone who will discuss this with me.
You are my only ray of sunshine in this quest.
Have done software fixes, system tune-ups and minor upgrades for years (I date back to CP/M on an Osborne computer) but this new-fangled shinola has thrown me for a loop.

Ed