W2k oem install

[shiny1]

I have a Dell notebook that came with W2k pro on it.  I thought I'd try to install W2k on another pc using the supplied Dell operating system disk, Windows 2000 pro w/sp-1. (I have legit key)  At some point it halts and states the obvious that this is not a Dell machine, blah blah blah.
I was wondering how set-up knows what to look for? bios info etc.? Is the cd just a restore image or a true copy of W2k as it appears?  Is it possible to alter a string somewhere  (i386\setupp.ini, etc.) to permit an install?  
Thanks for any insight in advance,
jon.

[The Nonentity]

The Dell CD has a BIOS checker tool on it.
That's how it knows.  http://images.thetechguide.com/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/laugh.gif\' class=\'bbc_emoticon\' alt=\':lol:\' />

Since it says no cracks, I'm not telling of any workarounds http://images.thetechguide.com/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif\' class=\'bbc_emoticon\' alt=\'\' />