Hello Dan,
Instead of using an instance of Windows XP solely to use Chirp..
you might try using a bootable Linux CD. For example, Andy's
HamRadio ISO:
https://sourceforge.net/projects/kb1oiq-andysham/
Assuming your old computer can boot from a USB port, this ISO has
Chirp already installed. If you have a cutting edge radio, maybe
the included version of Chirp might not support it but if you use
a USB pendrive that has some extra space (the ISO is only 1.9GB),
this distro will allow you to do in-line upgrades and upgrade
Chirp, etc. and it all stays on the USB pendrive across reboots.
Just like a real hard drive but it's portable! Something to
consider!
--David
KI6ZHD