Embedded Windows XP debuts
By Warren Webb -- EDN, January 10, 2002
A little more than a month after the release of its latest desktop operating system, Microsoft has announced the embedded version of Windows XP. With applications in systems such as retail point-of-sale devices, thin clients, gaming systems, self-service kiosks, industrial automation, residential gateways, and advanced set-top boxes, Windows XP Embedded allows designers to choose from more than 10,000 components to build small-footprint embedded operating systems. Windows XP Embedded, the successor to Windows NT Embedded, also supports headless systems and flexible boot and storage options to meet the unique requirements of embedded devices.
Windows XP Embedded allows for footprints of 4.8 Mbytes for a minimum configuration; 14 Mbytes for a basic Win32 system; 25 Mbytes for a basic Win32 system with security infrastructure; and 70 Mbytes for the full Win32 API set with the user interface, Web browser, media player, terminal-server client, USB support, and SNMP support.
Along with the operating system, Microsoft has introduced an embedded tool suite that enables developers to rapidly configure, build, and deploy smart connected devices. Developers can order an evaluation copy of Windows XP Embedded from the Microsoft Web site. The evaluation software provides a full version of the tools and the operating-system binaries, allowing developers to build prototypes and test their Windows XP Embedded images. The embedded images created with the evaluation edition carry a 120-day expiration date after users first boot the device. You can get the full version of Windows XP Embedded tool suite for a promotional price of $995 until Feb 28, 2002, from Microsoft-authorized distributors.
Microsoft Corp, 1-425-882-8080, www.microsoft.com/embedded.
