Microsoft previews new version of its componentised OS

By Alun Williams

Posted on 4 Oct 2004 at 16:53

Microsoft has posted a technology preview of a new service pack for Windows XP Embedded, a componentised form of its operating system for small-footprint environments, for download.

The Windows XP Embedded version of the OS allows developers with only limited memory available to create an image of the OS that contains only the parts needed to drive an application or device. Each 'platform' ships with a database of components (such as Notepad.exe or Internet Explorer) that can be included in a runtime image of that OS.

Aimed at device developers, the technology preview of Service Pack 2 includes DirectX 9.0c and Bluetooth support, the use of a built-in firewall, a more secure version Internet Explorer and faster boot times.

The service pack also supports Microsoft Software Update Services (SUS) and Systems Management Server 2003 (SMS) for the automatic deployment of security updates for XP Embedded-based devices.

Note that you need to have Windows XP Embedded Service Pack 1 already installed before you try to install the technology preview, which can be downloaded here.

You can find more information on the Embedded section of the MSDN website.