Embedded WinXP (SP1) targets dedicated iappliances

Redmond, Wa. --- Microsoft Corp.'s Windows XP embedded with service pack 1 (SP1) is the componentized version of the Windows XP with SP1 operating system.

It runs on the x86 architecture and is targeted at dedicated Internet-centric appliance applications such as point-of-sale terminals, and self-service kiosks.

It includes several features tailored to dedicated iappliance and embedded applications, such as remote boot, which enables an XP Embedded client device to boot remotely using an image downloaded from a server. Another feature is the device update agent, which enables incremental updating and service for XP Embedded devices in the field. Such devices include thin clients, gaming systems, residential gateways, and set-top boxes.

Windows XP Embedded with SP1 features a system deployment image manager, which enables users to deploy runtime images to devices, and a footprint estimator, which estimates the size of individual components and their dependencies before adding them to a configuration.

The Microsoft .NET framework is also part of Windows XP Embedded with SP1; it can be used to build, deploy, and run Web-based applications, XML web services, and stand-alone applications built on the common language runtime and .NET Framework class libraries.

Windows XP Embedded with SP1 supports IPv6 and USB 2.0.

As part of a promotion, tool suites for Windows XP Embedded with SP1 will cost $995 for the next six months.

Evaluation copies of the new operating system are available for download now at the company's website.

For more information on this product go to www.Microsoft.com

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