How the .NET Micro Framework and Windows CE differ

By Doug
2007-02-09

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Confused about where the .NET Micro Framework (.NET MF) fits into Microsoft's embedded software lineup? Senior Windows Embedded product manager Mike Hall clears this question up in his latest "What's the Difference?" article, which compares and contrasts Windows CE 6.0 and the .NET Micro Framework.

As we know from Hall's previous "What's the Difference?" article, Windows CE 6 is a hard real-time, componentized operating system that runs on a range of processor architectures that are equipped with MMUs (memory management units).

In contrast, .NET MF is a much smaller footprint platform. The most obvious devices running .NET MF are SPOT watches (Smart Personal Object Technology), Salton's smart coffee pot, and SideShow LCDs on some state-of-the-art Windows Vista Laptops. But there are a "TON of other device categories that could also use this interesting new embedded operating system," Hall writes.

What sets .NET MF apart from most embedded operating systems, according to Hall, is the programming model. Specifically, device drivers as well as applications are written in managed code (yes, device drivers!). The assumption is that most .NET MF developers will be working with existing hardware reference platforms with a pre-written board support package delivered in the form of a managed assembly.

Read Hall's brief technical article here:

.NET MicroFramework and Windows CE -- What's the Difference?

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