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        Windows Embedded Standard 2011 is revamped, renamed

        Jonathan Angel | Date: Feb 15, 2010 | Comments: 1


        Microsoft announced a new version and a new name for the x86 embedded operating system previously code-named "Quebec." Formerly known as Windows Embedded Standard 2011, Windows Embedded Standard 7 is now available in new RC (release candidate) builds for both 32- and 64-bit devices, according to the company.

        An email sent today to those who downloaded previous CTP (Community Technology Previews) of Windows Embedded Standard 2011 -- see background later in this story -- announced that a new release candidate build is now online, asking recipients to "please download and test it right away, .... as it means we are very close to the final build." The message also announced the operating system's new moniker: Windows Embedded Standard 7.

        In a related notice on Microsoft's Connect website, Windows Embedded Standard program managers Shayna Begun and Lesley Bacon write, "Customers and partners alike have commented that it is not clear that Windows Embedded Standard 2011 is based on Windows 7, and have requested that the product name include Windows 7 in some way so the connection is clear." As a result, they explain, Windows Embedded products will move from year versions "to number versions based on the underlying OS for the next set of product releases."

        Therefore, what was to be known as Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will now be known as Windows Embedded Standard 7, according to Microsoft. The company adds that a forthcoming, soon-to-be-released upgrade to Windows CE that would have been known as Windows Embedded Compact 2011 will now be called Windows Embedded Compact 7. Similarly, it's said the future release of Microsoft Auto software, code-named Motegi, will be known as Windows Embedded Automotive 7.

        Microsoft says the Windows Embedded Standard RC is being provided as five download packages, as follows:

        • Windows Embedded Standard 7 RC Toolkit: This .ISO will install the Image Configuration Editor (ICE) tool which is meant to be run on a development machine
        • Windows Embedded Standard 7 RC 32-bit Bootable IBW: This .ISO will install Image Builder Wizard (IBW) for 32-bit machines to be run on a target device
        • Windows Embedded Standard 7 RC 64-bit Bootable IBW: This .ISO will install Image Builder Wizard (IBW) for 64-bit machines to be run on a target device
        • Windows Embedded Standard 7 RC MPEG2 Audio and Dolby Package: Includes the MPEG2 Audio and Dolby Premium Codecs for 32-bit and 64-bit machines
        • Windows Embedded Standard 7 RC Documentation: Release Notes and a What's New document that will help you focus your testing on specific areas
        Also still online is a lab manual that was recently updated in conjunction with the release of the Windows Embedded Standard 2011 CTP2 (community technology preview 2). This document remains accurate and relevant, providing detailed steps for building, deploying, and servicing Windows Embedded Standard 7 images, the company says.

        Windows Embedded Standard 7

        Like the previous Windows Embedded Standard 2009, Windows Embedded Standard 7 -- codenamed "Quebec" during its initial development -- is "componentized," letting developers create an OS on their devices with only the drivers, services, and applications they need. Unlike Windows Embedded Standard 2009, which was based on Windows XP, Windows Embedded Standard 7 is based on Windows 7, and is available in both 32- and 64-bit versions, according to Microsoft.

        While Microsoft had provided no formal release date for Quebec, promising only that it would be available "within a number of quarters" after Windows 7's release, it made the first downloadable beta (or CTP, to use Redmond's preferred nomenclature) available on Sept. 1, 2009, in advance even of Windows 7's retail debut. The second beta, CTP2, became available not long after, on Nov. 20.

        According to Microsoft, Windows Embedded Standard 7 "delivers the power, familiarity and reliability of the Windows 7 operating system in a highly customizable and componentized form, enabling OEMs in industrial automation, entertainment, consumer electronics and other markets to focus on their core competencies and create product differentiation."

        Touting "familiar, easy-to-use development tools and embedded-enabling features," the company adds that the OS will reduce development costs and increase speed to market for thin-client, point-of-service (POS), kiosk, medical, multifunction printers, and other devices.


        The setup program for Windows Embedded Standard 7
        (Click to enlarge)

        Key Windows Embedded Standard 7 features highlighted by the company include the following:

        • Advanced hardware support including 64-bit CPUs, the Windows Aero user interface, Windows Presentation Foundation, Windows Touch (multi-gesture touch interfaces and context-aware applications) and Windows Flip 3D navigation
        • Upgraded software including Internet Explorer 8, Windows Media Player 12, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) 7.0, and .NET Framework 3.5
        • Increased enterprise interoperability, including compatibility with Active Directory group policies, Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
        • Better ability to develop "green" solutions, with smart power management APIs that can reduce power consumption and improve CPU idle time
        Further information

        The RC builds of Windows Embedded Standard 7 are downloadable for free now, but will expire on August 15, 2010, Microsoft says. The operating system will be RTM'ed (released to manufacturing) during the second half of the year, after which time Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification, a preparation kit, and training courseware will become available, the company adds.

        For further information and to access the downloads, see Microsoft's website, here.

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