Like the previous Windows Embedded Standard 2009, Windows Embedded Standard 2011 -- 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 2011 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, in advance even of Windows 7's retail debut. Ultimately, the company says, the embedded OS will be RTM'ed (released to manufacturing) during the second half of next year, after which time Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification, a preparation kit, and training courseware will become available.

Meanwhile, the company is ahead of schedule when it comes to releasing its second CTP. Just a couple of weeks ago, Microsoft sent an email to those who had downloaded the first CTP, promising CTP2 "within the net month.".

Late Friday, Microsoft's Windows Embedded team emailed testers yet again, announcing that Windows Embedded Standard 2011 CTP2 is actually downloadable now. "We know it is a busy time of the year for many of you, but we are getting closer to the end of our development cycle and need your assistance in previewing the product and providing feedback," the message added.

According to Microsoft, CTP provides "many updates and bug fixes as well as some new features." It is being provided in the form of the four following download packages, the company says:

• A Windows Embedded Standard 2011 toolkit, including the Image Configuration Editor (ICE) tool for advanced configuration of target OSes
• A 32-bit Windows Embedded Standard 2011 32-bit bootable IBW (Image Builder Wizard), for wizard-based installation of target OSes
• A 64-bit Windows Embedded Standard 2011 64-bit bootable IBW, similar to the above
• Updated documentation and release notes

According to the email, CTP2 brings a bevy of potential new features to embedded devices, including anti-malware, DVD creation, parental controls, backup/restore, a photo viewer, plus faxing and scanning. Of course, a typical device will not include all of these features, but developers will be able to choose one or more of them by selecting "packages" as they build the operating system, Microsoft explains.

Microsoft says CTP2 also includes "footprint optimization for key scenarios," new and updated templates in the ICE, import and export of templates, and a Static Dependency Analyzer (SDA). The new release also offers "more intuitive package naming," plus updated documentation that is more detailed, the company adds.

Last month, Microsoft already added to the documentation originally supplied with Quebec, releasing a 51-page Windows Embedded Standard 2011 CTP Lab Manual. This supplement,also downloadable now, provides detailed steps for building, deploying and servicing a Windows Embedded Standard 2011 image, as well as several other scenario walkthroughs, according to the company.

New capabilities and features

According to Microsoft, Windows Embedded Standard 2011 "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 2011
(Click to enlarge)

Key Windows Embedded Standard 2011 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 (multigesture 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

Availability

According to Microsoft, the CTP2 of Windows Embedded Standard 2011 is downloadable from the company's website, here [Microsoft Live ID and password required], where the Lab Manual mentioned in this story can also be found.

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