The "Image Difference Engine" and "Image Difference Applier" tools -- collectively known as "ImageDiff" -- identify and package only the changed or added files and registry keys,
according to a blog post by Windows Embedded product manager Mike Hall. This allows for a field upgrade without having to redeploy a complete Windows XP Embedded with SP2 image.
The ImageDiff tools can also help determine and package smaller upgrades, including operating system security updates and hotfixes, configuration changes, third-party application updates, and line-of-business data, Hall says.
With this new release, it should be easier than ever to convert Windows XP Embedded devices from SP1 to SP2, adds Hall. And, that's not a small thing, given
how little time is left for SP1 support.
The tool is accessible from
Microsoft OEM Online (requires registration), affectionally known as "MOO," as well as from the
Mobile and Embedded Communications Extranet (requires a partner account).
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