Microsoft Rolls Out Embedded XP

Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday announced the availability of Windows XP Embedded, a scaled-down version of the Windows XP operating system that runs on devices ranging from gaming systems to automated teller machines.

The Redmond, Wash., software company is offering a free evaluation kit and a 90-day promotional price of $995 for the XP Embedded tool suite. Microsoft also announced a two-day training course on developing applications for XP Embedded.

Because the OS is designed to run in a range of products, Windows XP Embedded allows for a range of footprints from 4.8 MB for a minimum configuration, 14 MB for a basic Win32 system, 25 MB for a basic Win32 system with a security infrastructure, and 70 MB for the full Win32 API set with the user interface, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0, Windows Media Player 8.0, Terminal Server client, USB support and SNMP support.

Several companies plan to have Windows XP Embedded in their products by the middle of 2002, including:

Bally Gaming and Systems in its Evolution Series (EVO) slot machines

Compaq Computer Corp. in its Evo T-20 Windows-based terminal

Fujitsu Siemens Computers in its ACTIVY 3000 Media Center set-top box

NCR Corp. in its automated teller machines

Neoware Systems Inc. in its Eon thin client appliances

ViewSonic Corp. in its VX3600 digital entertainment device

Wincor Nixdorf in its BEETLE family of point-of-sale devices

Wyse Technology Inc. in its Winterm 9000 series thin client.

Developers can order an evaluation copy of the software at http://www.microsoft.com/embedded/