.NET Framework Gets Embedded

A new version of the .NET Framework aimed at developers of embedded devices is available in beta. The .NET Micro Framework was originally developed for use in Smart Personal Objects Technology (SPOT) devices, such as wristwatches, but will also be used in Windows SideShow devices-auxiliary displays built into future notebook computers, keyboards, and other devices. It will show important information, such as an upcoming meeting, even when the device is turned off.

Like other versions of the .NET Framework, the Micro Framework relies on a Common Language Runtime (CLR) to translate C# or VB.NET code into machine instructions for a specific processor. However, unlike other versions of the .NET Framework, which rely on an underlying OS-such as Windows or Windows CE-for key services, the Micro Framework runs directly on a small set of supported microprocessors. A video produced for the Microsoft Embedded Developer Conference (MEDC) indicates that the Micro Framework will run with as little as 200 kilobytes of RAM and will support the ARM7 and ARM9 family of embedded processors. That makes the Micro Framework much smaller than even the smallest versions of Windows CE, and could make .NET an option for a group of programmers that have, until now, been stuck with lower-level tools and languages that are more difficult to use.