Windows Embedded Compact 7 Updated

The latest version of Microsoft’s embedded, componentized, real-time OS, Windows Embedded Compact 7, became generally available in Mar. 2011. Embedded Compact runs on ARM, MIPS, and x86 processors and is the underlying OS for a number of battery-powered, lightweight portable devices. The new OS version provides support for multicore and symmetric multiprocessing, Silverlight, and integration of Adobe Flash 10.1 with Internet Explorer (IE). Microsoft still is not promoting the OS for tablets or slates to compete with the Apple iPad, but the release may trigger eventual updates to other Windows mobile device platforms, such as Windows Embedded Handheld and Windows Phone 7.

Targeting Low-Power Devices Other than Phones and Tablets

Windows Embedded Compact 7 (formerly known as Windows Embedded CE) is a real-time, small footprint OS optimized for lightweight, portable, battery-powered devices. Microsoft recommends Embedded Compact 7 for industrial automation applications that link sensors and human machine interface panels, and commercial and medical portable diagnostic equipment; barcode and RFID scanners, personal navigation devices, set-top boxes, and thin clients, among many other device types.