Microsoft officially entered the embedded marketplace in November 1996 with the release of Windows Embedded CE 1.0. Since then, Microsoft has expanded into a full line of embedded operating systems, enabling developers to build next-generation 32-bit devices with a range of products that provide toolsets and development platforms for small to large device footprints.

Thousands of embedded devices have been built with Windows Embedded products, from portable ultrasound machines to GPS devices and from ATMs to devices that power large construction machinery. With comprehensive features, easy-to-use tools, free evaluation kits and access to a large network of community support, Windows Embedded helps yield faster time to market and decreased development costs.

Product group overview:

Windows CE:
Windows Embedded CE is optimized for small devices with limited memory and processing resources, for mobile devices that require power management capabilities, next-generation devices that require rich networking and communications standards, or for real-time devices that require deterministic responses to interrupts. Examples include portable navigation and communications devices.

Windows Embedded Standard 7:
Windows Embedded Standard 7 delivers the power, familiarity, and reliability of the Windows 7 operating system in a componentized form for developers to create advanced commercial and consumer devices. Windows Embedded Standard 7 is used in devices such as thin clients and multi-function printers, offers support for all the PC architecture processor families, and is compatible with thousands of certified, production-quality, off-the-shelf applications, drivers, and services.

Windows Embedded Enterprise:
When footprint size is not an issue, developers use Windows for Embedded Enterprise for its visual and differentiated user interfaces, connectivity, and reliability in building kiosks, ATM systems, kiosks, complex industrial automation controllers, complex medical devices, and gaming machines.

Windows Embedded Automotive:
Microsoft Auto 4.1 is the newest generation of embedded operating system from Microsoft designed specifically for developing state-of-the-art in-vehicle infotainment systems. Microsoft Auto is a standardized, industry proven platform for developing communication, entertainment, and service enabled location based solutions.

Windows Embedded Handheld:
Microsoft has the software solutions that power enterprise handheld and ruggedized devices. Using either Windows Embedded CE or Windows Mobile our partners are delivering mobile computing devices that keep business moving forward.

Windows Embedded POS Ready:
Windows Embedded POSReady is a flexible OS optimized for the retail industry, with built-in networking capabilities and standards-based plug-and-play support. POSReady supports connectivity between the enterprise, peripherals, and POS devices including self-checkout systems, kiosks, cash registers, fuel pumps, and digital signage.

Windows Embedded NAV Ready:
Windows Embedded NAVReady provides OEMs with powerful, innovative technologies to help them quickly bring to market smart, connected, service-oriented handheld portable navigation devices that can easily connect to online services, Bluetooth capable mobile phones, Windows-based PCs, and the Internet.

Windows Embedded Server:
Windows Embedded Server products are fully functional versions of Microsoft’s server OS intended for use in embedded solutions consisting of purpose-built hardware and application software. These products allow OEMs to build and deploy dedicated server appliances with smaller footprints, robust networking and support for large storage, aiding in the rapid setup and remote management capabilities of embedded devices.