Developing Process

Plan Your Embedded Device
The planning phase of a device development project involves key decisions, including developing a Market Requirements Document, choosing the right embedded operating system, comparing licensing models and the cost of development tools, and selecting partners who can add value to the project. During the planning phase, use Microsoft Web resources to:

• Learn more about the business benefits of Windows Embedded operating systems and Microsoft's Shared Success philosophy.
• Get guidance on how to choose the right Windows Embedded operating system for your device.
• Find a Windows Embedded Partner with expertise in your device type, microprocessor, or vertical market.

Build Your Embedded Device
To help speed time to market, Windows Embedded tools and technologies support a parallel development model. System software can be coded before the hardware design is complete, and end-user applications can be written without the system software. This means a hardware designer, system software developer, and application programmer may all work concurrently. During the build phase, use Microsoft Web resources to:

• Obtain a free 120-day evaluation kit so your development team can immediately begin building a custom Windows Embedded operating system image.
• Use Windows Embedded how-to documentation, video tutorials, and instructor-led training to speed the learning curve for a development team.
• Get support and assistance from a community of experts through a wide variety of channels.

License and Ship Your Embedded Device
Download the free Windows Embedded evaluation kit and leverage the pay-as-you-go runtime licensing model, which makes Microsoft strongly vested in your company’s success. Development tools and runtime licenses sell through Microsoft Authorized Embedded Distributors. These helpful partners guide you through the process of licensing, certifying, and shipping a device. During this phase, use Microsoft Web resources to:

• Work with an Microsoft Embedded Authorized Distributor to understand the licensing process, licensing agreements, and different licensing levels.
• Access, modify, and distribute derivatives of Windows Embedded CE shared source code.
• Purchase development tools and runtime licenses from an Microsoft Embedded Authorized Distributor.

Market Your Embedded Device
Once a device goes to manufacturing, Microsoft continues to support your company with co-marketing programs designed to help cost-effectively promote the device. When a device is ready to ship, use Microsoft Web resources to:

• Get into the Device Showcase Program, featured on the heavily trafficked Microsoft.com Web site, and then participate in other showcase opportunities at live events, tradeshows, Microsoft demo labs, and more.
• Certify a device for the Windows Powered logo program and put the power of the Windows brand name behind your device.
• Be considered for acceptance in the Windows Embedded Case Study Program, which highlights your device and illustrates why you chose a Windows Embedded platform for your design.
  
  

Licensing Process

Windows Embedded licensing is structured to provide a low up-front investment so that the vast majority of your expenditure happens after your device is shipping and is successful.

A general illustration on how to license Microsoft Windows Embedded products is describe below.