Microsoft has just unveiled details of their new Windows ® Server 2008 for Embedded Server which is basically a windows server platform for embedded devices.
The platform is available under Microsoft’s Software-Plus-Services banner which as the name suggests is a combination of software and web based services.
The Windows Embedded Server along with the software plus services platform will allow users to more effectively and remotely monitor, repair and manage systems that rely on embedded software
“The evolution of the Windows Embedded software-plus-services platform with the addition of Windows Embedded Server reflects the realization of Microsoft’s continued commitment to drive innovation and leadership in the embedded market by fostering the next generation of smart, connected, service-oriented devices and device services,” said Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded business unit at Microsoft.
“The combination of software plus services from Windows Embedded will establish new revenue channels for embedded OEMs and partners by utilizing Windows Embedded Server and the complete Microsoft portfolio of embedded platforms and technologies in scenarios such as device maintenance and support services.”
According to Microsoft, IT personnel and OEMs will be in a better position to manage, repair and monitor devices remotely through web based support systems.
Microsoft is also hoping that OEMs will now be able to more easily design and build new classes of server which can be deployed in embedded environments including medical imaging, security and surveillance, industrial automation, document imaging, streaming media server, PBX server, call centre server, teleconferencing server and other dedicated server solutions.
So what are the major advantages of the new server? Microsoft boasts that the Windows Server for Embedded Systems:-
• Has the smallest footprint to date
• Has new virtualisation technology for building multi function appliances
• Has lower acquisition and total ownership costs
• Has improved security – the most secure windows server ever they say, with a reduced need for software updates
Windows ® Server 2008 for Embedded Systems is the latest addition to Microsoft’s family of Windows Embedded Servers which also includes Windows ® Server 2003 R2 for Embedded Systems and Windows ® Server 2003 for Embedded Systems.
A ten year product support lifecycle is available which consists of five years mainstream and 5 years extended support.
More information is available from Microsoft website.
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