How to evaluate & buy Windows Embedded

Microsoft Windows Embedded offers a variety of operating systems for a wide range of devices, giving you the flexibility to design and build exactly the device image you need. Here is a detailed look at the process from evaluation to licensing your device with Windows Embedded.

 
 

EVALUATE

1a. Step

When planning your next device, consider using a Windows Embedded OS.

Business Decision Maker:
"We need to choose the OS for our next device"

Technical Decision Maker:
"I have heard that Microsoft has a selection of embedded operating systems"

Planner:
"Why don’t we look into it and get back to you?"

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1b. Step

Research, test, and evaluate the Windows family of embedded operation systems.

• Learn more about Windows Embedded in Tech Seminars
• Learn more about Windows Embedded devices in the market today
• Use the OS chooser to determine which Windows Embedded OS is right for your project
• Get a demo from a Windows Embedded partner

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1c. Step

Download free evaluation of OS and tools.

Business Decision Maker:
"Which Windows Embedded should we choose?"

Technical Decision Maker:
"Here is our list of specifications"

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BUY

 

2. Step

Microsoft sells Windows Embedded licenses through a set group of worldwide distribution partners � contact one to learn more.

MS Distribution Partner:
"Let’s discuss the Windows Embedded licensing process"

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3. Step

Purchase a toolkit from your distributor and they will provide a courtesy copy of the licensing agreement (OEM CLA), EULA and product ALPs (Additional Licensing Provisions).

MS Distribution Partner:
"As an authorised distributor, we can answer questions about the licensing agreement and many product specific restrictions"

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4. Step

Sign the OEM CLA after discussing it with your authorised distributor.

MS Distribution Partner:
"The OEM CLA is a standard set of general terms and conditions agreement. Signing it allows you to acquire Windows Embedded licensed runtimes"

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5. Step

When you have completed development of your master embedded image, order runtime licenses through a network of authorised distributors.

Technical Decision Maker:
"Good, I will call and order the runtime licenses so we can replicate the image"

Planner:
"That is the last part of the process"

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6. Step

Your distributor ships you the APM (Associated Product Materials) which include the runtime keys, COA (Cerification of Authenticity), and EULAs for each device you ship.

MS Distribution Partner:
"Entering this key lets you flash the image across a line of embedded systems"

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7. Step

You can now manufacture and distribute your embedded systems.

Planner:
"We shipped on time, complete, and within our BOM (Bill of Material) requirements"

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8. Step

Microsoft backs you with a variety of support resources including Microsoft Lifecycle Support.

Technical Decision Maker:
"How is Version 2.0 coming along?"

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