FAQs

What is an embedded PC?
In broad terms, an embedded PC is a computer that will perform a single function for its entire life, often without any direct human interaction. For example, a PC that is set to capture data on a remote location and then relay that information back to an office location. Because many embedded PCs are often installed in remote locations, it is vital that they are reliable to minimise support costs and maximise uptime.

What is an embedded operating system?
Embedded Operating systems are for devices that perform specific functions and are not meant to be general purpose computing devices. There is an entire family of embedded operating systems available that range from the original Dos 6.22 right up to Server OS’es based on the latest versions.

Will my program/application run on an embedded OS?
If your program / application will run on XP, Windows 7 there is no reason why it will not run on an embedded version.

What is Windows XP Embedded?
It is an embedded operating system based on Windows XP Pro that offers advantages including lower cost and increased reliability, while maintaining compatibility with all programs design for XP.

What is Windows XP Pro for embedded systems?
It is the same old Windows XP Pro that we all know and love, but it can only be used on an embedded system. That is a system that will only be used for s specific task and won’t be used as a general purpose PC

What is WES 2009?
WES 2009 is the latest version of XP Embedded and is still based on XP Pro. It includes the most recent Windows updates and features and is therefore the version that we now use as standard.

What is WES 7?
Windows Embedded Standard 7 is a 32 bit and 64 bit operating system and is the next in the line of customisable desktop operating systems from Microsoft, following on from WES 2009. It is based on the Windows 7 core, so once again will run all programs that require features built into that OS.

What versions of WES 7 are available?
There are currently 3 versions available, WES 7E which includes the majority of the features found in Windows 7 Pro, WES 7P which adds features such as multitouch support and BitLocker and finally WES 7C which is designed for consumer electronic devices such as set top boxes.

What is an IP rating?
This usually relates to panel PCs, but can also relate to embedded system. It is basically a measure of how well the system in question is protected against dust and water ingress. In simple terms, the higher the number, the better protected the system is. The first number after the ‘IP’ tells you its rating against dust ingress and the second is for protection against water.

What is LVDS?
LVDS stands for low-voltage differential signalling and is a method for driving an open frame LCD panel directly from an embedded motherboard. There are two main types, single channel which supports small screens at low to medium resolutions (usually up to 1280x1024) and dual channel which supports larger displays running at higher resolutions. LVDS allows for compact embedded system designs as there is no requirement to use bulky video cables and connectors. To use an LVDS screen, custom cable assemblies are almost always required. LVDS is used instead of the standard methods for connecting a screen, such as VGA, DVI or HDMI.

What is the difference between a Capacitive and Resistive touchscreen?
Go to our article on Choosing the Best Touchscreen for Your Needs.