Advantech SPC-57 user manual Introduction, Windows CE Startup Procedure

4.1 Introduction

The SPC series is one embedded system with Windows® CE.NET OS. The Windows® CE.NET is a compact OS that occupies less storage space or system resources compared with other operating systems such as Windows® NT or Windows® XP. By its modular nature, it is possible to choose those functions that are useful for specific application. Not only reducing the system resources required, but also reduces start-up time. In the field of embedded applications, this is an appealing feature because the impact of downtime would be minimized.

Furthermore, the small storage space it needs makes OS on solid-state disk possible, which implies higher robustness to harsh environments.

Figure 4.1 Windows® CE.NET on the SPC Series

4.2 Windows CE Startup Procedure

Windows CE can be loaded by two methods, first is by Compact Flash card, and second is by on-board flash chip. Compact Flash card is high boot priority than on-board flash chip. In BOOTLOADER criteria, it will first read the Windows CE image in Compact Flash card. If Compact Flash card is unavailable or no Windows CE image inside, BOOTLOADER will load the Windows CE image from on-board flash chip. BOOTLOADER copy Windows CE image to DRAM and launch WinCE from DRAM, whenever loaded by Compact Flash card or on-board flash chip.

Therefore, there are some advantages,

1, Easy Windows CE image installation: Customer can copy Windows CE image they

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