Microsoft ESP

Q.	What are some of the technical features of Microsoft ESP?
A.	The Microsoft ESP platform runs on COTS-based Windows software and PC hardware. The platform includes support for multiple data sources (DEM, vector, imagery/textures, seasonal textures, continuous time of day, and aviation hazards); scenery support (foliage, buildings, landmarks, and much more)' sound support (Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound); and dynamic objects, VoIP, structured experiences/missions, a powerful weather system, a dynamic world, and continuous time of day.
Q.	How does the platform work? What technology does Microsoft ESP utilize?
A.	Microsoft ESP is the platform (engine, tools, and base world content) underlying Microsoft's Flight Simulator X. As platform technology, Microsoft ESP contains a robust set of tools, APIs, and documentation that support code development, content integration, and scenario-building. These capabilities are provided in the software development kit (SDK), and are augmented by some of the same Visual Studio development tools already used by thousands of Microsoft Windows developers. This standardized development approach makes creating and deploying PC-based simulations feasible, consistent, and cost-effective.
Q.	Is Microsoft ESP a .NET platform?
A.	Microsoft ESP 1.0 offers both managed and native interfaces for solution code development.
Q.	What are the system requirements for Microsoft ESP?
A.	Microsoft ESP is a powerful PC-based simulation platform that runs on any version of Microsoft Vista or on Microsoft Windows XP SP2. Hardware-wise, the minimum requirements are a 2.0GHz or higher CPU - single core, 1GB RAM, 20GB or more of free hard drive space, 32X DVD drive, DirectX9- or higher-compliant video card with 128MB or higher video RAM, DirectX9or higher hardware compatibility, sound card with speakers or headphones, and a mouse or other hardware device.
Q.	How can partners and developers build solutions using Microsoft ESP?
A.	Microsoft ESP offers a rich set of simulation capabilities in one environment, including tools for object placement, scenery and terrain customization, object activation, special effects, and environmental controls including adjustable weather. Microsoft ESP leverages internet/intranet connectivity infrastructures to conduct multi-user and shared cockpit/instructor simulations of real-world scenarios. Evaluation, measurement, and post-simulation events analysis ("After Action Review") are supported. The Microsoft ESP SDK enables analysis, video and digital image capture, and full replay capabilities. Developers can either build solutions on Microsoft ESP or embed Microsoft ESP into existing solutions to take advantage of the platform's functionality and power.
Q.	What is unique about Microsoft's simulation platform offering?
A.	Custom and proprietary visual simulation solutions are costly and can take considerable time. Microsoft believes a simulation platform can accelerate the innovation of visual training and decision support solutions, allowing vendors and developers to focus efforts on specific simulations and scenarios where they have specific subject matter expertise. Further, the Microsoft ESP pricing model is extremely attractive and, coupled with Microsoft's global distribution capacity, is likely to draw partners looking to expand their markets both domestically and globally.