How to Buy Windows Embedded Compact 7

There are four basic steps involved in purchasing Windows Embedded Compact 7.

Determine if Windows Embedded Compact 7 is the right product for you

To make sure Compact is the right product for your development and device needs, use our OS Chooser Wizard.

Evaluate Windows Embedded Compact 7

Trial software is free and functional for 6 months. Download Windows Embedded Compact 7 to evaluate the product.

Purchase Windows Embedded Compact 7 development tools

When you are ready to begin development, you have two choices for purchasing development tools:

Through an Authorized Windows Embedded Distributor

The distributor will assist you in purchasing the full packaged product (FPP) for Windows Embedded Compact. You will also receive a courtesy copy of the Additional Licensing Provisions, which define distribution rights and restrictions that are specific to each Microsoft embedded licensed product.

The suggested retail price for Windows Embedded Compact FPP is $995 US. You can perform unlimited field testing and prototyping on any number of device prototypes before you ship commercially. For US and Canadian customers, purchasing the toolkits provides you with two complimentary support incidents to use throughout your development process.

Find an Authorized Windows Embedded Distributor near you.
Through an MSDN Subscription

For a cost-effective way to license Microsoft platforms and tools, receive technical support, and obtain early access to the latest Microsoft updates, purchase a MSDN Embedded subscription. It builds on traditional MSDN benefits by providing a single subscription for access to the Visual Studio suite of software development tools and the following Windows Embedded platforms and technologies:
- Windows Embedded Compact (CE) (Version 5.0 and subsequent)
- Windows Embedded Standard (Version 2009 and Subsequent)
- Windows Embedded POSReady 2009

Order an MSDN subscription:

Through a Windows Embedded Distributor or Windows Embedded Partner
Direct from Microsoft or MSDN re-seller

Acquire runtime licenses for commercial shipment

Once you complete testing and development and are ready to bring your embedded system to market, it’s time to acquire runtime licenses and certificates of authenticity from your Microsoft Authorized Windows Embedded Distributor for each unit that you ship. Cost for each runtime license may vary, based on the volume of licenses that you purchase over a given period of time. For more details, contact a Windows Embedded Authorized Distributor.

Aligned Business Model

Microsoft uses a royalty-based licensing model, which is dependent on a rapid and large-scale deployment of working devices. The alternative, a royalty-free tools and services model, is prohibitively expensive for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The total costs will depend on how many types of devices the OEM is working on (it may need new tools and service contracts) and on how long the OEM takes to bring a product to market.

Microsoft has aligned its business model with operators and OEMs. The faster the product is developed, the less the OEM spends on development. Microsoft, the OEM, and the operator can then collect revenues faster.

Furthermore, by decreasing the total cost of development of Windows Compact–based devices, Microsoft fosters an environment that entices OEMs to enter this market.