- Embedded Windows XP has some simple system recommendations for users.green abstract image by Svetlana Romanova from Fotolia.com
Today, the Windows XP operating system is ubiquitous. Most PCs can easily run this embedded operating system with minimal difficulty. If a user can afford a $600 PC, she can run Windows XP with little to no issues whatsoever. To successfully run the embedded Windows XP operating system, follow these system recommendations. - For embedded Windows XP, the minimum overall system requirements are:
* 500MHz or higher processor, Pentium-class (ideally)
* CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive
* Mouse, Microsoft-approved
* Keyboard is recommended
Users will discover that the most current Windows Service Pack is also required, and, when you go online with your system, you are prompted to install any available updates, such as Service Packs. Generally speaking, all you need to do is accept whichever updates are not already on your system upon initial setup. - In addition to the absolute minimums, system recommendations for embedded Windows XP exist for several other components.
Memory and Hard Drive Space
In terms of memory, your system needs at least 128MB of RAM, but 256MB is preferred. Today, given the prices of memory and online tutorials from computer manufacturers on how to install it, even a complete novice should be able to successfully complete this operation. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, plenty of retailers that sell the equipment will be more than happy to perform this upgrade. Given this fact, users of smaller computers (or those building a bare-bones machine from scratch) should go ahead and either max out memory slots or, at least, hover around the 512MB/1GB memory threshold, per Microsoft's recommendations for database and tools use. Remember that all computers have a limit on memory. Today, a new PC may support (or even come with) up to 4GB of memory. Smaller, less-expensive machines may only support 2GB. Find this out to ensure some degree of future resistance.
Although it is likely a hard drive is on board with more than sufficient space to run Windows XP embedded, the required minimum is 20MB. Keep in mind that small amounts of memory will result in the system wanting to use the hard drive to speed up operations, so, again, given relatively small costs of each, it is recommended to go ahead and grab that $100 1TB hard drive, and you will more than likely never have to worry about space again.
Monitor
For video, the minimum requirement is a 1,024 x 768 VGA monitor. This type of monitor comes in sizes typically up to 23 inches, is found anywhere that sells computers, and is usually inexpensive, ranging in cost from $150 to $500. Smaller HDTVs serve as excellent large monitors, as well. Realizing that even 32-inch HD LCDs cost around $299 these days, if space allows and need dictates, these televisions are close enough in cost to a smaller, high-end PC monitor that consideration should be given. A simple 15-pin VGA connection on the back of the monitor is all that is needed, although users may discover that newer HDMI options exist.
Internet
It goes without saying in the 21st century that connection to the Internet is a must. For Windows XP, the Internet is a must to, at minimum, receive security and operating system updates. For a minimum connection, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 is needed. Users may find that, although more of a resource hog, alternate browsers, such as Mozilla's Firefox are generally more secure and feature-laden. Equally, it is recommended that you use a broadband (not dial-up) connection, from either a cable or phone company. This enables far quicker uploading and downloading speeds and facilitates online gaming, should that eventually be a concern. - Whether constructing a PC from the ground up or purchasing a unit new out of the box, users will discover that running Windows XP as an embedded operating system will be, in most cases, automatic. Keep in mind the necessary requirements above, and smooth computing sailing (until the next upgrade) will be on the horizon.
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