Microsoft has today announced Windows Embedded Device Manager 2011 for enterprise developers and IT professionals to deploy, assess, and update Windows Embedded-based devices. The new addition to Microsoft's management portfolio is intended to extend the capabilities of the now comparatively dated Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007.
For devices built on the Windows Embedded Standard and Windows Embedded POSReady platforms, the new solution is suited to thin client, point of service (POS), and digital signage devices. Its central functions are designed to provide device management in a manner similar to that used to control PCs and servers. Microsoft's theory is that from greater device integration come opportunities for embedded device developers to tailor and extend inventory and imaging capabilities.
"With the addition of Windows Embedded Device Manager to Microsoft's management portfolio, we're in a position to make the lives of IT managers a lot easier across PCs, servers, and embedded devices," said Kevin Dallas, general manager for Windows Embedded at Microsoft. "Previously, enterprises were forced to implement several management solutions to meet their needs, at a significant time and financial cost. We've made it simple for IT professionals to make simultaneous system updates across the enterprise with the familiarity of System Center Configuration Manager."
The release of Windows Embedded Device Manager 2011 follows on the heels of Windows Embedded's recent alignment with Microsoft's Management and Security Division (MSD) within the Server and Tools Business (STB). As embedded devices grow in prominence and importance in the enterprise, Microsoft says that it will continue to look for ways to make deployment, integration, and management of these technologies simpler, more powerful, and connected to what the company calls 'the world of Windows' through off-premise support.
