Creating custom ROM updates.

Hi,

I'm shortly going to have access to the Enterprise Edition of Microsoft .NET progaming languges which I was planning to use for writing a view apps for my NetBook Pro.

Am I correct in thinking that Psion's idea is that although they occasionaly release a ROM update they really want larger corporates to creat their own customised rom's with all their software included?

If so what more do I need in order to do this and can I include programes like TextMaker and PlanMaker and WindowsCE 5.0

Thanks

Martyn Greville-Giddings
TwoPlus1

Hi,

Windows CE doesn't come from visual studio .net, it comes from Platform Builder, a completly different product tree.

You can make windows ce 5.0 rom's with Platform Builder 5.0.
The only way to bundle PlanMaker and TextMaker would be to seek an OEM redistribution arrangement with SoftMaker for the licenses. I happen to know that SoftMaker are open to pursuing OEM contracts.

Great Thanks! How do I go about getting Platform Builder 5 and how much is it, I don't think anyone will let me just build one ROM with their software so will Psion let me do them comercialy do you think or will I have to wait until Psion stop supporting the NetBook Pro?

Anyone can release a ROM image for a Windows CE device, Psion cannot stop you from reflashing their hardware.

You need to contact Microsoft's OEM licensing division and request it. The commercial platform bulder is roughly £3000 - £5000, depending on the version.

Wow! Do you really have to go through all that for an in-home OS? I can see that price if yuo plan on releasing the OS and all, IE distributing it as an addition or with a new product... but for a one-person job? :-P

For a one person job, with no redist rights you can use platform builder (5.0 only)and don't need to license Windows CE OS's themselves. You still do need a license for platform builder.
As for SoftMaker, you would have to consult with them on whether they are happy for you to do it with your own Text/PlanMaker lisences.

nope, as no one will have you arrested (i hope)