I would not worry about an embedded version of Windows in hubs, routers, switches, etc. given the up-time requirements of these devices and the poor reputation of Windows to stay up for long periods of time (i.e. a year) without need of a reset.
Other considerations such as support for multiple processor families, simulation of the embedded software on a workstation, a common set of compilers and tools across the different embedded processors and the simulation environment (and most importantly, access to the source code for all your compilers, tools, and OS), etc. are very important. It will take MS some time to catch up with the current RTOS vendors in this department.
One could argue that an NT server is a good platform for network management software to run on but I would still prefer the stability and scalability of a Sun server until at least NT 5.0 is released (and gets patched a couple of times). The way NT 5.0 keeps getting delayed the required stability required might not be there until mid '99.
I don't see why MS is going after this market. Windows CE in palmtops, set-top boxes, etc. is a reasonable market since these are sold by the millions. However, routers and switches are relatively low volume devices and probably not worth MS's while to support fully. Perhaps they are spreading FUD again.
It would be a cold day in hell before I would recommend putting an embedded version of Windows in a box that I was designing at this time. In a few years I would be willing to look at changing this position but not now.
Of course all this is irrelevant to WIND's stock price. It instant I heard the MSFT announcement my gut said short all the RTOS vendors because the competition fears would spook the analysts. I have no position in any RTOS vendor or MSFT, BTW. I'm just an interested spectator.
MSFT is a gorilla for sure. If they see value in a market they are not in they will stop at nothing to crush everyone else. Luckily I don't see this happening since I have the hope that embedded software devolopers are wise to MSFT's tricks.
My personal opinion only,
Bill |
