Windows CE supports multiple options for transmitting and receiving data. For example:
To support different types of communication, Windows CE–based devices can include a variety of hardware configurations. For example, most Windows CE–based devices include a serial cable connector, and some devices include an infrared (IR) transceiver. If a hardware expansion slot is available, users can extend the capabilities of a Windows CE–based device with third-party communication hardware, such as a modem or bar code scanner.
Computer communication models are divided into layers. Applications comprise the top layer of the communication model. Communication hardware comprises the bottom layer of this model. Windows CE includes API methods for moving data between the application layer and the physical hardware layer.