OEMS have the option of configuring linear flash memory as either a single contiguous space or as multiple partitions, even though Windows CE currently supports only single partition. The following is information about partitioning a device for both single and multiple configurations:
An OEM can treat linear flash memory as a single contiguous address space. In this configuration, linear flash memory can be used either for XIP or for data storage. Data storage can include one or more of the following: a registry, a database, or user data files managed by the FAT file system.
Windows CE 2.10 does not support multiple partitions at this time; however, multiple partitioning enables OEMs to logically divide linear flash memory into separate partitions. In a configuration known as Code Plus Data, one partition is used for XIP while another is used for data storage. Another configuration, known as Data Plus Data, divides linear flash memory into two data storage partitions: one partition provides data storage managed by the TrueFFS driver, and the other partition provides data storage managed by OEM-defined code.
OEMs who use the DiskOnChip device have the option of making the space on the device appear as separate partitions, although Windows CE 2.10 does not provide built-in support for multiple partitions on a single linear flash memory device. M-Systems, Inc., does offer a customization toolkit enabling OEMs to create a hidden data partition on the device. OEMs should contact M-Systems, Inc., for further assistance on how to access this hidden partition from within Windows CE.