Because Windows CE is a modular OS, an OEM can design a platform-specific OS by selecting from a set of available software modules. An OEM can further customize an OS by selecting from a subset of available components for a particular module. Windows CE supplies several pre-tested component configurations that can be divided into three general categories: minimally-featured configurations, moderately-featured configurations, and full-featured configurations.
Minimally-featured configurations build a basic version of Windows CE that includes the core OS or kernel (Core.dll) and selected GWES support, such as messaging, user input, and power management. Minimally-featured configurations do not display a UI or contain window management features.
Moderately-featured Windows CE configurations include the core OS as well as support for the following GWES features:
Some minimally-featured configurations also provide console, notification, and common control support.
Full-featured configurations build a full version of Windows CE, including all GWES component support. A complete listing of the components contained in full-featured configurations can be found in the Windows CE Library.