How to Create a Customized Shell
5/10/2007
Windows XP Embedded provides several default shells (Explorer, Command, and Task Manager). You can also create a custom shell that provides a specific look for the user interface of the target device, provides access to the applications and services required for the device, and restricts access to applications or files that are not necessary for the user.
Custom shells are useful in many types of scenarios, including retail point-of-sale devices, set-top boxes, and Internet kiosks.
To track your progress in the following table, select the check box next to each step.
| Step | Topic |
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1. Familiarize yourself with custom shells and common scenarios for using them in a run-time image. |
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2. Determine the requirements for your shell using the same techniques used for applications. |
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3. Create a new repository for your shell binary files. |
Creating a Repository in Windows XP Embedded Studio Help |
4. Create a component for the application that you will use as a shell. |
Creating a Component in Windows XP Embedded Studio Help |
5. Create a custom shell component. |
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6. Import your custom shell component into the component database. |
Importing an Object into the Database in Windows XP Embedded Studio Help |
7. Prevent the Windows splash screen being displayed while the run-time image is booting. |
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8. Prohibit Plug and Play or enable silent Plug and Play in your run-time image. |
- or - |
9. Intercept message boxes and balloon pop-ups in your run-time image. |
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10. Test the component. |
Best Practices for Testing a Component in Windows XP Embedded Studio Help |
11. Release the component. |
Releasing a Component in Windows XP Embedded Studio Help |
See Also
Concepts
How-to Topics (Update Rollup 1.0 for Windows XP Embedded)