Overview
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system remains at the center of the ongoing evolution of the personal computer, enabling users to experience the power of the PC in new ways. In spite of these advances, millions of individuals still have not experienced even the most basic benefits of the personal computer or accessed the world of social and economic benefits that computer technology can make possible.
In an effort to provide an affordable and simple introduction to personal computing, and as a result of ongoing collaborations with governments on PC access programs and increasing digital inclusion, Microsoft Corp. has developed Windows XP Starter Edition, an operating system designed for first-time PC users in developing technology markets.
Microsoft Windows XP Starter Edition is designed to offer an affordable and easy-to-use entry point to the Windows family of products that is tailored to local markets, in local languages, and is compatible with a wide range of Windows-based applications and devices.
In line with Microsoft’s other initiatives to enable digital skills training and access to technology, including the Local Language Program, Partners in Learning, and Unlimited Potential, Windows XP Starter Edition supports the company’s long-term vision for the global marketplace, empowering even more people to achieve their fullest potential.
Windows XP Starter Edition Features
Windows XP Starter Edition balances the needs of first-time PC users in developing technology markets by delivering proven Microsoft technology at a more affordable price. Windows XP Starter Edition features include the following:
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Localized and tailored support. Windows XP Starter Edition features a redesigned help system, called My Support, which includes a built-in, detailed Getting Started Guide. In addition, Windows XP Starter Edition features local language instructional videos designed specifically for first-time PC users.
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Localized customization. With Windows XP Starter Edition, users in most markets can choose from market-specific wallpapers and screensavers with familiar landscapes, flags and region-specific traditional designs.
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Preconfigured settings. Windows XP Starter Edition will help reduce confusion regarding setup options for entry-level users by preconfiguring advanced settings and enabling the Windows Firewall to be always on.
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Simplified task management. With Windows XP Starter Edition, first-time home PC users can have up to three programs and three windows per program running concurrently. Further simplification of the operating system includes setting a maximum display resolution of 1024x768 and no support for PC-to-PC home networking, sharing printers across a network or more advanced features such as the ability to establish multiple user accounts on a single PC.
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Windows XP Starter Edition includes basic Windows XP features that allow users to take advantage of computing experiences popular with most first-time PC users, such as the following:
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Internet connectivity. Windows XP Starter Edition makes it simple to connect to the Internet and browse the Web.
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Software and hardware compatibility. Windows XP Starter Edition will be compatible with a wide range of Windows-based software applications and hardware devices, including printers, speakers and cameras.
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Windows user interface. The intuitive Windows user interface makes it easy for users to get up to speed quickly.
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Security. Windows XP Starter Edition users will be able to stay up to date and more secure with the latest security updates delivered in Windows XP Service Pack 2 with Advanced Security Technologies.
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Communication. Windows Messenger will help make it fun and easy to communicate with friends and family through real-time text messaging.
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Digital photography. Users simply plug in a digital camera, and easy-to-use tools help users store photos, share photos with family and friends, post photos to a Web site, or even make their own prints with one of the many printers currently supported by Windows XP.
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Digital music and video. Windows XP Starter Edition includes Windows Media® Player 9 Series, which allows users to listen to music and watch videos.
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Windows XP Starter Edition Geographic and Language Availability
Windows XP Starter Edition ships on low-cost PCs sold by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Microsoft OEM distributors in more than 88 countries around the world, and is localized into 25 languages. Two multilingual versions of Windows XP Starter Edition were released earlier this year. These multilingual editions will enable people in India and Malaysia to operate PCs in their native languages or English. An English version has also recently been released for distribution to most emerging markets worldwide.
Windows XP Starter Edition Pricing
Windows XP Starter Edition is the most affordable Windows operating system offered to date. Specific pricing information is available to participating PC OEMs and Microsoft OEM distributors.
Windows XP Starter Edition Top-Line System Requirements
Windows XP Starter Edition is designed for low-cost, entry-level PCs running value-based processors such as Intel’s Celeron®, Celeron D and Celeron M; AMD’s Duron™, Geode™ and Sempron™; and similar processors from other manufacturers. As of Sept. 1, 2006, Windows XP Starter Edition has the following top-line system requirements:
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PCs with Intel® Celeron, Celeron D or Celeron M processors
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PCs with Intel Pentium® 3 processors
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PCs with Intel Pentium 4 processors not supporting Hyper-Threading Technology
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PCs with Intel Pentium 4 processor models 541, 531 and 524 supporting Hyper-Threading Technology
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PCs with AMD™ Athlon™ XP, Duron, Geode or Sempron processors
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PCs with similar value processors from other manufacturers
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233 MHz processor minimum, 300 MHz or higher recommended
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64 MB of RAM; 512 MB of RAM maximum
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1.5 GB of available hard disk space, 120 GB maximum hard disk space
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CD-ROM or DVD drive
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Super VGA video adaptor and monitor
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Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device
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source- microsoft.com