Conclusion
One of the chief goals for this version of Windows has been to provide you with the best possible experience in installing and using devices. An important part of this is the extensive driver coverage in Windows XP. Hundreds of tested and signed drivers come with the operating system, and many more will be available online through Windows Update for convenient, automatic installation on your computer.
Not only are there more and better drivers, but Windows XP supports many new devices and device classes, including wireless network adapters; USB array microphones; expanded PS/2 and USB interface keyboards, which have additional keys for multimedia functions, Web browsing, power management, and/or other functions; and high-resolution monitors built to display up to 200 dots per inch.
This article has covered just some of the features and technologies of Windows XP that improve the management of devices and hardware, both new and legacy. From Windows Me, Windows XP derives WIA, which makes it easier to work with digital still image devices. Moreover, it improves digital audio and video playback and recording; CD mastering can now be done efficiently and conveniently with technologies native to Windows. Dualview provides additional monitor configuration options beyond the multiple monitor options available in previous versions of Windows. And finally, Windows XP derives from Windows 2000 its support for ACPI, which enables advanced power management of hardware and devices.
Note: For a comprehensive discussion of device management in Windows XP, please refer to the relevant chapter in the forthcoming Windows XP Professional Resource Kit.
Related Links
Windows Driver and Hardware Development
http://www.microsoft.com/hwdev/
Windows Update
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com
Windows Hardware Compatibility List
http://www.microsoft.com/hcl/default.asp
For the latest information on Windows XP, check out our Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp.
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