What is Windows CE?

[dragonorb13]

I'm trying to figure this out because I have access to this item, and I want to know what exactly it is... Microsoft's 'explanation' gave me nothing, and Wiki's explanation was rather thin.
What is it, exactly?
Is it just a stripped down variation of Windows 7, or is it something entirely different??
Can I install it on my laptop, or is it specifically for specialized hardware?
Does it take drivers like other operating systems, or would I have to make my own?
Does it have it's own requirements and hardware capabilities?

 

[hang-the-9]

Windows CE has nothing to do with Win 7. Wiki actually has a pretty good explanation for what it is. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_CE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Windows_CE_devices

Here is some more info about the SDK for CE http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa459143.aspx

It's not made for consumers to install, but used for small devices such as phones, set-top boxes, etc... It evolved into Windows Mobile on the cell phone arena, but it still used in some other devices.

 

[dragonorb13]

Best answer selected by dragonorb13.