Installing and Using Windows Mobile Emulator
Microsoft have released a standalone version of the Windows Mobile emulator that is shipped with their development products. This tool is ideal for trying out SYWARE prodcuts if you do not have a Windows Mobile device available.
Notes:
This emulator is a Microsoft product and, as such, SYWARE, Inc. can only provide a limited amount of support for this product. However, here are some tips and tricks you might try if you run into trouble.
Additional information for Windows 7 desktop/laptops can be found here.
Requirements
You need to download a number of components to use the full features of the software:
- Windows Mobile 5.0 Emulator
You can download the Windows Mobile 5 Emulator here. There are two separate files - the emulator itself and the device image (MSFP image) files. You need to get both.
- Windows Mobile 6 Emulator
You can download the device image for the Windows Mobile 6 Emulator here. This page contains main languages, so ensure that you get the correct one.
To use the Windows Mobile 6 images you will need v2 of the emulator, which is also compatible with Vista. You will need the above link for the device images and then download the new emulator
- Network Driver
Download the Network Driver here.
- Active Sync
Download ActiveSync here. This is the version current at the time of writing.
Installation
- Install the virtual network driver.
- Extract the emulator installation file from the downloaded zip file and install it.
- Install ActiveSync.
- Reboot the Computer (whether it asks or not).
- Install the device images.
You should now find that you have images of different types listed under a group in your Start menu.
Working with the Emulator - Options and Tips
Co-Existing with a Physical Windows Mobile
Active Sync cannot cope with two Windows Mobile 5 devices connected at the same time, so if you are cradling the emulated device, disconnect your real Windows Mobile first.
To cradle the emulator device, open the Emulator manager. If you don't see a device listed, click Refresh. Then right click on the device and choose Cradle.
On ActiveSync, ensure that DMA is selected under "Allow Connections to one of the following" in the Connections menu.
Getting Content on to the Emulator
If you want to get files on to the emulator, then you have two options.
- ActiveSync.
Choose the cradle option and the device will attempt to sync. Cancel the wizard and you browse the device as a Guest.
- Create a Storage Card.
In the Emulator window, choose File, Configure. Then select Shared Folder. In there select a folder - probably one that you have created especially for the task. After making the selection, it will be available as a storage card inside the Windows Mobile emulator - the only size restriction being the size of your hard disk.
This is a great way to get installers on to the device, as it is very quick and easy. Just copy the installer files and then run the installer inside the device.
