In addition to the standalone packages of Windows XP SP3, Microsoft has made available a set of additional versions, tailoring the releases on specific user scenarios. In this context, the Checked Build of Windows XP Service Pack 3 RTM, Build 5512 is designed to act as the foundation for the development of third-party solutions for the Windows client. In this regard, it brings to the table not only the gold bits of the service pack but also extra items necessary to assist the application debugging process.

The XP SP3 RTM Checked Build is meant to be implemented on machines used to develop and debug software products built on the service pack. In this context, IT professionals and developers are the target audience of the 342.9 MB release, that comes with support exclusively for English, unlike the additional installation packages that are featured in no less than 25 languages.

"Windows XP SP3 was Released To Manufacturing (RTM) on April 21st, with the release to customers and OEMs via the various channels forthcoming. Following the RTM of SP3, some compatibility issues were discovered between Windows XP SP3 and Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS). For this reason, the release of SP3 to the Web was delayed. However, it was available via MSDN and Technet subscription channels. Now it is available on all the usual channels. Microsoft expects to begin automatically distributing Windows XP SP3 via Windows Update in early summer - US Time," said Nick MacKechnie, Senior Technical Account Manager at Microsoft New Zealand.

On top of the standard bits of XP SP3 RTM, Microsoft is also offering through the Checked Build the debugging symbols that are intimately connected with the service pack's binaries. This version of XP SP3 is the best way for IT professionals and developers looking to test drive their software on XP SP3 to access the debugging symbols associated with the release.

"Windows XP SP3 includes all previously released updates for Windows XP, including security updates, out-of-band releases, and hotfixes. It contains a small number of new updates, that can help make it easier for Windows XP customers to be sure their system is up-to-date, but should not significantly change their Windows XP experience," MacKechnie explained.

Windows XP Service Pack 3, Checked Build, is available for download here.