14 DAY TRIAL // On May 27, 2008 Microsoft made available for download the Windows SideShow Managed Runtime 1.0 and the Windows SideShow Managed API 1.0 Software Development Kit. Both resources are essential to running and developing gadgets designed for Windows SideShow in managed code. Via the Windows SideShow Managed API 1.0 SDK, developers will have access to integrated resources for Visual Studio 2008 such as documentation and project templates (also for Visual Studio 2005), along with Intellisense information.
"The Windows SideShow Managed Runtime 1.0 installs the runtime components that are required to run gadgets for Windows SideShow using the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0," Microsoft informed, indicating that Visual Studio 2008 along with .NET Framework 2.0 are among the system requirements for the Runtime.
"The Windows SideShow Managed API 1.0 SDK installs the runtime and development components that are required to build and run gadgets for Windows SideShow using the .NET Framework 2.0. This download facilitates gadget development and enables developers to build compelling applications to support Windows SideShow-compatible devices. The SDK includes Windows SideShow project templates integrated with Visual Studio," reads the overview for the SDK.
Windows SideShow is a new technology introduced by Windows Vista which makes information from a machine running the operating system available on additional devices set up to complement the main computer. SideShow is only featured in the Ultimate, Business, Enterprise and Home Premium editions of Windows Vista and will provide access to various data including emails extended on devices via gadgets even if the computer on which the data is stored is turned off.
"Windows SideShow uses gadgets, convenient mini programs, to extend information from your computer to other devices. Gadgets can run on a Windows SideShow-compatible device and update that device with information from your computer. Using a gadget, you can view information from your computer regardless of whether your mobile PC is on, off, or in the sleep power state - which can save you both time and battery life," Microsoft explained in the feature's description.
Windows SideShow Managed API 1.0 SDK is available for download here. Windows SideShow Managed Runtime 1.0 can be downloaded via this link.