Microsoft OSes grow up: WinCE raises profile.(Windows CE operating system for Jupiter-class mininotebook computers) (Product Development)

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Bill Gates will formally introduce the next version of Windows CE on Oct. 12 at Microsoft's Professional Developers Conference in Denver. The operating system will run primarily on mininotebook-size devices, all code-named Jupiter.

Supporting Microsoft's software efforts, attendees will also get a look at Jupiter-class systems from Compaq, Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, LG Electronics, NEC, Philips, and Sharp.

Despite the full tilt system assault, IS managers familiar with Jupiter products are already debating whether the pluses -- a weight of about 2 pounds and eight-hour battery life -- outweigh the minuses -- poor remote access and …