Microsoft has released a VHD downloadable version of System Center Essentials 2007 that will allow you to evaluate the product in a sandbox environment. This is particularly useful if you cannot install the application in a live production environment and you want to be able to explore the features of the application.

System Center Essentials 2007 is a new management solution specifically designed for IT professionals working in midsize businesses who often face IT challenges similar to those of larger enterprises—troubleshooting user problems, automating management tasks, managing multiple systems, and diagnosing and resolving IT problems.

SCE 2007 VHD Download
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=27342759-e9d6-4073-918c-e9dff77d0206&DisplayLang=en

Related Resources
Home page for Microsoft System Center Essentials 2007