Introduction to thin client device

The thin client is a PC with less of everything. In designing a computer system, there are decisions to be made about processing, storage, software and user-interface. With the reality of reliable high-speed networking, it is possible to change the location of any of these with respect to the others. A gigabit/s network is faster than a PCI bus and many hard drives, so each function can be in a different location. Choices will be made depending on the total cost, cost of operation, reliability, performance and usability of the system. The thin client is closely connected to the user interface. In a thin client/server system, is placed the software for the user interface on the thin client, possibly some frequently/heavily used application, and a networked operating system and nothing else. This software can be loaded from a local drive, the server at boot or as needed. By simplifying the load on the thin client, a thin client can be a very small, low-powered device giving lower costs to purchase and to operate per-seat. The server, or a cluster of servers has the full weight of all the applications, services and data. By keeping a few servers busy and many thin clients lightly loaded we can expect easier system management, and lower costs as well as all the advantages of networked computing: central storage/backup and easier security. Because the thin client is relatively passive and low-maintenance, but numerous, the entire system is simpler and easier to install and to operate. As the cost of hardware plunges and the cost of employing a technician, buying energy and disposing of waste rises, the advantages of thin clients grow. From the user’s perspective the interaction is with monitor, keyboard and pointer changes little from using a thick client.

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started