| "Virtual clients" Run Windows XP Embedded |
| Tuesday, 25 April 2006 by Michel Roth | |||
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In ClearCube's centralized computing model, each client enjoys exclusive access, via Microsoft RDP (remote desktop protocol), to a single, designated blade server. This differs from the traditional "thin client" model, in which multiple clients share time on centralized servers. However, the underlying technology -- RDP -- is borrowed from the thin client world, as are the devices themselves. ClearCube says its I/Port clients are custom-made by thin-client specialist Neoware. Along with the Windows XP Embedded-based I8820 client, a Linux-based I8020 client is available. Additionally, several stock Neoware client devices, are available through ClearCube running I/Port client software. ClearCube also offers a "Grid Center" product that allows multiple I/Port clients -- typically four -- to share a single blade, according to company spokesperson Ken Knott. The company's primary business seems to be blade servers and computing blades based on Pentium 4 processors. Knott adds that many I/Port users deploy the devices on battery-powered carts, which he says can provide more battery life than laptops. However, the I8820 does not appear to offer wireless networking capabilities. The I/Port I8820 is based on an AMD Geode processor, clocked at 333MHz. It has 512MB of Flash, and 256MB of RAM. Its video subsystem supports 24-bit color, and resolutions up to UXGA (1600 x 1200), at 85Hz. I/O includes three USB 1.1 ports (two front, one rear), two PS/2 ports, one serial port, audio I/O, VGA, and 10/100 Ethernet. Supported USB peripherals include DiskOnKey, CD-ROM, floppy, and printers. Read more here.
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