Desktop Cost Cutting Measures Worth a Closer Look

September 1, 2009 Dan Burger

Maybe the relentless pressure to carve IT budgets and get more for less will cause more organizations to give high performance thin client computing a side-by-side comparison with their current desktop circumstances or plans for desktop virtualization. If small and powerful work stations are high on your priority list, and resource-intensive applications are an integral part of the game plan, you could come away looking like a budgeting genius by giving this idea some attention.

For those willing to look at head-to-head comparisons, take note that 10ZiG Technology, formerly known as BOSaNOVA, has introduced a substantial performance boost to its entry-level line of thin clients that are priced as low as $495. Where 500 MHz processors were formerly the top performers in the RBT lineup, 1.6 GHz dual-thread processors are now available. They are billed as the fastest, small form factor thin clients available–horsepower is provided by the Intel Atom N270 processors.

10Zig refers to the new high performance compacts as its 5600 Series, and notes these units were named the Best Form Factor Thin Client in the Citrix Ready Challenge.

Three models are available: the RBT-602, RBT-616, and RBT-672v. They support Linux and Windows Embedded Standard 2009 or XPe operating systems. Host access for IBM AS/400 5250 emulation is available on the 602 and the 616 models. The 672v is made specifically for desktop virtualization. Convenient options on all models include dual-monitor support and internal wireless capabilities. Maximum RAM is 1 GB.

Other attributes that might cause you to take a closer look at a thin client option include the small footprint–overall dimensions of 6.1 inches by 4.8 inches by1.4 inches–and the light weight of 1.7 pounds. The units get an Energy Star rating based on less than 12 watts of required power, which is easy on the energy consumption budget.

“The 5600 Series has set the standard for next-generation thin clients,” said Martin Pladgeman, president of 10ZiG Technology. “These units offer the complete package–they are small, flexible, fast, and energy efficient. Thin client computing has come a long way, especially now with the increased interest in desktop virtualization.”