Thin Clients

What is a Thin Client?

"Thin Client" is the name for a computer that acts as a terminal to allow you to connect to server-based systems - such as Desktop.AsAService. They differ from personal computers in that they don't have a hard disk and you usually can't run normal PC programs on them.

However, equipped with a mouse, a keyboard and a screen, they allow users to access their Windows desktop on the server, where all of your standard applications - email, spread sheet, internet - are running.

Why Would I Use Thin Clients?

When you use IT Easy's Desktop.AsAService, you don't need to have all of the power of a personal computer at each user's desk - because that is all on the server. Once your users are connected to this service they no longer need to use the desktop pc as anything other than a terminal.

And thin clients have a lot of benefits over personal computers - they're cheaper for a start, they are much smaller, so they use less space, they use less electricity, and, because they have no moving parts, they last much longer than personal computers.

So, Should I Scrap all my PCs?

No - or at least not yet! There's no point writing off the investment you've made in desktop personal computers until they've reached the end of their useful life. And with Desktop.AsAService all the computing power is on the server, so your desktop personal computers will probably last for longer because there will be no need to upgrade to use the next great application.

However, as each personal computer finally gets to the end of its life, you can replace it with a thin client. Eventually, most if not all of the personal computers in your organisation will end up being replaced by thin clients.

There's one exception to this. If you have mobile employees who need to access the systems while they're travelling on business, they may need a laptop.

OK, So How Much Do They Cost?

We know you're not going to like this answer but, it all depends!

Like personal computers, there is a range of models of thin client and there are lots of different manufacturers, so the price you finish up paying will depend on your exact requirements, the manufacturer you choose, the warranty you purchase and so on. IT Easy will be happy to advise you on the best fit for your requirements, and then procure the thin clients for you using our corporate purchasing power.

As a guide, excluding keyboard, mouse and screen, prices range upwards from $300 excluding GST.

And, if required, IT Easy is able to rent thin clients to approved organisations. Just ask your Account Manager for information about our rental plans.