Thin client solutions have been used in various forms in corporations for nearly 20 years. Distributing user access (interface devices), while centralizing the desktop computing and storage resources in the data center, can lower desktop management costs significantly while providing users the ability to access their desktop workspace from anywhere on the network. However, a primary barrier to more widespread acceptance of thin client computing has been complaints from users, especially those who require high-quality graphics and multimedia performance at the desktop, that the desktop experience has not been good enough — that it is not the same as having the computing resources on (or under) their desk. Historically, this has been particularly true for such users as scientists using visualization software, engineers using CAD/CAE software, game developers, and video editors. With Microsoft’s recent Windows Vista release with “Areo Glass,” which relies on high-capability graphics, even back-office users will require a boost in graphics capabilities or suffer a degraded experience. Teradici, with its new specialized chip set and PC/workstation blade delivery partners, has introduced solutions that raise the quality of the user experience to match the experience on a local desktop, even for applications with significant graphics requirements. This Focus profile will discuss Teradici’s approach, including its solution architecture, features, differentiators, strengths, limitations, partnerships, and an overall Focus assessment of Teradici solutions.

Keywords: Teradici, high-performance graphics, hardware, USB bridging, PC-over-IP, secure data path