Neoware says it has developed software that can eliminate CompactFlash chips from thin-client designs. Neoware Image Manager streams applications and operating systems on-demand from Linux or Windows servers to PCs or thin clients, allowing users to run applications without any need for local storage.

Neoware says Flash chips are among the most costly components of a thin client, and one that often limits the usable lifespan of thin-client devices, as OS and application storage needs grow over time.

According to Neoware, Image Manager can be used to stream a single software image containing OS, hardware drivers, and applications to any PC or thin client, regardless of configuration. Users are able to save configuration and settings data, but their changes are stored centrally. The company says this approach is more secure, allowing administrators to eliminate unauthorized changes to local desktops.

A Gartner principal analyst, Federica Troni, said, “By deploying operating systems and applications to a personal computer or thin client on demand, enterprises can enhance security and manageability.”

Neoware did not immediately confirm whether its Image Manager uses ATA-over-Ethernet (AoE), iSCSI, HyperSCSI, or another remote storage protocol.

Neoware was named the eigth-fastest growing US company by Fortune Magazine last summer, and last fall acquired an IBM mainframe and midrange systems terminal business.

Availability

Neoware says it plans to bundle Image Manager with a Flash-free client, and a robust version of Windows XP Embedded, priced at $399. A Linux version will also be available at an unspecified time, the company says. Image Manager will also be available standalone, priced at $89 to $189 per user, depending on usage.

 
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