Wyse Technology has introduced what it claims to be the industry's first family of high-speed, WiFi-enabled thin clients. The Wireless V-Class thin clients, available with an embedded Linux OS, simplify installation because the only required connection is power, according to the company.

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The V-Class devices support the WPA (WiFi protected access) and WPA2 protocols for 802.1x authentication/encryption, and “automatically and securely connect to any supported wireless network,” without requiring driver installation, according to Wyse. The clients are said to be “fully compatible” with Microsoft Terminal Services, Citrix Presentation Server, VMware VDI, and Wyse Device Manager.

Wyse V-class rear panel (Click image to enlarge)

Wyse lists the following key features and specifications for the Linux-based model V50 Wireless V-class thin client:

• Processor — Via C3, clock rate unspecified
• Memory 256MB RAM, 128 flash
• Display:
  • 1600 x 1200 with 16-bit color
  • 1280 x 1024 with 24-bit color
• I/O ports:
  • 10/100 Ethernet
  • 3 USB 2.0
  • 2 serial
  • parallel port
  • PS/2 keyboard and mouse
  • 16-bit stereo audio — line out, mic in jacks
  • optional internal smart-card reader
• Expansion — CardBus/PCMCIA slot
• Wireless — built-in 802.11b/g
• Embedded OS — Wyse Linux
• Power — autosensing 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz power supply. 17.2 W average with keyboard, mouse, and monitor connected
• Dimensions — 7.9 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches (201 x 180 x 46 mm)
• Mounting:
  • vertical foot standard
  • horizontal feet optional
  • VESA mounting bracket optional

Tarkan Maner, Wyse president of worldwide field operations, stated, “The factory installed wireless capability, with the software and hardware fully integrated, enables a variety of new applications for quick, secure deployment in hotel lobbies, airport kiosks, hospitals, and school rooms. The simple, secure set-up of a horizontal or vertical wall-mounted Wyse wireless product enables our customers to operate in places that haven't been able to be wired with traditional Ethernet.”

The Wireless V-class V50 is immediately available, according to Wyse. Models are also available that run Windows CE and Windows XP Embedded. Pricing was not disclosed.

WiFi-enabled Linux-based thin clients are also available from VXL, and possibly others.

 
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