the NComputing L300 is a zero-footprint thin-client for small and medium-sized deployments. NComputing’s vSpace software provides Terminal Services-style desktops for LAN-based users.
The L300, which has an 11.5cm-square foorprint, has a good set of connections for a thin client: 2 x USB 2.0 (for peripherals); microphone and headphone; 2 x USB 1.1 (for keyboard and mouse); 10/100Mbps Ethernet, VGA, 12V DC in, on/off
vSpace can be installed on servers running 32-bit versions of Windows Server 2003 and 2008, and Ubuntu Linux. If you’re using Windows Server 2008 R2, you’ll have to wait until Q1 2011, when NComputing will include 64-bit Windows platform support with the launch of version 6 of its vSpace virtualisation software.
We installed vSpace on a server running Windows Server 2003 R2. vSpace does not require Microsoft Terminal Services or a Microsoft Terminal Services License Server to be running, which makes the server-side setup straightforward.
In contrast to enterprise-level VDI systems, the price structure for NComputing L300 is also refreshingly simple. You buy as many L300 client devices as you want, and NComputing’s vSpace management software and all software updates are free. NComputing’s (currently 32-bit only) vSpace software provides Terminal Services-style desktops for up to 30 LAN-based L300 users per server or host PC.
To install and roll out applications, you use much the same process as Microsoft Terminal Services: that is, a server administrator installs whatever apps are needed on the server, and provided the apps work properly in a Terminal Services setup, they will immediately become available to users.
Adding a new L300 to your LAN is as simple as plugging it in. The device will get its IP address from a DHCP server, and will automatically discover any vSpace servers on the LAN. Something to bear in mind when adding or relocating users is that although NComputing describes the L300 as a zero-footprint client, it does actually contain some firmware and can hold some user preference data.
We found the L300 took around 40 seconds to boot in our tests. Depending on how the L300 is configured, on boot-up the user will either be automatically connected to their chosen vSpace server or they will see an on-screen menu allowing them to enter their Windows username and the server they want to connect to.
Administration on the server is carried out using the vSpace Console, which is launched by double clicking its icon in the Windows System Tray and entering a password.
Based on the familiar Microsoft Management Console architecture, the vSpace Console is easy to navigate i.e. expand hierarchies such as Hardware Settings to get a list of client devices, and adjust settings for individual clients using the device’s Properties screen.
(cost excludes installation)
