|
The categories of client devices are shown in Table 7-2.
Client Category | Remote Applications | Supports Secure Access from Outside the LAN | Local Web Browser | Local Applications | Support of Local Peripherals | Local File Sharing |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Thin client only |
| - | - | |||
Mobile user |
|
|
|
| - | - |
Simple hybrid |
|
|
|
| ||
Complex hybrid |
|
|
|
|
|
|
[*] indicates that the client has the requirement. - indicates that the client could have the requirement. |
Although client devices tend to be compared more commonly than client types, it is important to note that there is a great deal of overlap today with client devices. That is, both software and hardware exist today to lock down a PC such that it fits the description of a thin client. Conversely, many new Windows terminals have local web browsers and support for client peripherals (via USB, parallel ports, and/or serial ports). Thus, these thin clients can be categorized as simple or even complex hybrid clients. Additionally, with the large number of new device types on the scene, like Tablet PCs, handheld devices, Linux devices, and Windows CE tablets, it saves time to discuss client types (and include client devices which can fulfill that role) rather than to discuss only devices.
The matrix of client types in Table 7-2 is meant to provide an idea of total cost of ownership (TCO) of the client type. For example, a Windows terminal that supports a local web browser, peripheral devices, and a complex local OS (like Windows XP Embedded), and thus fits into the complex hybrid type, will be more expensive to procure, configure, manage, and maintain than a Windows terminal that simply supports an ICA client (even though both devices may be sold as a "thin client"). For the purposes of our discussion, both devices would not be classified as a thin client. We only classify Windows terminals that support an ICA client as a thin client. It is also important to note that this client matrix does not define operating systems. If Citrix MetaFrame XP will be used, its support of hundreds of operating system variations ensures the use of Linux-based devices and Windows CE-based devices, as well as the more common assortment of Windows 95 through Windows XP-based devices. If only Windows Terminal Services will be used, the device choice becomes more limited.
Since total cost of ownership is not the only consideration when choosing which client type and client devices to support, a significant task in designing the SBC environment is to figure out which client types and devices will be procured and supported.
|