HP bolsters green thin client line

Company debuts laptop-style mobile thin client capable of improving security and cutting energy use for mobile workers

HP has launched three new thin client products, including the company's first mobile thin client, which aims to provide businesses with a simpler, cheaper and greener computing infrastructure.

Following the completion of HP's acquisition of Neoware three months ago, the company has now added two new desk-based models as well as the first HP-branded laptop-style mobile thin client to its portfolio.

Thin clients are widely regarded as a green alternative to conventional PCs and laptops that cut down energy use by up to 80 per cent. The systems contain no moving parts and work by simply connecting users to the network where they can access software run on the company's central servers.

The HP Compaq 6720t Mobile Thin Client is aimed at on-the-go professionals such as insurance claim processors, remote staff, warehouse and inventory managers and office administrators, HP said.

"HP recognises thin clients play an integral role in driving next-generation business computing platforms, and will continue innovating across thin clients and other remote computing solutions to help customers achieve their growing business goals," said David Wright, vice president and general manager of the Personal Systems Group for HP in UK and Ireland.

The 6720t runs Microsoft Windows XPe and features a 15.4-inch display; solid-state design with no hard drive, fan or other moving parts. It also supports Wi-Fi and 3G wireless broadband via a PC memory card slot and solid-state flash module.

The new system will also allow mobile workers to significantly reduce their energy use compared to conventional laptops.

HP hopes the design will help companies increase security as applications are accessed from a server, virtual PC or blade PC computing platform over a secure virtual private network internet connection. Data files and software are also saved remotely on a secure server to help reduce the risk of data loss, viruses and product theft.

According to analyst firm IDC, HP (including Neoware) led the industry in thin client unit shipments with more than 34 per cent market share worldwide in the third quarter of 2007.

Pricing for the HP Compaq 6720t Mobile Thin Client has yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to be available in select markets across EMEA in the second quarter of 2008.

Meanwhile, the HP Compaq t5730 and t5735 desktop Thin Clients are available in EMEA in February with a starting list price of £405 and £315 respectively.

A version of this article first appeared on BusinessGreen's sister site vnunet.com