What is a thin client?
Thin clients are desktop computers that take all their services from a super server. Thin clients don't require hard drives and are a much smaller form factor than their equivalent fat client. They have much less heat build up and no internal fans are required. The life span of a thin client is usually 10 years, this compares with 4 years for fat clients. Thin-client units run very quietly resulting in a near silent IT classroom.
Cost savings
- Due to the extended life span and lower unit cost (approx £275 vs £400) a school with 400 desktops would save on average £29,000 per year on the cost of units alone.
- Super servers might cost £5,000 per year giving a net saving of £24,000 per year.
- Air conditioning is not required in the classroom reducing costs further.
- Thin clients draw 20W power compared to 200W for fat clients.