Pano Logic Shrinks Thin Clients

By Greg McNevin

August 28, 2007: Startup Pano Logic is set to shake up desktop virtualization with a new thin client that’s strong on security and server utilisation while being light on power costs and TCO.

The device, similar in size to two decks of cards, features keyboard, monitor, mouse, USB and audio ports, along with a network connection to tie everything back to a central server where Pano Logic’s software links up with operating system instances virtualized with EMC’s VMware.

The device differs to traditional thin clients as it is a hardware device only and requires no software or drivers. Because of this, the company claims it is invulnerable to malware and viruses, and as everything including input/output is virtualized, USB devices such as storage keys and printers can be plugged in and monitored from a central server.

If security is a significant issue, local storage options can be eliminated altogether, and as an extra measure all network traffic is encrypted with 128-bit AES.

The company claims the machines consume as little as 5 watts of power (3 percent of a typical PC), and reduce desktop total cost of ownership (TCO) by a hefty 70 percent. This includes time and money saved in local software updates, physical visits by support staff and more efficient use of server hardware. Overall Pano Logic claims it can offer savings of up to US$3,200 (AU$3850) per desktop over a three-year period.

“The right model for desktop computing is to have zero software—and hence no pain—at the desktop, and to centralise all software and management in the data centre. And when there is no software on the desktop, a majority of today's desktop security problems vanish,” said Nick Gault, CEO of Pano Logic.

While one problem that remains is the LAN/WAN latency issues that come part and parcel with running a virtualized operating system, the company claims that the device copes with 5ms delays well. Beyond this, the benefits in reduced power consumption, security and easier management could prove compelling to many companies.

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