The world’s second-largest PC manufacturer, Acer, announced its foray into thin-client computing with the launch of the Veriton N Series, a family of three devices that come equipped with a choice of Devon IT’s embedded, Linux-based thin client Devon Terminal Operating System (DeTOS) 7.1, Windows Embedded Standard 7 or Windows 8/Windows 7 operating systems.
Aimed at small and midsize businesses, the thin clients boast energy-saving and environmental protection specifications such as Energy Star 5.2 qualification and Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) Gold compliance.
The Veriton N2110G Series of stateless devices with no moving parts support dual DisplayPorts with a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1600, with the possibility of adding video graphics array (VGA) and Digital Visual Interface (DVI) adapters. The clients sport a dual-core AMD G-T56N processor, 2GB memory and Advanced Micro Devices Radeon HD 6320 graphics, and offer features such as four USB 2.0 ports and two USB 3.0 ports, a compact chassis and the ability to be attached to the back of a monitor to save desk and office space.
The N2620G Series provides DVI-I plus High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) dual output for supporting two monitors at once, up to a second-generation Intel Celeron 887 processor with Intel HD Graphics, corporate-level security requirements through Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 compliance, and like the N2110G series can be attached to a monitor, laid flat on a table or stood vertically for maximum flexibility.
Finally, the Veriton N2010G Series also offers dual-monitor support through dual DVI output with 1920 x 1200 screen resolution (VGA adapters are also available) and boasts four USB 2.0 ports for connecting peripherals like a keyboard or mouse. Rounding out the package is an ARM-based DM8148 processor from Texas Instruments with a PowerVR SGX530 graphics accelerator and HD Video accelerator.
Pricing for the Veriton N Series thin clients will begin at $239, with the Veriton N2110G and Veriton N2620G Series available through Acer’s resellers starting in October. The N2010G Series will follow in December, and the company noted all models come with a limited three-year warranty. Businesses will also have the ability to choose from extended warranties and services.
The centralized processing in thin-client computing makes it possible for IT departments to manage data and hardware assets, monitor system access, and enforce security policies and procedures with the aim of increasing internal data security. Other features include Devon IT’s Echo Management software; Microsoft RemoteFX 3D virtual adapter; Citrix HDX high-definition desktop virtualization; and VMware View, which is designed to simplify desktop and application management.
“Our new thin-client line will help organizations meet today’s reality of ever-shrinking budgets by simplifying IT without compromising on business deliverables,” Michael O’Beirne, Acer senior director of commercial product marketing, said in a company press release. “The Acer N Series [offerings] are easy to configure, maintain and manage, while reducing the overall cost of ownership.”