MicroComputer Support

October 2003

In the MCS Spotlight: 
Locust Valley CSD

Thin Client Shoot-out

On Tuesday, October 21 the MicroComputer Support program co-sponsored a Thin Client “Shoot-out” in which member districts had an opportunity to review and Evaluate three Thin Client solutions being piloted at Locust Valley CSD. The event was hosted by Kathy Slowey, Locust Valley’s Director of Educational Technology who, like many of her district colleagues, is considering purchasing this new technology as a cost-effective computing option. Thin-client systems replace individual desktop PCs with a centralized server that distributes
applications to individual workstations.
Legacy PCs and Macintosh computers can also be connected to a thin client network greatly extending their useful life in the classroom.

District representatives were able to compare and contrast the three major thin client solutions, Citrix, ClassLinks, and Tarentella, and see how they performed in a controlled lab environment. Hands-on Evaluation provided an opportunity to compare interfaces and functionality, and districts discussed
	issues such as installation requirements, configuration, vendor support and functionality. Vendors for each of the solutions were on hand to present their products and answer questions.
NASTECH members get a hands-on opportunity to Evaluate the thin client solutions.

Kathy Slowey is sold on the thin client solution because it "provides a district with a cost effective way to expand network services to 24/7.  Staff and students have the opportunity to access network files and applications at home.  The district has the ability to stretch the technology dollar by extending the life of computers.  This solution is a win-win for all concerned."

	Clockwise from left: Berj Akian & Kate Matthews, ClassLink2000; Michael O'Donohoe, Citrix; Dr. Jeremy Bigler, Custom Computer Specialists (Citrix); Rich Sallustro, Communications Systems Design (Tarentella)