HP dc72 HP Blade Workstation Client series - Embedded OS Version 8.xx - Page 9

2 Blade workstation solution overview The blade workstation solution represents a new paradigm in high performance workstations. Rather than placing the workstation computing power at the user's desk, the computing power is moved to the data center where the rack-mounted workstations can be more easily, securely, and inexpensively managed. Users can remotely view and interact with the blade workstations using inexpensive client computers. This reduces the heat, clutter, and noise inherent in multi-workstation desktop configurations. For information on the HP Blade Workstation Solution, visit http://www.hp.com/go/bladeworkstation. The datacenter can be nearby or, for business continuity reasons, more distant. Standard networking technology connects the blade workstation to the client computer. The client computer is a customized dc7600 or dc7700 PC. It is not a standalone PC, but rather an appliance designed to display the desktop of one or more blade workstations. The client computer has two graphics cards, supporting up to four monitors (see Figure 2-1). Figure 2-1 HP Blade Workstation Solution User applications run on the blade workstation interactive desktop image network client access device This symbol denotes the HP RGS product. The stylistic R stands for "Remote" while the Greek gamma symbol stands for "Graphics". HP ProLiant xw460c Blade Workstation keyboard & mouse inputs 2-1 Features of the client computer The client computer is optimized for its role within the blade workstation solution. The small form-factor device uses a Disk on Module (DOM), a small solid-state hard drive with no moving parts. To enhance data security, no removable media drives (such as diskette or CD-ROM drives) are provided. The USB ports are disabled to provide further data security. In addition, the embedded OS contains only those components required to support the blade workstation solution. This design provides: • A small form factor with minimal heat dissipation and noise. • Security • Stability • Reliability • Fast reboots • Ease of use • Easy of administration and maintenance 2-2 Embedded OS The client computer embedded OS is not customizable, and is not based on a standard OS stream. The embedded OS is stored on the flashable DOM, and contains the necessary drivers, software, and tools to perform its primary task-display the video output of the blade workstations on the client monitors. 9