Devon IT's TC5X (right), introduced in March 2009, was surprisingly one of the first thin clients to employ Intel's netbook-oriented Atom N270 CPU, along with the mobile-oriented 82945GSE northbridge and ICH7M southbridge. These components are not noted for their HD video playback capabilities, but Devon IT called the Windows XP Embedded-based devices "HD ready" and said its dual video outputs (one DVI-I and one DVI-D) could support dual monitors with up to 1920 x 1200 resolution apiece.

Later, via an upgrade to the Windows Embedded Standard 2009 operating system and other software modifications, the TC5 was said to be ready to work with Citrix's HDX (high definition user experience) technology, offered as part of the XenDesktop and XenApp products. (HDX gives thin clients such features as USB 2.0 support, plug-and-play printing, real-time audio compatible with VoIP, and "true multi-monitor support," according to Citrix.)

Now, Devon IT sticks with the same Atom chipset, but has used it to create a thin client that's smaller and claimed to be even more graphically talented. The new TC5Xc (below) measures just 6.14 x 4.8 x 1.4 inches and runs the Windows Embedded Standard 9 (WES7) operating system, the company says.

Devon IT's TC5Xc
(Click to enlarge)

A key feature is said to be compatibility with Microsoft's RemoteFX technology. This is a a set of enhancements -- most prominently graphics virtualization and the use of advanced codecs -- that is included in RDP (remote desktop protocol) 7.1, part of Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1.

Advantages of RemoteTX resemble those previously touted for HDX. Microsoft says users will be able to access virtualized workspaces "with the fidelity of a local-like performance." The technology supports the Windows Aero desktop environment, full-motion video, 3D, plus Silverlight and Flash applications, the company adds.

Regarding the TC5Xc, Devon IT says "the small Intel Atom processor is renowned for its graphics performance." While this sounds rather optimistic, the company adds that the thin client supports single or dual displays with 1920 x 1200 pixels apiece, runs Adobe Flash, and is compatible with Silverlight 4. (We're guessing users won't be playing HD video, however.)

Devon IT teams the N270 processor with 2GB of non-expandable RAM, plus 4GB of flash for operating system storage. Featuring gigabit Ethernet, the TC5xc has four USB ports, and an optional 802.11b/g/n wireless LAN module, the TC5X has four USB ports, a microphone input, line output, and a headphone jack, according to the company.

Features and specifications listed by Devon IT for the TC5Xc include:

• Processor -- 1.6GHz Atom N270
  
• Memory -- 2GB of DDR2 RAM
  
• Storage -- 4GB of flash
  
• Display -- Supports dual displays via DVI-I connector and included splitter cable
  
• Networking -- gigabit Ethernet port with RJ45 connector
  
• Other I/O:
  • 1 x DVI-I
    
  • 4 x USB 2.0
    
  • 1 x PS/2
  • audio -- mic in, line out
• Operating temperature -- n/s
  
• Power requirements -- n/s
• Dimensions -- 6.14 x 4.8 x 1.4 inches (156 x 122 x 36mm)
  
• Weight -- n/s

Joe Makoid, president of Devon IT, stated, "The face of computing is changing in the midst of major IT organizations developing additional methods of delivering the desktop to users. We expect RemoteFX to continue the advancement of high-quality, PC-like desktop experiences to users of all intensity levels."

Further information

Devon IT did not provide pricing for the TC5Xc but said the device will be released during the second quarter and is orderable via Dell and IBM part numbers. Further information may be found on the TC5Xc product page.

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