The new thin clients are based on Via's C3-1GHz processor, which provides an "instantly recognizable" performance improvement over the company's earlier models based on 800 MHz Via processors. The devices come with up to 256 MB of RAM and 256 MB of IDE Flash memory. In addition, the TC37xx models feature USB-based wireless LAN connectivity along with a USB-based internal Smart Card reader.

VXL says it sees a "clear shift by companies toward client server-based infrastructures," with the thin client market growing at 20 percent per year, compared to just 2 percent annual growth for the PC market. As further evidence of this trend, VXL cites a recent report from market research firm IDC stating that only 50 percent of the workforce in a typical large enterprise actually need full-blown PCs.

The company lists the following key features and specifications for the TC36xx and TC37xx thin clients:

• Processor -- VIA C3-1GHz fanless CPU with VIA PL133 North Bridge and VT8231 South Bridge
  
• Memory -- 64 to 256 MB RAM in PC133 DIMM sockets
  
• Display -- up to 1600 x 1200 resolution with 32-bit color
  
• Storage -- 32 to 256 MB IDE Flash
  
• I/O Ports:
  • 10/100 Fast Ethernet
    
  • 4 USB ports
    
  • 1 serial and 1 parallel port
    
  • PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports
    
  • Audio -- AC97
    • Stereo out
      
    • Line in
      
    • Mic in
• Software:
  • Windows CE 5.0 or Windows XP Embedded operating system
    
  • Citrix ICA v8 Client
    
  • RDP Client v5.2
    
  • Internet Explorer v6.x
    
  • Windows Media Player
    
  • Ericom Terminal Emulation

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