A single person typically uses less than 5 percent of his or her own computer's resources and power. NComputing offers a low-cost solution to organizations needing multiple computer workstations by virtually separating the user interface of one computer into several workstations.

Users feel like they are engaging in an independent desktop experience while splitting the cost and resources of one computer with several other users.

Sectors of the economy that are currently benefiting from this new technology include education, nonprofits and government. Organizations facing budget cuts are finding this new system particularly beneficial due to the high cost savings.

How It Works

Each user accesses the physical computer via a small remote device connected either directly or through Ethernet.

The access device is not a computer; there is no CPU, software or storage available on it. It is simply a connection between one computer and multiple accessing workspaces in a client-server computing model.

The NComputing system uses User eXtension Protocol (UXP) to connect multiple sets of keyboards, monitors and mouses to one running computer unit. As of now the NComputing equipment only supports Windows or Linux operating systems.

Benefits

• Direct Equipment Savings. Virtual workspaces divide the cost of one computer to average about $70 per user. Virtual workspaces are quoted to last up to ten years as compared to a regular PC which typically must be thrown out every three-five years.
• Lower Maintenance Costs. No running parts leads to less maintenance required.
• Power Savings. Fewer units lead to less needed electricity. Traditional PCs use up to 110 watts compared to NComputing access devices which use only 1 to 5 watts.
• Air-conditioning Savings. Fewer running machines lead to lower temperatures and less cooling needed.
• More Environmentally Friendly. Less waste –  a traditional PC  amounts to about 22 lbs. of waste compared to a NComputing access device which weighs only 5 oz. More efficient use of power – only one computer enables multiple users vs. every user having individual running computer. Less physical material will be required while enabling same number of users. The company claims by adding additional users to one PC the energy footprint may be reduced up to 99 percent.

NComputing, with the help of other technology partners, is deploying this technology to governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations and schools around the world, particularly in South America and Africa.  

The goal being to lower desktop computing cost, improve manageability, and reduce both energy consumption and e-waste for these organizations that have limited resources. This technology is a step in the right direction and a step up for the millions who will benefit from it. To learn more about NComputing, visit www.ncomputing.com.

Russ Levanway is the CEO of TekTegrity, Inc. TekTegrity is an IT Strategies and Management firm that provides premium IT services to businesses, government, education and non-profit organization in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Monterey and Kern counties. TekTegrity’s goal is to become your organizations long-term strategic partner by supporting your IT infrastructure with your bottom line in mind. Some of TekTegrity’s services include System and Workstation Installation, Virtual Hosted Servers, Priority Backup, Off-Site Data Replication,, and Total Systems Management™ (TSM). TSM is an industry-leading managed services model that emphasizes proactive and preventative IT support at a predictable fixed monthly fee. For more information about TekTegrity, you can reach them by email at \n This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , on the Web at www.tektegrity.com, or by telephone at 805-596-0135.