Network computer
A network computer or network computer , NC short, is a computer one of the special features with minimal hardware features personal computer to replace.
From 1995 to 1997 it was expected that such so-called thin clients would replace the use of conventional PCs ( fat clients ). The idea of network computing has not yet caught on.
The aim of the development of these devices was to minimize the costs of purchasing and operating workstation computers in large companies (total cost of ownership ( TCO )). In addition, NCs do not have internal hard drives, floppy disks or CD-ROM drives, which is why such devices are characterized by low power consumption, small power supplies, low heat dissipation and thus also small housings.
Since the NC obtains the operating system, configuration, applications and user files exclusively via the network, such devices are easy to exchange and centrally managed. A fast network connection to the server is necessary for this.
Graphic programs such as web browsers or Java applications run locally on the NC. This distinguishes the NC from a terminal in which the programs run on a remote server. Of course, an NC can also serve as a terminal.