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After the failure of the Network Computer (NC) - beaten by low PC prices and the fact that it did not run windows, Oracle have re-invented the low
cost, restricted function device in a slightly different guise.
This time, called the New Internet Computer (NIC), it can run Windows applications - but only as a thin client to an NT or Windows 2000 server running Citrix or MS terminal server software.
The implications for libraries is that where many low cost Internet / OPAC devices are needed and control of hacking and misuse is a problem, then
this simple device could provide a solution. Public libraries may also consider such a unit for circulation desks. The NIC will cost about US$199.
The NIC would most suit vendors like Innovative who have Java client based software and Epixtech who have used Citrix technology in the UK.
The specification of the NIC is interesting - running Linux, Netscape and a Citrix Winframe client, the unit can therefore run as a Java client or
as a Windows terminal - but not run Windows itself. The unit has no hard disc - software is loaded from CD-ROM and resides in memory.
For a refresher on Java, Windows terminal software and the late Network Computer - see technical briefings.
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