Bringing Virtualization And Thin Computing Technology To POS

By Pippard Inc.

As of late there has been a lot of talk about virtualization, cloud and utility computing and the increased advantages of thin client or server-based computing. Here we discuss the history, future and benefits of this technology and conclude with how Pippard Inc. has adapted this technology to POS.

In simplest terms, thin client/server-based computing describes a shift away from the complexities of the typical modern personal computer (PC)-based network. While the PC started out as a simple tool which enabled individuals to increase their personal productivity, it has in fact become a rather complicated device. Just when you think you have your PCs working perfectly, new applications, devices, drivers, Internet access, etc., are required, and each PC needs to be individually upgraded, reconfigured, or even completely replaced. As a result, what started as a simple personal computer evolved into a rather complex "fat client" network and POS terminals all based on the very same PC technology have all the same issues, actually compounded due to the very distributed nature of POS deployments and the added complication of numerous POS peripherals and peripheral driver issues.