Thin Client

"We want to massively change the adoption cycle of desktop virtualization"

Bryan Cox, EVP Worldwide field Operationsfor Pano Logic

We've seen some VMware reps in certain regions across the country as being resistant to even mentioning Pano Logic. Because the zero client devices can utilize the Pano's connection broker instead of VMware View, they perceive it as a competitor. The lack of PCoIP protocol support further inflames their concern by removing what they consider to be a powerful sales driver out of the VDI equation. Since INX is both the VMware Solution Provider of the Year for the Americas and winner of the Golden Pano Award for three quarters in a row, I feel obligated to speak up about the misguided logic of this perspective.

Pano Logic Zero Client Devices

Pano Logic was founded in 2006 and is backed by Goldman Sachs, Foundation Capital and Mayfield Fund. Unlike thin clients, the Pano zero clients have no client OS, drivers, CPU, memory, local storage, moving parts, configuration or management tools or even firmware. It's a sleek little cube (in either reflective silver or black) that includes a Pano Button enabling users to reset their virtual desktops without going through an IT administrator. Pano supports native versions of Windows 7 or XP operating systems and supports most USB devices connecting to physical desktops. The Panos use about 3 watts of power.

Most thin clients were repurposed from Citrix/TS SBC devices to now handle VDI. They continue to require local or embedded operating systems along with ongoing management and configuration. Panos, on the other hand, were designed from the ground up specifically to work with VMware virtual desktops. And while it is true that Panos include a connection broker, they are also optimized to work with VMware View.

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