Datalight Launches Citrix Compatible Thin Client System Software

Business Wire, July 16, 1999

ARLINGTON, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 16, 1999--

Datalight, a leading provider of embedded systems software, announced the launch of ThinSystem, a complete software solution for OEMs of Thin Client hardware.

Datalight ThinSystem is a client operating system that includes and supports Citrix(R) ICA(R) client-side software for Windows-based terminal applications. ThinSystem is currently the only complete software package that has been optimized in both size and capabilities for Thin Client manufacturers--adhering to the industry-standard 4-megabyte memory specification.

A world leader in embedded system software since 1983, Datalight has over 15 years of experience in developing reliable, small-footprint system software. In that time, Datalight has earned a reputation for providing ultra-compact, turnkey software solutions for hardware OEMs from various industries worldwide. "Datalight's many years of experience in supplying system software for embedded PCs has provided us with a great deal of expertise in the development of highly-functional software solutions that are able to run from a very small amount of available memory," said Andy Poliak, Strategic Alliance Manager. "We were able to draw upon this experience in the development of ThinSystem and create a product that is extremely small and well equipped."

ThinSystem is based on ROM-DOS, a tried-and-true Datalight operating system that has been used in Thin Clients since 1996 and is well known for its compatibility and small memory footprint. To this, Datalight engineers have added familiar Windows-like capabilities, including a graphical user interface (GUI), TCP/IP and the ability to run multiple programs simultaneously.

In the interest of reducing Total Cost of Ownership (actual cost of maintaining and updating traditional desktop PCs), ThinSystem has been optimized to provide significant cost savings to OEMs, MIS Administrators and end-users alike.

For Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM)

o An extremely small memory footprint reduces the total component cost.

o ThinSystem reduces the costs associated with contract negotiations by allowing OEMs to purchase a complete package of system software components from one supplier.

o ThinSystem provides a low-cost alternative to Windows CE by presenting a familiar Windows look and feel at a more affordable licensing fee.

For MIS Administrators

o A complete set of dialogue box configuration utilities simplifies the task of setting the IP address of the thin client and establishing server connections.

o All configuration files are password protected.

o In addition to the ICA client-side software, ThinSystem can run a variety of terminal emulation software such as VT100, 5250 and 3270 enabling connection and communication with these types of hosts.

o The command processor can be bypassed or left out for tighter control.

For End Users

o ThinSystem can run concurrent sessions, allowing terminal emulation or internet browsing to run simultaneously on a local client.

o The server connection can be configured to automatically connect upon power-up.

o Reduces training time by utilizing well-known graphical dropdown menus and dialog boxes.

Datalight develops and licenses professional quality system software, including operating systems and development tools for the Intel Architecture. The company's other products include: WinLight, an MS-Windows work-a-like operating system; FlashFX, a portable and full-featured flash file system; Sockets, a TCP/IP stack and the Datalight BIOS. Throughout the world, numerous companies, representing various technologies, depend on Datalight software for a multitude of industrial and consumer applications.

ThinSystem is a trademark of Datalight Inc. Citrix and ICA are registered trademarks of Citrix Systems Inc. All other products and logos are trademarks of their respective holders. FlashFX Patent # 5,860,082