Blade PC maker ClearCube Technology introduces new I/Port access devices

Blade PC maker ClearCube Technology will today introduce new I/Port access devices in a compact design, making it easier to move users from location to location, along with new patch management tools to keep the I/Port firmware up to date.

The ClearCube architecture centralises desktop PCs into racks of separate blades, accessed via desktop ports. The new I8810 and I8820 I/Ports are basically smaller versions of existing models, according to ClearCube. Combined with a wireless adapter, the models can provide PC access from anywhere on a site.

Ken Knotts, ClearCube chief technologist, said the firm's kit is widely used in environments where data security is a concern. "Medical staff used to wheel round a laptop on a cart to access patient data, but a laptop is a high-value item for a thief," he added.

Replacing the laptop with an I/Port means that both applications and data are kept securely in the datacentre, and the I/Port itself has little value if stolen, Knotts argued.

Although I/Ports have no user storage, they do run embedded code, and ClearCube will today release updated management tools for the devices. These tools should make patch management easier and allow administrators to embed a virtual private network (VPN) client to support remote access of PC blades, Knotts said.

The I8820 is designed to access Windows-based PC blades, while the I8810 is aimed at customers running Linux blades. Prices have yet to be announced.