A new spin on the thin-client model

Lightweight desktop machines that provide a simple terminal into a much more powerful machine are becoming more popular again. The complexities of managing large distributed computers mean that people are looking for simpler solutions.

Now here's an intriguing solution to the problem of where to locate these machines and to power and support them - a computer that fits entirely within a standard power socket (here in the UK, at least).

At 209 pounds (about $400) you can have a Windows CE based terminal, providing a 1280x1024 VGA display, USB ports, and supporting popular terminal standards like Citrix and the Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). You even get audio input and output.

These could be a superb solution for many situations. It would certainly give a new spin to the idea of hot-desking. Rather than putting machines on the desk, or even providing users with laptops, just let them plug in monitor and keyboard to a socket on the floor.

Or how about simple solutions around the office or home where you a computer interface to your systems. Two sockets on the wall to give you power (for the monitor) and the socket computer and you have everything you need. That office directory, or the machine for monitoring and managing your house or environment and you are ready to go.

I'd like to get on test and see how good it could be.