Sun Microcomputer Systems
The
Sun Ray enterprise appliances from Sun Microsystems are easy-to-use, low-cost networked devices. Unlike desktop computers that require an operating system and applications running loca
lly on the desktop, the Sun Ray systems’ thin client-style configuration allows users instant access to multimedia, applications and information resources from anywhere on the network.
Affordability, ease of use and an all-in-one design are among the features of the appliance. It takes just one technician to service an entire Sun Ray appliance network. One person can easily download new software to the server, instantly updating every appliance user on the network. Hot-desk technology gives students and educators instant access to their sessions from any appliance in the network. Users can move from desktop to desktop without booting up or logging off each time. They simply pull out their card and move to a new terminal. When the card is re-inserted, they can pick up exactly where they left off without rebooting. A slender design increases usable workspace.
The newest models in the series are the Sun Ray 100 and the Sun Ray 150. Priced at $549 when purchased with a workgroup bundle, the 100 integrates a 17” display with .26 dot pitch and 1280 x 1024 pixel resolution. At a higher price of $1,299, the 150 is repackaged as a 15” LCD flat panel display that includes digital interface and 1024 x 768 pixel resolution. Sun Microsystems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA, www.sun.com/sunray.
This article originally appeared in the 09/01/2000 issue of THE Journal.