CES: Samsung monitor doubles as remote console

CES 2009

Among a host of other announcements at CES, Samsung has unveiled a monitor with a unique feature: the ability to remotely display the screen from a blade PC over an IP network connection.

The Samsung 930ND is a 19in LCD capable of resolutions up to 1280x1024, with a 1000:1 display contrast ratio. It also integrates silicon from Teradici that enables it to serve as a remote console for a blade PC or server, with the addition of a keyboard and mouse.

Teradici's PC-over-IP technology delivers a user's desktop over an IP network connection, and has already been used in some blade systems from IBM and ClearCube Technology. It can be likened to a thin client on a chip.

"By teaming up with Teradici's technology, the display delivers remote desktop use with high-quality graphics and USB connectivity," said Ami Randhawa, commercial manager for Samsung UK's display division.

"This is all part of Samsung's commitment to create solutions that are both inventive and consistent with our family of quality display products."

However, the 930ND is not a direct replacement for a standard thin client terminal, as Teradici's technology requires a chip in both the host system and console.

Samsung expects the 930ND to be available from March, but said that pricing has not yet been fixed. However, several online vendors already list the display on their sites for about $455 (£297).