HP updates thin client software support

HP has updated software support for its thin clients

HP has updated the software support for its thin client terminal line-up with the launch of a new version of its Device Manager tool, and by making its TeemTalk terminal emulator available as a free download.

HP Device Manager 4.0 provides simple deployment, enhanced automation and compatibility with Microsoft's Active Directory. Both it and TeemTalk are available now for download at no additional cost to HP thin client customers.

Among the new features is the ability to automatically apply settings to a thin client driven by events such as power-on, scheduled delivery or on-demand. This enables administrators to schedule device shutdowns to ensure that energy is not being wasted by systems running overnight, for example.

HP also said that the enhanced Device Manager has improved operating system imaging capabilities, support for remote virtual network computing connections in environments using network address translation, and administrator access through Active Directory or Lightweight Directory Access Protocol for more flexibility.

HP's thin clients can also be managed via HP ThinState tools, HP Client Automation or the Altiris Deployment suite.

TeemTalk is the terminal emulator HP gained from its acquisition of Neoware in 2007. The software is embedded within most HP thin clients, but can also be installed on Windows PCs.

Because it offers a consistent look and feel, TeemTalk allows customers to standardise on one cross-platform terminal emulation tool, HP said. It can emulate a wide range of legacy terminal protocols, including IBM 3270, DEC VT, and Wyse.