Mobile workers get boost with CNAP.me 'virtual PC' technology

Mobile workers could benefit from new technology that allows them to run 'virtual PCs' from a USB memory stick seamlessly in online and offline environments.

The cloud-based CNAP.me platform was showcased on Monday at a Birmingham City University (BCU) event.

The system allows workers to view personal files and settings from any computer with internet access simply by inserting a USB stick.

CNAP.me works over any available bandwidth and provides an offline working environment which synchronises with the cloud when an internet connection is available again, according to Terry Brown, CNAP.me chief executive.

"CNAP.me encrypts all the data carried on the USB stick and encrypts the synchronisation process as well," he said.

The technology was developed in partnership with BCU, and will be marketed first at universities.

CNAP's servers can support thousands of users at low cost, providing document and spreadsheet software and instant messaging capabilities alongside virtual desktop and browser, the firm said.

Brown added that the product will be available for enterprise users by the end of the year. Orange, Fujitsu, Cisco and National Rail attended the showcase to see how CNAP.me could be used commercially.

Meanwhile, Paul Tilsley, Birmingham City Council deputy leader, attended the event to see what gains CNAP.me could bring to the public sector.

African telecoms firm Econet will also be bringing the technology to school children in Africa to increase their access to computer technology with minimum investment from government.

"Part of this event is about showcasing the technology to other universities as BCU can speak of the benefits," said Brown.

"Then we are looking at selling the technology to telecoms companies. After that we will expand into the enterprise."

A recent report by Research Councils UK, entitled Big Ideas for the Future, rated CNAP.me as one of the top 100 ground-breaking projects in the UK.