What Is a Cliente Fino?
"Cliente fino" is Spanish for thin client. A thin client is a simple, low-performance computer optimized for remote desktop connections to a server-based computing environment. Unlike a thick client, which stores user data, applications and an operating system locally, a thin client uses resources inside a central server. It connects to the server and displays the remote desktop.
Because most processing happens on the server, a thin client needs only a minimal operating system to handle connection protocols. A zero client goes further and uses dedicated hardware logic to perform a single task.
Key Characteristics
Thin clients have a small hardware footprint and low power requirements. Their main job is to run a remote session, so they need fewer local resources than a full desktop PC. Storage is typically small, since user files and applications stay on the server.
| Feature | Thin client | Thick client |
|---|---|---|
| Applications | Run on server | Run locally |
| User data | Stored on server | Stored locally |
| Operating system | Minimal | Full |
| Local resources | Low | High |
Use Cases
Thin clients suit offices, call centers, schools, kiosks and factory floors where many users need the same applications. Central management simplifies updates, security and data protection, because data remains in the data center.
Thinvent Products for Thin Client Deployments
Thinvent's range includes the Micro 5R Thin Client, an ARM Cortex A53 device with 2GB onboard RAM, 16GB eMMC storage, WiFi 6, Bluetooth and Thinux embedded Linux. It is the thin client in the range. For workloads that need more local processing, the Thinvent range also includes Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 industrial PCs and mini PCs, along with AMD Ryzen 5 and Intel Celeron models.
