New Version of ‘Userful Desktop’ Released With Zero Client Device From HP

Userful, which is based in Calgary, Alberta, introduced version 8 of its Userful Desktop software at the Public Library Association conference held in Philadelphia March 13-17. The new version uses the HP t200 zero client hardware device, which is similar to a thin client.

The HP t200, produced by Hewlett Packard, comes with a keyboard and mouse, and it allows a library to simplify the physical profile of the computer work area, to improve computer performance, to cut energy costs, and to reduce noise and heat, according to Timothy Griffin, the president of Userful.

“It also gets libraries off the technology treadmill of refreshing computers that end up in the landfill,” Griffin said of the device, which is an Ethernet (LAN) connected thin client alternative and costs $99. Once the device is hooked up, either on the tabletop or on the back of the monitor (photo), the mouse and keyboard are plugged into it and the familiar computer tower under the table can be dispensed with.

The HP t200 provides the capability to connect multiple stations to a single host PC directly over USB without the need for a LAN, or install computer stations in multiple rooms using a single host PC with each station connected over Ethernet.

“The HP t200’s support of both Ethernet and USB provides the flexibility to position stations far away from the host computer, or operate without a LAN, making it a very compelling solution for many use cases,” Griffin said.

The Userful Desktop software itself, which is teamed up with the HP device, includes time management, computer reservation, print cost recovery, usage statistics, lockdown and security, optional internet filtering, cloud management, automatic updates, as well as over 40 applications, including a full office suite, in more than 30 languages. Pricing for the software starts at $99/seat/year before volume discounts.