NorhTec released the original MicroClient in 2005. The original device featured the SiS550LV CPU, 20 GB Hard disk and 128 MB RAM and sold for under $200 diskless. Many companies contacted us to use the MicroClient for thin clients and to use them for a variety of standalone embedded applications. When we introduced the MicroClient, many people were shocked at a computing device that could sell for under $200.00.

IN 2006, we released the MicroClient Jr. The MicroClient Jr replicated the performance and features of the MicroClient but featured a price of $90.00 in quantity of 1,000. Our goal was to replace then MicroClient with the MicroClient Jr. That transition is now complete.  All of our existing MicroClient customers have transitioned to the MicroClient Jr.

The MicroClient Jr. is designed to be the lowest cost computing platform to support a desktop environment.  NorhTec will soon launch a lower cost MicroClient JrSX that is targeted specifically for embedded applications that will cost even less than the Junior.

The MicroClient - small, quiet, energy efficient

Many customers have written us asking us to upgrade the MicroClient Jr, adding hard disk, more RAM and more I/O. NorhTec is currently extending its client range to provide alternatives that offer a combination of higher CPU performance, more RAM and more I/O in a range of options to allow customers to select the exact combination of computing power and I/O required.

The new MicroClient offers more performance, more RAM and more disk capacity than the previous MicroClient. The new MicroClient also offers USB 2.0 and higher resolution screen display, 1600 x 1200.

The new MicroClient is an ideal lightweight desktop that provides reasonable performance for MicroSoft Windows XP or other x86 based operating systems such as Linux. The MicroClient can be configured with solid state storage for embedded applications or with a 40 GB hard disk to be used as a general purpose computing platform.

The new MicroClient uses 12 volts so it is ideal for solar projects. NorhTec can provide a 8 to 12 volt to 12 volt DC to DC switcher that will provide constant 12 volt power allowing the new MicroClient to be used with automotive power. Combined with a low-cost TTL display and properly mounted to reduce vibrations, the new MicroClient is the ideal platform for telematics (computers onboard vehicles).