[K12OSN] Question on diskless vs diskfull clients & how to get them

[Richard K. Ingalls]

Chris Kacoroski wrote:
> Hi,
> 
> We are considering a LTSP project and am wondering the following:
> 
> 1.  If there is any difference to how LTSP is set and configured if you 
> have a diskless or diskfull client.  Does it make a difference on the 
> network load?  Server load?  With a diskfull client I am assuming you 
> could cache some stuff on the disk.
> 
> 2. Options for getting clients.  So far I am looking at:
> 
> a) buy diskless workstation terminals like the Term 150
> b) buy parts and have the local kids build small form factor diskless 
> workstations
> c) use old macs (of which we have a lot).  concerned about maintenance 
> issues here
> d) donated pc's.  concerned about variability and viability here.

B and D are virtually the same.  Just make sure that you use PCI NICs 
(and I would standardize onto one specific type of NIC - preferrably 
one that has a boot ROM - you can buy one from 
disklessworkstations.com).  Also, you can standardize onto a specific 
motherboard that has built in audio/video, OR just make sure you have 
PCI audio/video cards (AGP is fine for video).

-- 
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"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep
  for that which he cannot lose."
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RICHARD K. INGALLS
Director of Information Technology
Glenwood R-8 School District
West Plains, MO

email..ringalls (at) glenwood.k12.mo.us
web....glenwood.k12.mo.us
ph.....417.256.4849
fax....417.257.2567

"Miracles are a retelling in small letters
  of the very same story which is written across
  the whole world in letters too large
  for some of us to see."
  -- C. S. Lewis
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