This review is part of a group test of Windows XPE-based thin clients

HP’s t5720 truly blurs the boundary between thin clients and Windows PCs, with a high-end specification comparable to desktops of a few years ago.

With its 1GHz AMD processor and 512MB memory, the t5720 is well equipped to handle local applications or demanding browser-based code. Our review unit also shipped with a 1GB ATA Flash drive, more than half of which was free to add local applications or drivers.

The device comes in a smart and sturdy case that can be mounted upright with a supplied stand, or mounted on the underside of a desk or on a wall using an optional bracket.

As is standard on most thin clients, the t5720 has Microsoft RDP and Citrix ICA clients, but also includes the TeemTalk application that emulates a variety of text-based terminals. HP also includes Sygate Security Agent 4.0, a firewall and intrusion detection tool, and an Altiris Client Agent that can be used to update the terminal’s system image. There is also a Session Allocation Manager (SAM) client to let the device link with PC Blades as part of HP’s Consolidated Client Infrastructure (CCI).

The t5720’s integrated SiS graphics functions are capable of displaying resolutions up to 1280x1024. Unlike some of the other devices, the t5720 does not ship with either a Java VM or Adobe Reader installed as standard. These and other applications are available from HP as a package that can be deployed via Altiris Deployment Server.

For our tests we installed Java from Sun Microsystems’ web site by logging in to the device as an administrator and temporarily disabling the EWF.

The t5720 has two USB ports at the front of its case and four at the rear. It also has legacy serial and parallel ports, PS/2 ports and a 10/100 Ethernet connector.

Our review system shipped with an HP LP1965 19in TFT monitor, and also included a mouse and keyboard.

Next review: Igel Technology 5610XP Premium