GEL Technology launched its Universal Desktop Converter, which allows customers to convert old PCs, thin clients and select third-party hardware to a remotely managed IGEL Universal Desktop. By installing the company’s Universal Firmware, customers will experience a smooth transition to a server-based computing or desktop virtualization environment without the expense of replacing the entire client hardware. This enables companies of all sizes to extend the lifecycle of their existing infrastructure, reduce the cost of investing in new hardware and eliminate client maintenance costs.

“Regardless of the economic climate, organizations simply can’t afford to keep investing in the latest hardware and software solutions on the market,” said Simon Richards, UK General Manager at IGEL Technology. “Unlike traditional desktop PCs, thin clients don’t have the ability to host applications locally, can be managed easily and new technology and security updates can be delivered to every model quickly. By repurposing old hardware with IGEL’s Universal Desktop Converter, businesses can stay up-to-date with their technology offerings and experience more long-term cost savings and flexibility than by purchasing a desktop PC.”

IGEL’s Universal Desktop Converter is the extended software-based version of the company’s successful PC to TC Conversion Card. To upgrade third party hardware into IGEL Universal Desktops, customers simply plug in and boot from the USB token. Afterwards, the IGEL Universal Firmware is installed automatically onto their system. The Universal Desktop Converter comes with three Digital Service Pack options – Entry, Standard, or Advanced – so businesses only pay for what they need by selecting the software platform that best suits their requirements.

In addition to IGEL customers, the Universal Desktop Converter is an option for companies using select third-party thin client hardware, such as HP, Neoware and DELL that want to migrate their existing environment to a homogenous and fully managed IGEL client infrastructure. IGEL’s Universal Management Suite is also included with the Universal Desktop Converter, allowing businesses to remotely manage thin clients and reduce the time and money spent on hardware support and administration.

Pricing for the Universal Desktop Converter starts at £24.50+vat. For more information about IGEL’s Universal Desktop Converter and hardware requirements, please visit: www.igel.com.