THINC: a virtual display architecture for thin-client computing

Rapid improvements in network bandwidth, cost, and ubiquity combined with the security hazards and high total cost of ownership of personal computers have created a growing market for thin-client computing. We introduce THINC, a virtual display architecture for high-performance thin-client computing in both LAN and WAN environments. THINC virtualizes the display at the device driver interface to transparently intercept application display commands and translate them into a few simple low-level commands that can be easily supported by widely used client hardware. THINC’s translation mechanism efficiently leverages display semantic information through novel optimizations such as offscreen drawing awareness, native video support, and server-side screen scaling. This is integrated with an update delivery architecture that uses shortest command first scheduling and non-blocking operation. THINC leverages existing display system functionality and works seamlessly with unmodified applic...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2005
• Where: SOSP
• Authors: Ricardo A. Baratto, Leonard N. Kim, Jason Nieh
• Keywords: Application Display Commands, Better Audio/video Performance, Operating System, SOSP 2005, Virtual Display Architecture