What does it do?
The function of a client workstation depends on the type of servers and applications available on the network. With a file server, the client workstation provides all the processing power used to execute the applications and manipulate the data being provided by the file server, or by a local drive.

With terminal emulation, the workstation runs a program that fools an attached host system into thinking it is a dumb terminal. In this case, the application the user is interested in using is executed by the host, while the workstation simply uses its processing power to run the communications exchange with the host system.

With client/ server applications involving an application server, both the workstation and the application server are cooperatively sharing the processing required to execute the application, with each focusing on what tasks it can do most efficiently.

How is it used?
When a user, through his workstation, logs into a network, he generally sees file services represented by additional "virtual" disk drives, that appear to be attached to the workstation and available for access. Print services will generally appear as printers attached to the workstation, often on LPT ports which do not physically exist. For example, a workstation may have a local printer attached to its only physical printer port (LPT1) by may see the option to print to "virtual" printer ports (LPT2-3), which force redirection to the network printers.

With terminal emulation, the user executes a program that changes his screen to a representation approximating a video terminal, from which point the user logs in and interacts with the host system.

With a client/server application, the user interface is generally determined by the specifics of the application.

Where do I get more information?
Contact your local CBV Office.