A Terminal Server is a centralized server solution that allows multiple users to simultaneously access applications and data running on a single computer. The actual processing takes place on the server, while users access the available applications from their respective workstations (terminals).
In measurement and automation technology, a terminal server is often used to allow multiple users to access measurement data, visualizations, and analyses simultaneously, without having to install the software separately on each workstation.
How does a terminal server work?
In a terminal server architecture, the following are located:
- Applications on the central server
- Data Processing on the Server
- User sessions on the server
- Display and Operation on the Respective Clients
Users work via their terminals or remote desktop connections, while the actual programs are managed centrally.
As a result, companies benefit from simpler administration and centralized data storage.
Advantages of a Terminal Server
A terminal server offers numerous advantages:
- Centralized Software Management
- Consistent User Interface
- Less maintenance required
- Central data storage
- Easier Updates
- Simultaneous access by multiple users
- High Data Security
- Efficient Use of Hardware Resources
This architecture is particularly well-suited for applications in which many users need to access the same measurement and analysis data.
Terminal Servers in Measurement Technology
In measurement and testing environments, terminal servers are used to:
- Centralize the provision of measurement data
- Making analysis software available to multiple users
- Centrally Manage Testing and Monitoring Systems
- To reduce maintenance costs
- To enable location-independent access to measurement data
This allows engineers, technicians, and plant operators to access up-to-date measurement data and analyses simultaneously.
Terminal Server and DataService
A terminal server can be considered a special type of DataService Systems This refers to a scenario in which multiple internal clients are running on the same computer. These terminal clients are connected to the respective user workstations and allow multiple users to access the same data and applications simultaneously.
Communication between users and the terminal server takes place independently of the actual measurement network. The measurement data is processed centrally and made available to the individual user sessions.
Differences from the Delphin Data Center
A terminal server should not be used with the Delphin Data Center be confused with.
While a terminal server is primarily used for the centralized delivery of applications and user access, the Delphin Data Center Designed for the centralized collection, management, and provision of measurement data within a measurement network. It can be connected as a central entity to multiple DataService units and measurement systems and serves as a platform for the storage, archiving, and distribution of measurement data. The Delphin solutions support the centralized management of large volumes of data from a wide variety of measurement applications.
Terminal Servers in Delphin Environments
In environments with Delphin measurement systems, a terminal server can be used to provide multiple users with access to measurement and analysis software. This allows measurement data to be processed centrally and viewed from various locations or workstations. This makes it easier, in particular, to operate large measurement networks and to facilitate collaboration between different departments.
Typical Applications
- Multi-user reporting systems
- Industrial Data Acquisition
- Process monitoring
- Test Bench Technology
- Quality Management
- Laboratory automation
- Energy Monitoring
- Building Automation Systems
- Research and development
- Central Control Rooms