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Is it possible using windows 7 or windows server 2008 to create 5 VMWare virtual machines so that 5 developers can use them using thin clients to work with Visual Studio 2008/2010 with all components (sql server express, IIS etc). what can be the options and the hardware specs for server and clients?

I am looking forward for all opinions.

Thanks and Regards.

2 Answers2

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Yes, possible.

That said, make sure you have enough power on the machine - CPU, RAM. VS is VPU intensive during compiles etc.

Given the price of thin desktops - it basically makes no sense, sorry ;) Mostly because if you check the price of a thin desktop (and do not forget you still need virtual machines with 6-8gb RAM).... then you saved pretty much nothing. Can be you even pay more.

TomTom
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  • Thin clients are great for standard office work. They'll fit the needs of 90% of the workforce. I used to work for a company that pushed it for 100% of their and their clients' workforces (as a small outsourcing company for local SMBs), and it caused nothing but pain for that 10% that it doesn't apply to. Anyone needing to open an IDE is in the 10%. Note: Execs, with very little exception, fall within that 90%... Just my $0.02... -Waldo – gWaldo Aug 24 '10 at 12:25
  • VDI is easier to maintain and more scalable than physical desktops; however, if these are not cost considerations then normal workstations are probably more cost effective. You'd want a minimum of 1 CPU core, 2-4GB RAM, and 1 HD Spindle per Virtual Desktop on the server. – Chris S Aug 24 '10 at 12:31
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Yes it would be possible, but I'm not sure that it would be any cheaper than 5 mid spec desktops which would get better performance if they are all being used simultaneously. It could be an advantage if you need a particularly powerful machine and they were not using it concurrently. Also don't forget that you would still need 5 software licences either way.

JamesRyan
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