What is Microsoft Multipoint & how can it benefit Educators & Learners?
With Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 users simultaneously share one computer using only a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Based on the latest Windows technology, and designed to be set up and managed by non-technical professionals, MultiPoint Server is well suited to address many of the challenges and concerns of educational institutions worldwide.
Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 is a Windows-based solution that is designed specifically to help educational institutions give every student individual access to PCs. By allowing multiple users to simultaneously share one computer each with his or her own independent Windows experience it’s a cost-effective way to get more technology into classrooms, computer labs, and libraries.
Benefits
More computing at a lower cost
Many schools have limited budgets and can’t afford as many computers as they’d like. Others may have computers, but don’t have the IT resources to make sure everything is running smoothly. Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 makes it simple to give more students access to technology, whether it’s in the classroom, computer lab, or school library. Because multiple stations can be powered by a single host computer, you can reduce the upfront costs of technology and the ongoing costs of maintenance, too.
Reduced energy consumption
Some schools have limited power capacity or higher power costs. Others simply want to be more environmentally-conscious. With Windows MultiPoint Server 2011, energy consumption and associated costs can be lower because you’re only powering one computer and its associated stations rather multiple computers.
Easy to scale
Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 gives you the flexibility to purchase the right amount of computing for your needs. For instance, you may decide to add a Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 setup to each classroom with one station for each student. If another student joins the class, it’s simple to add another station. And if you already have monitors, mice, and keyboards, you can use them as part of your solution so that the money you’ve already invested won’t go to waste.
The latest Windows experience
With Windows MultiPoint Server 2011, you’ll get the familiar Windows environment that students and teachers expect and already know how to use. Its interface is based on Windows 7, so you’ll be able to use familiar features like Windows Internet Explorer, Windows Search, and Windows Media Player as well as exciting new features like Jump Lists. As a result, teachers and students will spend less time having to learn new technology and navigating different user interfaces—and more time on what counts: teaching and learning.
Simple set up and management
Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 is easy to set up and start using right away because it offers flexible configuration options. You can connect workstations directly to the host computer by using USB or video card solutions, or connect them through the school’s local area network (LAN). You can even use a hybrid of both connection methods. Then, you can connect keyboards and mice at each station either using USB or a wireless connection.
Share desktops, files, videos, and more
Want to showcase how something needs to be done or highlight a great student example? You can broadcast you or your students’ station view to the entire class so everyone sees the same thing. You can also share files and videos with students, making it easier for them to collaborate on a project. Simply drag and drop content from your Documents Library to the Public Documents folder. The content will automatically appear in everyone’s Document Library.