I've been googleling this now for a couple of hours and from what I've gathered there are software (as well as hardware) options out there that will allow the following.
One PC shared by multiple users as individual desktops for each at the same time (see link softxpand) unfortunately this isn't a free option (trial download is available).
OS: Will be Win XP Pro
Application: Office use (word processing, emailing etc.)
Reason I'm looking into this option is costs. I currently have the additional screens, k/b & mice for each user/desktop. So I'm at the point that I actually need to go out and either by a PC box and extent the current network infrastructure. From what I understand with this option is I basically just need to get the software and a screen card for for each user/desktop to put into one of my current pc's and bob is your uncle, you have for e.g. 4 new desktops at a third of the cost it would set you back to get a pc for each user/desktop.
So is anyone familiar with this type of setup that could maybe give me a quick feedback on the pros and cons. Alternative suggestions to the linked solution that is better (please state why, being free obviously would be a deal closer )
The obvious cons I can see of hand is if there is a hardware failure on this PC all the users on that pc is dead in the water, plus it should be a rather strong pc too.
Multi User PC
Not familiar with this particular setup but your also going to need things like KVM extenders and cabling too;
\"Depending on the distance from the PC , you may need to use USB extenders, USB hubs (to connect keyboards, mice and any other USB input devices), and VGA extenders (to connect the monitors).\"
Start adding those systems and then add cable management to the equation and your wonder software isn't that cost effective.
With today's processors and software a modest workstation as you describe might be almost the same cost as the KVM switch and cabling you need for each station. I see some quad core Dells at $349.00 CAD that will handle your requirements no problem.
\"Depending on the distance from the PC , you may need to use USB extenders, USB hubs (to connect keyboards, mice and any other USB input devices), and VGA extenders (to connect the monitors).\"
Start adding those systems and then add cable management to the equation and your wonder software isn't that cost effective.
With today's processors and software a modest workstation as you describe might be almost the same cost as the KVM switch and cabling you need for each station. I see some quad core Dells at $349.00 CAD that will handle your requirements no problem.