WMS2011

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Planning Considerations Guide

Microsoft Corporation

Updated February 2012

MultiPoint Server enables multiple local stations to connect to one computer. Multiple users can

then share the computer at the same time. Stations can connect to the computer running

MultiPoint Server directly through video ports on the computer, through USB zero clients, or over

the local area network (LAN).

© 2012 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.

Copyright

This document is provided “as-is”. Information and views expressed in this document, including

URL and other Internet website references, may change without notice. You bear the risk of using

it.

Some examples depicted herein are provided for illustration only and are fictitious. No real

association or connection is intended or should be inferred.

This document does not provide you with any legal rights to any intellectual property in any

Microsoft product. You may copy and use this document for your internal, reference purposes.

You may modify this document for your internal, reference purposes. This document is

confidential and proprietary to Microsoft. It is disclosed and can be used only pursuant to a non-

disclosure agreement.


Microsoft, Windows, Windows Server, Active Directory, RemoteFX, Hyper-V, and MultiPoint

Server are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.


Contents

Introducing MultiPoint Server..........................................................................................................5

Common MultiPoint Server Usage Scenarios.................................................................................5

Differences between Product Versions: Standard versus Premium................................................6

How to Buy MultiPoint Server.........................................................................................................6

Evaluation version....................................................................................................................... 6

Volume license version................................................................................................................6

OEM version................................................................................................................................ 7

Client access licenses.................................................................................................................7

For volume license versions.....................................................................................................7

For OEM versions.................................................................................................................... 7

MultiPoint Server Stations...............................................................................................................7

Primary stations and standard stations........................................................................................7

Direct-video-connected stations..................................................................................................8

PS/2 stations............................................................................................................................ 8

USB-zero-client-connected stations............................................................................................9

USB-over-Ethernet zero clients................................................................................................9

RDP-over-LAN connected stations............................................................................................10

Additional configuration options.................................................................................................11

Split-screen stations...............................................................................................................11

Station type comparison............................................................................................................12

Selecting Hardware for Your MultiPoint Server System................................................................13

Selecting a CPU........................................................................................................................ 14

Selecting hardware components...............................................................................................15

Selecting video hardware..........................................................................................................15

Internal video cards................................................................................................................16

External video controllers.......................................................................................................16

Selecting direct-video-connected or USB zero client station devices........................................17

Selecting USB hubs...............................................................................................................17

Selecting USB zero clients.....................................................................................................18

Selecting keyboards and mouse devices...............................................................................18

Selecting monitors..................................................................................................................18

Display resolution...............................................................................................................19

Selecting other station peripheral devices.................................................................................19

Selecting RDP-over-LAN-connected station hardware..............................................................20

Selecting audio devices.............................................................................................................21


Hardware Requirements and Performance Recommendations....................................................21

Optimize MultiPoint Server system performance.......................................................................21

Applications and Internet content...........................................................................................21

Hardware recommendations..................................................................................................22

Variables Affecting MultiPoint Server System Performance..........................................................23

Usage........................................................................................................................................ 23

Configuration............................................................................................................................. 24

MultiPoint Server Site Planning....................................................................................................24

Station layout and configuration................................................................................................25

Layout for direct-video-connected stations.............................................................................25

Layout for USB zero client connected stations.......................................................................26

Layout for RDP-over-LAN connected stations........................................................................27

Using additional hubs................................................................................................................27

Station hubs........................................................................................................................... 27

Intermediate hubs.................................................................................................................. 28

Downstream hubs.................................................................................................................. 29

Users, stations, and computers.................................................................................................29

Power considerations................................................................................................................29

Sample MultiPoint Server system layouts.................................................................................30

Network Considerations and User Accounts.................................................................................33

Single MultiPoint Server with local user accounts.....................................................................34

Multiple MultiPoint Server systems with local user accounts.....................................................34

Multiple MultiPoint Server systems with domain accounts........................................................35

Single user account for multiple stations...................................................................................35

Storing Files with MultiPoint Server..............................................................................................36

Supported Languages...................................................................................................................36

MultiPoint Server Virtualization Support........................................................................................37

Microsoft RemoteFX..................................................................................................................... 37

Application Considerations...........................................................................................................38

Application compatibility............................................................................................................38

Licensing................................................................................................................................ 38

DirectX support...................................................................................................................... 38

MultiPoint Server Predeployment Checklist..................................................................................39

MultiPoint Server Planning Considerations Glossary....................................................................40


Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Planning Considerations

Introducing MultiPoint Server

Welcome to the Windows® MultiPoint™ Server 2011 Planning Guide. MultiPoint Server enables

multiple stations to be connected to one computer. Multiple users can then share the computer at

the same time. There are three ways that stations can connect to the computer running MultiPoint

Server:

Directly to video ports on the computer

Through specialized USB zero clients (also referred to as multifunction USB hubs)

Over the local area network (LAN)

Each of these methods is described in more detail in MultiPoint Server Stations later in this

document.

This document addresses the following factors to consider when you are planning to deploy

MultiPoint Server:

Selecting Hardware for Your MultiPoint Server System: What hardware decisions should you

make?

Hardware Requirements and Performance Recommendations: What hardware is required to

install the MultiPoint Server operating system?

MultiPoint Server Site Planning: Where will the computers that are running MultiPoint Server and

their stations be located, and how will they be configured?

Network Considerations and User Accounts: The networking environment into which the

MultiPoint Server system is deployed can affect how user accounts are managed. What is

your networking environment? How will user accounts be managed?

Storing Files with MultiPoint Server: Where will user files be stored, and how will they be

accessed?

MultiPoint Server Predeployment Checklist

Unless otherwise noted, all references to MultiPoint Server refer to Windows MultiPoint

Server 2011 Standard and Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium.

For a downloadable version of this document, see the Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Planning

Guide in the Microsoft® Download Center.

Common MultiPoint Server Usage Scenarios

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 delivers individual user desktops with the most important

elements of the Windows 7 desktop experience. It also offers a simple MultiPoint Manager user

interface that system administrators can use for visibility and control over multiple MultiPoint

servers. For example, you can do the following:


Note

5

http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=211307



1. Manage multiple MultiPoint servers in a computer lab, classroom, training center, or small business environment.

2. Install a program once, and then access it from any station.

3. Give each user a personal computing experience and private folders without needing a separate computer for each person.

4. Monitor thumbnail views of each standard user’s desktop activity.

5. Block screens with a customizable message to get the group’s attention.

6. Restrict the group to only accessing one or more websites.

7. Project your screen to the other screens to demonstrate a particular task.

Differences between Product Versions: Standard versus Premium

MultiPoint Server is available in the following two versions:

Standard: Allows up to 10 simultaneously connected stations. Joining a domain is not supported, and it does not support virtualization as a host or guest operating system.

Premium: Allows up to 20 simultaneously connected stations.Joining a domain is supported. Virtualization is supported as a host or guest operating system with a 1+1 licensing model.

How to Buy MultiPoint Server

This topic explores the available versions of MultiPoint Server and explains how you can

purchase them. For more information, see How to Try and Buy on the MultiPoint Server website.

Evaluation versionFor a free downloadable version that you can evaluate, see Windows MultiPoint Server 2011

Evaluation in the Microsoft Download Center.

Volume license versionIf you already have the hardware that you want to use for your Windows MultiPoint Server 2011

setup, you can buy Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 through the Microsoft Volume Licensing

Center. For this, you need to determine if you are an academic user or a commercial user. For

more information about purchasing the appropriate license, see the following sites:

Volume Licenses for Academic Organizations

Licensing Options for Small and Midsize Organizations

© 2012 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. 6

http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/licensing-options/open-license.aspx

http://www.microsoft.com/education/license/howtobuy/resellers.aspx

http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=8518

http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=8518

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/multipoint/buy.aspx


OEM versionYou can purchase Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 from a Microsoft original equipment

manufacturer (OEM) partner. This is the easiest way to obtain a complete solution. You can

purchase a host computer with the Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 software installed, as well as

station devices. For more information, see the Worldwide OEM Partners site.

Client access licensesAll Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 stations require client access licenses (CALs).

For volume license versionsCommonly in customer environments that are running Windows Server® 2008 or Windows

Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2008 CALs are already purchased. To prevent buying the same

CAL twice, Microsoft has provided two licensing options for the Windows MultiPoint Server 2011

CAL. One option includes the Windows Server 2008 CAL, and the other option excludes it to

recognize an existing CAL ownership.

For OEM versionsIf you purchase an OEM version, each station requires a Windows MultiPoint Server CAL, which

is available from your OEM.

MultiPoint Server Stations

In a MultiPoint Server system environment, stations are the user endpoints for connecting to the

computer running MultiPoint Server. Each station provides the user with an independent

Windows 7 experience. The following station types are supported:

Direct-video-connected stations

USB-zero-client-connected stations

RDP-over-LAN-connected stations (for rich client or thin client computers)

MultiPoint Server supports any combination of these station types, but it is recommended that

one station be a direct-video-connected station, which can serve as the primary station.

Primary stations and standard stationsOne direct-video-connected station is defined as the primary station. The remaining stations are

referred to as standard stations.

The primary station displays the startup screens when the computer is turned on. It provides

access to system configuration and troubleshooting information that is only available during


http://www.microsoft.com/windows/multipoint/partners.aspx


startup. The primary station must be a direct-video-connected station. After startup, you can use

the primary station like any other MultiPoint Server station.

Direct-video-connected stationsThe computer running MultiPoint Server can contain multiple video cards, each of which can have

one or more video ports. This allows you to plug monitors for multiple stations directly into the

computer. Keyboards and mice are connected through USB hubs that are associated with each

monitor. These hubs are referred to as station hubs. Other peripheral devices, such as speakers,

headphones, or USB storage devices can also be connected to a station hub, and they are

available to the user of that station.

There should be at least one direct-video-connected station per server to act as the

primary station to display the startup process when the computer is turned on.

Figure 1 MultiPoint Server system with four direct-video-connected stations

PS/2 stationsWith MultiPoint Server, you can map the PS/2 keyboard and mouse jacks on the motherboard to

a direct video connected monitor to create a PS/2 station. High-definition analog audio on the

motherboard is the audio associated with this type of station. This does not apply to computers

where there are no PS/2 jacks on the motherboard.


Important

8


USB-zero-client-connected stationsUSB-zero-client-connected stations utilize a USB zero client as a station hub. USB zero clients

are sometimes referred to as a multifunction hub with video. They are a hub that connects to the

computer through a USB cable, and these hubs typically support a video monitor, a mouse and

keyboard (PS/2 or USB), audio, and additional USB devices. This guide refers to these

specialized hubs as USB-zero clients.

The following diagram shows a MultiPoint Server system with a primary station (direct video

connected station) and two additional USB zero client connected stations.

Figure 2 MultiPoint Server system with a primary station and two USB zero-client-connected

stations

USB-over-Ethernet zero clientsUSB-over-Ethernet zero clients are a variation of USB zero clients that send USB over LAN to the

MultiPoint Server system. These types of USB zero clients function similarly to other USB zero

clients, but are not limited by USB cable length maximums. USB-over-Ethernet zero clients are

not traditional thin clients, and they appear as virtual USB devices on the MultiPoint Server

system. When using these devices, refer to the device manufacturer for specific performance and

site planning recommendations. Most devices have a third-party plugin for MultiPoint Manager

that allows you to associate and connect devices to the MultiPoint Server system.

The following diagram shows a MultiPoint Server system with a primary station (direct-video-

connected station) and two USB zero client connected stations.



RDP-over-LAN connected stationsThin clients and traditional desktop and laptop computers, can connect to the computer running

MultiPoint Server through the local area network (LAN) by using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

or a proprietary protocol and the Remote Desktop Protocol Provider. RDP connections provide an

end-user experience that is very similar to any other MultiPoint station, but makes use of the local

client computer’s hardware.

Clients and devices that are running Microsoft RemoteFX®can provide a rich multimedia

experience by taking advantage of the processor and video hardware capabilities of the local thin

client or computer to provide high-definition video over the network.

If you have existing LAN clients, MultiPoint Server can provide a quick and cost effective way to

simultaneously upgrade all of your users to a Windows 7 experience.

From a deployment and administration perspective, the following differences exist when you use

RDP-over-LAN-connected stations:

Not limited to physical USB connection distances

Potential to reuse older computer hardware as stations

Easier to scale to a higher number of stations. Any client on your network can potentially be used as a remote station

No hardware troubleshooting through the MultiPoint Manager console

No split-screen functionality.

For more information, see Split-screen Stations later in this topic

No station rename or configuring automatic logon through the MultiPoint Manager console



Figure 3 MultiPoint Server system with RDP-over-LAN-connected stations

Additional configuration options

Split-screen stationsWindows MultiPoint Server 2011 offers a split screen option on computers with direct-video-

connected stations or USB-zero-client-connected stations. A split screen provides the ability to

create an additional station per monitor. Instead of requiring two monitors, you can use one

monitor with two station hub setups to create two stations with one monitor. You can quickly

increase the number of available stations without purchasing additional monitors, USB-zero

clients, or video cards.

The benefits of using a split-screen station can include:

Reducing cost and space by accommodating more users on a MultiPoint Server system.

Allowing two users to collaborate side-by-side on a project.

Allowing a teacher to demonstrate a procedure on one station while a student follows along on the other station.

Any MultiPoint Server station monitor that has a 1024x768 resolution or greater can be split into

two station screens. For the best split screen user experience, a wide screen with a minimum

1600x900 resolution is recommended. A mini keyboard without a number pad is also

recommended to allow the two keyboards to fit in front of the monitor.

To create split-screen stations, you set up one direct-video-connected or USB-zero-client-

connected station. Then you add an additional station hub by plugging-in a keyboard and mouse

to a USB hub that is connected to the server. You can then convert the station into two stations by

using MultiPoint Manager to split the screen and map the new hub to half of the monitor. The left

half of the screen becomes one station and the right half becomes a second station.

After a station is split, one user can log on to the left station while another user logs on to the right

station.



Figure 4 MultiPoint Server system with split screen stations

Station type comparison

Direct Video Connected USB Zero Client

Connected

RDP-over-LAN

Connected

Video performance Recommended for best

video performance

Use thin clients

that support

RemoteFX for

improved video

quality at lower

network bandwidth

Physical limitations Limited by video cable

length and USB hub

and cable length

(Recommended

15 meter maximum

length)

Limited by USB hub

and cable length

(Recommended

15 meter maximum

length)

Limited by LAN

distribution

Number of stations

allowed

Limited by number of

available PCIe slots on

the motherboard times

Total number may be

limited by USB zero

client manufacturer

Limited by

available ports on

network switch



Direct Video Connected USB Zero Client

Connected

RDP-over-LAN

Connected

Notes

Licensing limits:

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium: 20 concurrently logged-on stations

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Standard: 10 concurrently logged-on stations

the video ports per

video card

(For more information,

see the Note that

follows this table.)

Split-screen Yes Yes No

MultiPoint Manager

station peripheral status,

auto-logon

configuration, station

renaming

Yes Yes No

Access to server startup

menus

Yes No No

The total number of USB zero clients that are connected to the server may be limited by

the manufacturer. However, if the limit is less than the number of stations that you

require, there are several ways to use the MultiPoint Server system to build up to 20

stations. The use of multiple station types is supported on a single server, so you can add

additional direct video connected stations, RDP-over-LAN connected stations, or split-

screen stations to increase the overall number of stations.

Selecting Hardware for Your MultiPoint Server System

When you build a Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 system, you should select a computer that

meets the system requirements. If you are deciding which components to select, consider the

following:

The target price range of your complete solution.


Note

13


The types of usage scenarios that your customer might expect for the MultiPoint Server system, such as whether the users are running multimedia programs, using word processing or productivity programs, or browsing the Internet.

Whether your scenario has large processing or memory demands.

The number of users who could be using the system at the same time. If you plan to have many users on your system at the same time, or users who use system-intensive programs, you should plan for more computing power for your system.

The purchasing and support arrangements that your organization has with hardware providers, if applicable

The type of stations. How many USB ports or video ports do you need?

Future expansion plans. Do you plan to add stations to the MultiPoint Server system at a later date? Will you have enough video card slots or USB ports? How many additional users will your hardware need to support?

Physical layout. For more information, see MultiPoint Server Site Planning.

A MultiPoint Server system typically includes the following components:

One computer that is running MultiPoint Server, which includes a CPU, RAM, hard disk drives, and video cards.

A monitor, station hub, keyboard, and mouse for each station.

Optional peripheral devices for the MultiPoint Server stations, including speakers, headphones, microphones, or storage devices that are available only to the user of the station.

Optional peripheral devices that are available to all users of the MultiPoint Server system, including printers, external hard disk drives, and USB storage devices.

The following sections in this topic provide detailed information about the hardware decisions that

you can make:

Selecting a CPU

Selecting hardware components

Selecting a CPUA MultiPoint Server system is a multiple-user environment, with all users connected to a single

host computer. This increases the CPU usage because all users share the same computer. Some

tasks, such as multimedia programs (for example, Adobe Flash Player or video-editing software),

have larger processing demands. Therefore, make sure to select a CPU that can handle the

processing requirements for the number of users and types of user scenarios that it will need to

support.

MultiPoint Server requires an x64-based CPU, and must meet the system requirements for the

computer as described in the Hardware Requirements and Performance Recommendations

section in this document.

The following types of processors have been tested to be used on a MultiPoint Server system

with high-demand processing programs, such as multimedia programs:



Dual-core processor: Can support up to four stations.

Quad-core processor: Can support up to six.

Six-core processor: Can support up to 14 stations.

Quad-core processor with multithreading: Can support up to 20 stations.

With this information, select a CPU that meets the processing requirements for your MultiPoint

Server system.

Selecting hardware componentsWhen you are building a MultiPoint Server system, consider the following hardware components

that you may need:

Video hardware

MultiPoint Server station hardware

USB hubs

USB zero clients

Keyboards and mouse devices

Monitors

Peripheral devices

Audio devices, such as speakers and headphones

Microphones

USB mass storage devices

When you have selected the hardware components for your MultiPoint Server system, make sure

that you obtain current, updated drivers for the components.

The following topics provide detailed information to help you select components for your

MultiPoint Server system:

Selecting video hardware

Selecting direct-video-connected or USB zero client station devices

Selecting other station peripheral devices

Selecting RDP-over-LAN-connected station hardware

Selecting audio devices

Selecting video hardwareThe video hardware that you select should support the number of monitors that you will require

for the number of users you intend to have working at MultiPoint Server stations. In addition,

different types of video hardware can provide a higher-performance solution for graphics-

intensive programs, such as multimedia content.

Select the video hardware that can support the maximum number of monitors for the type of

performance that your MultiPoint Server system requires. Make sure that you validate the



performance of the video hardware that you choose to ensure that it meets your performance

requirements.

You should install a video driver that supports extending your desktop across multiple

monitors.

Video hardware options include:

Internal video cards that use a PCI or a PCIe bus interface

External video controllers connected that are by USB

The following sections describe the capabilities of each of these video hardware types. You can

combine internal video cards and external video controllers to create the system that you want.

Internal video cardsAn internal video card is plugged-in to the motherboard on the computer. The internal video card

is a solution that can help the performance of graphics-intensive multimedia programs. However,

an internal video card requires an available PCI or PCIe slot to plug-in to the motherboard. Many

high-performance video cards require a PCIe slot, but there are a limited number of PCIe slots on

a motherboard. You should know what kind of video card slots are available on your computer so

that you can purchase the correct type of video cards.

The number of monitors that can connect to each video card depends on the GPU that is used on

the card and the number of ports it supports, which typically ranges from 2 to 6.

When you are selecting internal video cards, select video cards that support the number of

monitors required to create the desired number of direct video connected stations. The maximum

number of monitors that can be supported is equal to the number of internal video cards that are

plugged-in to the motherboard multiplied by the number of monitor ports on each of those video

cards. For example, if you had two internal video cards and each card had two monitor ports, you

could support up to four monitors.

The interfaces on the motherboard that you select must match the interface on the video card. A

PCI-Express 2.0 x8 or x16 standard video card can provide better performance for multimedia

programs.

External video controllersUSB zero clients contain an external video controller to connect a monitor to the client. The USB

zero client might also include connections for headphones, speakers, a microphone, or other

peripheral devices.

Select a USB zero client if you want to enable support for additional monitors without opening the

computer, or if you want to support more stations than available video outputs. For example, if

you previously had four monitors plugged-in to internal video cards, and you want to add two

more monitors, you can plug-in two external video controllers to the computer and have room for

two more monitors. In this manner, you can combine a USB zero client with the video controller

and not use additional PCI or PCIe slots on the motherboard.


Note

16


Selecting direct-video-connected or USB zero client station devicesA MultiPoint Server station consists of a station hub or USB zero client with a keyboard and

mouse plugged-in, and a monitor that is plugged-in to the host computer or in to a USB zero

client. Other peripheral devices can be plugged-in to the station hub or USB zero client, but they

are not required to create a MultiPoint Server station. These other peripheral devices are

described in Selecting other station peripheral devices.

The devices that you select to create a MultiPoint Server station should meet minimum

requirements to work with MultiPoint Server. Details about the requirements for the following

MultiPoint Server station devices are provided in this topic:

Selecting USB hubs

Selecting USB zero clients

Selecting keyboards and mouse devices

Selecting monitors

Selecting USB hubs The USB hubs that are used in a MultiPoint Server system can be a generic USB hub. Such hubs

typically have four or more USB ports, and they allow multiple USB devices to be connected to a

single USB port on the computer. Some other devices, such as keyboards and video monitors,

may also incorporate a USB hub into their design.

An additional consideration is the use of an externally powered hub, instead of a bus-powered

hub. With a bus-powered hub, the amount of current that is provided by the host computer must

be sufficient to provide power to all the peripheral devices that are plugged-in to the hub, without

degrading system performance. An externally powered hub allows you to connect more

peripheral devices and provide sufficient power to all of them. The use of externally powered hubs

can help prevent performance issues, port failures, and other intermittent issues.

When selecting a USB hub for your MultiPoint Server system, consider its use. The hub can be

used as a station hub, an intermediate hub, or a downstream hub. Refer to the following table for

descriptions about each hub type.

USB Specification Powered

Station Hub USB 2.0 or later Can be bus-powered unless

high-powered devices will be

plugged-in to it or a

downstream hub will be

connected to it

Intermediate Hub USB 2.0 or later;

USB 3.0 is recommended

between the server and the

Should be externally powered



USB Specification Powered

intermediate hub if you connect

more than three USB zero

clients to an intermediate hub.

Downstream Hub USB 2.0 or later Can be externally powered or

bus powered depending on the

devices that are plugged-in to

the hub

Active USB Extender Cable USB 2.0 or later Active USB cables that include

a USB hub are typically bus

powered; therefore, they are

not recommended for

connecting station hubs to the

computer.

Selecting USB zero clientsA USB zero client is a USB hub that contains a video output. Therefore, it allows a monitor to be

connected to the computer through a USB connection. For more information about using USB

zero clients for video, see the Selecting video hardware section in this document. A USB zero

client can also enable the connection of a variety of USB and non-USB devices to the hub. USB

zero clients are produced by specific hardware manufacturers, and they require installing a

device-specific driver.

Selecting keyboards and mouse devicesThe keyboard and mouse devices that you plug-in to the station will typically be USB devices.

Some USB zero clients provide PS/2 ports, in which case, the keyboard and mouse should use

PS/2 to connect to the station hub. You can also use a PS/2 keyboard and mouse if you are

setting up a PS/2 direct-video-connected station.

A keyboard with an internal hub can be used as a station hub. However, all other station devices

must connect to the internal hub by using ports on the keyboard. If such a keyboard is connected

to the computer through another hub, that hub will be treated as an intermediate hub.

If you are using split-screen stations, you may want to consider using a mini keyboard that does

not have a number pad so that the two keyboards can fit in front of the monitor.

Selecting monitorsThere should be one monitor provided for each MultiPoint Server station, unless a split-screen is

planned. (For more information, see Split-screen stations.) Monitors are plugged-in to the video

card on the computer, the USB zero client or the LAN-based client. Any type of monitor that is



supported by the video card, USB zero client, or LAN-based client can be used, including CRT

monitors.

Some special monitors include an internal LAN-based client or USB zero client. Such monitors

will typically include audio input/output jacks and internal USB hubs for connecting keyboards and

mice. They connect to the server through a USB or a LAN connection.

Display resolution

The minimum supported resolution for a station’s display area is 512 x 768 pixels. If the

MultiPoint Server system starts and finds that a station’s display area is less than the minimum

resolution, a blank screen will be displayed on that station and the station will not be usable.

If a display monitor is going to be shared by two stations as split-screen stations, the minimum

requirement for the display is 1024 x 768, so that the resulting individual station screen areas are

at least 512 x 768. For the best split-screen user experience, a wide screen with a minimum of

resolution of 1600 x 900 is recommended.

Selecting other station peripheral devicesWindows MultiPoint Server 2011 supports peripheral devices that are connected to a station hub,

a USB zero client, or in some cases, directly to the computer. Some devices may be associated

with a specific station. Other devices are available to every station when plugged-in directly to the

computer. LAN clients can also support peripheral devices. These are typically associated with

the station through the remote connection configuration tool that is specific to your LAN client.

Peripherals can be associated to a specific station or available to all stations.

Associated to a specific station Peripherals can plug–in to a station hub, a USB zero client, or

a downstream hub. A downstream hub is a hub that is plugged-in to a station hub or USB zero

client to expand the number of ports that are available to the station. Devices that are only

available to the station when plugged-in to a station hub are: keyboard, mouse, audio devices,

USB storage device, and HID Consumer Control.

A keyboard cannot be connected to a downstream hub. If you plug-in a keyboard to a

downstream hub, any peripherals that are plugged-in to the downstream hub will no

longer be available to that station. This behavior allows the support of daisy-chained

station hubs.

Available to all stations Typically, a USB device that is plugged-in to the computer (for

example, not through a station hub) is available to all stations. Depending on the device, it can be

used by multiple users at one time, or only one user can access it at a time. The following table

explains how USB devices can be accessed.

The “Connected to Host Computer” column in the table refers to the behavior when the

computer running MultiPoint Server is running in normal mode with stations. If you are

running in maintenance mode, the peripherals that are plugged-in to the server behave in

the same way as a standard server in a console session.


Important Note

19


Connected to Host Computer Connected to Station Hub or

Downstream Hub

Keyboard Not functional, unless it is

part of a PS/2 station. Refer

to PS/2 stations for more

information

Available to individual station

Cannot be connected to a

downstream hub

Mouse Not functional, unless it is



information


Speaker/headphones Not functional, unless it is



information


USB storage device Available to all stations Available to individual station

HID Consumer Control Not functional Available to individual station

Other USB devices, such as

cameras, document readers, and

DVD drives

Available to all stations if

supported by Windows

Server 2008 R2 Remote

Desktop Services

Available to all stations if

supported by Windows

Server 2008 R2 Remote

Desktop Services

Selecting RDP-over-LAN-connected station hardwareAny LAN client that can connect to Remote Desktop Services, by using Remote Desktop Protocol

5 or later or by using a custom Remote Desktop Protocol Provider, can become a MultiPoint

Server station.

For improved full screen video performance, we recommend that the client be RemoteFX

capable. Refer to Hardware Requirements and Performance Recommendations.

If you want the LAN client to only be used as a MultiPoint Server station, you may want to “lock

down” your LAN client. For example, configure your thin client so that it can only connect to a

MultiPoint Server session, or configure your desktop computers so that access to desktop icons

and Start Menu items such as a web browser is removed to prevent direct Internet access. You

can make these configurations using your LAN client configuration tools or group or local policies.



Selecting audio devicesIt is important to make sure that when you select audio devices, they can be plugged-in to the

station hub, USB zero client or LAN client. Some USB hubs, USB zero clients, and LAN clients

have an analog audio jack that can be used with traditional analog audio devices (such as

headphones or earbuds). Station hubs that do not have analog jacks can use USB audio devices.

If you have configured a PS/2 direct-video-connected station by using PS/2 ports on the

computer’s motherboard for the keyboard and mouse, you must use the analog audio on the

computer’s motherboard in order for the audio device to be available to this station when the

MultiPoint Server system is running in normal mode.

If you do not have a PS/2 direct-video-connected station, the host audio device on the system’s

motherboard will be available only when the MultiPoint Server system is running in maintenance

mode.

Hardware Requirements and Performance Recommendations

This topic describes the hardware that is required to install a MultiPoint Server operating system

and support user application scenarios. The user scenario directly affects the CPU, RAM, and

network bandwidth requirements.

Optimize MultiPoint Server system performanceThe performance of your MultiPoint Server system will be directly affected by the capability of the

CPU, the GPU, and the amount of RAM that is available on the computer that is running

MultiPoint Server.

Applications and Internet contentBecause MultiPoint Server is a shared resource computing solution, the type and number of

applications that are running on the stations can impact the performance of your MultiPoint

Server system. It is important to consider the types of programs that are used regularly when you

are planning your system. For example, a graphics-intensive application requires a more powerful

computer than an application such as a word processor. Overloading the computer with graphics-

intensive applications will likely cause lag problems throughout the entire system.

The type of content that is accessed by applications also affects the system’s performance. If

multiple stations are using web browsers to access multimedia content, such as full-motion video,

fewer stations can be connected before adversely affecting the system performance. Conversely,

if the multiple stations are using web browsers to access static web content, more stations can be

connected without a significant effect on performance.



Hardware recommendationsTo achieve good performance with your MultiPoint Server system under various loads, use the

guidelines in the following table when you are planning and testing your system. These are the

basic requirements for MultiPoint Server. The actual configuration sizing depends on your system

configuration, the workload you are running, and the hardware capability. You should always

validate by using your applications and hardware.

2C = 2 cores, 4C = 4 cores, 6C = 6 cores, MT = multithreading. Processor speed should

be at least 2.0 gigahertz (GHz).

Minimum recommended hardware requirements

Application Scenario Up to 4

Stations

5-6 Stations 7-10

Stations

11-14

Stations

15-20 Stations

Productivity

Office, web browsing,

line-of-business

applications

CPU: 2C

RAM: 2 GB

CPU: 2C

RAM: 4 GB

CPU: 4C

RAM: 6 GB

CPU: 4C

RAM: 8 GB

CPU: 4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 8 GB

Mixed


line-of-business

applications, and

occasional video use

by some users

CPU: 2C

RAM: 2 GB

CPU: 2C

RAM: 4 GB

CPU: 4C

RAM: 6 GB

CPU:

4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 8 GB

CPU: 4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 8 GB

Video intensive


line-of-business

applications, and

frequent video use

by all users

Note

Video testing

was

performed

using 360p

H.264 video

at native

resolution.

CPU: 2C

RAM: 2 GB

CPU: 4C

RAM: 4 GB

CPU:

4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 6 GB

CPU:

4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 8 GB

CPU: 4C+MT or

6C

RAM: 8 GB

Thin Client: RemoteFX

USB video not recommended

RemoteFX, or equivalent technology for RDP, is required when 15–20 remotely

connected thin clients are running full motion video within their session. For more


Note Note

22


information about the hardware requirements for RemoteFX, see Hardware

Considerations for RemoteFX.

In addition to the minimum recommended hardware guidelines, there are also maximum

hardware allowances that you should consider.

Maximum recommended hardware requirements

MultiPoint Server 2011 Standard MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium

Maximum x64 sockets 1 2

Maximum RAM 8 GB 32 GB

For hard drives, a minimum of 7200 RPM and SATA 3Gb/s is recommended. For systems with a

higher number of stations, a higher speed interface, e.g. SATA 6 Gb/s is recommended. For disk-

intensive applications, you should use disks with faster rotational speeds, such as SAS 10K or

15K RPM, or use multiple disk RAID configurations that improve performance (for example, RAID

5).

For more information about choosing the best MultiPoint Server hardware for your needs, contact

your hardware vendor.

Variables Affecting MultiPoint Server System Performance

There are many variables that can affect the overall performance of your MultiPoint Server

system. You may want to consider these when designing your system.

Usage Applications The type and number of applications running at the same time, especially

graphic-heavy or memory intensive applications will affect the overall performance of your system. For more information, see Applications and Internet Content in this guide.

Internet use Consider if your users will be viewing multimedia content or web pages that use full-motion videos. This type of content can overload the system if too many users are viewing concurrently.

The projection feature in MultiPoint Server, which allows teachers to project their

screens onto their student monitors, is not designed to project full-motion video. The

projection feature is designed for demonstration purposes, such as showing a

procedure.

High-speed devices If too many users are concurrently using a high-speed device, like a web camera or DVD player, this affects the overall performance of the system.


Note

23




Configuration CPU, GPU, and RAM See Optimize MultiPoint Server System Performance in this guide for

CPU, GPU, and RAM recommendations.

Network bandwidth For RDP-over-LAN connected stations, the network bandwidth and the capability of the client (for example, a thin client, desktop PC, or laptop) is important, particularly if video is running in the user’s session. If you are using USB-over-Ethernet zero clients, network bandwidth should also be a consideration. Video data for all of the devices is sent over the same Ethernet connection, so you may want to consider setting up a separate Gigabit Ethernet network when using these devices.

RemoteFX For RDP-over-LAN connected stations, you may be able to utilize RemoteFX to greatly improve the delivery of high-definition multimedia content. For more information, see Microsoft RemoteFX in this guide.

Display resolution If you have heavy full-screen video usage, you may want to consider reducing the monitor resolution to maximize performance.

Number of USB zero clients The total number of USB zero clients on a single root hub on the server will directly affect video performance. For more information, see Layout for USB Zero Client Connected Stations in this guide. The number of USB-over-Ethernet zero client stations that are supported might be slightly less than the number of USB zero clients.

USB bandwidth Consider the USB bandwidth when you are designing your system. This is especially important for USB zero clients, which send video data over the USB connection. To optimize bandwidth, minimize the number of devices that are connected to a single USB port on the server. This applies to daisy chained stations and intermediate hubs. For more information, see Station hubs and Intermediate hubs in this guide.

USB type Using USB 3.0 instead of USB 2.0 increases the available bandwidth between the server and the intermediate hub if you are connecting more than three USB zero clients to the hub or if you are using high-bandwidth USB devices.

Stations The total number of stations affects the performance. If you have heavy graphics, processing, or video needs, you may want to limit the overall number of stations. For more information, see Optimize MultiPoint Server system performance in this guide.

MultiPoint Server Site Planning

You should consider the location where one or more computers running MultiPoint Server and its

associated stations will be deployed.

The computer that is running MultiPoint Server should have convenient access to a power supply

and to the peripheral devices that are connected directly to it, such as a printer. Additionally, the

computer running MultiPoint Server must have convenient access to a network connection. A

network connection is required for accessing the Internet, and where available, a LAN.

Additional factors to consider include the following:

Will the MultiPoint Server system be set up in a specific room, or will it be set up on a rolling cart or table, so that it can be moved from place to place?



If you plan to use a mobile setup, you can associate the stations with MultiPoint

Server every time you reconnect them to make sure that each keyboard and mouse

is associated with the appropriate monitor.

Will the primary station be located next to the other stations, or will it be separate? For example, if the MultiPoint Server system is set up in a classroom, will the primary station be on the teacher’s desk and the standard stations positioned elsewhere in the room? When the computer running MultiPoint Server is restarted, the primary station will have access to the startup screens. If you are concerned about this level of access in a classroom setting, you may prefer to put the primary station at the teacher’s desk.

How many stations will fit in the room?

Do you need a network? A single server solution that uses direct video connected or USB zero client connected stations does not need a network.

Are there enough network connections in the room to support the required number of computers running MultiPoint Server

Where are the power outlets located?

Will you need an additional display device, such as a projector? If you plan to use a projector, will it hang from the ceiling, or will it be positioned on a table?

What kind of cables will be required, and how many will be needed?

Consider how you might want to expand in the future. Will you be adding more stations?

Station layout and configurationThe physical layout of your site may affect your choice of station type. For more details about the

different station types, refer to MultiPoint Server Stations in this guide. Multiple station types are

allowed on a single MultiPoint Server. This provides you with extra flexibility to meet your

installation needs.

Layout for direct-video-connected stations For a direct-video-connected station, the distance between the monitors and computer is

limited by the video cable length.

Using intermediate hubs or daisy-chained station hubs is supported for ease-of-deployment, but the maximum recommended number of consecutive hubs is three. This means that the maximum distance from the computer to the station hub is 15 meters, because each USB 2.0 cable has the maximum length of five meters.

There should always be at least one direct video connected station per computer to act

as the primary station.

Layout for USB zero client connected stations Using intermediate hubs or daisy-chained station hubs is supported for ease-of-deployment,

but the maximum recommended number of consecutive hubs is three. This means that the maximum distance from the computer to the station hub is 15 meters, because each USB 2.0 cable has the maximum length of five meters.


Note Important

25


The maximum recommended number of USB zero clients connected to a single intermediate hub is three.

Some computers come with a generic hub on the motherboard, which has the effect

of adding an additional hub between the root hub of the computer and the station

hubs.

If video will be heavily used, it is recommended that you connect no more than two USB zero clients to a USB port on the server. For example, if an intermediate hub is used, only two USB zero clients should be connected to it. Or if you are daisy chaining USB zero clients, only two USB zero clients should be chained together. The addition of each USB zero client to the USB port on the server decreases the video bandwidth available.

If you plan to connect more than three USB zero clients to a single USB port on the server, using USB 3.0 between the server and the intermediate hub is recommended.

It is recommended that you verify the performance by using your applications and

hardware to decide how many USB zero clients you can connect to a USB port on the

server.

Figure 5 MultiPoint Server system with three USB zero clients connected to a single

intermediate hub

Layout for RDP-over-LAN connected stationsThere are no physical distance limitations for LAN clients. As long as they are on the LAN, they

can connect to the MultiPoint Server system.


Note Note

26


Using additional hubsAdditional hubs can be used to make installation easier. There are three types of hubs that are

used on a MultiPoint Server system:

Station hubs

Intermediate hubs

Downstream hubs

Station hubsA station hub is an external hub that has been associated with a MultiPoint Server station. As a

minimum, the station hub will have a keyboard plugged-in to it. It may also have additional

peripherals attached. A station hub can be a generic USB hub that conforms to the USB 2.0 or

later specification. Station hubs should be externally powered if high-powered devices will plugin

to them.

Root hub A USB hub that is built-in to the host controller on a computer’s motherboard is known

as a root hub. Station hubs are generally plugged-in to the root hub on the computer running

MultiPoint Server.

Root hubs should not be used as station hubs. When USB ports are built-in to a

computer, often it is not possible to determine which USB root hub they are internally

connected to. As such, if you plugged-in a station keyboard and mouse directly to the

USB ports of the computer, you may actually be plugging-in the keyboard and mouse to

different USB root hubs. To guarantee that the keyboard and mouse are on the same

hub, plug-in a station hub to the computer’s USB port, and then plug-in the keyboard and

mouse to that station hub.

Daisy chaining stations It may be easier to connect station hubs to another station hub rather

than directly to the computer. New for Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 is the ability to daisy chain

stations. This allows you to connect a USB hub to a station hub that is already plugged-in to the

computer, so that you have a station hub attached to another station hub.

There should be no more than three USB zero clients or station hubs daisy chained

consecutively. Care must be taken that the USB bandwidth is not exceeded when daisy chaining

station hubs.


Note

27


Figure 6 MultiPoint Server system with daisy-chained stations

Intermediate hubsAn intermediate hub is a hub that is between the server and a station hub. It is typically used to

increase the number of ports that are available for station hubs or to extend the distance of the

stations from the computer. It is recommended that no more than two intermediate hubs are used

between a station hub and the server.

Intermediate hubs must be USB 2.0 or later, and they must be externally powered. USB 3.0 is

recommended between the server and the intermediate hub if you are connecting more than

three USB zero clients to an intermediate hub.

Downstream hubsA downstream hub is connected to a station hub to add more available ports for station devices. A

downstream hub can be externally powered or bus-powered, depending on the devices that are

plugged-in to the hub.

Figure 7 MultiPoint Server system with an intermediate hub, a station hub, and a downstream

hub

Users, stations, and computersThe number of stations you will need depends on the number of people who will have to access

the computers running MultiPoint Server at the same time. Similarly, the number of computers

running MultiPoint Server you will need depends on the total number of stations required. A single

computer running Windows Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Standard can support up to ten

concurrently logged on stations. A single computer running Windows Windows MultiPoint

Server 2011 Premium can support up to 20 concurrently logged on stations. Direct-video-



connected stations, USB-zero-client-connected stations, and RDP-over-LAN-connected stations

are all considered stations. In addition, if the split-screen functionality is used, each half is

considered a station.

Power considerationsThe following components require access to a power strip or outlet:

Server

Monitors

Intermediate hubs (if used)

Some USB zero clients

Powered USB devices, such as some external storage devices and DVD drives

Sample MultiPoint Server system layoutsDepending on the available furniture, the size of the room, the number of computers that are

running MultiPoint Server, and the stations in the room, there are a variety of ways that the

physical stations can be arranged. The following diagrams illustrate five possible alternatives.

Some of these diagrams show a projector connected to the MultiPoint Server system.

This is only an example; including a projector in a MultiPoint Server system is optional.

Computer lab In this setup, the stations are arranged around the walls of the room, with the

students facing the walls.


Note

29


Groups In this setup, there are three computers that are running MultiPoint Server, with stations

clustered around each computer.

Lecture room In this setup, the stations are set up in rows. An advantage of this setup is that all

of the students face the instructor.



Activity center This setup consists of a traditional lecture-room layout for the desks, and it has

a separate area with a single computer that is running MultiPoint Server with its associated

stations.



Small business office In this setup, the computer that is running MultiPoint Server is placed in

a central location and users throughout the office connect to it by using a local area network

(LAN).

Network Considerations and User Accounts

MultiPoint Server can be deployed in a variety of network environments, and it can support local

user accounts and domain user accounts. Generally, MultiPoint Server user accounts will be

managed in one of the following network environments:

A single computer running MultiPoint Server with a local user accounts

Multiple computers running MultiPoint Server, each with a local user account

Multiple computers running MultiPoint Server and that are using domain user accounts (this scenario is only available when using Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium

By definition, local user accounts can only be accessed from the computer on which they were

created. Local user accounts are user accounts that are created on a specific computer that is

running MultiPoint Server. In contrast, domain user accounts are user accounts that reside on a

domain controller, and they can be accessed from any computer that is connected to the domain.

When you are deciding which type of network environment to use, consider the following:



Will resources be shared among servers?

Will users be switching between servers?

Will users access database servers that require authentication?

Will users access internal web servers that require authentication?

Is there an existing Active Directory domain infrastructure in place?

Who will be using the MultiPoint Manager console to manage user desktops, view thumbnails, add users, limit websites, and so on? Will this person be managing more than one server? This person must have administrative privileges on the servers.

The following sections address user account management in these networking environments.

Single MultiPoint Server with local user accountsIn environments with a single computer that is running MultiPoint Server, there is no requirement

to have a network. However, to take advantage of Internet resources, the networking

requirements may be as basic as a router and a connection to an Internet service provider (ISP).

Network connections that are associated with a network adapter on MultiPoint Server are

configured, by default, to obtain an IP address and DNS server address automatically through

DHCP. Internet routers are typically configured as DHCP servers, and they provide private IP

addresses to computers that connect to them on the internal network. Therefore, a single

computer running MultiPoint Server may be able to connect to the internal interface of the router,

obtain automatic IP information, and connect to the Internet without significant effort or

configuration by an administrator.

A common way to manage users in this kind of environment is to create a local user account for

each person who will access the system. Anyone who has a local user account on that computer

can log on to MultiPoint Server from any station that is associated with the system. Local user

accounts can be created and managed from MultiPoint Manager.

Multiple MultiPoint Server systems with local user accountsGiven that local user accounts are only accessible from the computer on which they were

created, when you deploy multiple MultiPoint Server systems in an environment, you can manage

local user accounts in one of two ways:

You can create user accounts for specific individuals on specific computers running MultiPoint Server.

You can use MultiPoint Manager to create accounts for every user on every computer running MultiPoint Server.

For example, if you plan to assign users to a specific computer running MultiPoint Server, you

might create four local user accounts on Computer A (user01, user02, user03, and user04) and

four local user accounts on Computer B (user05, user06, user07, and user08). In this scenario,

users 01-04 can log on to Computer A from any station that is connected to it; however, they

cannot log on to Computer B. The same is true for users 05-08, who would be able to log on only © 2012 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. 33


to Computer B, but not to Computer A. Depending on the specific deployment environment, this

can be acceptable or even desirable.

However, if every user must be able to log on to any of the computers running MultiPoint Server,

a local user account must be created for each user on each computer that is running MultiPoint

Server. Choosing to manage users in this manner introduces certain complexities. For example, if

user01 logs on to Computer A on Monday and saves a file in the Documents folder, and then the

user logs on to Computer B on Tuesday, the file that was saved in the Documents folder on

Computer A will not be accessible on Computer B.

Additionally, if a user has accounts on Computer A and Computer B, there is no way to

automatically synchronize the passwords for the accounts. This can result in users having

difficulty logging on should the account password be changed on one computer, but not the other.

You can simplify user account management in this kind of network environment by assigning

each user to a single computer that is running MultiPoint Server. This way, the user can log on to

any of the stations that are associated with that computer and access the appropriate files.

Multiple MultiPoint Server systems with domain accountsDomain environments are common in large network environments that include multiple servers.

For example, you might join one or more computers running the Windows MultiPoint Server 2011

Premium to a domain, and then use Microsoft Active Directory to manage user accounts that can

be accessed from any computer in the domain. This allows for individual domain user accounts to

be created and accessed from any station in any MultiPoint Server system that is joined to the

domain.

Only Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium supports joining a domain; computers

running Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Standard cannot join a domain.

When you deploy MultiPoint Server in a domain environment, there are several factors to

consider:

If domain accounts are used, they cannot be managed from MultiPoint Manager.

By default, MultiPoint Server is configured to give each user permission to log on to only one station at a time. If you decide to allow users to log on to multiple stations at the same time using a single account, you can use the Edit Server Settings option in MultiPoint Manager.

The location of domain controllers may affect the speed and reliability with which users will be able to authenticate with the domain and locate resources.

Single user account for multiple stationsNew to Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 is the ability to log on to multiple stations on the same

computer simultaneously using a single user account. This feature is useful in environments

where users are not given unique user names, and where using a single user account can

simplify the management of the MultiPoint Server system.


Note

34


Storing Files with MultiPoint Server

MultiPoint Server supports storing user files in the following ways:

On the operating system partition of the hard disk drive. By default, MultiPoint Server stores user files on the hard disk drive with the operating system.

On a separate partition of the hard disk drive. When the MultiPoint Server system is set up for the first time, you can partition the hard disk drive. That is, you can configure a section of the drive so that it functions as if it were a separate drive. This makes it easier to restore or upgrade the operating system without affecting user files. For more information, see Create a partition or logical drive in the Windows Server Technical Library.

On an additional internal or external hard disk drive. You can attach additional internal or external hard disk drives to MultiPoint Server for saving and backing up data.

In a shared network folder. To make user files available from any station, you can create a shared folder on the network. This requires another computer or server in addition to the computer running MultiPoint Server. This is the recommended method for storing files if there is a file server available.

For small systems of 2-3 computers running MultiPoint Server with no file server available,

one of the MultiPoint Server computers can act as the file server for all of the MultiPoint

Server computers. You would then create user accounts for all users on the MultiPoint Server

that is acting as the file server.

Supported Languages

MultiPoint Server supports multilanguage installations. This means that each user can choose a

preferred language for the desktop. This is a per-user setting, so even if a station is shared by

multiple users, when a user logs on, the selected language will appear. This will apply no matter

which station is accessed by that user.

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 supports all the language packs that are available for Windows

Server 2008 R2 with SP1. The languages that are available for individual (end) users are as

follows:

Arabic, Bulgarian, Chinese Traditional, Chinese Simplified, Chinese HK, Croatian, Czech, Danish,

Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian,

Japanese, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese

(Portugal), Romanian, Russian, Serbian Latin, Slovakian, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish,

Thai, Ukrainian.

MultiPoint Server, including MultiPoint Manager, is available in the following languages: Arabic,

Chinese Traditional, Chinese Simplified, Chinese HK, English, French, German, Hebrew,

Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal),

Russian, Spanish, Turkish.

Arabic and Hebrew are included in Update Rollup 1. To download this update, see

Update Rollup 1 for Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 on the Microsoft website.© 2012 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.

Note

35

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2555129




MultiPoint Server Virtualization Support

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium supports the Hyper-V® role in two ways:

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium can be deployed as a guest operating system on a server running Hyper-V.

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium can be used as a virtualization server.

Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Standard does not support virtualization as guest

operating system or as a virtualization server.

Running Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 Premium on a virtual machine provides the use of the

Hyper-V tools to manage operating systems. These tools include checkpoint and rollback

features, and they allow you to export and import virtual machines. For larger installations, you

can consolidate servers by running multiple MultiPoint Server virtual computers on a single

physical server. Possible scenarios include:

A single classroom or lab has more than 20 seats. Rather than deploying multiple physical computers running MultiPoint Server, you can deploy multiple virtual machines on a single physical computer.

You can manage multiple MultiPoint servers, whether physical or virtual, through a

single MultiPoint Manager console.

MultiPoint Server is running on a virtual machine with another server infrastructure on the same physical computer. For example, MultiPoint Server is running with Windows Small Business Server (Windows SBS) Essentials. Windows SBS centralizes the domain, security, and data for the network. MultiPoint Server provides Remote Desktop Services and centralizes the desktops.

When running MultiPoint Server on a virtual machine, only RDP-over-LAN connected

stations are supported. Direct video and USB zero client connected stations are not

supported.

For more information about the Hyper-V role, see Hyper-V on Microsoft TechNet.

Microsoft RemoteFX

MultiPoint Server includes Microsoft RemoteFX, which is a feature that is included in Windows

Server 2008 R2 with Service Pack 1 (SP1). RemoteFX provides the following end-user

experience enhancements for Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) that enable a rich desktop

environment within your network environment:

Delivers a full Windows user experience to a range of client devices, including rich clients and thin clients.

Provides improved codec support that assists in the delivery of high-definition multimedia content over the LAN.

Enables shared encryption, authentication, management, and device support through integration with the RDP.


Note Note Note

36



In MultiPoint Server, includes an improved encode and decode pipeline for multimedia purposes which provides a richer multimedia experience and supports an increased number of stations playing multimedia content.

For more information, see Microsoft Remote FX in the Windows Server Technical Library.

Application Considerations

Application compatibilityTo work properly on a MultiPoint Server system, an application must:

1. Install and run on Remote Desktop Services in Windows Server 2008 R2

2. Install on a 64-bit operating system

For more information about known application compatibility issues, see Community Verified

Application Compatibility Center for Remote Desktop Services and Windows MultiPoint Server

LicensingIt is important to verify the licensing requirements for the applications you want to run on

MultiPoint Server. Although you are installing a single copy of MultiPoint Server, there are

traditionally multiple users, and some applications require per-user licensing. For example, in

cases such as using Microsoft Office, a volume license version is required because it is licensed

per user rather than per computer.

DirectX supportMultiPoint Server supports Direct3D Acceleration. However, support for DirectDraw Acceleration

and AGP Texture Acceleration is not available.

Applications that use DirectX can be resource intensive, and it is recommended that you

thoroughly test these applications on your server to ensure that they function as intended.

MultiPoint Server Predeployment Checklist

Use the following checklist to help you plan your MultiPoint Server deployment.

Step Issue Help Topic

1. Verify that your applications are

compatible with MultiPoint

Server.

Application Considerations

2. Determine the number of users Users, stations, and computers


http://rdcompatibility.com/compatibility/Default.aspx?&srv=4

http://rdcompatibility.com/compatibility/Default.aspx?&srv=4



Step Issue Help Topic

who are likely to access, at the

same time, each computer that

is running MultiPoint Server so

that you can estimate the

number of required computers

that must run MultiPoint Server.

3. Understand the software

applications and the web

content that will likely be

accessed by users and the

impact that will have on system

performance.

Hardware Requirements and

Performance Recommendations

4. Determine the number and type

of stations that will be

connected to the system.

MultiPoint Server Stations

5. Determine the hardware that is

needed.

Selecting Hardware for Your

MultiPoint Server System and

Hardware Requirements and

Performance Recommendations

6. Determine where your

MultiPoint Server system will be

located. Will it be set up in a

single room, or will it be set up

so that it can be moved from

one location to another?


7. Determine how the stations will

be arranged.


8. Verify a proper power and

network infrastructure.


9. Determine how user accounts

will be implemented and

managed.

Network Considerations and User

Accounts

10. Determine how user files will be

shared and stored.

Storing Files with MultiPoint

Server



MultiPoint Server Planning Considerations Glossaryassociate a station

To specify which monitor is used with which station and peripheral devices, such as a

keyboard and mouse. For direct video connected stations, this is done by pressing a

specified key on the station’s keyboard when prompted to do so. For USB zero client

connected stations, this typically happens automatically.

bus-powered hub

A hub that draws all of its power from the computer’s USB interface. Bus-powered hubs

do not need separate power connections. However, many devices do not work with this

type of hub because they require more power than this type of hub provides.

direct-video-connected station

A MultiPoint Server station that consists of a monitor that is directly connected to a

video output on the server, and at a minimum, it includes a keyboard and mouse that

are connected to the server through a USB hub.

domain user account

A user account that is hosted on a domain computer. Domain user accounts can be

accessed from any computer that is connected to the domain, and they are not tied to

any particular computer.

downstream hub

A hub that is connected to a station hub to add more available ports for station devices.

A downstream hub must not have a keyboard attached to it.

externally powered hub

Also known as a self-powered hub, this hub takes its power from an external power

supply unit; therefore, it can provide full power (up to 500 mA) to every port. Many hubs

can operate as bus-powered or externally-powered hubs.

HID consumer control device

A Human Interface Device (HID) is a computer device that interacts directly with

humans. It may take input from or deliver output to humans. Examples are keyboard,

mouse, trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, graphics table, joystick, fingerprint scanner,



gamepad, webcam, headset, and driving simulator devices. A HID consumer control

device is a particular class of HID devices that includes audio volume controls and

multimedia and browser control keys.

intermediate hub

A hub that is between a root hub on the server and a station hub. Intermediate hubs are

typically used to increase the number of available ports for stations hubs or to extend

the distance of the stations from the computer.

local user account

A user account on a specific computer. A local user account is available only on the

computer where the account is defined.

maintenance mode

One of the two MultiPoint Server modes. When the system is in maintenance mode, no

stations are available for use. Instead, all of the monitors are treated as a single

extended desktop for the console session of the computer system. Maintenance mode

is typically used to install, update, or configure software, which cannot be done when

the computer is in normal mode. See also: normal mode.

multifunction hub

See USB zero client.

MultiPoint Server system

A collection of hardware and software that consists of one computer that is running

MultiPoint Server and at least one MultiPoint Server station.

For more information about system layout options, see MultiPoint Server Site

Planning

normal mode

One of the two MultiPoint Server modes. Typically, the MultiPoint Server system is in

normal mode. When in normal mode, the MultiPoint Server stations behave as if each

station is a separate computer that is running the Windows operating system, and

multiple users can use the system at the same time. See also: maintenance mode.

partition

A section of space on a physical disk that functions as if it is a separate disk.



primary station

The station that is the first to start up when MultiPoint Server is started. The primary

station can be used by an administrator to access startup menus and settings. When it

is not being used by the administrator, it can be used as a normal station (it does not

have to be reserved exclusively for administration). The primary station’s monitor must

always be connected directly to a video output on the computer that is running

MultiPoint Server. See also: station.

RDP-over-LAN-connected station

A station that is a thin client, traditional desktop, or laptop computer that connects to

MultiPoint Server by using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) through the local area

network (LAN).

root hub

A USB hub that is built-in to the host controller on a computer’s motherboard.

split screen

A station where a single monitor can be used to display two independent user desktops.

Two sets of hubs, keyboards, and mice are associated with a single monitor. One set is

associated with the left side of the monitor, and the other set is associated with the right

side of the monitor.

standard station

In contrast to the primary station, which can be used by an administrator to access

startup menus, standard stations will not display startup menus, and they can only be

used after MultiPoint Server has completed the startup process. See also: station.

station

User endpoint for connecting to the computer running MultiPoint Server. Three station

types are supported: direct-video-connected, USB-zero-client-connected, and RDP-

over-LAN-connected stations. For more information about stations, see MultiPoint

Server Stations.

station hub

A USB hub that has been associated with a monitor to create a MultiPoint Server

station. It connects peripheral USB devices to MultiPoint Server. See also: USB zero



client and USB hub.

USB hub

A generic multiport USB expansion hub that complies with the universal serial bus

(USB) 2.0 or later specifications. Such hubs typically have several USB ports, which

allows multiple USB devices to be connected to a single USB port on the computer.

USB hubs are typically separate devices that can be externally powered or bus-

powered. Some other devices, such as some keyboards and video monitors, may

incorporate a USB hub into their design. See also: USB zero client.

USB over Ethernet zero client

A USB zero client that connects to the computer through a LAN connection rather than

a USB port. This client appears to the server as a USB device even through the data is

sent through the Ethernet connection.

USB zero client

An expansion hub that connects to the computer through a USB port and enables the

connection of a variety of non-USB devices to the hub. USB zero clients are produced

by specific hardware manufacturers, and they require the installation of a device-

specific driver. USB zero clients support connecting a video monitor (through VGA, DVI,

and so on), and peripherals (through USB, sometimes PS/2, and analog audio). The

USB zero client can be externally powered or bus-powered. See also, USB hubs.

USB zero client connected station

A MultiPoint Server station that consists of (as a minimum) a monitor, keyboard, and

mouse, which are connected to the server through a USB zero client.


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