Learn the different client types.

Reference  Solution  Deployment Runtime | Server | Client Types | Container | Redundancy | Security


Desktop, Web & Mobile Clients (Reference): Client Types, Multiple deployment options for accessing runtime displays, from high-performance desktop applications to zero-install web browsers across all platforms.

Client Deployment Options:

  • Desktop (Windows stations) - Rich Client and Smart Client applications
  • Web (HTML5) - Browser-based, no installation required
  • Mobile (HTML5) - Optimized for phones and tablets
  • API Clients - Programmatic data access


Client Comparison

FeatureDesktop Rich ClientDesktop Smart ClientWeb HTML5
PlatformWindows/LinuxWindows onlyAll platforms
InstallationLocal installClick-onceNone
PerformanceHighestHighStandard
Task SwitchingCan blockCan blockCannot block
UpdatesManualAutomaticImmediate
RedundancyAutomaticAutomaticManual
ThreadingMultiMultiSingle
Port3101 (WCF)3101 (WCF)80/443 (HTTP)

Desktop Clients

Rich Client

Full-featured desktop application with maximum control and performance.

Characteristics:

  • WPF-based on Windows
  • Runs as standalone application
  • Full Windows integration
  • 64-bit on .NET Framework 4.8

Advantages:

  • Block Windows task switching (Ctrl+Alt+Del)
  • Automatic redundant server failover
  • Highest performance
  • Full security control

Requirements:

  • FrameworX installation
  • Windows OS
  • Network access to server

Deployment:

Program: TRichClient.exe (64-bit)
Port: 3101 (configurable)
Technology: WPF

Smart Client

One-click deployment with automatic updates.

Characteristics:

  • ClickOnce technology
  • Self-updating from server
  • No local installation
  • Runs like Rich Client

Advantages:

  • Single-click deployment
  • Automatic updates
  • No IT deployment needed
  • Same features as Rich Client

Requirements:

  • .NET Framework 4.8
  • Compatible browser with ClickOnce support
  • Windows OS only

Deployment:

http://<ServerIP>/smartclient
or
https:// if certificate is installed

Browser Compatibility:

  • Internet Explorer: Native support
  • Microsoft Edge: Requires "ClickOnce for Microsoft Edge" extension
  • Google Chrome: Requires "Meta4 ClickOnce Launcher" extension
  • Mozilla Firefox: Requires "FFClickOnce" add-on
  • Other browsers: Manual download and execution required

Web and Mobile Clients

Browser-based access with zero installation.

Characteristics:

  • WebAssembly technology
  • Cross-platform compatible
  • Responsive design
  • Touch support

Advantages:

  • No installation required
  • Works on any device
  • Immediate updates
  • Platform independent

Limitations:

  • Cannot block task switching
  • Single-threaded execution
  • HTTPS communication overhead
  • No direct local file access

Access URL:

http://<ServerIP>/html5
or
https:// if certificate is installed

Browser Requirements:

BrowserMinimum VersionNotes
Chrome90+Recommended
Edge90+Recommended
Firefox88+Full support
Safari14+iOS compatible

Auto-Start Configuration

Windows Auto-Start

Using AutoStartClient.exe:

cmd

AutoStartClient.exe /server:192.168.1.100 /port:3101 /display:MainScreen

Parameters:

ParameterDescriptionExample
/serverServer IP or hostname/server:192.168.1.100
/portServer port/port:3101
/displayDisplay name to open/display:MainScreen
/delayStartup delay (seconds)/delay:30

Kiosk Mode

Desktop Kiosk:

cmd

StartRichClient.bat /kiosk /display:KioskDisplay /preventclose

Browser Kiosk (Chrome):

cmd

chrome.exe --kiosk --app="http://server:10108/html5/" --no-first-run

Browser Kiosk (Edge):

cmd

msedge.exe --kiosk "http://server:10108/html5/" --edge-kiosk-type=fullscreen

Deployment Considerations

Desktop Deployment

Best for:

  • Control rooms
  • Dedicated operator stations
  • High-security environments
  • Maximum performance needs

Web Deployment

Best for:

  • Cross-platform access
  • Occasional users
  • Remote access
  • Zero-install requirements

Mobile Deployment

Best for:

  • Field operations
  • Responsive monitoring
  • Alert management
  • Quick status checks

Troubleshooting

Connection Issues:

  • Verify server port access
  • Check firewall settings
  • Test network connectivity
  • Review server logs

Update Problems:

  • Clear browser cache (Web)
  • Reset ClickOnce cache (Smart)
  • Reinstall client (Rich)

Performance Issues:

  • Check network latency
  • Monitor server load
  • Verify client resources
  • Review display complexity

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