VDI Instructions

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is technology that gives you online access to a dedicated PC with what you need from software, processing power, and graphics performance. This computer can be used in the same way you use your local computer, but can be reached from different devices and operating systems. More general information VDI at UiO can be found here. That link is a great resource for accessing and FAQ regarding VDI systems. 

At RITMO we have different access to software and hardware depending on our needs. Access to the virtual machines in the VDI solution is done via "Pools" which have different hardware performance depending on the user needs. Pools are called Silver, Gold, and Platinum which are ordered by the increase of CPU and RAM. As a RITMO user, you should have access to Platinum+ and maybe also a Silver + or Gold+. The + indicates graphics cards / GPU which is necessary for the software we use. More information on the hardware of the machines available can be found here.

Each user will have access to RITMO specific software as well as drives like the hf-mocap drive if that is applicable. The additional software, like QTM, is linked to your user account and not the type of pool computer you login to. If there are issues with software or you would like other software added to the VDI system let Kayla know.

Installing and Using the VDI

 

  1. Download the VMware Horizon Client.
    1. This is available through Software Center on your UiO Machine
    2. On a Private machine Download VMWare Horizon Client for Windows or Download VMware Horizon Client for Mac
  2. Open the Client and double-click Add Server
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  3. Enter view.uio.no as the Connection Server name
  4. Log in with your UIO username and password.
  5. If you get this message, click yes.
  6. You will now see all the VM pools you have access to as well as a collection of stand alone software    Screen shot of Horizon Client with pools
  7. It is also smart to set the display setting to “Window - Large”. Right-click – Display
  8. You can now click on whatever you need to use. Keep in mind it will take a bit of time for these programs to start up so be patient. Double-click Platinum+ Pool to log in. This gives you a VM (Virtual Machine) in that pool. I
    1. Note: If you are using QTM or any other type of high graphic software, use Platinum+ instead of the Gold+ or Silver+. There have been previous issues with the slower machines and QTM. 

Disconnecting vs Logging out - IMPORTANT

Disconnecting from the VM keeps it running. When you log in to the pool you will be connected to the same VM. Logging out or resetting means that the machine will be deleted and a new one will be given to you on next login.

  • To log off and exit the VDI, click the "Options" menu in the upper left corner and click "Disconnect and log off". Note: if you simply x out the VMWare, it is disconnected and not logged off.

  • If you log out your VM is deleted. If you log in again, a new one is created for you. Any changes you make are stored and the experience is as if the machine is “Persistent”.
  • Disconnecting from the VM keeps it running. When you log in to the pool you will be connected to the same VM. Logging out or resetting means that the machine will be deleted and a new one will be given to you on next login.

Software Information

The software is loaded onto the the VDI in two ways, the base image and the AppStack. The base image of the machines has software universal to all UiO users. Software like Microsoft Office, Matlab, and Python fall into that group. The base image is managed and updated by IT. The AppStack allows for specialized software, especially license based, to be available for just our group of users. Software like QTM, Max, and Reaper are in that AppStack. It can be updated by Kayla.  

Storage Drives

All storage drives you have access to should be mounted upon start up. In addition to your M drive, any shared drives such as the Felles would be present. 

Notes and other important information

  • The VDI will forcibly disconnect users after 600 minutes
  • The VDI is updated and reset on FRIDAY MORNINGS
    • All users will be forcibly logged out when this happens
  • Windows might automatically lock the session but this does not log you out
    • If this happens, you can log back in
    • This just means you log into windows rather than the VDI
  • It should take a few minutes for the VDI to load and startup, but any more than 5 minutes it might not be working.
  • MIR toolbox is installed but the path is C:\VDI\Matlab\toolboxes\MIR Toolbox
    • You will need to add the command addpath('C:\VDI\Matlab\toolboxes\MIR Toolbox\MIRToolbox', '-end') to be able to access it
  • Any errors, please send a detailed email to Kayla so she can compile them for the IT folks making the VDI

 

Published May 7, 2019 9:54 AM - Last modified Sep. 27, 2023 12:35 PM
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