Mobile Computing | News
Dell Unveils Sub-$500 K-12 Laptop
The Dell Latitude 3330 will come equipped with up to a Core i5 processor, 8 GB RAM, and a 500 GB solid state drive. |
Dell today unveiled a new laptop designed specifically for schools as well as a new mobile cart designed to house up to 30 individual Latitude 3330s.
The Latitude 3330, slated to ship later this month, is designed as an affordable tool for schools that need capabilities that can't necessarily be found currently in tablets and for schools that need their computing devices to integrate with existing IT infrastructure with a minimum of fuss.
The 13.3-inch Latitude 3330 will run on Windows 8 Professional, though it can also be customized with Windows 7 or Ubuntu. Processor options include a third-generation Intel Core i5, second-generation Core i3, and Intel Celeron Processor 1007U. A third-generation Core i3 option is expected to be available in July.
Other specifications include:
- 2 GB to 8 GB of installed DDR3L RAM (1,333 MHz to 1,600 MHz, depending on CPU);
- Integrated graphics (Intel HD, HD 3000, or HD 4000);
- Three solid state drive options (64 GB and 128 GB standard mobile drives and a 500 GB higher-performance SSD) or a 320 GB, 5,400 RPM platter-based hard drive;
- 4- or 6-cell battery;
- Various wireless options, including 802.11bgn, 802.11n, and 802.11ac;
- BlueTooth 4.0 and optional Intel WiDi ("wireless display") technology;
- Various security options for schools, including Computrace, Bitlocker, a physical Kensington lock slot, data protection, and Dell Data Protection | Encryption (to be available this summer);
- Optional external optical disc reader;
- Speakers, combo mic/audio out jack, and integrated microphone;
- Integrated 720p webcam; and
- Optional mobile broadband and GPS capabilities.
The 3330 measures 13" x 9.4" x 0.8" int he four-cell configuration and 13.0" x 9.4" x 1.2" in the six-cell configuration. It weighs 3.4 pounds to 3.9 pounds.
Dell and its partners will also be offering services related to the new laptops, including IT readiness assessment and assessments of schools' readiness for online/common core testing.
The Dell Mobile Computing Cart will be available in managed and unmanaged versions. |
The new Dell Mobile Computing Cart is designed to hold 30 laptops and tablets (devices up to 14 inches). It will be available in two configurations: a managed version and an unmanaged version. The unmanaged version is designed for charging and security. The managed version also includes pre-routed CAT6 cables, a Dell PowerConnect 3548 Ethernet switch, a external Ethernet cable, and power for additional components.
Other features of both versions include:
- Vented ABS shelving to aid in cooling;
- 2 external outlets;
- Internal cable management and external recessed cable wrap for Ethernet cable and power cord;
- Side-sliding doors;
- Storage area and power for optional wireless access point;
- Ergotron PowerShuttle power management;
- Steel door with key locks;
- A handle compatible with locking cables; and
- Interior fans and airflow management.
The cart measures 25.2" (w) x 37" (d) x 41.7" (h) and weighs in between 181 pounds and 203 pounds, depending on configuration.
Dell said the Latitude 3330 will be available in late April and will start at $419. The new cart will also ship at the end of the month. The unmanaged version will run $1,899.99; the managed version will go for $2,799.99. Additional details can be found in