Netbooks for educational purposes

May 19, 2009 07:41 GMT  ·  By

Round Rock, Texas-based Dell has just announced a new addition to its growing line of netbook computer systems with the introduction of the new 10.1-inch Latitude 2100 series, specifically designed to meet the requirements of K-12 students. While the internal specifications are pretty much in line with almost every other netbook currently available on the market, the new system also borrows a number of elements from some of Dell's other portable PC lines, like the Latitude, which is focused on computer professionals.

“The Latitude 2100 shows that Dell thinks about, cares about, and designs products with education in mind,” said Paul Bell, president of Dell’s global public sector division. “This system is an extension of our efforts to support educators as they transform technology access in classrooms worldwide. We will continue to respond quickly to their needs and work with governments to deliver technology that modernizes education, excites students and arms them with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.”

With the launch of the new Dell Latitude 2100, the giant manufacturer has expanded its horizons, trying to provide a netbook that will likely compete with systems such as Intel's Classmate PC or OLPC's XO laptop. However, thanks to the adoption of the now-familiar Atom platform, the Latitude 2100 can deliver an increased performance, while also taking advantage of Dell's long expertise in the field of PC design.

On the inside, the Latitude 2100 offers pretty much everything you'd expect from a 10.1-inch netbook, including the Atom N270 processor, a choice for a hard drive or solid state drive, three-in-one media card reader, VGA port, options for webcam and a keyboard featuring antimicrobial protection, as well as Gigabit Ethernet and wireless network connectivity. The system can be equipped with a 3-cell or a 6-cell battery and has a starting weight of 2.91 lb (1.32kg).

Unlike most netbooks on the market, the new Latitude 2100 offers a different approach to the fast growing segment, incorporating some of Dell's unique features. The netbook comes with a “rubberized” design with a choice for a variety of bright colors and also offers a Network Activity Light on the lid. This is meant to inform the teacher if the student is connected to a network. Additionally, the system can be equipped with an optional touchscreen for better interaction and a shoulder strap system that doubles as a lock for the system.

According to Dell, the new Latitude 2100 is now available for a price tag that starts at just US$369. Be sure to check the video below for a better perspective on Dell's new netbook.