14 DAY TRIAL // Dell has announced that its Vostro notebook line has just expanded, with the addition of new laptop models that are lightweight, thin and durable, even while they pack high-end performance and security features. The new Vostro 3000 laptops are aimed as mobile PC that are as attractive as they are powerful, thus combining Intel Core-level performance with portability, all enclosed in a stylish frame of 13, 14, 15 and even 17 inches that makes them both appealing and robust.
The new business notebooks are powered by the HM57 chipset and Intel Core i3 or i5 central processing units, or even a Core i7 quad-core on the (Vostro 3700 only). The chip is backed by up to 8GB 1066MHz DDR3 memory and the Intel Integrated GMA HD or NVIDIA GeForce 310M for graphics (with the 1GB NVIDIA GeForce GT 330 usable in the Vostro 3700). In addition, the models have up to 500GB of storage (7200RPM HDD) or 250GB, if an encrypted HDD is desired.
The new business laptops have extensive connectivity and I/O options to complement the high performance capabilities housed within them. Connectivity is provided by Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1 and wireless WAN (EVDO-HSPA), whereas I/O options include USB ports, HDMI, a USB/eSATA combo port, a 5-in-1 or 8-in-1 card reader, a 34nm Express Card and even a 2.0-megapixel webcam.
"To succeed, small businesses need simple, reliable and affordable technology solutions," Alex Gruzen, SVP, Consumer, Small and Medium Business, Dell, Inc., said. "These entrepreneurs want technology that makes them more productive and helps them compete, and the Vostro 3000 delivers in a package they will be proud to show off in the airport or the boardroom."
"Dell continues to sharpen its focus on SMB customers with the new Vostro 3000 series," Ray Boggs, VP of SMB Research at IDC, added. "Small and mid-sized firms are returning to the PC market after a year in the recessionary wilderness, and they are ready for the kinds of capabilities, including Microsoft Windows 7, that will get them to the next level of productivity."
"As the first PC brand designed exclusively for small businesses, over the last year, Dell has introduced several new Vostro laptops and desktops to serve their distinctive needs. Ranging from our recently announced, super dependable Vostro 230 or future-proof and powerful Vostro 430 desktops, or the ultra-thin Vostro V13 laptop, Vostro products are designed for small businesses helping them stretch their budget and protect their data, and come with dedicated small business services and support to keep a small businesses moving," Gruzen shared.
Dell's new mobile PCs supplement their high performance with equally high eco-friendliness, having earned the Energy Star 5.0 and EPEAT bronze certification. Finally, they also boast a series of security and support features, such as optional fingerprint readers, “Set & Forget" Online Data Protection, Remote On-Call Support and ProSupport to Simplify IT.
Dell's new products are already available in the US and parts of Asia, with availability in Europe and Latin America set for March 16. As for prices, according to ZDNet, the Vostro 3300 will start at $788, with the 3400 and 3500 both priced at $768. As for the strongest of the line, the Vostro 3700, the price tag is of $798.