Dell Launches Rugged Laptop

The XFR D630 meets the Department of Defense's MIL- STD 810F standards for products that operate in extreme conditions and a patent-pending thermal management system to allow it to deliver enhanced graphics performance, according to Round Rock, Tex.-based Dell.

The notebook features a die-cast magnesium alloy chassis, sealed keyboard and door covers to keep out moisture and dust and shock isolated hard drive and display protection.

The system shares common images and components with the rest of Dell's Latitude notebook line and features shock-isolated mounting to protect the hard drive and dual-locking butterfly mechanisms to allow for easy access to components.

The LCD screen measures 14.1 inches and Dell calls it the "industry's first fully rugged" display of its kind. It has an optional touch screen and Intel Core 2 Duo processors. "The Latitude XFR D630 represents a tectonic shift towards simplicity in the ruggedized laptop space," said Brett McAnally, director, Dell Product Group, in a statement. "We are taking a multi-dimensional approach that focuses on simplified deployment, service and durability without sacrificing performance. Major competitors focus their efforts on 'rugged' only.'"

Pricing for the Latitude XFR D630 starts at $3,899 and Dell is offering users next business day on-site service for the laptop's interior parts.