Dell has launched a new ultraportable laptop designed for business users that travel
frequently and need a lightweight system capable of handling applications while on the road.

The Latitude D430, available immediately, is based on Intel Core 2 Duo or Core Solo processors and has a 12.1in widescreen display. Along with the existing D420, the new laptop replaces the Latitude X1 as Dell’s most ultraportable model, although at 1.35kg it cannot match the older unit’s low carrying weight of just over 1kg.

Available as an option on the new Latitude is a 32GB Flash hard drive, which Dell said offers better reliability and performance than a traditional hard disk. It can also extend battery life, which Dell quotes at 4.5 hours as standard, but this option adds £155 to the price of the laptop when compared with a standard 60GB hard drive.

Dell said the Latitude has improved security, with an integrated smart card reader and optional fingerprint scanner, and greater ruggedness through magnesium alloy construction and a toughened Strike Zone to protect the hard drive.

“Today’s organisations demand that business notebooks meet specific technology standards for easier management and cost reduction. The Latitude D430 takes this one step further by providing mobile professionals a small, ultra-light notebook packed with the latest features that allow them to conduct business on the go,” said Dell’s director of client products for Europe, Eric Greffier.

The Latitude D430 ships with 1GB memory as standard, and prices start at £749 + VAT. The laptop does not include an optical drive, but this can be added through an external D/bay or Mediabase dock.