Dell teases users with the new Latitude XT2 XFR rugged tablet PC

By: Raghav Kapoor

Dell's first ever rugged tablet PC model

Dell Latitude XT2 XFR - The first ever rugged tablet PC from Dell

Dell has somehow managed to grab our attention lately by teasing us with two diametrically opposite laptop models. When I say diametrically opposite laptop models, I mean that on one hand Dell is teasing us with the sleek Dell Adamo XPS which apart from being light, thin, and portable incorporates a new type of hinge which makes typing really comfortable. While on the other hand Dell is prepping the Latitude XT2 XFR rugged tablet PC which is believed to have a ton of connectivity options for the user.

Let me just stick to the latter model i.e. Dell Latitude XT2 XFR rugged tablet PC for the time being. An FCC (Federal Communications Commission) filing by Novatel has revealed that Dell is planning to launch a rugged version of its already available Latitude XT2 tablet PC. On the exterior this new model has the same button layout as the XT2 but with one change i.e. this new model is much more rugged than the older version. The XT2 XFR has a thick monitor hinge and thick rubber bumpers on the sides and edges. It is being said that this device offer great connectivity options to the user in the form of CDMA/EVDO/GSM/GPRS/EDGE/HSPA/WWAN.

There are not much details available on this device yet, but users can get a fair idea regarding the specifications of this model by taking a look at the specifications of the older Latitude XT2 tablet PC:

• Up to 1.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo ULV SU9400 processor with Montevina chipset
• Intel integrated GMA 4500MHD graphics
• Windows Vista Ultimate on down
• 12.1-inch LED backlit capacitive touch-screen with EM Digitizer pen
• Up to 5GB of DDR3 1066MHz
• Up to 120GB 5400RPM SATA disk or 128GB SSD
• 3.78-pounds (1.72-kg) with 6-cell battery
• eSATA, 2 USB 2.0 ports, Firewire, and ExpressCard 54 slot 

I personally feel that the new model will have Windows 7 operating system rather than Windows Vista. It will also weigh more than this model since we are looking at a rugged model. Dell might play around a bit with the processor or it might increase the hard disk storage space a bit. This is just a speculation and nothing can be said before this model is officially launched, so let us all just wait for a formal launch.