Dell's first rugged tablet PC shows at FCC
updated 08:30 am EDT, Fri October 23, 2009
Dell Latitude XT2 XFR surfaces with 3G
An FCC filing (PDF) from Novatel has revealed that Dell plans to apply its rugged XFR badge to a tablet PC for the first time. Titled the Latitude XT2 XFR, it would take the company's familiar 12-inch XT2 convertible tablet but harden the system for use outdoors or in more dangerous workplaces: the body would have extra shock-absorbing protection, particularly at the corners and the hinge. It would also have protected ports to guard against dust or water.
Most internal details aren't revealed in the filing; however, Novatel does confirm the XT2 XFR will at least have an option for internal 3G both on EVDO and HSPA. A fingerprint reader is visible. The system on show at the US agency is running Windows Vista Ultimate, but Dell is now assumed to be using variants of Windows 7 that will likely include Professional. A capacitive screen that still offers stylus support is also a probable feature.
No immediate clues exist as to when the toughened Latitude will ship. [via Wireless Goodness]
