The Dell Latitude product line continues to be more highly recommended over other Dell product lines for the flexibility to load standardized software images.
General recommendations are for 2 gigabytes or more of memory (RAM), 7200rpm hard drive (of a size that meets your needs), CompleteCare or other accidental damage coverage, and Windows XP pre-loaded.
Windows XP is only available on selected computer models from some vendors. Latitude models from Dell are among those with an option to purchase a license for Windows Vista, with Windows XP installed. This still allows for upgrading to Vista, or paying an upgrade price for Windows 7 when that comes to market.
Order Information
Recommended Model: the following system is discounted for Middlebury College students. Please note there are optional upgrades that may be of interest including memory, hard drive, video card and extended warranty.
Dell Latitude E6400 - Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 2.26GHz, 1066MHz 3M L2 Cache, Dual Core
Memory - 2.0 GB, 2 DIMMS (1GB each)
Video - Integrated Intel 4500MHD
Hard Drive - 160GB 5400rpm
Operating System - Windows XP Pro (Windows Vista Business license)
Optical Drive - DVD+/-RW
Service: 3 year, Next Business Day on-site service with CompleteCare (accidental damage coverage). (battery covered first year only)
Also: wireless, 6-cell battery, 14.1" widescreen LED display
More detail at Dell.com or by contacting a sales representative.
Price: $1086
Tax and Shipping & Handling extra (as of July 20, 2009)
Discounts: Recommended models are discounted for Middlebury College - be sure to select like options (such as CompleteCare Warranty) when comparison shopping.
To Order:
By Phone: To order, call 1-888-987-3355. If calling, please reference: Member ID: US7789590
Online: To order online, visit http://www.delluniversity.com/. Email us at helpdesk@middlebury.edu if you have any questions. **Dell University site link to recommended model not currently working -- alternative site for same offer: www.dell.com/middlebury