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New Dell desktop tough for retail
Bangalore: Dell has announced a line of adaptable OptiPlex XE desktop PCs designed for the retail environment. Since the retail environment can involve unforgiving environmental conditions (temperature, dust), 24/7 operation, and even less hands-on care by the end-user than usual, retail PCs need to be like enterprise IT-managed PCs with a turtle's shell, according to Dell, as reported by ExtremeTech.
The Optiplex XE is designed with under counter and lockbox installation in mind: It can operate in conditions up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit (55 degrees Celsius), mount "anywhere," and is designed for user neglect with sealing port dust covers and optional minimal-maintenance dust filters. The system has a lengthy 3.5-year life cycle (most normal "image-stable" business desktop PCs claim 12- to 15-month life cycles). Ports are plentiful - PS/2, serial (RS-232), VGA, and up to 10 USB ports (including powered USB and powered serial) ensure that end customers can connect peripherals like touch screens, other displays, POS keypads, laser and RFID scanners, credit card terminals, and cash drawers. The system is fully remote-manageable, has a secured tool-less design, and comes with Dell ProSupport for IT Fast Track Dispatch (speedy support for parts and service).
The OptiPlex XE is designed to support Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7, as well as Ubuntu Linux, and Microsoft's POSReady framework. Safety features (aside from the usual locks and physical security) include full-disk encryption, intrusion alerts, and RAID 1 (mirroring) for data and physical security. The system is green too so that it can be equipped with 88 percent energy efficient power supplies, Dell Energy Smart power settings, Energy Star 5.0 and EPEAT Gold certifications.
The Optiplex XE has the longest product lifecycle in its class, and can be customized through Dell's OEM division. The OEM division helps integrate Dell technology into final products by other companies like medical devices or display kiosks (like those self-contained plasma displays you see everywhere). The Dell Optiplex XE is available today, with prices starting from $709.