Customers can configure extra protection against thumps, bumps and drops.

Responding to customer input, Dell (NASDAQ:DELL) has added an optional shock-resistant hard drive on select notebook computers for users who desire enhanced system and data protection. Starting today, customers can configure the Latitude(TM) D610 notebook and the Dell Precision(TM) M20 mobile workstation with the shock-resistant 30GB(a) hard drive.

Priced at $129, the specialized hard drive is constructed with special dampening material inside the drive enclosure that can help provide up to a 145 percent increase in shock protection(b). This additional shock resistance supplements the protective capabilities provided by Dell's Strike Zone technology. Strike Zone is a standard feature on most Dell mobile platforms that helps protect hard drives from everyday bumps and bounces. Customers who value a hard drive capable of withstanding more rigorous handling include the military, emergency services, government, law enforcement, energy exploration and education.

"Dell welcomes the challenge of delivering product enhancements based on customer feedback and driving high-end technologies into the mainstream," said Gretchen Miller, director, worldwide notebook product marketing. "Our current Latitude and Dell Precision mobile platforms, with the Tri-Metal chassis, reinforced LCD backs and sealed keyboards, continue the Dell tradition of excellent durability, and we look forward to improving on this quality standard."

Dell adheres to stringent quality and reliability levels, putting new notebook models through more than 10,000 hours of testing during product development. Systems are designed to survive a variety of bumps, drops and shakes, temperature extremes and even some liquid spills on the keyboard. More information about the customer-driven innovation and quality Dell designs into every Latitude notebook computer can be seen in the video Latitude Reliability, www.dell.com/digitalvault.