Dell today announced two OptiPlex desktop computers offering technology choice, streamlined lifecycle transitions and energy-efficient features to help small business through enterprise customers transform information-technology operations into competitive advantages.

The OptiPlex 740, Dell's first business desktop to offer AMD processors, and OptiPlex 320 with Intel processors are designed to deliver enhanced performance, manageability, deployment capabilities, security and energy efficiency. The new desktops round out Dell's lineup of redesigned OptiPlex business desktops, extending Dell's lifecycle experience strategy to help increase business efficiencies so IT departments can focus on higher-value activities.

Each system in the refreshed OptiPlex business desktop portfolio offers technology enhancements, customer-driven features and Dell Direct Deployment service options to enable customization at time of purchase, streamline deployment and simplify product transition.

To further ease transitions and deployment for businesses, the mainstream OptiPlex 740 promises an 18-month product lifecycle as well as supporting AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core processors. Built-in security with preloaded tools enable administrators to easily configure and manage data encryption, providing Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2-enabled password protection, secure email, and optional smart-card keyboards and biometric readers.

The entry-level OptiPlex 320 offers Intel Pentium D dual-core processors as well as discrete graphics options with dual-display support for growing businesses that require easily deployable and manageable desktops at a low initial investment.

The OptiPlex 740 and 320 systems are also designed to help customers reduce electricity consumption and save money. Applying the Dell Energy Smart energy-efficiency settings of the new OptiPlex systems on all Dell desktops sold within the past year could save enough electricity to avoid about 12.5 million tons of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of removing an estimated 2.5 million cars from the road. The power savings also have the potential to save customers about $1.6 billion in operating costs.

Customers can visit Dell's energy resource site at www.dell.com/energy to view the energy-efficient features of Dell product families. The site also provides energy calculators that can help estimate power needs and potential emissions avoidance in addition to their potential cost savings.

A Dell Energy Smart-enabled OptiPlex 740 with AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core processor starts at $725, and the OptiPlex 320 with a Pentium D 820 processor starts at $585. Both carry a standard three-year limited warranty and Next-Business Day on-site service.