Dell has introduced a new ultraportable PC that weighs little over a kilogram. It is designed for staff who need to remain productive on the move but do not want to carry the weight of a standard laptop, the firm said.

The Latitude X1, available immediately, is based on an ultra-low voltage version of Intel's Pentium M mobile processor running at 1.1GHz and weighs just 1.14kg. The new model is also just an inch thick when closed.

The system can run for six hours when powered by an optional six-cell battery, according to Dell.

"This is the perfect ultra-light notebook for mobile customers who require access to real-time data and productivity applications," commented Dell's UK Latitude brand manager, Bob Bennett.

The Latitude X1 features a 12.1in TFT screen that is less deep than traditional screens but is protected by a reinforced back to guard against knocks while travelling, according to Dell. It also comes with a compact power adapter that adds just 0.3kg to the unit's weight.

Although a lightweight model, the Latitude X1 ships with a full specification, including between 256MB and 1.26GB of memory, Intel's Pro Wireless 2200 802.11b/g wireless LAN adapter and a Bluetooth interface that supports the Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) signalling of the Bluetooth 2.0 standard. An external DVD-ROM or DVDñRW drive is available as an optional extra. Pricing for the Latitude X1 starts at £1,039 + VAT.

Dell also last week announced two new entry-level laptops. The Inspiron 1200 costs from £503 + VAT and is based on Intel's 1.3GHz Celeron M 350 processor with a 14.1in or 15in screen. The Inspiron 2200 is based on Celeron M or Pentium M chips with a 15in screen and is priced from £549 + VAT.