Dell Optiplex 780: Smallest Commercial Desktop PC?

By Geoff Duncan December 11, 2009

Computer maker Dell has introduced new models in its Optiplex line of commercial desktop systems, including a new computer the company claims it the world’s smallest with its own integrated power supply and Intel vPro technology.

“The death of the commercial desktop has been greatly overstated,” said Dell senior product marketing manager Mike Basore, in a statement. “We are seeing customers look to deploy small form factor systems in ways never before imagined.”

OptiPlex 780 USFF Desktop — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The new Optiplex 780 USFF desktop—USFF stands for “Ultra Small Form Factor”—aims to be a mainstream PC for folks with several space constraints, with a an all-in-one stand and a “mount anywhere” design that enables users to tuck them under desks, behind monitors, under a tabletop or just slapped on a wall somewhere. The Optiplex 780 is available with Intel Celeron, Pentium, and Core 2 Duo processors, support for Windows XP/Vista/7, Ubuntu Linux, or FreeDOS, support for up to 4 GB of RAM, up to 320 GB of hard drive storage (SSD available as an option, gigabit Ethernet, 802.11n Wi-Fi networking, VGA and DIsplayPort video output, plus a whopping 7 USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA port, and two audio line-in and line-out ports for mics, headphones, and speakers. The Optiplex 780 USFF is available today at prices starting at $629.

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Dell also rolled out the Optiplex 380 line, which is available in three form factors: a traditional minitower, a traditional desktop, and a SFF (Small Form Factor) chassis. The systems offer a similar range of processor and operating system options, support for up to 8 GB of RAM, and offer remote system management capabilities via Dell Client Manager for coordinating large fleets of commercial PCs. Prices stat at $329 for the desktop model, $339 for the minitower, and $349 for the SFF system.

OptiPlex 380 Family — Image used with permission by copyright holder

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Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…

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