Introduction

Choosing the right laptop for your business requires a thorough evaluation of several key criteria, including its performance capabilities, security features, portability, and overall cost-effectiveness.

NHS North East London ICB IT has simplified the selection process and have settled on the Dell Pro 14 series laptop as it offers the optimum balance between performance, security, and cost.

Model Overview

Dell Pro laptops come in 13″, 14″, and 16″ screen sizes—the number reflects the screen size in inches. Other than the display size, these models are identical in features and specification.

The Pro 14 is a popular choice for its balance of workspace and portability.

Recommended Specification

• Processor: Core Ultra 200 Series CPU (required for smart card reader) – recommended option: Core Ultra 5 235U.
• Memory: 16GB or 32GB RAM – Recommended: 32GB for Future Proofing.
• Storage: 512GB SSD.
• Security: Smart Card Reader—Ensure the PalmRest option with smart card reader is selected.

Important Configuration Notes

• Only Core Ultra models (Ultra 200 series CPUs) support the smart card reader. Do not select other CPUs if you require this feature.
• The PalmRest option with the smart card reader must be chosen when configuring your device—it cannot be added afterwards.
• The Pro 14 Plus model is available but is more expensive and offers no practical benefits for most users over the standard Pro 14.

Step-by-Step Purchasing Checklist

1. Visit Dell’s UK website or your organisation’s approved Dell supplier.
2. Select the “Dell Pro 14” (or Pro 13/16 if preferred for screen size).
3. Choose a Core Ultra 200 Series processor.
4. Select either 16GB or 32GB RAM to match your use case.
5. Opt for a 512GB SSD (or larger if needed).
6. Ensure the PalmRest with Smart Card Reader is ticked in your configuration.
7. Review all selections, add to basket, and proceed to checkout.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What if the smart card reader is not an option? Only available with Core Ultra models; check your processor selection or consult Dell support.
• Should I buy the Pro 14 Plus? Not unless you require a feature unique to Plus; for most, it is just more expensive with no real benefit.
• Is there any other difference between Pro 13, 14, and 16? Only the screen size – the rest of the hardware and options are the same.
• Can the laptop be used on the GP network – If the laptop meets NEL ICB (WES) we can install the NEL ICB MS Windows 11 laptop image and monitoring tools, this will allow the laptop to be supported remotely (so long as it remains within warranty) and will ensure that all necessary MS Windows and Cyber Security updates are installed.
• Will NEL support the laptop – as above, if the laptop has the NEL image installed we can ensure that all necessary MS Windows and Cyber Security updates are applied.
• I need VPN access – NEL installs the FortiClient VPN on NEL owned or NEL (GP) imaged laptops. If you do not have the NEL MS Windows 11 image installed on your practice purchased laptop you will need to purchase the MobilePass VPN token from Optum (EMIS) sales enquires info@emishealth.com.
• Where can I find more details of Dell laptops, please go to the Dell’s UK website.
• Can you provide advice or guidance for choosing the correct laptop – in the first instance please reach out to the NEL ICB IT service desk.

Summary

• Model: Dell Pro 14 (or 13/16 for preferred screen size) “screen sizes are measured diagonally, from one corner to the opposite corner, not including the border around it”.
• Processor: Core Ultra 200 series (recommended Option: Core Ultra 5 235U).
• Memory: 16GB or 32GB (32GB recommended for future proofing).
• Storage: 512GB SSD.
• PalmRest: Smart Card Reader option selected.
• Pro 14 Plus: Not recommended for most users.

By following this guide, you will be able to secure a Dell Pro laptop that suits your requirements, ensuring robust performance, security, and usability and budget — all on a single page.