Dell today announced the newest addition to its workstation desktop range, the Precision T1500. It is the cheapest workstation in the manufacturer's range and the first on the international market to gain certification from CAD software developer Autodesk.

The Precision T3500 was previously Dell’s cheapest option in its workstation range, with configurations starting from $2499. However, the new Precision T1500 will take that crown, with a starting price of $949. This single-socket workstation can be configured with Intel’s Core i5 and Core i7 processors, DDR3 memory and a choice of AMD ATI FirePro or NVIDIA Quadro graphics cards. NVIDIA's Quadro workstation graphics cards are also Autodesk certified.

While Dell's workstations are traditionally targeted at highly skilled designers, the Precision T1500 is primarily designed for entry-level markets and learning institutions such as TAFE colleges and universities. Dell Product Manager Heber Delaney told PC World that the Precision T1500 provided "workstation performance at desktop value".

Delaney also said that the Autodesk certification was provided to ensure full application compatibility with the software developer's AutoCAD solutions for budding architects and engineers.

As part of the announcement, Dell also unveiled a new addition to the OptiPlex business desktop PC lineup with the OptiPlex 780. The desktop PC will have a starting price of $544 and will initially be available in a small form factor, mini tower and desktop sizes. An ultra-small form factor variant of the PC is expected to be available in December. The key differences from its predecessor — the OptiPlex 760 — includes a move to an Intel Q45 chipset and the introduction of full Intel vPro v5.0 capability for better remote management.

“Dell is introducing ground-breaking innovations that mark many industry firsts,” said Steve Lalla, vice president and general manager, Business Client Product Group, Dell. “We’re delivering robust solutions to solve real customer needs. We are committed to our core business and expanding our product line to meet the needs of our customers when they are ready to refresh or add to their existing infrastructure.”

Both the Precision T1500 and OptiPlex 780 desktop PCs will be available locally tomorrow.

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