4. Ports, Extras

The Latitude D610 is very impressive in terms of the number and types of connection options it offers.

Rarely seen but familiar: parallel and serial ports on the rear

There are even serial and parallel ports on the device's rear. None of the connections have a cover to protect against dust, however.

The DVD drive and two of a total of four USB interfaces are on the right of the case exterior

Using the standard smartcard reader, you can log onto Windows and/or the network with a chipcard. The security system, coupled with the card reader and smartcard and security software, is effective in guarding against unauthorized access.

The smartcard reader is on the left of the case below the PC card slot. The IR interfaces and audio connections are beside it

Logging onto password-protected websites using a security application in connection with the smartcard is also feasible. In this case the access codes are saved on the smartcard in encrypted form. Whenever a registered website is opened, it and the card automatically exchange access data. The security software needed - OtaniumSuite Pro Smart Card Security - can be ordered together with smartcards for an extra charge of US$50. For 20 dollars more you can order a version based on the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

Display

The signal quality of the VGA output is very good. Even at a resolution of 1600x1200 pixels and a refresh rate of 85 Hz, the display on an external CRT monitor is pin-sharp. DVD videos can optionally be played on a TV set. In this case the signal is transmitted via the Hosiden S-VHS jack on the rear of the notebook housing.

The display of our test device has a resolution of 1400x1050 pixels. Maximum brightness is 140 cd/m2. Brightness can be set separately in the BIOS for network and battery operation, which means you don't have to constantly adjust it when switching back and forth between wall power and the battery. The lighting of the TFT display on the test device is a little irregular, with the display much brighter at its bottom edge.