Dell has unveiled three notebook systems aimed squarely at small business users.

Security enhancements to the Vostro 1310 and 1510 laptops include integrated fingerprint readers, cable lock slot and factory-installed McAfee Total Protection for Small Business.

Both notebooks also feature Trusted Platform Module 1.2 to guard against data theft and unauthorised network access.

Dell said that the security features were added as a result of feedback from customers.

"Customers told us in a recent global laptop study that data protection and pre-installed security software are by far the most important security features, " said Frank Muehleman, vice president and general manager for Dell small and medium business.

The Vostro 1310 features a 13.3in screen with a choice of anti-glare or glossy coatings. Pricing starts at £318 (inc VAT and shipping) which comes with a 1.8GHz T5670 processor, 1GB Ram and a 160GB hard drive.

The cheaper 15in Vostro 1510 starts at £294 (inc. VAT and shipping), but for that price customers will have to make do with a 1.86GHz Celeron 540 processor.

Dell also announced a redesigned 17in Vostro 1710 laptop due for launch in mid May, although pricing details and specifications are as yet unavailable.

The vendor said that the move is part of a wider plan to expand its laptop portfolio by 50 per cent this year in a bid to meet the increased demand for notebooks from small businesses.

"Half of PC-owning small businesses in the US own laptops, and the number is expected to grow to almost 57 per cent by 2012, with similar laptop penetration in Western Europe and Japan," Dell said in a statement.