SEATTLE (May 19, 2009)—Round Rock-based Dell Inc. is trying to extend its lead with its first "netbook" designed for young students.

Dell unveiled its new Latitude 2100 Tuesday in Australia at a time when adult consumers and businesses have cut back on technology spending.

It's part of a newly popular category of computer that's much like a laptop, but cheaper, smaller, lighter and less powerful.

Unlike Dell's other netbooks, the 2100's shell is made from brightly colored, easily gripped rubber, not slippery plastic and a light on the lid of the computer tells teachers when students are connected to the Internet.

The 2100 is aimed at students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

It has a 10-inch screen and a keyboard that's a little bigger than regular netbooks.