Panasonic Computer Solutions Company today launched the latest version of its Toughbook semi-rugged notebook line, the 3G-enabled Toughbook 52. An upgrade from the Toughbook 51, the 52 uses the new Intel Santa Rosa chipset and has extra security features, a new carrying handle and optional embedded next-generation wireless network access. Notebooks will be available in July in two configurations – standard configuration will be around $1,699, and an optimized version (with a faster CPU, 512MB of dedicated VRAM and 120GB hard drive) will cost about $2,499.
The notebook includes ruggedized features such as magnesium alloy cases, shock-mounted hard drives and LCDs, flexible internal connectors and a spill-resistant keyboard, Panasonic says. The notebook has a battery life of about 4-6 hours, and is certified to the MIL-STD-810F standard, which allows for drops up to 2.5 feet on all six sides (the hard drive itself can survive a 3-foot drop).
The wireless-ready design lets users buy or later upgrade to access to the UMTS/HSDPA-based network from AT&T (Cingular) or the EV-DO Rev. A networks of Sprint or Verizon. The notebook will initially ship with Verizon Wireless network access, Panasonic says. The notebook also features integrated WLAN and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
For security, the Toughbook 52 contains the v1.2 Trusted Platform Module security chip, the Computrace software agent in BIOS and an optional fingerprint scanner and smart card reader.
More details are available at the Panasonic Toughbook web site.
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