Panasonic debuts rugged Toughbook CF-U1

Posted on Friday, September 24 2010 @ 11:24 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Panasonic introduced the Toughbook CF-U1, a Atom-based mobile workstation with new sunlight screen technology and higher performance.
Panasonic has upgraded its full function hand-held PC, the Toughbook CF-U1, with a revolutionary new sunlight screen technology and a 70% performance increase. The upgrades further extend the benefits of the CF-U1, which reinvented handheld computing by integrating robust features previously only available on a full size Toughbook into a rugged hand held PC form factor that could be used anywhere.

The Mark 2 generation of the CF-U1 uses Panasonic Transflective Plus technology to radically improve the reflection of sunlight from the display surface, massively enhancing screen clarity. The device also has a built-in vision light sensor that detects the level of sunlight and changes the screen backlighting accordingly, further improving visibility and the power efficiency of the device.

The upgraded CF-U1 also includes the enhanced powered Intel® Atom™ Z530 1.6 GHz processor (up from 1.33Ghz). Intel's smallest and lowest power consuming processor, the Atom is designed specifically for small devices and features support for multiple threads for better performance and increased system responsiveness all while delivering longer battery life.

In other improvements, the CF-U1 memory has been increased from 1GB to 2GB, Gobi2000 has been included for the WANN option and the operating system is Microsoft Windows 7 as standard, downgradable to Windows XP Pro service pack 3.

The CF-U1 is a highly portable and durable device that offers integrated features such as an LCD touchscreen, solid state drive as well as an optional fingerprint scanner for user authentication. Data capture is enabled using optional 1D and 2D barcode and RFID readers and a 2-megapixel digital camera. The Toughbook CF-U1 offers a 9-hour plus, hot swappable battery life and seamless connectivity with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and optional 3G-mobile-broadband internet connectivity, all within an extremely rugged package for maximum reliability.

Engineered for the Walking Worker
The Toughbook CF-U1 will thrive in mobile environments and comes with a wide range of docking options that can expand functionality whether in a vehicle, at a desk, or on the move. The CF-U1 features a thumb-friendly and always-accessible backlit keyboard that makes data input fast and easy. Its fanless, all-weather design also reduces noise, weight and eliminates points of failure; its twin, long-lasting, hot-swappable batteries enable battery replacement without disrupting operation; and its magnesium alloy chassis delivers protection from bumps and drops of up to 180cm. The solid state drive contributes to reliability, while also expanding the CF-U1’s operating temperature range due to an additional HDD heater.

Wireless Options Offer Connectivity Virtually Anywhere
Panasonic has more experience with embedded wireless solutions than any other manufacturer, providing customers with superior reliability, signal strength and throughput. The Toughbook CF-U1 offers seamless connectivity with:

* Optional integrated 3G mobile broadband for access anywhere with data coverage
* Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n) for faster speeds and greater range
* Integrated Bluetooth radios for simple connection to wireless peripherals
* Optional, next generation GPS technology for improved accuracy, faster satellite acquisition time and lower power consumption.

Panasonic Factory and Independent Quality Testing
Panasonic’s commitment to quality—at both the component and finished goods level—results in rigorous checks and tests before, during and after production, on every Toughbook® unit built. The Rugged Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 is MIL-STD-810G tested and is capable of withstanding shocks, vibration, humidity, altitude, temperature extremes and thermal shock, and is IP65 compliant for water, rain and dust resistance.

Every Toughbook comes with a 3-year warranty covering hardware failures for systems used as designed; with a 96-hour repair commitment and a 5-year spare parts guarantee.

Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 is available immediately and costs from £1,899 plus vat.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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