Mobile Computing News

The Panasonic ToughBook CF-19 (CF-19KHRAXAE) is a fully equipped, versatile notebook that can withstand any challenge. With its revolutionary design, the Panasonic ToughBook transforms from a super powered performance notebook PC to a turbocharged handwriting friendly tablet PC. You can write text and it will be converted into printed text. How cool is that! You can draw diagrams, edit documents and even take notes with this notebook.

This is a powerhouse notebook, wait, tough book that is geared and designed to provide the best and maximum performance despite hard conditions. How many times has it been, that your notebook has let you down because it could not work after you accidentally dropped it? That’s because it’s a notebook, meant to be handled with delicacy and care, meant for the insides of an air-conditioned office, unlike the ToughBook which does not let weather or bumpy roads dictate how it should work and what kind of performance it should deliver.

When you need the Panasonic tough book top do something for you, it has the power and the technology to make things happen for you. Reliability is the byword for the Panasonic ToughBook CF-19. It has a pressure sensitive screen that responds equally well to a stylus and a finger, three way access all at once to WiFi systems, 3G mobile broadband, Bluetooth and GPS. At 5.1 lbs, it is a dream to carry around. No extra weight and decked out in style with full magnesium alloy case and powered by Intel Centrino Duo Core processor with Windows Vista.

Tags for this article: notebook, intel, panasonic

Stealth Computer, a leading manufacturer of specialized miniature PCs and computer peripherals, has recently unveiled its new mini PC called LPC-625F, which is ideal for use in mission critical operations. The Stealth LPC-625F boasts of its strength and fan-less assembly. You don’t have to worry about its maintenance too much as it can face bumpy roads and accidental drops, dust and moisture. The LPC-625F has got an aluminium rugged chassis that itself acts as a heat sink of the device, thus there is no need to install a dedicated noisy fan for cooling. The aluminium chassis also acts as the key factor behind the ultra-light form factor of the LPC-625F.

The LPC-625F is optimised for military computing, rugged operations and other mission critical solutions. It is basically meant for system integrators who crave a strong, durable and fanless computer. That’s right, the LPC-625F doesn’t need a fan, nor will need something like the CoolerMaster NotePal P1 laptop cooling fan either, as the Stealth mini PC can cool itself without making an noise or overheating. The LPC-625F is an ideal product for demanding applications used within various verticals such as Industrial, Commercial, Scientific Research, Military, Public Safety, Utility, Transportation, mining and Telecommunications markets. It assures unsurpassed performance, reliability and top notch durability every time you are set for work.

The LPC-625F is built around Intel’s Penryn family of Core 2 Duo Mobile processor technology with ample amount of main memory and performance boosters integrated within the circuit. It’s a very small sized PC and measures 7.9 by 7.9 by 2.4 inches only. For mobile workers it’s a boon as it offers myriad of connectivity ports and interfaces. These include Gigabit LAN, 8-USB 2.0, 1-Serial, 1-eSATA 1-DVI, 1-HDMI and Audio 7.1 ports and Wi-Fi 802.11g (optional). You can opt for up to 4GB of memory and 500GB 2.5-inch high-shock hard drive. The LPC-625F can be run on both Windows and Linux OSes.

Dell has imparted the slim form factor in its 14 inch rugged laptop, the Latitude E64 XFR. The new version of the Latitude E64 XFR is much more portable, lighter and manageable without loosing its prime attraction, i.e. the super strength and high speed processing at the core. The E64 XFR now features everything that the pro mobile workers demand. If you crave for better performance, discrete graphics and unsurpassed durability then the upgraded E64 XFR is not meant to be missed.

The E64 XFR has got a heavy duty armor to offer to tough guys who need to work under extreme climatic conditions and harsh surroundings. It meets 13 military specifications which not only include normal dust and debris but also includes sea fog, thermal shock, drop tests, extreme temperatures and explosive environments. The laptop comes with a Ballistic Armor Protection System which is made from Dell’s exclusive material known as PR481. The PR481 is much stronger than a magnesium alloy and thus it offers successful drops from great heights. So not only does the E64 comes with better specifications than other laptops like the Dell Latitude E5500, but it is also virtually indestructable with its armored exterior. The E64 XFR never leaves anybody disappointed. It packs a Core 2 Duo processor, ample amount of memory and an NVIDIA Quadro NVS 160M 256MB DDR2 graphics card. Apart from this the machine boasts of a touchscreen, a solid-state drive, mobile broadband, GPS, long battery life and various connectivity ports.

So, whether you are a gamer or just need to stay connected to outside world round the clock irrespective of your place, the PR481 armor plated E64 XFR can serve you the best. Due to its extreme enduring capabilities its performance level remains consistent in every situation. Dell also recommends grabbing an additional battery pack to keep the laptop alive for around 13 hours.

Trimble has released its new laptop called Yuma. It’s a fully rugged laptop designed to assist the users (especially military personnel) during camping or other outdoor activities. It can endure extreme weather and atmospheric conditions and is supposed to be a highly durable and reliable device.

The Yuma packs cutting edge hardware with all the latest mobile computing features. It makes sure that you always stay connected no matter where you are. You can take the unit at high altitudes with aplomb. It runs on Windows Vista Business Edition OS and features a seven inch sunlight readable WVGA touchscreen display. Apart from this the device also offers advanced connectivity options including USB 2.0, WiFi, GPS Bluetooth etc. Yuma’s processing core has got a 1.6 GHz processor and the storage chamber is occupied by 32GB SSD. The best feature of Yuma is the absence of any moving parts and thus the device can be used in extreme cool and hot environments. Most regular laptops, like the Sony Vaio VGN-FW31ZJ, would easily succumb to drops from high places and extreme temperatures, but not the Yuma. It actually manages to meet stringent MIL-STD-810F military standards for drops, vibration and humidity.

Shawn Curtis, marketing manager for Trimble’s Mobile Computing Solutions Division says, “Connectivity in the field is vital for mobile workers. Today, they demand integrated solutions that are reliable and easy-to-use, so they can be more efficient and avoid the need to transcribe information once they return to the office. With the Yuma tablet, Trimble delivers just that. Now, workers can carry their office wherever they work. Its dynamic mix of ergonomic design, ruggedness and computing speed comes at a cost of ownership that’s very attractive in the tablet computer market today.”

Remember the LaCinema multimedia hard disk launched by LaCie last year with audio and video outputs? That was a spectacular product as it offered the users the ability to connect the hard disk directly to their TV sets and enjoy all the multimedia stuff stored within. It was the only one of its kind and was adored by many users. Now the same company has launched an upgraded version of the LaCinema multimedia hard disk, called the LaCinema Rugged, that is targeted to fulfill the needs of modern day consumer.

The LaCinema Rugged interfaces have been improved a lot and some additional goodies are also incorporated to make the hard drive compatible with the latest technology. The device has now got audio, composite video and HDMI outputs. It can handle most of the popular audio/video codecs (excluding H.264 and MPEG4). Like its predecessor, you can connect this one also directly to any normal TV set or a High Definition flat panel to access the videos. The user interface is very simple and easy to operate. The LaCie LaCinema Rugged 500GB hard disk comes with a fully functional remote that can be used to control all the operations whilst relaxing. This cinematic device is blessed with the HD up-scaling capabilities. It can improve the video playback by taking up the resolution up to 720p. That’s not the full HD but far better than the normal vision.

The LaCinema Rugged is far better in terms of portability and endurance as compared to the previous version.

Rugged laptops need not always be hefty or overpriced. The Gammatech Durabook D15TS is a perfect example of how a durable notebook can be both slim and inexpensive.

The Durabook is a semi-rugged laptop which offers top notch durability and resistance without sacrificing on looks, weight or performance. Moreover, this laptop does not charge too much from its customers. Armoured with lots of equipment, the Gammatech Durabook D15TS can easily accompany you while cruising on your jeep or water boat, while weaker models like the Sony Vaio VGN-FW21E should be left to the safety of home. However, it’s recommended that there not be any sledge hammer testing conducted on the Durabook, as it’s only semi-rugged. It’s not meant for military use at all.

Gammatech Durabook D15TS main attractions:

• 2.10-GHz Core 2 Duo T8100 processor
• 2GB RAM
• 160Gb Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
• FireWire, 3xUSB 2.0 ports, one SD/Memory Stick slot and an ExpressCard/54 slot
• SmartCard security
• SIM card connectivity
• Wi-Fi
• HDD protector
• DVD burner protector

Because of its high speed dual core processor and 2GB of RAM, the Gammatech Durabook D15TS handles any application with aplomb. It also delivers high definition audio/video which makes this device an ideal piece to enjoy premium quality cinema. You can also grab it in case you are addicted to mobile gaming.

Tags for this article: laptop, notebook, intel

G-NET is known for its sophisticated and innovative car PCs, vehicle computing and automotive telematics technology. The company has come up with a new Tablet PC, which is not only compact and captivating, but also rugged enough to perform in harsh environment conditions.

The all new G-Net Rugged Tablet PC is perfect for public service departments, military, marine, transportation, factory use as well as medical and hospital applications. It can also be mounted in the cars using standard VESA 75mm mounting unit. This tablet PC is enclosed within an Alum-Mg alloy with rubber mounted on its corners which protect it from drops and bumps. Not only is it far more durable than your typical tablet PC, like the Toshiba Portége M700-110, but the Rugged Tablet PC actually fares quite well performance wise too. The CPU installed in it is fan less and the cooling system consists of an active heat pipe which keeps the unit cool. Below are the technical specifications of the unit:

• VIA C7M Nano 1.2ghz Fanless CPU
• VIA VX700 Chipset
• 512MB DDR2 533 SODIMM
• 40gb 2.5″ IDE HDD (Solid state flash drive also available)
• Windows XP enabled
• 10.4″ Diagonal TFT Active Matrix 800×600 display (sunlight readable panel)
• 4 Wire Resistive Touch Screen
• 1.5W Speakers
• RJ45 Ethernet LAN 10/100, USB 2.0, Audio out, Microphone in audio 3.5mm jacks, RS-232 COM Port, D-Sub 15 VGA port, PCMCIA Type II Slot
• Integrated 802.11 b/g WiFi and Bluetooth
• Rugged IP65 Front / IP54 Back and Sides, Anti-Shock & Anti-Vibration to MIL810F, CE & FCC Class B, UL Certifications

This unit is backed by 12 months warranty.

G-NET Incorporated is proud to present two new products: the Industrial Panel PC and the Rugged Tablet PC. G-NET is recognised as a provider of LCD monitors and industrial vehicle mount computers. The new models are revolutionary while still being affordable.

Among the two, the G-NET Rugged Tablet PC features a 1.2 GHz processor and a 40GB rugged hard drive, along with a 512MB of RAM. Additionally, there is a 10.4” wide touch screen that is even readable under the glaring light of the Sun. Preloaded with Windows XP; the Tablet PC is tough enough to withstand harsh environmental conditions that other more delicate tablet PCs, like the Dell Latitude XT, cannot. The Industrial Panel PC, on the other hand, is 10.4” wide and includes a 1.5 GHz CPU. While the Rugged Tablet PC focuses on ruggedness, this model is built with affordability in mind. However, the RAM and hard drive are identical in both the products.

G-NET seems to be quite enthusiastic about simultaneously releasing two, innovative products. The company’s CEO, Shawn Gusz said, “These two models represent a big step forward for our company.” He feels that G-NET has made a move to the industrial computer market from the consumer market in the past few years. Gusz also finds this launch to be a great step in reaffirming this status.

Both the products are marketed with different strengths: affordability and robustness. It is easy and simple for a buyer to compare them and pick the one that serves his purpose best.

Rugged and toughened, as per the military MIL-STD 810F standard, in order to combat dust, humidity, vibrations, spills, bumps, altitude, extreme temperatures, scratches and climatic conditions, the HP EliteBook 6930p has the intense power to keep on going without any interruption.

The laptop’s main attraction is that its battery can accompany you the whole day, with a battery run time of a complete 24 hours. Unbelievable, but true. According to Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager (Notebook Global Business Unit, HP):

”All-day computing has been the holy grail of notebook computing. With the HP EliteBook 6930p, customers no longer have to worry about their notebook battery running out before their work day is over.”

This notebook can be configured with an optional ultra capacity battery to make this a reality. Apart from such rugged and long lasting features, this device is also one of the fastest performers around. The Elitebook 6930 can hold an extreme configuration. We are talking about its dual core processor, high speed SATA drives of up to 250 GB @ 7200 rpm, and up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM. Clearly, these are high-end and powerful performance specifications for any laptop, but it doesn’t end there. The computer also includes an ATI Radeon HD GPU with a dedicated VRAM up to 256MB for crisp and clear graphics, as well as an anti glare display to ensure you can see the display even in direct sunlight. The laptop even manages to include integrated surround sound speakers for entertainment purposes, and a 2 megapixel camera for videoconferencing.

Other standard features, such as Bluetooth, USB 2.0 ports, an HP fingerprint sensor and business card reader, are also on board. The laptop is very secure with its included HP protect tools, TPM 1.2 Embedded Security Chip, Enhanced Pre-Boot Security, HP Disk Sanitizer, Enhanced Drive Lock, Drive Encryption, Credential Manager and File Sanitizer for HP protect tools.

Ever heard of rugged laptops? GETAC promises one of the toughest laptops to date in the form of the B300. The laptop weighs a tough 5.6 kilograms and is firmly protected by a black magnesium alloy case. The engineers who worked on the laptop apparently made it their mission to design the laptop in such a way as to make it highly resistant to dust, moisture and freezing conditions. Whether you keep it in a freezer where the temperature is -5 Centigrade or you pour gallons of water on the keyboard, the laptop will remain unscathed.

But the laptop is not only restricted to its macho image. It is empowered with a battery that works for up to three hours even when the processor is being stretched to the limit, and the brightness is at capacity. The notebook PC is includes other features like two RS-232 serial ports, Bluetooth V2.0 connectivity, and touch screen ability. The laptop has a membrane backlight keyboard and also a 4-1 multimedia card reader. The integrated Intel Core 2 Duo L7500 processor gives it a firm standing and the 2GB memory is a nice support option.

While the computer is certainly not cheap, it is far more sturdy than even high-end laptops like the Asus M70 notebook. Moreover, if you are an employee working in conditions that are particularly dangerous to the health of your laptop, then an investment in the GETAC B300 could be a wise choice.