Panasonic upgrades Toughbook 19 rugged convertible tablet PC

Panasonic has upgraded its rugged Toughbook 19 convertible tablet PC, which now comes with an Intel Core i5-3320M vPro processor (up to 3.3GHz) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, expanded storage, a more responsive touchpad, and an innovative ambient light sensor for automatic backlight shut-off to improve battery life.

The Toughbook 19 starts at $3,549, and is aimed at those who work in the field including military, police and emergency services vehicles, as well as utility and maintenance technicians. The untit features a 10.1-inch XGA touchscreen TransreflectivePlus display with anti-reflective and anti-glare screen treatments, and a circular polarizing filter that provides better outdoor viewing in direct sunlight. The Toughbook 19 also packs MIL-STD-810G certification with the ability to withstand a six-foot drop, and it features a shock-mounted hard drive, full magnesium alloy case and available explosive atmosphere certification for hazardous environments.

Panasonic Toughbook 19: Key Improvements

- Upgraded processor: Intel Core i5-3320M vPro(up to 3.3GHz) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology

- Expanded storage: 500GB 7200rpm hard drive (shock-mounted flex-connect with quick release)

- Improved battery life: 10% longer, delivering 10 hours per MobileMark 2007 testing on the touch model

- Added connectivity options: USB 3.0 port provides up to 10x faster file transfer speeds

- Increased touchpad responsiveness: Now using Interlink’s VersaPad

- Added ambient light sensor: Allows automatic backlight shut-off to enhance battery life

- Improved battery calibration tool: Now capable of running in the background, allowing simultaneous use of computer