Panasonic Unveils Next Toughbook Notebook Models

Panasonic will officially unveil its next line of ToughBook notebooks during the CTIA WIRELESS 2006, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The first system in their series is the CF-74. The new model comes with a magnesium alloy case, integrated handle, spill-resistant keyboard, daylight-readable touch screen and shock mounted hard drive.

Following the design of its predecessor (CF-73) the new notebook offers an optional finger print scanner and Trusted Platform Module (v1.2) security chip and high quality, reliable wide area wireless access to data which has been certified on the CDMA EV-DO networks of both Sprint and Verizon.

According to the company, the ToughBook series is renowned for having the lowest failure rates in the industry.

Features and Specifications include:

Intel Core Duo Processor T2400 (2MB L2 cache), Processor speed 1.83GHz (Dual Core), 667MHz FSB

Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP2

80GB HDD, shock mounted and removable

512MB SDRAM (DDR2) standard, expandable to 4GB

Combo Drive (DVD-ROM/CD-R/RW) standard

Full Magnesium Alloy case with integrated handle

13.3" 1024 x 768 (XGA) transmissive, 460 Nit daylight-readable TFT Active Matrix Color LCD with Touchscreen

Dimensions: 1.7"-2.4"(H) x 12"(W) x 11.6"(D) (with handle)

Weight: 5.95 lbs.

Battery Life: 7-8 hours (MobileMark tested to approximately 8 hours)

Intel PRO/Wireless 3945 Network Connection with respective drivers

Optional Wide Area Wireless (as of 3/06, certified on Sprint and Verizon EV-DO networks)

Security features include: cable lock slot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) v.1.2 security chip, optional finger print scanner, optional SmartCard reader

3-year limited warranty, parts & labor

The Toughbook CF-74 will be generally available in April, 2006 starting at an estimated street price of US$2,999.00.