Panasonic isn't exactly the brand that first comes into mind when you think about notebooks in a private consumer sense. But in the world of rugged devices, the case is different.
Panasonic is best known for the Toughbook CF-53, a rugged device that is drop-proof and water resistant. It was designed for extreme environments and now a successor is in the midst with the announcement of the Toughbook 54.
The Toughbook 54 is a notebook built with the same specs only that it will be lighter. Despite the new design and weight, Panasonic explains that there were no major changes or compromises made as far as the CF-54 is concerned.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-54 weighs only 1.9 kgs. and will reportedly come in three variants. That includes a model with HD (1,366x768 pixels), another with a Core i5 processor and two full HD screen models.
All models come with standard Intel Core i5 5300U vPro processors as well as Intel HD Graphics 5500. For base models, included as well is a 500GB mechanical hard disk. Optional upgrades are available where price will vary depending on the desired specs of buyers.
As far as battery life is concerned, the Toughbook CF-54 can reportedly last for as long as 11 hours. Optional batteries are however available for purchase which can extend useful life up to 18 hours.
Other optional components include a DVD drive, GPS module, 4GB modem, fingerprint reader, smartcard reader and a rear-facing camera.
As far as questions on its durability, the CF-54 was tested and reportedly able to survive a drop of 76 cm. Components such as the keyboard and screen were also tested for minor spills to test the water-resistance ability as well.
In what should come in hand for business means, the CF-54 is expected to be out sometime in the latter part of this month. Pricing for the Toughbook CF-54 starts at $1,499, and incrementally goes up depending on the buyer's preferred specs.
