Panasonic's Toughbook H1 Field makes pansies of those other tablets
By Darren Murph 
posted February 10th 2010 9:00AM
posted February 10th 2010 9:00AM
PANASONIC INTRODUCES TOUGHBOOK® H1 FIELD – WORLD'S MOST RUGGED
HANDHELD TABLET COMPUTER
Exceptional Durability and Integrated Features Create Compelling Solution for Mobile Workers
Secaucus, NJ, February 10, 2010 – Panasonic Computer Solutions Company, manufacturer of
durable, reliable Panasonic Toughbook® mobile computers, today introduced the Panasonic
Toughbook H1 Field, the world's most rugged handheld tablet computer. The new device enables
extreme mobility and productivity for field sales personnel, first responders, supervisors, inspectors,
maintenance workers and other highly mobile professionals. Certified to meet IP65* and MIL-STD-
810G* – with a six foot drop rating – the Toughbook H1 Field offers the durability expected of
Toughbook mobile computers, so users have the confidence to work in the most demanding conditions.
With optional SmartCard, RFID, and barcode readers, camera, GPS and Qualcomm's new Gobi2000™
mobile broadband technology, the device helps to maximize mobile worker productivity.
By leveraging Panasonic's advanced battery technology and a 1.86 GHz Intel® Atom™ processor, the
Toughbook H1 Field offers a category-leading six hours of battery life, complemented by twin hot-
swappable batteries that allow for limitless use, virtually eliminating down time and maximizing return on
investment.
"As workforces become more mobile, it's critical to empower them with the right tools," said Kyp Walls,
director of product management, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company. "The Toughbook H1 Field
was designed based on extensive customer input to ensure it had the right mix of form factor, features
and durability to maximize worker productivity and value. With so many features that exceed the
performance capabilities of competitive products, we believe the Toughbook H1 Field is best positioned
to meet the computing needs of highly mobile workers, along with their IT administrators."
The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field includes a 500 nit, 10.4" dual-touch display that offers both tablet
and touchscreen functionality. The display also includes a circular polarizer, plus anti-glare and anti-
reflective screen treatments, making it easily viewable in direct sunlight. Weighing only 3.4 lbs, this
mobile computing platform features 2GB of RAM and a 64GB reinforced flex-connect solid state drive.
The Toughbook H1 Field offers exceptional ergonomics, including a Panasonic designed system that
comfortably cradles the hand between the device and its molded hand strap. Other ergonomic features
include a well-balanced center of gravity, integrated handle, thoughtful placement of integrated features
and lack of hotspots, making the device safe and easy to use for long periods of time.
The Toughbook H1 Field offers a range of embedded wireless connectivity options including
802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth® 2.1 and Qualcomm's new Gobi2000™ technology which simplifies
complex multi-carrier wireless deployments for IT departments. The H1 Field will be certified on the
Sprint and Verizon Wireless networks, allowing workers to stay connected at all times. Other wireless
carrier certifications will be announced soon.
The Toughbook H1 Field includes multiple security features, including options for a contactless or
insertable SmartCard reader and a fingerprint reader, helping to ensure that critical data is kept secure.
The Toughbook H1 Field is available with a variety of productivity enhancing accessories such as
carrying cases, shoulder straps, charging devices, and Toughbook tested vehicle mounting solutions.
The handheld tablet can also be equipped with next generation GPS technology allowing for location-
based services with improved accuracy, faster satellite acquisition time and lower power consumption.
Panasonic Toughbook® H1 Field: Select Features and Specifications
Genuine Windows 7® (with XP Tablet downgrade option)
Intel® Atom™ processor Z540 (1.86GHz)
2GB RAM
64 GB reinforced flex-connect Solid State Drive SSD
10.4" XGA sunlight-viewable 500 nit dual-touch LCD
Circular polarizer with anti-glare and anti-reflective screen treatments
6 hour battery life
Twin hot-swappable batteries
3.4 lbs (with both batteries)
Fully-Rugged
o MIL-STD-810G certified (6 foot drop)*
o Magnesium alloy chassis – encased in polycarbonate
o IP65 certified sealed all-weather design*
o Reinforced flex-connect Solid State Drive (SSD)
o Wide operating temperature range (-20C ~ 60C or -4F ~ 140F)
2 of 4
Embedded Connectivity
o Optional integrated WWAN / Gobi2000™ mobile broadband (EV-DO and HSPA)
o Intel® WiFi Link 5100 802.11a/b/g/n
o Bluetooth® v2.1 + EDR
Integrated Options
o Global positioning system (GPS) receiver
o 2D barcode reader (also 1D capable)
o 2.0 megapixel auto-focus camera with dual LED lights
o RFID reader
Optional Security Features
o Fingerprint reader
o Contactless SmartCard reader
o Insertable SmartCard reader
Integrated docking connector
10.4" (L) x 10.6" (W) x 1.3" - 2.3" (H)
* Tested by a national independent third party test lab following MIL-STD-810G Method 516.6
Procedure IV for transit drop test and IEC 60529 Sections 13.4, 13.6.2, 14.2.5 and 14.3 for IP65.
Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field will be available worldwide in March 2010. In the United States, the
base Toughbook H1 Field model is expected to be available at an estimated street price of $3,379 from
authorized Panasonic resellers and distributors.
The Toughbook H1 Field is backed with a 3-year standard warranty and lifetime technical support.
Panasonic is focused on delivering the industry's most reliable mobile solutions, ensuring that organizations and their mobile workforces can depend on their technology. The company's commitment to quality results in a total of more than 500 checks and tests before, during and after production, on every Toughbook unit built.
HANDHELD TABLET COMPUTER
Exceptional Durability and Integrated Features Create Compelling Solution for Mobile Workers
Secaucus, NJ, February 10, 2010 – Panasonic Computer Solutions Company, manufacturer of
durable, reliable Panasonic Toughbook® mobile computers, today introduced the Panasonic
Toughbook H1 Field, the world's most rugged handheld tablet computer. The new device enables
extreme mobility and productivity for field sales personnel, first responders, supervisors, inspectors,
maintenance workers and other highly mobile professionals. Certified to meet IP65* and MIL-STD-
810G* – with a six foot drop rating – the Toughbook H1 Field offers the durability expected of
Toughbook mobile computers, so users have the confidence to work in the most demanding conditions.
With optional SmartCard, RFID, and barcode readers, camera, GPS and Qualcomm's new Gobi2000™
mobile broadband technology, the device helps to maximize mobile worker productivity.
By leveraging Panasonic's advanced battery technology and a 1.86 GHz Intel® Atom™ processor, the
Toughbook H1 Field offers a category-leading six hours of battery life, complemented by twin hot-
swappable batteries that allow for limitless use, virtually eliminating down time and maximizing return on
investment.
"As workforces become more mobile, it's critical to empower them with the right tools," said Kyp Walls,
director of product management, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company. "The Toughbook H1 Field
was designed based on extensive customer input to ensure it had the right mix of form factor, features
and durability to maximize worker productivity and value. With so many features that exceed the
performance capabilities of competitive products, we believe the Toughbook H1 Field is best positioned
to meet the computing needs of highly mobile workers, along with their IT administrators."
The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field includes a 500 nit, 10.4" dual-touch display that offers both tablet
and touchscreen functionality. The display also includes a circular polarizer, plus anti-glare and anti-
reflective screen treatments, making it easily viewable in direct sunlight. Weighing only 3.4 lbs, this
mobile computing platform features 2GB of RAM and a 64GB reinforced flex-connect solid state drive.
The Toughbook H1 Field offers exceptional ergonomics, including a Panasonic designed system that
comfortably cradles the hand between the device and its molded hand strap. Other ergonomic features
include a well-balanced center of gravity, integrated handle, thoughtful placement of integrated features
and lack of hotspots, making the device safe and easy to use for long periods of time.
The Toughbook H1 Field offers a range of embedded wireless connectivity options including
802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth® 2.1 and Qualcomm's new Gobi2000™ technology which simplifies
complex multi-carrier wireless deployments for IT departments. The H1 Field will be certified on the
Sprint and Verizon Wireless networks, allowing workers to stay connected at all times. Other wireless
carrier certifications will be announced soon.
The Toughbook H1 Field includes multiple security features, including options for a contactless or
insertable SmartCard reader and a fingerprint reader, helping to ensure that critical data is kept secure.
The Toughbook H1 Field is available with a variety of productivity enhancing accessories such as
carrying cases, shoulder straps, charging devices, and Toughbook tested vehicle mounting solutions.
The handheld tablet can also be equipped with next generation GPS technology allowing for location-
based services with improved accuracy, faster satellite acquisition time and lower power consumption.
Panasonic Toughbook® H1 Field: Select Features and Specifications
Genuine Windows 7® (with XP Tablet downgrade option)
Intel® Atom™ processor Z540 (1.86GHz)
2GB RAM
64 GB reinforced flex-connect Solid State Drive SSD
10.4" XGA sunlight-viewable 500 nit dual-touch LCD
Circular polarizer with anti-glare and anti-reflective screen treatments
6 hour battery life
Twin hot-swappable batteries
3.4 lbs (with both batteries)
Fully-Rugged
o MIL-STD-810G certified (6 foot drop)*
o Magnesium alloy chassis – encased in polycarbonate
o IP65 certified sealed all-weather design*
o Reinforced flex-connect Solid State Drive (SSD)
o Wide operating temperature range (-20C ~ 60C or -4F ~ 140F)
2 of 4
Embedded Connectivity
o Optional integrated WWAN / Gobi2000™ mobile broadband (EV-DO and HSPA)
o Intel® WiFi Link 5100 802.11a/b/g/n
o Bluetooth® v2.1 + EDR
Integrated Options
o Global positioning system (GPS) receiver
o 2D barcode reader (also 1D capable)
o 2.0 megapixel auto-focus camera with dual LED lights
o RFID reader
Optional Security Features
o Fingerprint reader
o Contactless SmartCard reader
o Insertable SmartCard reader
Integrated docking connector
10.4" (L) x 10.6" (W) x 1.3" - 2.3" (H)
* Tested by a national independent third party test lab following MIL-STD-810G Method 516.6
Procedure IV for transit drop test and IEC 60529 Sections 13.4, 13.6.2, 14.2.5 and 14.3 for IP65.
Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field will be available worldwide in March 2010. In the United States, the
base Toughbook H1 Field model is expected to be available at an estimated street price of $3,379 from
authorized Panasonic resellers and distributors.
The Toughbook H1 Field is backed with a 3-year standard warranty and lifetime technical support.
Panasonic is focused on delivering the industry's most reliable mobile solutions, ensuring that organizations and their mobile workforces can depend on their technology. The company's commitment to quality results in a total of more than 500 checks and tests before, during and after production, on every Toughbook unit built.
*bows up to fanboi*
My tablet can kick your tablet's ass.
I remember using Toughbooks in the military years ago. Those laptops were awesome. They could take beating after beating, drop after drop, and still function.... AND THAT WAS IN THE EARLY 2000s! They have to be a lot stronger now.
@trainwrecka
Yea right... probably MADE IN CHINA now... you thing the only ones to exploit cheap labour {a shame because there is nothing cheap about human beings :( } are big corperations?
I think my Nokia netbook could probably take better beating than this,,,
@trainwrecka
I'm sure the SSD and other such parts having less moving parts helps loads aswell. I always wanted a toughbook so I can throw it at people if they try to make fun of it haha.
@NAME
Only because it's made in China doesn't mean it's bad quality. Probably most Panasonic products are made in China (being from Japan) or somewhere like it.
@eddie817
It's made in JAPAN. All their products are made in-house and tested in house. So japanese labor rates are included in the cost. It is a magnesium alloy, not plastic or even gorilla plastic. The H1 was previously used in healthcare. It's a real nice machine but it doesn't look like there are many differences between this field version and the medical version
meh still looks like the screen would crack if dropped
@chiefy
That would be a neat trick since it's most likely plastic. You do see the gloves, right?
@sweet greggo
Gloves are irrelevant, if it drops, it drops. Ever seen an LCD that's been dropped? The weird colors etc
@chiefy
Sorry, my bad. I'll type slower.
The screen is apparently resistive, hence the gloves. Therefore it is made of *flexible* plastic that will not crack unless under extreme conditions.
@chiefy Gorilla plastic FTW
@chiefy
Well I'm glad you can completely base a product on how study it is just by looking at a photo-op of it. My god, those deductive reasoning powers of yours must be incredible.
@sweet greggo
Yeah that's what I thought of the industrial grade product I had with an LCD screen, didn't turn out that way. Dropped it and wasn't covered under warranty either.
I want one!
@KGB
I sure wouldn't feel so protective of mine if it was built for industrial use like this one.
It needs to be intrinsically safe, then we'll see.
I could have sworn most industries are facing budget cuts across the board. Obviously Panasonic hasn't been hit by the depression yet.
"it can shrug off a 6ft drop"
So basically its almost tough enough for consumers?
@Ioncloud9 unless the 'consumers' are the Harlem Globe Trotters. yeah.
I want one just so i can fling it at a wall and watch survive :P
That can even survive my 6 year old!
This would be perfect for me at work when I'm out on jobsites doing inspections. I'm gonna start working on the execs for the money right now!
This thing will probably out sale all other tablets combined, but most consumers will never see one.
Could someone tell the worker in the photo how to turn his toughbook on?
i don't see this being a huge seller for non-business users.
i def. think it would be an amazing tool for shipping type of companies (fedex, ups, dhl, etc)
minus the hardware these are the kind of specs I thought the iPad was going to have.
For $3,379 I think I could get 5+ tablet PCs. Now the real question is if toughbook is as tough as this phone:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/click_online/8450385.stm
@(Unverified)
For the price of a shotgun, I could get 20 slingshots.
Its all about how much some feature is worth. For most folks, obviously this ruggedness is not worth the high price. I would love to have this kind of machine, but, hilariously, I'm not going to give my staff something this expensive because they will break it.
We've ordered two H1 (early model) tablets to test out at our hospital. They are great because of the barcode scanner, fingerprint reader, and the fact that they are completely sealed for sanitizing the tablets. However, because of the Atom processor and 1 Gb RAM in the tablets that we got at a steal of $3,200 a piece, we can barely run our new computer system on it (or anything else for that matter). Otherwise, they make for pretty cool paper weights!
Either they're all poking at nothing for the product shots or the screen has a pretty bad viewing angle. I see nothing on the screens.
How nice are all the action pictures. Nice and sunny. Where is the rain and mud? Because for all the action pics you could also use a normal/cheap netbook.
for personal use, no one will buy!!!
i just buy ipad or slate or any tablet pc, just see to it that i have backup for important files and have a metal rope so that it will not fall from my palm. if it break, i buy another one and re-load. do the math.