Panasonic introduces new Toughbook C2 convertible tablet with Windows 8 Pro for $2,949
The Wire's Lester Freamon was never too far away from his Panasonic Toughbook, and we'd bet he'd be able to handle plenty more wiretaps with one of these. This is the Toughbook C2, the company's latest 12.5-inch convertible notebook for Windows 8 Pro that's designed for healthcare professionals and daring explorer types. On the hardware side, there's an Intel Core i5-3427U vPro CPU, 11 hours of battery life and a pair of USB 3.0 ports. You'll be staring into a 500 nit, LCD IPS display (and a 720p webcam) that offers five-point multitouch and a digitizer so you can scrawl down your notes with a stylus. Connectivity options include 802.11 a/b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth and a choice of either LTE or Gobi global 3G. As you might have guessed from the name, it'll withstand a 30-inch drop and can take up to six ounces of freshly-brewed coffee being spilled over its magnesium alloy body. The Toughbook C2 starts shipping from December, with the base model setting you, and the Baltimore PD, back $2,949 with a three-year warranty.
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Panasonic Introduces the Toughbook® C2 – Semi-rugged Convertible Tablet PC Built for Windows 8 Pro
All-new, intuitive user interface, bridge battery and trusted semi-rugged durability ideal for healthcare professionals and other mobile workers
Secaucus, NJ, October 26, 2012 – Panasonic, an industry leader in rugged, reliable mobile computers since 1996, today announced the Toughbook C2 – a semi-rugged convertible tablet PC that is Panasonic's first Toughbook model optimized for the new Microsoft® Windows 8 Pro operating system. The new device includes a third-generation Intel® CoreTM processor, delivers approximately 11 hours of battery life and offers the industry-leading reliability that is synonymous with the Toughbook brand. For highly mobile workers in markets like healthcare, education and field sales – as well as the IT departments that support them – the Toughbook C2 will deliver the performance and reliability needed to drive improved productivity.
Panasonic Toughbook C2: Key Features
Microsoft® Windows 8 Pro 64-bit operating system with Microsoft® Windows 7 professional option available
Intel® Core™ i5-3427U vProTM (3MB cache, up to 2.8 GHz) with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology
5-point capacitive multi-touch 12.5-inch, 500 nit, daylight-readable HD display with an anti-reflective/anti-glare treatments, and IPS technology to enable a wide viewing angle
Digitizer for effortless note-taking and signature capture with an electronic pen
Enhanced triple hinge design that provides durable support when rotating the screen to tablet mode
Leading battery life: Delivers approx. 11 hours of continuous use depending on usage conditions (approx. 15 hours with optional long life battery)
Bridge battery allows the main battery to be swapped without powering down the device
Approx. 3.99 lb. magnesium alloy design
High-definition 720p webcam with built-in microphone and optional 3MP rear facing camera
Redesigned ergonomic Y-shaped hand strap for easy carrying in both landscape and portrait modes
Embedded wireless technologies including Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Bluetooth® and optional 4G LTE or 3G Gobi™ mobile broadband
Flexible configuration options including the optional inclusion of a serial port, VGA (HDMI port comes standard) or modem port, as well as optional near field communications (NFC) or SmartCard reader for user authentication
Ambient light, magnetic, acceleration and gyro sensors to enable new Windows 8 functionalities
USB 3.0 ports: Includes two backward-compatible USB 3.0 ports that allow file transfer speeds up to 10x faster than USB 2.0 ports
For a full list of Toughbook C2 specifications, visit http://www.Toughbook.com.
"The way we use technology on the job is evolving – today's mobile professional demands flexibility and durability in addition to power and full functionality," said Kyp Walls, director of product management, Panasonic System Communications Company of North America. "We engineered the Toughbook C2 to go where our customers go and to do whatever they need it to do, without the concerns that are inherent with a less reliable notebook or tablet."
Semi-Rugged Durability
Offering improved ruggedness over previous models of its type, the Toughbook C2 is designed to withstand a wide variety of work environments. Its magnesium alloy case and shock-mounted flex-connect hard drive allow it to handle up to a 30-inch drop to six sides, as well as a 12-inch drop from 26 angles. The computer also features a spill-resistant keyboard (up 6 ounces).
Specialized Features for Healthcare Users
The Toughbook C2 is built to be the ideal mobile point-of-care solution for nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals. Its long battery life is designed for a full work shift without the need for recharging or docking, while its combination of bridge battery and optional lightweight battery offers professionals an even lighter alternative while still allowing for continuous uninterrupted use. The redesigned hand strap allows it to be carried comfortably for long periods of time. Its fanless design means no air is drawn in or out of the device, minimizing the spread of airborne pathogens.
Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Toughbook C2 is available this December from authorized Panasonic resellers starting at $2949. The Toughbook C2 includes a standard three-year limited warranty.
