ACADEMIA

Panasonic has announced upgrades to its semi-rugged Toughbook 53 notebook computer. Panasonic’s semi-rugged notebooks have built a reputation as reliable and versatile devices that deliver high-performance computing in demanding markets like insurance, construction and the military. The updated Toughbook 53, the latest in the line of products that created and continues to define the semi-rugged category, is now available with an Intel Core i5-3320M vPro processor (3MB cache, up to 3.3 GHz) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology. Other upgrades include expanded storage and improved connectivity options.

• Panasonic Toughbook 53: Key Upgrades
• Faster processor
• Intel Core i5-3320M CPU (3MB cache, up to 3.3 GHz) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology
• Expanded storage
• Up to 500GB 7200rpm HDD with 4-8GB RAM
• Optional 128GB, 256GB or 512GB solid state drives (SSD)
• Improved connectivity
• Two USB 3.0 ports
• Improved battery life: delivering up to 11 hours per MobileMark 2007 testing
• Optional integrated GPS receiver capable of accuracy within 5 meters or less
• Optional integrated RFID/Contactless SmartCard reader or Insertable SmartCard reader for maximum flexibility
• Capability to run Battery Calibration Tool in background 

The Toughbook 53 features a spill-resistant keyboard and was certified by an independent third party to pass nine MIL-STD-810G tests, including surviving 3 foot drops on 26 faces with 1 unit. The device also features a high-definition, 14” LED display and offers an optional 2-850 nit sunlight-viewable Panasonic CircuLumin touchscreen plus an adjustable backlit emissive keyboard, making it an ideal candidate in any lighting condition.

The Toughbook 53 offers a variety of embedded wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 and optional 4G LTE or 3G Gobi mobile broadband.

“For mobile professionals in industries where a standard commercial-grade laptop does not provide sufficient durability, the Toughbook 53 is an ideal choice,” said Kyp Walls, director of product management, Panasonic Solutions for Business. “This device is a proven performer that delivers a clear return on investment. With the updates we’ve made to the Toughbook 53, its value is enhanced even further.”

The Panasonic Toughbook 53 is available immediately from authorized Panasonic resellers starting at $1399. The Toughbook 53 includes a standard three-year limited warranty.

Panasonic has also upgraded its Toughbook 52 semi-rugged notebook PC with an ATI Radeon HD7750M dedicated graphics card, making it ideal for video-intensive applications. Other improvements to the device include the use of an Intel Core i5-3360M processor (3MB cache, up to 3.5 GHz) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology with vPro; an expanded 500GB 7200rpm hard drive; improved wireless with Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6235 Wi-Fi technology and Bluetooth 4.0 and expanded connectivity with USB 3.0.