Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 Gets Performance Boost
Panasonic's newest version of its fully rugged detachable notebook, the Toughbook CF-20, brings to mobile business more computing performance, security and usability.
Originally launched in 2015, the Toughbook CF-20 is still the only 10.1" fully rugged notebook with detachable tablet.
The 2-in-1 device now comes with an extended 17 hours battery life, with a second battery as standard in the keyboard area, and the tablet alone can run for 8.5 hours.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 is powered by Intel Core i5-7Y57 vPro processor technology (4MB cache, 1.2GHz up to 3.3 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology) with fanless design, Intel HD Graphics 615, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD and full Windows 10 Pro operating system.
Additionally, Panasonic has enhanced the login security of the device with a new Windows Hello enabled front camera, coupled with IR sensors and LED, which means that users can log in and are recognised via a 3D picture of themselves, enabling them to log in without a password. The device also comes with a removable SSD as a project option for sensible data protection and TPM 2.0 provides a key in the hardware to encrypt and decrypt the device in isolation.
New features also include an optional magnetic stripe reader which allows for the reading of loyalty cards, driving licences and membership cards for example. And finally, improvements to the rear camera deliver sharper photos with enhanced picture quality, even in dark environments. it comes with 2MP Windows Hello webcam with stereo microphones and 8MP documentation rear camera.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 can operate as a regular notebook and in presentation mode. The screen can be folded right back on itself to use the device in convertible mode as a tablet or the tablet can be detached. Using the in-built handle, the device can be operated hanging on a wall, on the arm or whilst being carried. Finally, vehicle mode allows the device to be docked in a vehicle for use when on the move.
The device has a 10.1", 10-finger capacitive multi-touch WUXGA screen (1920 x 1200 pixels). It uses the latest IPS Panel technology with a 800cd/m² brightness. In addition, there is the option of a digitizer pen for workers that need greater touchscreen accuracy in tough weather conditions.
There is a 4G LTE option for connection to the office and workforce management systems and the option for the latest U-Blox 8 GPS for precise navigation.
The device's vehicle dock comes with optional antenna pass-through, and full port replication to provide users with the full functionality of the device when docked. The tablet is removable when the keyboard base is in the dock. The device can also be locked in storage mode to keep the CF-20 secure and is lockable when in convertible mode to allow for job routing and access to the GPS functionality.
The Desktop Port Replicator allows the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 to be used as a high performance desktop device.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 draws upon its heritage for ruggedness with a magnesium and IP65 and MIL-STD 810G rated design . But this latest generation of Toughbook is more mobile than ever before, weighing just 1.89kg in notebook mode - with the detachable tablet weighing 950g.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 notebook comes with a standard 3 year warranty and will be available from March 2018, priced at £2218 + VAT.