Panasonic today announced the U.S. launch of its fully-rugged, 5-inch handheld tablets. Both the Toughpad FZ-E1 and Toughpad FZ-X1 are FIPS 140-2 Level 1 compliant, with OS-based enhanced security features.

The devices' enterprise-grade features include a sunlight-readable, anti-reflective HD (1280x720) 10-point capacitive multitouchscreen that works even with heavy gloves, with a rain-sensing feature that allows for single touch use even in pouring rain. In addition to 8.0MP (rear) and 1.3MP (front) cameras, configuration options include an integrated 1D/2D barcode reader and attachable magnetic stripe reader.

The Toughpad FZ-E1 and Toughpad FZ-X1 are the first devices in the Toughpad line to offer optional voice connectivity. Both models will be available with dual SIM slots and certified on leading mobile carrier networks, 4G LTE/3G/GPRS/CDMA2000 mobile broadband for voice and data. Push-to-talk service also will be available on specific networks and depending on service contracts. Standard on both models is Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, near field communications (NFC), standalone GPS and Bluetooth v4.0 (Class 1).

To ensure clear voice communication above engine or construction noise, the devices are equipped with intelligent noise cancelling and dual front speakers reaching a maximum volume of 100 decibels.

The devices are powered by 6200mAh batteries providing up to 14 hours of continuous use. A quick-charging feature allows for a 50% charge in just 1 hour and Hot Swap functionality allows a depleted battery to be swapped out for a fresh one without powering down the device.

The Toughpad FZ-X1 with WiFi or mobile broadband data connectivity will be the first to hit the market in August 2014 at a list price of $1,799 (WiFi-only) or $1,849 (mobile broadband data). The Toughpad FZ-E1 with WiFi-only connectivity will also be available in August 2014 at a list price of $1,899, followed by the telephony and mobile broadband-enabled version with a target date of October 2014 at a list price of $1,999. The Toughpad FZ-X1 enabled for telephony and mobile broadband data will have a target date of January 2015 at a list price of $1,899.

Key Features

Operating System:

• Toughpad FZ-E1: Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheldo
• Toughpad FZ-X1: Android 4.2.2

Processor:

• Toughpad FZ-E1: Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 series 2.3GHz Quad Core
• Toughpad FZ-X1: Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 series 1.7GHz Quad Core

Rugged Durability: MIL-STD-810G certified; tested for 10-foot drops to concrete; IP65 and IP68 certified fully sealed design (sealed against dust and submersible in water), operating temperature range of -4° F to 140°F

Handheld Portability: 15 oz., 1.2? thin (standard configuration)

Battery Life: Up to 14 hours of continuous use depending on usage conditions. Hot Swap functionality allows the main battery to be swapped without powering down

Enterprise-Grade Display: 5-inch sunlight-readable, anti-reflective HD (1280x720) LCD with high-sensitivity 10-point capacitive multitouch input. Glove-touch and rain-sensing features are included

Storage and Memory: 32 GB flash memory with 2GB RAM; and micro SDXC card slot

Connectivity & I/O: optional 4G LTE/3G/GPRS/CDMA2000 (voice and data); standard Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, near field communications (NFC), standalone GPS, Bluetooth? v4.0 (Class 1), USB 2.0; optional integrated 1D/2D barcode reader; optional attachable magnetic stripe card reader; expansion area for peripheral connectivity

Camera: 8MP rear camera with auto focus and LED light; 1.3MP front camera

Security: FIPS 140-2 Level 1 compliant

Warranty: The Toughpad FZ-E1 and Toughpad FZ-X1 are backed by 3-year warranties