Toughbook-74 semi-rugged PC delivers embedded EV-DO access, Intel Core Duo technology, long battery life and expanded security features in a form factor built to withstand the rigors of mobile computing

SECAUCUS, NJ, March 28, 2006 — Panasonic Computer Solutions Company will unveil the latest in its line of semi-rugged Panasonic® Toughbook® notebook computers at CTIA WIRELESS 2006, April 5 – 7 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Hall C3, Booth 2635.

The Panasonic® Toughbook® CF-74 (Toughbook-74) is a durable, reliable wireless computing solution for today’s mobile worker. Built with a magnesium alloy case, integrated handle, spill-resistant keyboard, daylight-readable screen and battery life of approximately seven hours, the Toughbook-74 is designed to let work happen wherever it needs to. New security features, including an optional finger print scanner and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM v.1.2) security chip, help protect sensitive information.

The Toughbook-74 incorporates the new Intel® Core™ Duo Processor T2400, an 80GB shock-mounted HDD and a standard 512MB SDRAM (DDR2), which is expandable to 4,096MB. With integrated local area wireless and optional embedded next-generation wide area wireless and/or Bluetooth connectivity, the latest semi-rugged Toughbook offers high quality, reliable wireless access to data. To date, the Toughbook-74 has been certified on the EV-DO networks of both Sprint and Verizon.

“The Toughbook-74 is the ultimate road warrior PC—built from the ground up for mobility. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of batteries, Panasonic continues to push the limits of unplugged computing, setting a new competitive standard with the CF-74,” said Rance Poehler, president, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company. “This next-generation business-rugged notebook is a no-compromise solution. It is more rugged than our ultra-light executive notebooks and lighter than our products designed for the most extreme computing environments and situations; yet, the Toughbook-74 incorporates the same engineering principles that make the Toughbook name synonymous with durability and reliability—with the lowest failure rates in the industry.”

The Toughbook-74 is built on the success of its predecessor, the Toughbook-73, which has been deployed by hundreds of enterprises, government agencies, and mobile workers in all industries.

Added Poehler, “As a core manufacturer, Panasonic is uniquely positioned to engage our customers in the product development process. It is through their input at regular advisory councils held across the country that we were able to identify and incorporate the features and capabilities most important to them in this new model.”

In addition to its line of rugged and semi-rugged notebooks, Panasonic delivers pre- and post-deployment professional services and provides ongoing support to maximize the active use of every Toughbook. Panasonic’s 24/7/365 customer support line, included in the standard three year Toughbook warranty, boasts an average hold time of less than one minute and a call abandon rate of less than 5%. Average turnaround time at Panasonic’s national service center is less than 2 days, excluding complimentary overnight return shipping.

Panasonic Toughbook CF-74: Select Features and Specifications
• Intel® Core™ Duo Processor T2400 (2MB L2 cache), Processor speed 1.83GHz (Dual Core), 667MHz FSB
• Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional SP2
• 80GB HDD, shock mounted and removable
• 512MB SDRAM (DDR2) standard, expandable to 4,096MB (total system memory may be less, depending on actual system configuration)

• Combo Drive (DVD-ROM/CD-R/RW) standard
• Full Magnesium Alloy case with integrated handle
• 13.3″ 1024 x 768 (XGA) transmissive, 460 Nit daylight-readable TFT Active Matrix Color LCD with Touchscreen
• Dimensions: 1.7″-2.4″(H) x 12″(W) x 11.6″(D) (with handle)
• Weight: 5.95 lbs.
• Battery Life: 7-8 hours (MobileMark tested to approximately 8 hours)
• Intel® PRO/Wireless 3945 Network Connection with respective drivers
• Optional Wide Area Wireless (as of 3/06, certified on Sprint and Verizon EV-DO networks)
• Security features include: cable lock slot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) v.1.2 security chip, optional finger print scanner, optional SmartCard reader
• 3-year limited warranty, parts & labor

From Panasonic Toughbook-74 press release

This entry was posted on April 2, 2006 and is filed under News.