Panasonic today announced the newest version of its fully rugged detachable notebook which brings to mobile business computing unrivalled performance, enhanced security and superior usability. The Toughbook CF-20, originally launched in 2015, is still the first and only 10.1″ fully rugged notebook with detachable tablet, further demonstrating Panasonic’s leadership in the rugged mobile computing market as it continues to deliver innovative fully rugged and semi-rugged 2-in-1 detachable devices.
The enhanced Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 offers more performance at reduced power consumption thanks to 7th Generation Intel Core vPro processor technology. 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. Combining these two new features means that the newly enhanced CF-20 delivers significantly higher performance and literally double the battery life.
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 securely 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, providing even more security for the corporate environment and the ability to support critical government and defence businesses.
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, significant improvements to the rear camera deliver sharper photos with enhanced picture quality, even in dark environments. These rich feature sets combined with a glove-enabled touchscreen, purpose-built vehicle mount and desktop port replicator, the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 is an unrivalled mobile business machine.
Ultimate versatility
With 6 different operating modes, the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 has a wide range of business uses. It 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.
Target industries for the device include insurance assessors, fleet management and car hire, field workers, maintenance and service technicians in utilities and telecommunications, as well as government agencies, defence and the emergency services.
An important element of the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 notebook’s versatility is its comprehensive range of industry ports and customisable options giving maximum flexibility however the device is used.
Crystal clarity
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 has a 10.1″, 10-finger capacitive multi-touch WUXGA screen (1920 x 1200 pixels). Suitable for workers that need to operate touchscreens with gloves, the device uses the latest IPS Panel technology providing a new level of viewing quality for tablet users working outside with its 800cd/m² brightness. In addition, there is the option of a digitizer pen for workers that need greater touchscreen accuracy in tough weather conditions.
Prime performance
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.
Ultimate communicator
To ensure mobile workers are always connected, the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 is equipped with a 2MP Windows Hello webcam with stereo microphones and 8MP documentation rear camera. 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.
Supporting ecosystem
Available at launch, the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 has a full array of peripherals to maximise a mobile worker’s productivity whether on the road or in the office.
The device’s slim, purpose-built vehicle dock comes with optional antenna pass-through for the strongest communications signal whilst in the vehicle, 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 sleek Desktop Port Replicator allows the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 to be used as a high performance desktop device. The four bay battery charger is ideal for large organisations where the ability to charge multiple batteries can reduce work downtime.
Rugged yet user-friendly
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 draws upon its heritage for ruggedness with a magnesium and IP65 and MIL-STD 810G rated design making it ideal for all outdoor usage. 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 – well below the 2kg industry standard for a device of this kind.
The integrated handle renders the device instantly portable and stable to use, and keyboard keys 8% larger than the previous generation device facilitates data input.
Pricing and availability
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 notebook comes with a standard 3 year warranty and will be available from March 2018, priced at £2218 + VAT.
