22nd Oct 2011

Panasonic Australia has announced the release of the Toughbook CF-U1 Mark 2 - the company’s lightest and smallest rugged handheld computer designed to meet the demands of Australian mobile field workers who require lightweight mobility without sacrificing comprehensive functionality.

Weighing just over one kilogram, the 3G WWAN-ready Toughbook CF-U1 Mk2 is ideal for use in harsh conditions, confined spaces or when ultra-portability is critical.  The CF-U1 Mk2 is Mil-STD-810G and IP65 rated and built for the most challenging conditions, featuring a 5.6-inch ultra-bright, transflective and sunlight readable touchscreen for easy viewing outdoors.

Fully sealed in a Magnesium Alloy chassis, the unit provides a lightweight solution that is still extremely rugged, withstanding drops of up to 1.8 metres and is rain, spill and dust resistant.  It is ideal for a range of diverse industries where workers require lightweight mobility, such as surveyors, technicians or engineers.  

Mark Wallis, Group Manager - Toughbook, Panasonic Australia, said the Toughbook CF-U1 Mk2 takes the U1 to the next level and builds on the company’s reputation as an innovator in rugged technology solutions.

“The continual improvement of the CF-U1 demonstrates Panasonic’s commitment to providing rugged and reliable mobile computing technologies to withstand even the most challenging conditions and environments,” said Mr Wallis.

“The CF-U1 Mk2 is perfect for Australian mobile field workers who need a lightweight, compact and durable computing solution that gives them excellent access to information and full PC functionality. With nine hours of battery life and dual hot-swappable batteries, users can be safe in the knowledge that their information is easy to access and secure throughout their working day,” Mr Wallis continued.  

The CF-U1 Mk2 incorporates the Intel® Atom™ processor, which packs an amazing 47 million transistors on a single chip measuring less than 25mm. It is the smallest and lowest power consuming notebook processor, and is more powerful than a standard PDA.  It allows for more complex desktop programs to run with a faster response.

The CF-U1 Mk2 is a fully customisable product, giving users more flexibility to integrate features suitable for their specific use.  Options include a camera for image capture; fingerprint reader and Smartcard reader for security; a Magstripe reader that allows credit card payments to be taken in the field; and a barcode scanner or RFID for asset management.  In addition, the optional GPS supports navigation or locating below-ground assets such as pipes when used with a GIS application.

Designed with the mobile field worker in mind, the CF-U1 Mk2 has a long battery life of up to nine hours, and operates with dual hot-swappable batteries which are unique in a UMPC. This gives users maximum productivity and uptime through the convenience of being able to change batteries without shutting down the device – an essential feature for those who are in the field for extended periods of time. 

The CF-U1 Mk2 uses the Windows® 7 operating system and comes with WLAN and Bluetooth installed as standard plus optional 3G WWAN so that users on the move have wireless access to corporate data.

Designed and manufactured in the state-of-the-art Panasonic Toughbook factory in Japan, the CF-U1 Mk2 has seven built-in antennas (3 wireless, 1 GPS, 2 3G WWAN and 1 Bluetooth) for flexible communication and optimal coverage.  

The CF-U1 Mk2 has several docking options for expanded functionality at the desk, in a vehicle or on the move. The optional Desktop Dock allows the user to connect a mouse and monitor, allowing for reduced IT costs as there is no need to synchronise with a PC.

Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 Mk2 Key Specifications

• Windows® 7 Professional
• Intel® Atom™ Processor Z530
• 2GB RAM
• Ultra-lightweight 1.06kg
• WiFi and Bluetooth as standard
• Options: barcode, fingerprint and Magstripe scanners, camera, GPS, and 3G WWAN mobile broadband
• SDHC Memory Card slot
• Up to 9 hours battery life
• Dual hot swappable batteries
• Solid state drive
• MIL-STD-810G and IP65 complaint – 1.8m drop, rain, spill and dust resistant
• 5.6 inch LED touchscreen – 3,000 nit Transflective sunlight viewable with 1024 x 600 WSVGA
• Backlit qwerty keyboard with zoom and scroll or numeric keyboard
• Standard three year limited warranty

Pricing and Availability

The Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 Mk2 is $3499RRP. It is available from Toughbook distributors. For more information on the Toughbook range, call 132 600 or visit www.toughbook.com.au

RELEASED BY PANASONIC AUSTRALIA

About Panasonic Toughbooks

Panasonic Toughbooks are used extensively worldwide by mobile professionals, field workers, the military, utilities, heavy industry, emergency services and organisations where durable mobile computing is critical to maximising productivity and uptime. In Australia, Panasonic Toughbook customers include Coca-Cola Amatil, Telstra, Western Power, Honda Australia, Port Philip Sea Pilots, BlueScope Steel, Aurora Energy and Ambulance Victoria.