Panasonic Introduces New Business-Rugged Toughbook Notebooks with Embedded 3G Wireless

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Panasonic Computer Solutions Company is introducing three new business-rugged Panasonic Toughbook notebook computers, the ultraportable CF-W5, tablet alternative CF-T5, and the desktop replacement CF-Y5. As with all Toughbooks, designed for field service or business environments, the new series of notebooks include magnesium alloy cases, flexible internal connectors and shock-mounted and removable hard drives. Business-rugged Toughbooks are tested to withstand a one foot drop, while the hard drives themselves are rated to survive a fall of thirty inches. The new Panasonic Toughbook W5, T5 and Y5 models incorporate a "wireless-ready" design that allows users to purchase, or upgrade to, embedded access to next-generation data networks from all major mobile operators. The notebooks will ship with optional integrated radio modems to access to the CDMA EV-DO networks of Sprint or Verizon or UMTS/HSDPA-based solutions from Cingular Wireless. The ultraportable Panasonic Toughbook W5, with its integrated DVD/CD-RW combo drive, 12.1 inch anti-glare LCD, and weight of just 3.1 pounds, is ideal for mobile professionals who demand the standard features found in larger notebooks at a decreased size and weight. Equipped with an ultra-low voltage Intel Core Solo processor (1.2 GHz) and battery life of more than eight hours, the W5 is as useful on an airline tray table as it is in the board room. It comes with 512MB RAM expandable to 1536MB and a shock-mounted and removable 60GB HDD.Unique to the Panasonic Toughbook T5 is a 12.1 inch touch-screen LCD as well as a durable frame with a sleek, compact design and an ergonomic hand strap. Equipped with an ultra-low voltage processor, the T5 offers increased battery capability which translates into more than ten hours of life while weighing only 3.5 pounds. These features, combined with the touch screen and the included image rotation software, make the T5 ideal for use offsite and in the office. With a 14.1 inch display, the Panasonic Toughbook Y5 weighs only 3.7 pounds and boasts six hours of battery life. The Y5 includes a built-in DVD/CD-RW optical drive, high-speed Intel Core Duo low voltage processor, and multiple wireless connectivity options. Compared to the W5 and T5, the Y5's larger screen makes it a lightweight desktop replacement alternative that's suitable for presenting to small groups. In addition to the magnesium alloy case and shock-mounted hard drive, the Y5 includes Panasonic's unique "spill-through" keyboard, designed to reduce the risks of liquid damage. The Panasonic Toughbook W5 and T5 will be available in October 2006 at a suggested "wireless ready" retail price of US$1,899. Available in December 2006, the Toughbook Y5 will be available at a suggested retail price of US$2,199.