Oct/Nov 2006

Hot on the heels of its latest ruggedised laptop launch, the Core Duo-based CF-51 (m.logistics, last issue), the company has now announced two new laptop models in the ultra-portable sector. They are the Toughbook CF-W5 and CF-T5, which succeed the existing CF-W4 and CF-T4.

One of the most distinctive features of the new models is the battery life, which Panasonic says can be up to a remarkable to 15 hours (according to battery mark V4.01 during minimal display brightness). It claims that this "sets a new precedent for commercial notebooks worldwide."

Whilst being categorised as "semi-ruggedised", the CF-W5 and CF-T5 are said to be able to tolerate a pressure of up to 100 kg, and to remain intact after a fall from up to 30 cm.

Both models feature an anechoic 12.1in XGA colour display, which is described having "outstanding brightness" of up to 230 cd. The CF-W5 additionally uses a "high transmission" construction to deliver advanced contrast ratio.

 

The CF-W5 also has a DVD multi drive using "sea shell" saves-saving construction.

Both models are fitted with Intel's Core Solo ULV processor running at 1.2GHz, and both have a 60 GB hard disk (up from 40GB in their predecessors). There is an SD-card slot to facilitate the use of external hard drives or memory cards.

Retail prices are expected to be similar to those for current range (£1,538.90 for the CF-W4 and £1,428.90 for the CF-T4).