WI-FI Enabled Tough Notebook: Panasonic CF-19

Filed in archive Hardware on May 10, 2007

A friend of mine is in the building construction business and he wanted to know if there was a notebook computer that is rugged enough to carry onto and use on the site and that could connect with Wi-Fi Networks. So I went in search of what I might find.

What sprung to my attention on my very fist Google search was the Panasonic Toughbook CF-18 or the newer CF-19. I recommend that you read an in-depth review of this machine:
Uber Tablet: Hugo Ortega reviews Panasonic Toughbook Tablet PC

Overall I was pleased with the device and its intended use. Ruggedisation is something that will become more popular in the mainstream as devices like Ultra-Mobile PC and Tablet PC become more mobile, i.e. full day usage. Because end-users will look at taking UMPC on extreme sports outings, and even as a travel mate, ruggedisation is going to become a key factor.

I called ahead to five of our local dealers and found none of them actually stocked this machine. However, I found one that did have the CF-18. I called in to see the machine and was impressed with its ruggedisation. Will be recommending this one to my building construction friend.