The update enhances performance, flexibility, functionality, and security for the mobile workforce.
Since the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK 33 was released in 2017, the company claims it has been one of the best-selling models in the category of fully rugged laptop, 2-in-1, or tablet. Now, Panasonic has announced a new update that aims to make the TOUGHBOOK 33 perform even better with improved flexibility, functionality, and security. The updates are designed to respond to the evolving needs of mobile workers that face extreme field conditions.
Updates to the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK 33
The new update aims to make the TOUGHBOOK 33 more adaptive to mobile working conditions. The connectivity has been enhanced with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 support and the ability to connect to Private LTE CBRS networks. This ensures users can access real-time critical information wherever they are.
Several features have been added for those that work in more challenging environments. Loud work environments will benefit from speakers that are 50 percent louder. The microphones have also been improved to enhance speech recognition and accuracy. Finally, the red-backlit keyboard is brighter for those who work in dark environments.
The security of the TOUGHBOOK 33 has also been enhanced. It now offers Intel Hardware Shield (part of Intel vPro) and meets the requirements of Microsoft’s Secured-core PC. Opal SSC is now standard, which allows you to safely store confidential information on the device with additional encryption. BitLocker software encryption is also still available. This will give you the options of hardware encryption, software encryption, or no encryption.
Certified Rugged
To be classified as a rugged device, devices must pass a series of tests known as MIL-STD-810G (Mil-Spec). The standards are set by the U.S. Department of Defense, and the tests simulate extreme stressors the device could encounter in field conditions.
To be validated as rugged, a device must be able to meet or exceed several stress tests. One of the most important is a drop test, as drops are a common source of damage for devices. The Transit Drop Method 516.7 Procedure IV rates a device by the height from which it can be dropped—at many different angles—and still function. In laptop form, the TOUGHBOOK 33 can survive a four-foot drop on a hard surface, which can be extended to five feet when used as a tablet.
Rugged devices are also tested for their ability to withstand common environmental conditions such as blowing rain, high and low temperatures, humidity, sand, and dust. The devices also must pass tests that simulate more uncommon demands such as high altitude, vibration, and temperature shock. But by far, the most exotic test is the explosive atmosphere test, where the device is placed in a chamber with an explosive environment.
“Whether working in public sector, government, utilities, enterprise or other industries, the updated TOUGHBOOK 33 helps mission-critical mobile workers operate safely and efficiently in any environment,” said Craig Jackowski, group manager of Product Management at Panasonic System Solutions Company of North America. “Our updates were driven by a customer-focused philosophy core to Panasonic that aims to deliver on the performance and reliability users have come to expect from the TOUGHBOOK brand.”
The newly updated TOUGHBOOK 33 is currently available for purchase on Panasonic’s website.
