TOUGHPAD FZ-E1 & FZ-X1: SERIOUSLY RUGGED, HANDHELD TABLET

New Toughpad Provides Data and Voice Connectivity on Either Windows or Android Platforms

Panasonic recently launched the Toughpad FZ-E1 (Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheld) and the FZ-X1 (Android) to add to their Toughpad line of “handheld tablets”. It claims the new Toughpad device is one of the world’s most rugged 5 inch tablet. When you read that the device can withstand a fall from 10 feet (3m), or undergo temperature variations from 4 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius) you begin to believe such claims. It even comes with an in-built heater that automatically switches on when the device drops below a certain temperature. The toughpad can also be submerged in up to 5 feet (1.5 m) of water for 30 mins, not something to be taken lightly!

The FZ-E1 and FZ-X1 share most things in common except for differing OS platforms and certain design features (buttons etc). They are aimed at businesses looking for hard wearing mobile enterprise solutions. Permitting the user to move about freely while they work, even in extreme conditions. According to tests conducted by Panasonic, the battery allows up to 14 hours of continuous data access; that matches increasing customer demand for devices that can last a full-shift on one charge. The quick charge feature provides for a 50 percent charge in approximately one hour. The ruggedness of the new Toughpad would appear to be its most compelling point, but don’t underestimate its other attractive features, such as the seven pin ports for connecting with components (including credit card readers and bar-code scanners). Not to mention the new addition of voice connectivity. The Toughpad FZ-E1 is retailing for around US$1,849 and the FZ-X1 for US$1,799.