Panasonic Announced “Santa Rosa”-Based CF-74, CF-52 Toughbooks

The European Panasonic has announced that its refreshed CF-74 and CF-52 Toughbook ruggedized laptops, featuring the latest Intel mobile “Santa Rosa” platform, will be available in June and July respectively.

“The new Intel mobile technology platform is centered on an Intel Core 2 Duo processor with an 800 MHz front-side bus, mobile Intel 965 Express chipset, Intel Wireless WiFi
Link 4965AGN wireless module, and Intel Turbo Memory,” Panasonic explains.

Additionally, Toughbook CF-52 provides and option of Centrino Pro technology for improved security and for easier laptop maintenance and repair.

Currently there are no full specifications available for the Panasonic’s upcoming “Santa Rosa” rugged notebooks. The current “business ruggedized” 13.3-inch CF-74 model features a magnesium alloy case, vibration and shock resistant hard drive, splash resistant keyboard and touchpad, an integrated optical drive, a display suitable for outdoor viewing, and a claimed battery life of approximately eight hours. The “semi-ruggedized” CF-51, which is a precursor of CF-52, has a 15-inch XGA display, a magnesium alloy display case, vibration-protected HDD, and a battery life of up to 5.5 hours.

Panasonic has not published the prices for its next-generation CF-74 and CF-52 notebooks. The old CF-74 and CF-51 start at around $2,200 and $1,500 respectively.

Engadget | Press Release (.pdf)

Looks cool and sturdy !! but at $2200, its too pricy.