Panasonic has launched a new rugged convertible notebook, the CF-C1. Aimed at clumsy business users, the CF-C1 has durable yet lightweight design (1.69kg with a twin battery) that can be used in clamshell or tablet form via a "toughened triple hinge." The system gets about 10 hours on a full charge, and lets users exchange one of two batteries while remaining on.

The CF-C1 is powered by Intel's 2.4GHz Core i5-520M vPro processor, and is equipped with 802.11a-n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, and 3G connectivity. It also has a capacitive multitouch display that can be used with gloves, making it suitable for healthcare workers, as well as a rubberized "disinfectable" hands-free strap, and a spill-resistant keyboard. The notebook can be dropped from up to 76cm (about 2.5 feet) with no risk of damage.


Naturally, a machine billed as the "lightest business-rugged convertible notebook" won't come cheap. The CF-C1 with multitouch and a digitizer screen will ship from select European distributors in July with prices starting at €1,998 (about $2,720).