Panasonic ToughBook CF-W2

Panasonic ToughBook CF-W2

The Bottom Line

A rugged laptop which is most suited for mobile workers who spend their days out doors this laptop has a magnesium alloy case and shock absorbers for the display and hard drive. This laptop will take time to get used to using due to the small size of components but mobile workers will have a hard time finding another laptop which provides such durable portability and long battery life.

Pros

• Rugged construction
• Long battery life - in tests the battery lasted 6 hours
• Only 2.9lbs

Cons

• Tiny display and small keyboard
• Price is higher than some faster laptops
• Must purchase through Panasonic authorized reseller

Description

• Weight - 2.9lbs
• Display - 12.1 in TFT active matrix, Max Resolution - 1024x768, 16.7M Colors
• Networking - Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, 56 Kbps Fax/modem
• Power - 1 Lithium Ion battery installed, Manufacturer's estimated battery life - 4 hours
• OS provided - MS Windows XP Pro
• Installed RAM - 256 MB - extra slot for more RAM (max 512 MB)
• Hard drive - 40 GB IDE Portable
• CD-RW/DVD-ROM combo
• Processor - Intel Pentium M 900 MHz
• Warranty - 3 yrs

Guide Review - Panasonic ToughBook CF-W2

For mobile professionals who require the ability to work on a laptop at a job site or other outdoor location, this laptop will provide them with a lightweight but strong piece of equipment.

While it doesn't come with a lot of extra software, resellers may have bundles available, it does provide the mobile professional with the ability to connect wirelessly, by modem or Ethernet network. Without having the extra software already installed, mobile professionals can purchase and install only the software they require.

Some mobile workers may find the small keyboard and spacebar awkward initially but with time it will get more comfortable. Along with the small keyboard, the display is on the small size but does offer 20 different levels of brightness which is excellent for conserving battery life.

One interesting feature is the location of the combo CD/DVD drive, which is in the space under the wrist rest. This feature eliminates the need for an external drive.

The power button is located in an awkward position, outside the case and it could accidentally get turned on while being transported. The Wi-Fi transmitter on the other-hand must be manually turned of and off using taskbar icons or the Network Connections control panel. It might take a few sticky note reminders to remember to turn off the Wi-Fi when not in use for mobile workers used to turning a switch.