With computers today as essential a tool in the workshop as a socket wrench, local Panasonic Toughbook distributor Comworth Technologies has announced the purpose-designed for automotive diagnostics Toughbook CF-D1. The rugged machine delivers Windows 7 in a tablet format.
According to Comworth’sToughbook and Mobility channel manager Darryn Smith, the Toughbook CF-D1 industrial tablet PC was designed for the world of engine and machine diagnostics with the close cooperation of leading vehicle manufacturers.
“The result is a diagnostic device specifically designed to meet the needs of workshop technicians and field engineers performing diagnostics on engines, automobiles, trucks and machines,” he says.
Based on Intel’s Core i5 processor, and built around a 13.3-inch widescreen daylight-viewable LED display, the Toughbook CF-D1 has a battery life of nine hours. What makes it really stand out, however, is its rugged build.
“This is a tool for demanding industrial environments such as workshops, out on the road where technicians repair breakdowns, in mines, and other locations where heavy machinery is used and serviced,” says Smith.
The device is capable of handling a drop from 90cm without suffering any damage; it also features IP65-certified ingress protection to keep water and dust out. “This is a machine that can stand up to the knocks, falls, liquids, dust and extreme temperatures of the workshop and outdoor environments,” he says.
The resistive touchscreen allows for easy data input using fingers, gloves or a pen; furthermore, the screen is designed for clarity both inside the workshop and for use outside in bright sunlight.
Meeting the wide-ranging needs of diagnostic technicians, the device has configurable triple bay ports for customization, and it supports all specialist ports – such as a serial or VGA interface, a second LAN port or rugged USB connector – for reliable diagnostic data transmission.
Standard connectivity includes WiFi and Bluetooth 2.1 with extended data range. GPS and 3G are optional extras, as is a 3Mpixel back camera to capture diagnostic documentation or paper information.
Weighing approx. 2.25kg, the CF-D1 can be carried by the handle, held in one hand for data input using the hand strap, or standalone alongside the technician using extendable legs.
The device can also be used in a docking cradle with adjustable viewing angle to allow optimised viewing in various usage scenarios, or back at the technician’s desk in the office.
“The CF-D1 is a welcome addition to the growing Toughbook and Toughpad range available in New Zealand, and provides automotive specialists with a computing power they needs in a package build to handle the conditions of a workshop environment,” Smith concludes.
Specifications
* Intel Core i5-2520M vPro Processor
* Windows 7 Professional
* Intel HD 3000 graphics
& 13.3inch wide screen HD LED display with Touchscreen
* Triple modular bay
* Shock-protected HDD
* Drop resistant from a height of 90cm
* Water/dust protected according to IP65
* Compatible with industry-specific carrying and docking solutions
