For some folks an ordinary notebook computer simply isn’t an option: they work out in the boonies, in dangerous workplaces or environments, or regularly traipse off into hard environments where conventional notebook computers would wither and die. With these folks in mind, Getac has announced an upgraded version of its V100 convertible tablet notebook computer: the new version is still protected by a magnesium alloy casing, shock-mounted hard drive, sealed I/O ports, and meets MIL-STD-810G and IP65 specs…but it also sports an Intel Core i7 processor, giving it a 47 percent performance boost over its predecessor.
“The V100 fully rugged convertible has always been very popular because of its advanced feature set and super bright 1200 NITS screen,” said Getac president Jim Rimay, in a statement. “With better performance, memory, storage, and wireless capabilities, the new Getac V100 is more advanced and flexible as ever and even better suited for mobile field workers and users of rugged notebook PCs.”
The V100 features a 1,200-nit 10.4-inch multitouch display that’s readable in direct sunlight thanks to Getac’s exclusive QuadraClear technology. The system’s multitouch capabilities can be used with gloves, and the whole system can convert to a tablet by spinning the display and laying it flat on the unit. The V100 includes a full size waterproof keyboard, a reversible 2 megapixel webcam, PCMCIA expansion, an SD media slot, Bluetooth, and Windows 7 (downgradeable to Windows XP). The V100 sports a short-mounted 320 GB hard drive, but options include an 80 GB SSD, MIL-STD 461F certification, fingerprint scanner, Gobi 3G wireless, and GPS. Not to be discounted: the system’s five-pound weight and five year “bumper-to-bumper” warranty.
“Since 1989, Getac has manufactured rugged computers for the most demanding users in the harshest environments. Our rugged computers are designed to solve the challenges our customers face daily. We pride ourselves on having the absolute best customer service in the industry, with the only bumper-to-bumper warranty standard on every fully rugged device that we sell,” the company’s website says.
Getac hasn’t said a word about suggested pricing for the new V100, but rugged PCs like this don’t come cheap. Previous versions of the V100 with Intel Core 2 Duo processors carried typical prices between $2,700 and $3,000.
