Fully Rugged vs Semi Rugged Durability
Rugged computers come in many shapes, sizes and durability levels. Purpose built for a variety of budgets, applications and environments, a rugged computer needs to fulfill all user qualifications to be able to justify the increased cost over consumer grade technology. Fully rugged computers such as the TOUGHBOOK 40 or TOUGHBOOK G2 are built by Panasonic to engage the most challenging environments. Able to withstand not only shocks and vibration but drops onto hard surfaces, a fully rugged laptop or tablet also boasts ingress protection as well as internal heating and cooling systems to operate in the most extreme of locals. Semi rugged laptops such as the FZ-55 TOUGHBOOK are not as durable as a fully rugged unit but are some of the most popular form factors with rugged technology users.
Why Semi Rugged?
The two main benefits of a semi rugged unit such as the TOUGHBOOK 55 are affordability and portability. While highly durable fully rugged units are definitely required for some job codes and environments they do come at a significantly higher cost than consumer grade tech as well as being noticeably heavier and harder to transport. The FZ-55, while still more costly than a consumer grade laptop, hits a lower budget price point than a fully rugged unit like the FZ-40. While more durable than a consumer grade laptop, the FZ-55 isn't built for use outdoors. The TOUGHBOOK 55 provides shock and spill resistance and a sunlight viewable display making it ideal for use in a vehicle where a consumer grade laptop would quickly fail. The FZ-55 also provides a lit of optional features not commonly found in consumer technology.
FZ-55 xPAK Modular Adaptibility
With connectivity options including dedicated GPS, 4G LTE and 5G connection, the FZ-55 is suited for in-field operation and is a popular model used by public safety and most notably by law enforcement. Offering user installable optional features through Panasonic's proprietary xPAK system, the FZ-55 can be customized and upgraded to fit an evolving mission parameter. With hardware options such as DVD, Blu-Ray player, barcode scanner, smart card reader and fingerprint reader, the FZ-55 also boasts removable and interchangeable primary and secondary SSD slots. The FZ-55 also features a docking connection allowing it to utilize both vehicle and desktop docking stations.
Configurable, durable and affordable, the FZ-55 Panasonic TOUGHBOOK is a great fit for many customers looking for a step above consumer grade technology and not quite needing a fully rugged laptop. Configure your custom FZ-55 TOUGHBOOK here or inquire about what FZ-55 units PopTech LLC has in stock for immediate shipment!