Panasonic has announced the 12.5-inch Toughpad FZ-Q1, the latest member of its Toughpad family of enterprise-grade ruggedized tablet devices.

With an Intel processor and running Windows 8.1 Pro, this business-grade tablet is designed for the highly mobile field worker, in either government or private sectors, who needs a device more durable than a consumer tablet. To meet varying market needs, the device will come in two configurations, a performance version featuring an Intel Core i5-4302Y vPro processor and a standard model with an Intel Celeron processor N2807.

“When fully rugged notebooks were introduced, we slowly saw the demand grow for similar solutions that were less robust,” said Jan Ruderman, vice president, Business Mobility Group, Panasonic System Communications Company of North America. “The tablet market is following this path, but at an accelerated pace. Many applications don’t require a fully rugged device, and as a result, businesses felt compelled to purchase consumer-grade solutions. Unfortunately, those tablets don’t provide the reliability, usability and security businesses require and consumer device manufacturers typically don’t have the sales and services infrastructure needed to support enterprise customers. The Toughpad FZ-Q1 meets the needs of businesses, in less demanding user environments, that want to experience the mobility and productivity benefits of a ruggedized tablet.”

The Toughpad FZ-Q1 provides the ideal level of durability for light duty field work. With a shock absorbing case and a magnesium alloy chassis, the device can withstand drops, comes with a fanless design and is resistant to dirt and dust.

This purpose-built device features a Full High Definition, 350 nit, 10 finger touch, screen with an anti-reflective (AR) screen treatment. Other usability features include an easy grip bottom cover, integrated stylus, fast charging battery that outperforms consumer grade tablets.

When it comes to connectivity, the Toughpad FZ-Q1 offers a broad selection of options, with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, an optional 4G LTE multi carrier with satellite GPS. The device also features USB 3.0, MicroSDXC, a 2MP webcam, 8MP rear facing camera. Unlike consumer designed tablets, the Toughpad FZ-Q1 has integrated options for insertable or contactless SmartCard readers, a must for many Government and healthcare users.

A broad selection of accessories will be available for the Toughpad FZ-Q1, notably a spill resistant, backlit keyboard with carrying strap. The Panasonic designed keyboard uses a direct, not wireless, interface with the device, for reliable connectivity. Other accessories include a full desktop cradle with multiple I/O options.

Pricing and Availability

The Toughpad FZ-Q1, will be available in March at an estimated street price of $1,699 for the Performance model and $999 for the Standard model.

All Toughpad tablets can be purchased through authorized Panasonic resellers and come standard with the industry's most comprehensive 3-year warranty.

Sales inquiries for Panasonic’s Toughpad tablets should be directed to sales.psc@us.panasonic.com or 877-803-8492.

For more information on the Panasonic Toughpad family of tablet computers, visit http://business.panasonic.com/toughpad/us/best-rugged-tablet.html.