Jul 27, 2011 12:43 GMT  ·  By

Getac has just announced it will soon release an updated version of the popular B300 rugged notebook that will be able to provide increased performance, better battery life and improved connectivity thanks mostly to the addition of Intel's Sandy Bridge processors.

Users will have the option of choosing between two Core i5 and Core i7 processors with a maximum base frequency of 2.5GHz as well as from two different screen options.

Both of these measure 13.3-inch in diagonal, but the first model has a brightness of just 700 NITs compared to the 1400 NITs available from the more expensive QuadraClear touchscreen display which can be installed upon request.

The fast Intel processors can be seconded by as much as 8GB of system memory and by various SSD and hard drive options providing up to 500GB of storage capacity.

All of these are packed inside a rugged chassis that is waterproof (including the keyboard) and also enables the notebook to operate in extreme temperatures up to -29 degrees Celsius.

In addition, the upgraded unit features increased connectivity with three USB 3.0 ports, two eSATA ports, two serial ports, an expansion slot for smart cards and an HDMI port for integrated video and sound.

The B300 can also be configured with a dual battery option that provides up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge allowing field-based operators to use the unit for more than a day without the AC adaptor.

“The B300 continues to be one of the industry’s most popular rugged notebooks across first responders, military personnel, and utility and energy sectors.” said Jim Rimay, president, Getac.

“With the increased performance, enhanced connections and improved environmentals, we’ve designed the new B300 for even greater functionality in the most extreme working conditions,” concluded the company's rep.

As with all of Getac’s rugged notebook, tablet and convertible computers, the B300 is backed by a 5-year warranty. The new B300 will be available in October for an undisclosed price. A 4G option will be added to the notebook at the beginning of Q4.