14 DAY TRIAL // While the segment of tough, rugged computing systems designed to be used in the field is not exactly very wide (we're basically talking about more of a product niche here), we've come across plenty of interesting solutions targeting this particular market, the latest to draw our attention being the GammaTech D12C rugged convertible notebook. According to the manufacturer, the D12C features a 12.1” WXGA Touch Screen TFT LED backlight display which quickly converts into a Tablet PC, while at the same time being encased in magnesium body that has been tested to MIL-STD-810G standards for drop, shock, and spill protection.
Now, moving on to the hardware configuration, we'll have to mention that the rugged convertible notebook is built around an Intel i5-540UM processor, accompanied by an Intel HM55 chipset and up to 8GB of DDR3 memory.
Moreover, it can house 2.5-inch SATA HDDs or SSDs, while also featuring plenty of connectivity and networking options, including here Ethernet connectors, VGA, USB ports, an SDHC memory card slot, as well as a headphone jack and audio out ports, and all of the unit’s I/O ports being covered to protect from the hazards of dirt and dust.
The portable computing systems sports a 6-cell 5200mAh Li-Ion battery as a standard (providing approx. 4 hrs of functioning time), but users can opt to add an extra polymer 3-cell battery, if they're looking for more battery life.
However, even without the extra battery, carrying this thing around should prove to be quite a challenge, given the fact that it measures 328mm (W) x 277mm (D) x 40 mm (H) /12.91” (W) x 10.9” (D) x1.57” (H) and weighs 2.5Kg /5.5lbs (with the standard battery).
The D12C will be showcased by GammaTech at CES 2011 in January, but, for the time being, no details have been provided regarding this thing's pricing and availability.