14 DAY TRIAL // While there are a great number of consumer-oriented or business-aimed laptops running around, a select number can be truly called rugged, and Getac's S400 seems to fit into this category, as its abuse resistance is high enough to cope with various unfriendly environmental conditions.
The newcomer is powered by Intel's Calpella mobile platform, its configuration being centered around a Core i5 central processing unit (CPU).
Said chip is backed up by up to 8GB of RAM (random access memory), while storage space is provided by a hard disk drive whose internal capacity is of 320GB.
Of course, should speed be the primary concern, the machine can be fitted with a solid state drive (SSD) instead, although the capacity will be limited to 80GB in this case.
The integrated Intel HD graphics are, of course, available, but an NVIDIA GeForce G310M discrete card can also be implemented.
What's more, the newcomer features a DVD writer and the full range of connectivity and I/O options, including Gigabit Ethernet, a 4-in-1 card reader, Bluetooth 2.0, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, optional 3G and GPS.
Of course, the Operating System pre-loaded onto the computer is Genuine Windows 7 Professional.
All of the hardware components, along with a 7800 mAh battery are packed inside a sturdy chassis, the so-called KryptoShell body.
This enclosure allows the product to withstand and operate under conditions of high or low shocks or vibrations.
Thus, Getac expects the S400 rugged notebook to end up being used in field service, military and public safety applications.
Set to have a starting price of $1,799, the mobile computer will begin shipping by the end of next month, November 2010.
Those interested in a first-hand view of all available information on it need only stop by the official product page that Getac has has already been added to its website.