Panasonic Set To Launch Toughbook Mini Laptop By Mike Sachoff Staff Writer Article Date: 2008-06-27 Panasonic is set to release a new Atom-based Toughbook mini laptop. The Toughbook CF-U1 is a hybrid of sorts, a combination of a handheld PDA and a laptop computer. The computer is based on Intel's Atom processor and is compact and weighs 2.3 pounds with the strap and both batteries. It can run on either Windows XP or Vista. The CF-U1's two batteries can be "hot-swapped" allowing one battery to be removed without having to shut down the whole system. Panasonic says the battery life is approximately 9 hours. Panasonic built a frame and case from magnesium and plastic and put rubber around the edges so the Toughbook is protected from harsh elements. It can endure drops of up to 4 feet, about the height of the device when it is handheld. The ports can be sealed to block dirt, water and other particles. The PC charging cradle is also dust and water- resistant. The CF-U1 features a thumb-friendly backlit QWERTY keyboard and LCD technology that allows sunlight viewability with low-power, white LED backlighting. Panasonic is set to launch the Toughbook CF-U1 in August 2008. In the U.S. the base model will sell for about $2,499. About the Author: Mike is a staff writer for WebProNews. Visit WebProNews for the latest ebusiness news.