One of the best parts about the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK and Getac line is the rich ecosystem of accessories available to make using the rugged computers in the field the most effective.
Desktop Docking Station
A desktop docking station is possibly the most effective upgrade you could have with your rugged laptop. A desktop dock allows you to have extra monitors, keyboard, mouse, wired internet, USB connections like printers, speakers, etc hooked into the dock directly. This way you can walk up to your desk, pop the laptop into the dock, and you’ve got yourself a desktop computer experience. When you’re ready to leave you can pop the laptop out of the dock and go on your merry way. This is particularly helpful because the single screen of a laptop can oftentimes be limiting. WIth the desktop dock you can hook up an extra monitor or two and find yourself more easily navigating through complex topics and systems.
Vehicle Mounting & Docking
Many rugged laptop users find themselves using their computer in the vehicle. Some even need access to view some information while driving. It is important to note that it is unsafe and no one should operate a computer while driving. These docking stations are similar to the Desktop Docking Station but they are supported by mounting equipment. The mounting equipment should be made of steel and be strong enough to support the weight of the devices without flexing or moving. The best companies for vehicle mounting & docking are Gamber Johnson and Havis. There are others but they generally cut corners to reduce the price or don’t make solutions for nearly as many vehicle / make / models.
xPak system
The xPak system is exclusive to Panasonic TOUGHBOOK FZ-40, FZ-55, and FZ-G2 computers. This is an amazing innovation of Panasonic. There are select locations on each TOUGHBOOK model that can have end user field installed upgrades put in. These xPaks can include but are not limited to extra battery life, a 2nd hard drive, smart card readers, 2D barcode scanners, additional USB, VGA, true RS-232 serial ports, etc. Traditionally if your computer does not have the ability to do something you need then you either have to buy a new computer or use an annoying USB wire connected device. The xPak system allows you to evolve your computer as your own needs evolve over time.
Rotating Hand Strap & Chest Harness
Rotating hand straps are unique to tablet style devices like the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK FZ-G2, CF-33 or Getac F110, V110, UX10, K120, and A140. Most of us have used a tablet before but they are typically in the 8-10” range, very slim, and very light. The rugged tablet variety is 10-14”, about a half inch thick, and significantly heavier than the consumer grade stuff we use on our couches. The rotating hand straps help us to have better ergonomics while using the tablet. We can more comfortably have the device held in one hand while the other hand is free to interact with the screen or something else. The chest harness goods are very helpful with the traditional clamshell style of rugged laptop. These harnesses allow for the user to strap the computer in an open, operating condition but not have to actually hold the device. This allows the user to walk around while typing and interacting with the laptop. This is helpful when you need to access information on your laptop but also maintain nimble mobility at a job site.
Detachable Keyboard
This is another tablet exclusive accessory. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK invented the rugged 2 in 1 tablet category. This allows the user to have the convenience of a rugged tablet when needed but also the ability to attach a physical keyboard for added functionality. Generally speaking tablets are content consumption devices whereas keyboards allow the device to become a content creation device. These keyboards are also unique in the computer industry because they have ports available like USB and have a structured “spine”. Consumer devices like the Microsoft Surface require a stable table top to attach the keyboard to and type on because the keyboard does not actually support the tablet itself as a screen. These ruggedized keyboards do support the tablet allowing for a clamshell rugged laptop experience.
Protection Plus Warranty
This is technically a service and not an accessory. We chose to add it into the accessories because we believe every device should also have the warranty. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK laptops come with a 3 year manufacturer warranty. These computers are extremely durable but human beings are capable of destroying anything. These warranties will guarantee the use of a computer over the duration of time the warranty is purchased. This way if you run over your rugged notebook with a vehicle the warranty will cover the repair and you’re back in business! Getac fully rugged laptops all include what they call a Bumper-to-Bumper warranty that covers accidental damage.
