Panasonic updates rugged laptops

Panasonic has announced an upgrade to its range of rugged laptop computers.

The firm is introducing a new device, the "thin and light" F8 as well as refreshed versions of the T8 and ultraportable W8 "for road warriors".

Daniel Longfield, industry analyst at Frost and Sullivan said: "The growing trend of portability in computers–lighter weight, longer battery life, advanced wireless capabilities–needs to be balanced by true durability."

The new F8 will feature a 14.1-inch screen, a dual core processor and 4GB of Ram.

It will also have an internal optical drive and weighs less than four pounds.

According to Panasonic, the devices all come with a "strong" magnesium alloy case, have shock-mounted hard drives and displays, spill-proof keyboards and flexible internal connectors for "additional protection".

Earlier this week, PC Pro reported Qosmio F50-10Z, looks like it could be one of the "most exciting" laptops of recent times, not least because of its good looks.