Computers are nothing new to the doctor's office. When I visit my doctor, he walks in with a tablet computer, pulls up my file and starts with the questions.

That is the way it has been for a few years now. Panasonic has joined that market with the introduction of the Toughbook-H1.

This ultra-rugged tablet computer is spec'd with the most recent technology. Starting with the exterior, the device has a 10.4-inch dual touch screen that will accept input from either a stylus or finger.

The H1 is designed to be easy to disinfect as well with a gapless LCD, sealed buttons and no exposed ports.

The case also sports a one-handed grip on the back, so you can wear it like a glove.

Moving to the internals, the H1 comes equipped with Intel's new Atom processor running at 1.86Ghz paired with 1 GB of RAM.

Storage comes in the form of an 80 GB hard disk drive that is shock-mounted. Connectivity should be no issue as Intel has supplied WiFi in all four flavors, 802.11 a/b/g/draft-n.

Not to mention that there is Bluetooth 2.0 and even an option for GPS and a 3G cell network connection.

Windows Vista Business operating system is installed, but a downgrade to Windows XP Tablet is available.

Two batteries are included with a six-hour run time each.

They are hot swappable for hours of continuous usage.

The H1 also has an optional barcode scanner, as well as integrated RFID reader, 2.0 megapixel auto-focus camera and fingerprint scanner.

Total weight is only 3.4 pounds with both batteries, and backhand strap.

With a list of specs like that, all that is missing is the kitchen sink.

Panasonic spent considerable resources developing this device, and it looks as if it has come up with a winner.

The Toughbook H1 is set to simplify and speed up clinical processes.

Does that mean I will actually see my doctor at 8:30 a.m. for an 8:30 a.m. appointment?

We can only hope. 

The specs

* Bright 500-nit 10.4" dual touch display offering both touchscreen and tablet digitizer input

* MIL-STD-810F- and IP54-compliant

* Fully-rugged durability for health-care use with sealed fanless design and reminder system for improved sanitization

* 3.4-pound lightweight, ergonomic design with integrated carrying handle, hand strap and easel footing

* Intel® Atom^TM Processor

* Hot-swappable twin batteries provide limitless hours of use

* 80GB shock-mounted hard drive

* Comes standard with built-in RFID reader, 2MP camera, full-resolution fingerprint reader, contactless smartcard reader, 802.11 a/b/g/draft-n WiFi and Bluetooth® 2.0

* Optional 2D barcode scanner, Gobi^TM 3G global mobile Internet (WWAN) and GPS

* Standard 3-year limited warranty

- Source: Panasonic.com

Story published Friday, December 5, 2008 ( Volume 3, Number 7 )