General Dynamics outs ultra-tough GD8000 notebook
updated 02:10 pm EDT, Mon March 16, 2009
General Dynamics notebook
General Dynamics' sub-brand GD-Itronix has released its latest ultra-rugged notebook PC, the 13.3-inch GD8000. The company is claiming the Intel Core 2 Duo processor-powered PC is the toughest offering possible, as it exceeds the US military's MIL-STD 810F specifications for rugged design. While the spec calls for withstanding drops from three feet while off and consequently being able to boot up 26 times, GD-Itronix says its product can be dropped from an extra half-foot high when running and still boot up. The GD8000 also holds up to 30 gallons of water being sprayed at 40mph for four hours straight. The PC's die-cast magnesium chassis is built to withstand other hazards, such as dust and temperature extremes.
The relatively heavy 6.9lb notebook uses a 1.86GHz Core 2 Duo processor and is paired with 2GB of RAM. Intel's integrated 4500MHD with 1GB of shared video memory handles graphics. A standard 120GB 2.5-inch drive holds either Windows XP or Vista, while a 64GB solid state drive is an option.
Wireless is relatively broad with 802.11n Wi-Fi networking as well as Bluetooth 2.0 for peripherals and an integrated GPS sensor for mapping. Users have a choice of optional 2G or 3G broadband connections.
The 1024x768 resolution screen is viewable in daylight, while the keyboard is lit up, helping users work be it day or night. For security, GD-Itronix offers a fingerprint reader in addition to a Smart Card reader, with Computrace theft recovery and data protection agent in BIOS another option. The 7,200mAH battery is estimated to run for 5 hours, and the DVD burner can be swapped out for a second, 3,800mAH battery.
The GD8000 is available now and starts at $3,800. [via Crave]
