The processor has Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology allowing it to hit 3.33Ghz when the extra performance is needed and it has a 4MB Intel Smart Cache too. The machine has a 15.6-inch 1000NIT QuadraClear HD resolution display available and graphics are powered by an NVIDIA GT330M MXM GPU. That GPU has 512MB of its own RAM. The machine has a bunch of options to choose from as well.

For instance, the machine can be had with a multitouch screen, MIL-SPEC connectors, and an expansion unit that is able to support two PCIe cards or a pair of PCI cards. The standard connectivity on the X500 includes three USB 2.0 ports, a SATA/USB combo port, dual PCMCIA ports, ExpressCard, SmartCard, HDMI, and VGA ports. The rig also has a full size keyboard with a numeric pad. Pricing is unknown at this time.

This S400 14-inch notebook is made for such situations as emergency services, light military, utility services, and project managers in the field, so says Getac. I hope they mean in the field of flying knives and nail guns set off safety, because that’s what I’d be looking for in a laptop. Perhaps they do, as the outside boasts tough Kryptoshell chasis and can survive with no damage between minus 15-degrees and 45-degrees Celsius.

The S400 is IP5X and MIL-STD-810G certified, which accounts for the dust, moisture in the air, and bashes, then you’ve got some options. There’s either an Intel Core i3-350M 2.26GHz or an Intel Core i5-520M 2.4GHz processor, for screen size: 14-inch, 1366 x 768, anti-reflection screen display, and you can have it configured to include a 700nit display. You can work the display with your gloves on, too, as it supports Getac’s resistive-type multi touchscreen. The S400 connects via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, optional integrated modem, has GPS and a Gobi 2000 3G module. Finally it’s got the option of a 320GB HDD or a 80GB SSD for storage.

[Via Pocket Lint]

Those new features include an Intel Core i7 2Ghz CPU that can run at 2.8GHz with Turbo Boost tech enabled. The machine has two display options to choose from. The options include a 700 nit brightness display and a display with a class leading 1400 nit brightness. The 1400 nit display has Getac exclusive Quadra Clear tech for easy viewing in direct sunlight and in reflective conditions like sand and snow.

The machine also has a -20 operation option that is standard on all pre-configured machines. Getac also offers a dual battery option that allows the machine to run for 22 hours straight per charge. Gobi 2000 mobile broadband is now available in pre-configured machines. The starting price for the rugged notebook is $3799 and a version with the high-end display and Gobi sells for $4899.

Other specs include gigabit ethernet, Bluetooth 2.1, USB, VGA, RS232, eSATA, an SD card reader and PCMCIA, while GPS and 3G are optional.  Buyers can optionally swap out the standard 320GB hard-drive for an 80GB SSD, too.  Data security is taken care of with a smartcard reader, fingerprint scanner and hardware encryption, and you can swap the battery without having to completely shut down the tablet.

The touchscreen is resistive, which was an intentional decision: that means gloved fingers can use it, handy when you’re in icy conditions.  We’re waiting to hear back on pricing.

Update: Getac tell us the V200 is priced between $3,799 and $5,099 depending on screen size and options ordered.

Update 2: Getac also says the V100 will remain on sale alongside the V200, offering users a choice of screen sizes.

Press Release:

GETAC INTRODUCES WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL FULLY RUGGED CONVERTIBLE POWERED BY AN INTEL CORE i7 2.0 GHZ PROCESSOR

Intel® Core™ i7 2.0 GHz Processor, 1200 NITs QuadraClear™ Display,
Glove-Friendly Multi-Touch LCD, Full-Size 88-Key Keyboard, LifeSupport™ Battery Swapping System Option and 5-Year Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty

IRVINE, CA. September 07, 2010– Getac, a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, is introducing its new V200 rugged convertible, the world’s most powerful fully rugged convertible notebook*. The V200 also offers more features and functions than previous models, making it one of the most useful all-purpose rugged convertibles on the market.

The V200 is powered by the advanced Intel Core i7-620LM processor running at 2.0GHz, MAX 2.8GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, the most powerful processor available in a fully rugged convertible notebook to date. The 4MB of Intel L3 Smart Cache is readily available to each of the processor cores, improving efficiency while increasing processor speed. At only 25-watts consumption, the Core i7-620LM helps the V200 outperform other rugged convertibles by up to 47 percent.

Perfectly suited for vehicle mounting or field use, the notebook-to-tablet V200 convertible features a 12.1-inch wide screen display and comes standard with Getac’s exclusive 1200 NITs QuadraClear™ technology, enabling users to easily read and operate their computer under direct sunlight. In addition, the display offers a resistive multi-touch capability enabling workers to manipulate the screen by a series of single and multi-finger gestures even while wearing gloves—a necessity when working in extreme weather conditions or dangerous environments.

“The new V200 is the most powerful and feature rich fully rugged convertible available,” explains Jim Rimay, president, Getac. “Its rugged design, fast processor and extensive features and functions make it the most useful, all-purpose tool for field-based applications in the industry.”

Weighing under 6 pounds, the V200 is MIL-STD-810G and IP65 compliant, adding to its rugged design and flawless performance in harsh environments. Along with its full magnesium alloy casing, the fully-rugged convertible comes standard with low-temperature operation allowing the computer to be used in -20C environments. The V200 also includes a shock mounted 320GB hard drive and sealed I/O caps and doors to prevent damage from solid particles and moisture. Users can also configure the V200 with an 80GB solid state drive.

Additional features that make Getac’s V200 one of the most advanced convertible include a full-size, 88-key keyboard for full functionality, 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity, and 10/100/1000 Giga LAN as standard features and GPS and 3G-Gobi 2000 multi-band wireless as available options. Numerous expansion interfaces including USB, VGA, RS232, eSATA, SD card reader, and PCMCIA, extend the flexibility and communications.

A built-in security feature using Intel® vPro™ technology enables IT specialists to maximize hardware-assisted security to better maintain, manage, and protect their business PCs. The V200 has a conveniently located finger print reader on the display face for the security required by government and corporate data management. Configured with a built-in Smart Card reader, the V200 increases identification & authentication security on administrator and remote access accounts while security criteria EAL 5+ encrypts valuable data by hardware, making data transfer more secure.

A groundbreaking new option on the V200 is Getac’s innovative LifeSupport™ battery swapping system. The LifeSupport™ battery swapping system allows field users to quickly change out a depleted battery with a fresh charged one. By entering standby mode, the user has approximately two minutes to replace the battery without shutting the computer down or closing applications.

By combining the company’s signature magnesium alloy casing with a super-fast processor, advanced design and other critical features and functions essential to field work, Getac has produced one of the most effective time-management tools available in the field.

As with all of Getac’s fully rugged notebook, tablet and convertible computers, the V200 is backed by the industry’s best 5-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the V200 is covered by a warranty that includes damage that occurs due to accidental acts and environmental exposure. The new V200 is will be available at the beginning of October through Getac Authorized Dealers.

About Getac
Getac Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Getac Technology Corporation. Getac Technology Corporation, a key subsidiary of MiTAC-Synnex Business Group (2009 consolidated revenue 18.3 billion USD) was established in 1989 as a joint venture with GE Aerospace to supply defense electronic products. Getac’s business coverage includes; rugged notebooks, rugged tablet PCs and rugged handheld devices for military, police, government, communications, manufacturing and transportation applications ranging from fully rugged and commercial-grade rugged. Getac’s strong R&D capabilities allow it to provide a high level of customization and all-aspect hardware-software integration solutions. Apart from the rugged computing business, Getac is also involved with the design and manufacture of plastic and lightweight metal components. The acquisition of Waffer Technology in 2009 has made Getac the world’s third largest aluminum-magnesium alloy producer. For more information, visit us.getac.com

* Testing conducted by Getac in July 2010. Performance tests are conducted using specific computer systems and reflect the approximate performance of the V200 versus competitive computers current at the time of testing.

The new CPU slots in alongside the Getac QuadraClear display, a 1,200 NIT panel designed for easy use while outdoors.  It also has glove-friendly multitouch, and the whole thing is clad in magnesium alloy, rubber and stainless steel.

Otherwise the same specs as before make an appearance, so there’s a shock-mounted 320GB hard-drive, waterproof keyboard, rotating 2-megapixel webcam, Bluetooth and WiFi, along with optional GPS and 3G.  No word on pricing for the updated model; we’re checking in with the company now.

Press Release:

GETAC UPGRADES ITS POPULAR V100 CONVERTIBLE PC WITH UP TO 47% HIGHER PERFORMANCE

Intel® Core™ i7 Processor, 1200 NITs QuadraClear™ Display,
Glove-Friendly Multi-Touch Display All Protected with Magnesium
Alloy Casing and 5-Year Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty

IRVINE, CA. July 15, 2010 — Getac Inc., a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, is upgrading its popular V100 fully rugged convertible with several new features and upgrades, including an Intel® Core™ i7 1.2 GHz processor, the fastest dual-core processor of any rugged convertible on the market.

Tests show the new V100 clocks in at up to 47% faster than its predecessor by combining Turbo Boost Technology for processor-intensive applications and a 4MB Intel Smart Cache, readily available to each of the processor cores, to ensure maximum performance whenever and wherever it’s needed. For field workers who find themselves in dangerous and extreme environmental conditions, system speed and performance is a critical and mandatory feature and the V100 convertible now offers the fastest in its class.

Another important feature of a rugged mobile computer is the ability to view the display in direct sunlight. The V100 offers Getac’s exclusive QuadraClear™ technology, which allows easy viewing in direct sunlight by incorporating special anti-reflective coatings, linear and circular polarizers, and a 1200 NIT LED display. In addition, the V100 provides glove-friendly, multi-touch technology for easy operation of its 10.4-inch display in extreme environments where industrial gloves are essential.

“The V100 fully rugged convertible has always been very popular because of its advanced feature set and super bright 1200 NITS screen,” said Jim Rimay, president, Getac. “With better performance, memory, storage and wireless capabilities, the new Getac V100 is more advanced and flexible as ever and even better suited for mobile field workers and users of rugged notebook PCs.”

Weighing a comfortable five pounds, the V100 is MIL-STD-810G and IP65 compliant and ready for almost any environment or extreme working conditions. Its Magnesium alloy case, shock mounted 320GB hard disk drive and sealed I/O caps and doors prevent damage from solid particles, moisture, and sudden impacts often associated field applications.

The V100, which easily transforms into a rugged tablet PC with one quick rotation of the display, includes a number of additional standard features including a full-size waterproof, 83-key membrane keyboard for ease of use, Windows 7 (downgradable to Windows XP), an integrated 200 degree reversible 2.0MP webcam, PCMCIA expansion slot and SD card reader, wireless Bluetooth and the industry-leading 5-year, bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Optional features include MIL-STD 461F, SATA 80GB SSD drive, dual-touch mode 1200 NITs QuadraClear™ sunlight readable LED display (multi-touch and digitizer), 83-key waterproof backlit rubber keyboard, fingerprint scanner, 3G Gobi™ 2000, and GPS system.

About Getac
Getac Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Getac Technology Corporation. Getac Technology Corporation, a key subsidiary of MiTAC-Synnex Business Group (2009 consolidated revenue 18.3 billion USD) was established in 1989 as a joint venture with GE Aerospace to supply defense electronic products. Getac’s business coverage includes; rugged notebooks, rugged tablet PCs and rugged handheld devices for military, police, government, communications, manufacturing and transportation applications ranging from fully rugged and commercial-grade rugged. Getac’s strong R&D capabilities allow it to provide a high level of customization and all-aspect hardware-software integration solutions. Apart from the rugged computing business, Getac is also involved with the design and manufacture of plastic and lightweight metal components. The acquisition of Waffer Technology in 2009 has made Getac the world’s third largest aluminum-magnesium alloy producer. For more information, visit us.getac.com

That means the V100 Multitouch will be able to respond to pinch-zoom, rotate and other gestures even when the user is wearing protective gear, an important consideration if you’re stood outside in freezing weather or are on a building site. Despite using a resistive panel, accuracy is still high: Getac claim 2048×2048 resolution, 100 points per second report rate and less than 35ms response time.

No word on when we’ll see the Getac V100 with multitouch up for sale, nor for how much.  We’ve got a request for more details in with the company, and will update when we hear back from them.

Press Release:

GETAC ANNOUNCES TECHNOLOGY BREAKTHROUGH WITH RESISTIVE-TYPE MULTI-TOUCH TECHNOLOGY FOR “HANDS-ON” APPLICATIONS WITH OR WITHOUT GLOVES

New Technology Allows Touch-Screen Gestures to Move and Edit Documents; Navigate Files and System Applications in the Most Extreme Environments

LAKE FOREST, CA. October 7, 2009 — Getac Inc., a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, announced that its line of rugged Tablet PCs will be the first rugged computers to offer a Multi-Touch screen for use with or without gloves. Having Multi-Touch technology on Getac’s V100 Tablet PC will allow users to move and edit documents, rotate maps and photos, zoom in and zoom out the maintenance manuals, and navigate numerous system applications by using a series of “gestures” with their fingers.

The new Multi-Touch technology uses a series of single touch, dual touch, “flick,” and application gestures. Users of Getac’s V100 Tablet PC will now be able to quickly and easily perform numerous on-screen tasks such as move, copy, delete, zoom, and rotate by simply touching the screen and performing the task desired with their fingers. Getac’s Resistive Multi-Touch technology is not based on capacitance sensitivity, which means users can perform these actions, and many others while wearing protective gloves. This makes it ideal for industrial and field professionals who work with dangerous chemicals or perform their job in extreme weather conditions. Even with gloves, the sensitivity and accuracy of the multi-touch screen is extremely high. The screen features 2048×2048 resolution, 100 points per second report rate, and less than 35ms response time.

“Our customers work in some of the most extreme environments and weather conditions where touch screen technology and flick gestures are faster, safer, and more convenient than using a keypad,” says Jim Rimay, president, Getac. “As a leading innovator in advanced rugged computer technology, it is only fitting that Getac is the first to offer Multi-Touch technology that can be used with or without gloves,” added Rimay.

Getac’s Multi-Touch technology will also offer complete compatibility with Microsoft’s Windows 7 when it is launched later this month.

Still, there’s a spill-resistant keyboard and touchpad, and the rest of the hardware specs aren’t exactly lacking.  A 45nm Intel Core 2 Duo Penryn-class ULV processor provides the grunt, along with 3GB of RAM and 160GB HDD (250GB optional), and battery life is tipped at up to 8hrs.  Pop out the optical drive and you can fit a second battery, pushing that figure up to 12hrs. 

There’s also WiFi a/g/n, Bluetooth, a 1.3-megapixel webcam and digital microphone array.  A fingerprint scanner and integrated TPM security module round out the hardware.  The Getac 9213 is available now, with an MRSP of $1,799.

Press Release:

GETAC INTRODUCES NEW 9213 BUSINESS RUGGED NOTEBOOK

Light, Compact Notebook Offers World-Class Rugged Protection and Advanced Features and Functions Found Only in Larger, Heavier Notebooks

LAKE FOREST, CA. July 09, 2009 — Getac Inc., a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, is introducing its smallest and lightest business-rugged notebook computer. With its full magnesium alloy chassis and case and shock mounted HDD and LCD, the Getac 9213 can handle all the bumps, drops, and mishaps that would render conventional commercial notebook computers useless. In addition, it boasts a spill-resistant keyboard, touchpad and surrounding surface to protect the notebook from accidents that often happen in “friendlier” surroundings like the office. These rugged features, along with its compact size, lightweight design and advanced functions, make the Getac 9213 the ideal mobile computing companion everywhere business takes you.

As a business notebook powered by the latest ultra-low voltage 45nm Intel Core 2 Duo Penryn Processor, the Getac 9213 provides outstanding battery life up to 8 hours and its removable optical drive allows for an additional battery for up to 12 hours of power – a must-have option for on-site and remote operation.

When it comes to data security, the Getac 9213 is at the top of its class. Advanced solutions for added security include a built-in TPM security module and fingerprint scanner to ensure only authorized personnel are gaining access to valuable and sensitive documents. Its shock-protected HDD also ensures that information is safe from damage due to excessive abuse from everyday use in the field.

“Our customers and resellers have been asking for a business-rugged computer that is small and lightweight but still offers many of the durability and security features found in our fully-rugged products,” says Jim Rimay, president, Getac, Inc. “By leveraging 20 years building fully rugged computers, we were able to design the new Getac 9213 to withstand the drops, shocks and spills mobile professionals experience in an incredibly lightweight system with excellent battery life.”

The Getac 9213 incorporates a number of additional features including a 1.3 megapixel webcam and two digital mic arrays. When combined with its built-in 802.11 a/g/n WLAN and Bluetooth functions, users can wirelessly communicate information, access the Web and interface with mobile devices and peripherals for optimal versatility. Its bright 13.3-inch widescreen WXGA TFT LCD monitor with LED backlight gives users the flexibility to effectively use the notebook in virtually any lighting condition. With 3GB of on-board memory and 160GB of storage (with optional 250GB capacity), users will find the 9213 to be fast and responsive.

About Getac
Getac, Inc., A subsidiary of MiTAC Technology Corporation, was founded in 1989 as a joint venture with GE Aerospace and has been a pioneer and innovator in the rugged mobile computing industry ever since. Getac provides premier fully rugged, rugged and semi-rugged notebook, tablet PC and handheld solutions for the military, law enforcement, public safety, utility, telecommunication, manufacturing, field service and mobile workforce industries. All Getac rugged models are strictly controlled and monitored from the design, manufacture, quality assurance to service flows, making Getac an industry-preferred rugged computer provider. For more information, visit www.getac.com.

This latest incarnation of the V100 has a 1.2GHz Intel ULV processor, up to 2GB of RAM (1GB in the tested config) and a 120GB removable hard-drive.  That’s a combination that will never toast a nearby Alienware rig, but it’s reasonable for a passively-cooled, super-sturdy model like the V100.  The crowing glory is the outdoor-viewable display, rated at 1,200 nits brightness – contrast that with a standard notebook, would be more like 250 nits – and actually painful to look at indoors at full blast. 

Basically, this is a very niche product and one that does pretty much just what it promises to.  Battery life is decent (around 4hrs with the display on minimum, which is still brighter than most notebooks can stretch to) and it’s obviously sturdy – all you need to do is find the $3,550 Getac will charge you.

Despite the OS, though, the GETAC PS535F doesn’t actually have a WWAN modem; instead the company expects you to tether their Bluetooth modem or another cellphone.  As well as Bluetooth 2.0 there’s WiFi b/g and an embedded GPS receiver; no memory expansion, though, so you’ll have to make do with the 2GB of onboard flash.

As you may have guessed, GETAC aren’t really positioning the PS535F as ideal for soccer moms and businesspeople; instead they see their target audience as industrial field workers, environmental engineers and geologists.  We’re waiting to hear when it will be released and how much it will cost.

Update: UK price will be £799 ($1,123)

Press Release:

GETAC Introduces Its New Fully Rugged GPS / PDA with on Board Camera, Altimeter and E-compass

LAKE FOREST, Calif. –(Business Wire)– Mar 02, 2009 GETAC Inc., a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, announced the latest addition to its comprehensive line of rugged mobile computing solutions. The GETAC PS535F handheld is the company’s next generation, fully rugged GPS-enabled PDA featuring a built-in 3 megapixel auto-focus camera, altimeter and E-compass. These new features will enable field-based employees to capture field data on-site and transmit that data back to headquarters in real-time. In addition, the PS535F will provide pinpoint navigation support for improved location-based productivity, which is critical with search-and-rescue missions.

The PS535F handheld PDA is perfectly suited for GIS surveying applications across different sectors including utilities, oil and gas, forest patrol, and surveying and mapping of geology and mineral resources. The built-in camera enables instant visual data capture in the field, and the 3.5” VGA touch screen display with sunlight readable technology dramatically enhances the viewing quality of graphic-intensive files and detailed maps, even in bright sunlight or snowy conditions.

In addition to its GPS system, the product’s built-in altimeter and E-compass provide advanced navigation features such as fixed positioning of longitude, latitude and altitude, as well as the ability to provide directional relations between the targeted subject and the user’s position. The PS535F also features comprehensive wireless connectivity options, including integrated Bluetooth V2.0 and 802.11b/g WiFi. Users can connect the PS535F to a GIS server and instantly transmit or process data in the field using a GETAC Bluetooth modem or mobile phone.

“Our customers typically work in high-intensity environments and situations, which demand seamless and accurate information exchange between the main office and field workers,” said Jim Rimay, president, GETAC. “The PS535F is the ideal solution for any field application that requires immediate response and action such as fire and rescue teams, utilities technicians, and Park Rangers. A great example is forest patrols reporting the location and fire hazard conditions to a fire center to assist fire rescue planning. Ultimately, GETAC’s PS535F handheld device improves overall operational efficiencies and productivity, which for firefighters can be a lifesaving feature.”

The GETAC PS535F features Windows Mobile 6.1 software for quick access to email, the Internet, texting and other means of mobile communications. Weighing a mere 10.7 ounces, the device can operate at full capacity for up to 8-hours on a fully-charged battery and is MIL-STD 810F compliant and IP54 certified to operate without failure under the most extreme weather conditions, environments and everyday abuse associated with its user base.

Getac PS535F Main Features

3.5” VGA Touch Screen Display
533MHz Samsung 2450 processor
Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.1
128Mb onboard MDDR
2GB onboard NAND Flash Storage ROM
MIL-STD 810F and IP54 compliant
Embedded GPS Receiver
3.0 Megapixel On-Board Camera
Altimeter and E-Compass
Integrated Bluetooth V2.0 and 802.11b/g capability
Sunlight Readable Display solution (optional)
8 Hour Battery Life
Dimensions: 5.7″ x 3.2″ x 1.2″
Weight: 10.6 oz