Al-Futtaim Panatech wins deal from Emirates Airlines for Panasonic's latest range of rugged laptops

Al-Futtaim Panatech LLC, a part of the Al Futtaim Group is the sole UAE distributor of Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE, the leading global manufacturer of security, telecommunication, office solutions and consumer electronics.

The Toughbook CF-18, driven by Intel's Centrino mobile technology, is a power-packed notebook PC, fully convertible to Tablet PC design. It is powered by an ultra low voltage Pentium M processor 900MHz, and has a 256MB SDRAM expandable to 768MB. The two kg lightweight computer comes with a rugged magnesium alloy case and offers advanced features usually associated with full-size notebooks, including a writable touch screen, integrated wide area wireless and WLAN. The laptop comes with a shock-mounted rugged, removable HDD (hard disk drive), drop shock-resistant up to three feet. The CF-18 is also RTCA/DO-160D (Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics) certified for use on board aircraft under 115V, 400Hz power input conditions, thus complying with international aviation standards.

'We are pleased to be chosen by Emirates Airlines Group to provide the CF-18 series of Toughbook laptops. We had earlier supplied the airline with more than 60 units of the CF-27 range, which were well appreciated for their functionality and efficiency, and this has prompted them to upgrade to the new CF-18 series. The airline has placed an initial order for use on board the A340 fleet by the airline's pilots. The Toughbook series offers a rugged combination of durability, functionality and unparalleled processing power. All equipment used on board an aircraft has to meet stringent demands, owing to the specific requirements of the airline industry. The Tough Book CF-18 is our answer to the need for rugged laptops that can be used by engineers, pilots and for other mission critical operations,' said Sam Turel, General Manager, Al-Futtaim Panatech LLC.

To ensure compliance with the airline's stringent standards, Panasonic has strengthened the CF-18's functionality by developing installing a 400hz AC adaptor. The laptop is loaded with mission critical software enabling pilots to access information like aircraft thrust, temperature, wind, load calculation and other necessary trouble-shooting data. The HDD (hard disk drive) can be removed enabling easy and frequent data transfer. The laptop's touch screen functionality, removable HDD and easy conversion to a tablet PC format are also added advantages.

'The Toughbook CF-18 offers the ideal solution for in-flight usage and reflects Panasonic's commitment to offer high levels of performance, technological innovation and durability in a portable computer. The laptop's energy efficient lithium iron battery has a runtime of over six hours making it ideal during long-haul flights or delays. The cockpit is often flooded with bright sunlight, making it difficult to view a computer screen, however the CF-18's thin-glass display is fitted with trans-reflective technology that can block out excess sunlight. It can take a fall of up to 3 feet on the concrete with no damage and withstand liquid spills as well,' said Mohammed Omer, Manager, Office Automation and Systems Communication, Al-Futtaim Panatech.

'With this initial order, we intend to work towards developing comprehensive solutions for the airline industry including extending the laptop's use through connectivity to other equipment for added cockpit security,' added Omer.