First semi-rugged notebook optimized for vehicle-deployed workforces with new DynaVue all-light viewable display technology.
SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. - General Dynamics Itronix introduced today its next-generation semi-rugged notebook computer, the GoBook VR-2, featuring the new Intel ® Core 2 Duo processor T7300 at 2.0 GHz and superior ergonomic and wireless features. Designed to meet the demanding needs of mobile workers in a variety of commercial, field service, public safety and military markets, the GoBook VR-2 offers a unique 13.3-inch display featuring DynaVue - a recently announced patent-pending display technology - that offers superior touchscreen viewability in all lighting conditions, even direct sunlight.
"This next-generation semi-rugged product represents the culmination of our expertise in designed-in ruggedness, integrated wireless capabilities and performance, with cutting-edge display innovation for unparalleled outdoor touchscreen display viewability," said Ben Thacker, vice president of strategic marketing for General Dynamics Itronix. "Based on customer input, these features were designed to deliver a best-in-class, semi-rugged notebook that is flexible and well suited for vehicle-based and office-based mobile workers," Thacker said.
J. Gerry Purdy, Ph.D., vice president and chief analyst, Mobile and Wireless, at global industry analyst firm Frost & Sullivan, was impressed with the overall feature set of the new semi-rugged notebook; "Companies with mobile workers require attributes in their rugged mobile computing devices such as wireless signal strength and radio choices, overall durability, high performance processing power and outdoor viewability," Purdy said. "The GoBook VR-2 notebook from General Dynamics Itronix delivers significant functionality in all of these key attribute areas and, for the first time, an astonishing degree of outdoor viewability on a touchscreen. I was amazed at the clarity of the new DynaVue technology as it was displayed on the GoBook VR-2's touchscreen in bright sunlight. I realized then that to produce a great outdoor viewing solution, it isn't about generating more backlight power. It's about reducing reflection and focusing on contrast ratio. General Dynamics Itronix has done just that, and produced a superior outdoor viewing result with its DynaVue display technology."
GoBook VR-2 Product Features
The GoBook VR-2's capabilities and features distinguish it as the fastest, most durable semi-rugged, outdoor-viewable wireless notebook available.
Brightness Beyond "Nits" - The DynaVue Difference
The DynaVue display technology virtually eliminates internal reflections that wash out touchscreen displays and DynaVue dramatically improves direct sunlight contrast ratio for improved viewability and fine details definition. DynaVue also helps optimize the notebook's battery and processor performance without adding extra weight. Prior to DynaVue, computer display manufacturers tried various methods to increase display brightness. Some attempts came with undesirable side-effects - like diminished battery life, distorted colors and reduced contrast. DynaVue employs an innovative approach for inside and outside work environments and provides a proper balance between brightness and contrast ratio.
Performance
The only semi-rugged notebook with external antenna connections and a built-in global positioning system (GPS), the GoBook VR-2 works even in challenging environments. On the motherboard, the Intel Core2 Duo processor T7300 2.0GHz and Intel 965GM Express chip set provide outstanding performance.
"By using the newest Intel Core2 Duo processor, the GoBook VR-2 notebook provides the high level of performance required by public safety professionals, utilities technicians and others who have demanding, mission critical computing needs," said Erik Reid, marketing director, Intel Mobile Platforms Group.
Ergonomics
At a mere 6.2 pounds, with a full-size, spill-resistant keyboard, the GoBook VR-2 offers more carry and docking options than any other semi-rugged notebook. With a dedicated office dock and an external keyboard, as well as an optional dedicated vehicle dock, the GoBook VR-2 easily makes the transition from the office to the outside, making it ideal as a true dual-purpose laptop for "road warriors" as well as industrial and military users.
Ruggedness
The GoBook VR-2 provides the highest level of drop protection of any semi-rugged notebook, with a published drop spec of 6 drops from 30 inches. Designed from the ground up to be the most rugged semi-rugged notebook, the GoBook VR-2 meets military specifications for temperature, dust and humidity for fully rugged systems (IP 5x), which makes it suitable for use in harsh and unpredictable environments. The GoBook VR-2 is optimized for vehicle-docked applications like those used in law enforcement, public safety and industries with field-deployed service personnel.
Connectivity
The VR-2 includes integrated wireless WWAN that provides wide area wireless coverage across the globe; an integrated five-band antenna for worldwide roaming capability; and Bluetooth Class 2 connectivity, with a range of up to 33 feet (10 meters). The only semi-rugged notebook with external antenna connections, the VR-2 is the first semi-rugged system to include integrated wireless 802.11n-level WiFi connectivity, in addition to 802.11 a/b. The GoBook VR-2 is also the only semi-rugged notebook with integrated GPS for mapping and workforce management applications, and features a quadra-helix antenna for faster and more accurate "fixes."
Security
The GoBook VR-2 incorporates multiple levels of both physical and software security:
TPM 1.2 secure micro-controller with added cryptographic functionalities. It works with supporting software and firmware to prevent unauthorized access to a notebook computer. The TPM contains a hardware engine to perform up to 2048-bit RSA encryption/decryption and uses a built in RSA engine during digital signing and key wrapping operations. Stealth mode lets the user turn off the screen, audio, LEDs, task light, fan, WWAN, WLAN and Bluetooth to ensure safe performance in critical environments (available August 2007). With a "super password," the user can individually disable hardware that could be used to transfer data and selectively disable PC card slots, CD, DVD, Ethernet, Express, WLAN, WWAN, Bluetooth and the communications and USB ports (available August 2007). A BIOS pre-boot password, to keep thieves out of sensitive data by forcing a password prior to Windows boot-up (available August 2007). Optional biometric fingerprint reader enables high security and the gradual elimination of numerous passwords. Optional vehicle dock includes a three-point locking system that ensures a solid connection and deters theft.Availability/pricing
The GoBook VR-2 semi-rugged notebook is available for immediate shipment; suggested U.S. list price for a base configuration is $3,500. A custom vehicle dock is available for $499. Through the Corporate Branding Program, customers who order a minimum quantity of 200 systems can have the notebooks customized with their organization's colors, label and logo.
About General Dynamics Itronix
A world-class developer of wireless, rugged computing systems, applications and technology for mobile workers in a variety of commercial field service markets, the government and military, General Dynamics Itronix exemplifies the computing technologies capabilities of General Dynamics and offers a full range of wireless field computing systems, from handhelds to notebooks to tablet computers, mobile servers and thin clients. General Dynamics Itronix is based in Spokane Valley, Wash., with European-based operations in Coventry, England. General Dynamics Itronix is a part of General Dynamics C4 Systems, a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology. Additional information about products and services is available at www.gd-itronix.com.
About General Dynamics
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 82,600 people worldwide and had 2006 revenues of $24.1 billion. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies.
