Panasonic today announced upgrades to its Panasonic Toughbook CF-52 semi-rugged notebook and the business-rugged Toughbook CF-T8 tablet-alternative notebook computer, adding increased processor speeds, memory and Gobi mobile technology.

The Toughbook CF-52 now runs on the Intel Core i5 (up to 2.53GHz) processor and includes 2GB of RAM and up to a 250GB shock-mounted hard drive with quick release.

The upgraded Toughbook CF-52 also includes a range of new embedded wireless options, including Gobi 2000 mobile broadband technology from Qualcomm and adds A-GPS capabilities for easy integration with mapping software. Additionally the device has been upgraded with the latest Intel Wi-Fi chipset and Bluetooth 2.1. The Toughbook CF-52 is designed in such a way that Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G mobile broadband and, in the near future, WiMax modules can be optionally embedded into the same unit, permitting a high level of flexibility for mobile data access.

Toughbook CF-T8 now with Microsoft Windows 7, improved processor and storage.

The updated Toughbook CF-T8, designed for Walking Workers in areas such as healthcare sales or market research agents, now features a 1.6GHz Intel Core 2 Processor with vPro and a removable 250GB of shock mounted flex-connect hard drive. Other improvements include the use of Microsoft Windows 7 Professional (with XP downgrade option) and Bluetooth 2.1. The device delivers up to 8 hours of battery life.

The Toughbook CF-T8 also includes optional integrated Gobi mobile broadband technology from Qualcomm Inc. that allows connections to high-speed mobile Internet services offered by leading network operators virtually anywhere in the world. Other wireless features include Intel Wireless WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1.

Designed with input from “walking workers,” the Toughbook CF-T8 features a 12.1” inch, anti-glare XGA touchscreen LCD, stylus, screen rotating software and convenient rubber hand strap for easy use.