CF-19 vs CF-30

Hi Folks,

I am excited about getting a toughbook for use on my boat. As this would be my first toughbook I am looking for some advice between these models. Because of cost I am thinking about a refurb unit but, I am open to peoples thoughts. Here is what I items I would like to get and I am don't have a problem getting it upgraded.

1. Built in Gobi
2. GPS in the laptop
3. 1000nit screen big plus
4. Touchscreen would be nice as I will be using charting software
5. Ability to hook up as many external antennaes as possible. I will install several on my boat to boost my gain.
6. Kind of like the table but, not sure how practical the 10.3 screen is.

Using for basic web serfing. Downloading sat images from google earth and charting navigation software.

Thanks!

 

The cf-30 is the best choice for a boat
The 13.3 inch screen is superior to the smaller screen in that application

The cf-18/cf-19 is great for automotive navigation, or portable use
I have used both for marine use



Alex

 

In my opinion, the basic differences between the CF-30 and CF-19 boil down to:

1. Screen size
2. Weight
3. Optical Drive
4. Processor

(The rest is pretty much upgradeable to be comparable.)

The CF-30 has a bigger screen, faster processor, and optical drive. The CF-19 weighs 2 lbs or so less and is more compact/portable and can be used as a tablet.

 

Can either model be upgraded with the new Gobi card? Almost all the refurb units I see on ebay or off PlanitROI don't include any wireless. Anything I need to look out for?

Thanks!!

 

You can always send anything you want to Heartland to have it installed... Or buy a wireless-ready CF-30 and then buy the Gobi and just slide it in and load the software.

 

The Gobi system is fairly new, which narrows your chances of finding a refurb, or used unit. Heartland would be able to install it for you though.

The 1000Nit screen is only available with Touch. I wish they would change that, but they must have a good reason for not allowing it.

I have the 30 and love it, it's used mostly in my vehicle. I do remember the 1st time I saw the 19. It was after I recieved my 30, and I was suprised at how much smaller it was. Very glad I got the 30 instead. Of course, that's just my opinion, and with my application use in mind.

If I was getting a new TB I would without doubt get a Gobi. The wireless industry is going to be making some big advances in the very near future, I would not want to be locked in with 1 certain carrier.

Hope this helps a little!

 

Toughbook were would one be able to order just the gobi online? I am no stranger to self assembly. Hell I just had to take apart my GPS nav unit on my boat to solder in a battery on my boat.

Toyo I was wondering that as well about the CF-19 seeming small. Does the 30 work well for you in your vehicle? I also planning on taking this with me in jeep when off roading.

Does anyone really use the 19 in tablet mode? That would be the only reason I would go that route but, I have never used one. Do you get a virtual tough keyboard in tablet mode?

Great forum!

 

Scurvy, I love my 30 in my vehicle. Mine is mounted in a Gamber/Johnson Mag Docking Station. Here is the link. http://concept.gamberjohnson.com/catalog/item/docking/7160-0119-02 You could get a universal motion attachment so you could swap them in and out of your car & boat easier.

If I was in your shoes I would go with the 30. Forget about the wieght, the handles on the TB's make it a non issue. Besides, if you want durability, you have to sacrifice a little. A sacrifice I love everyday!

If I still had my boat, I would much rather have had the bigger 30 than the 19. Don't take this as I don't like the 19, I am thinking of getting one to use inside my house, or anywhere I would need a computer besides my vehicle.

 

The Gobi has to be installed by a panasonic approved service center/retailer

Look at the Gamber/Johnson mounts avalable for both models as Toyo recomends

In tablet mode the cf-19 is very compact and will take up very little space
And yes there is a software keyboard


Alex

 

Hi Tomcat. In my boat the bigger laptop would be nice but, mounted in my jeep which is not some big honking SUV a smaller laptop in a vehicle mount would be nice. Maybe I will see if I can find a retailer in Seattle that has some that I can go play and touch.

 

The cf19 will usualy work better in most automotive applications as you can place it a bit higher for a better view
Works in tablet mode,and with a good bracket will take up little space and will be secure

How big is your boat?


Alex

 

I was looking at the docking stations for the CF-19 and they look pretty small. The ability to put it in tablet mode in my jeep would be pretty damn cool.

My wife and I have a Ocean Alexander 42'

 

If you have an Ocean Alexander 42'... Then you need BOTH!

Or.. Get the CF-30 for your boat and a CF-18 for the car/house. Now THERE is an idea! Heck... A CF-29 for the boat and a CF-18 for everything else....

There are a million combinations with Toughbooks!

 

Can the CF-18 or the CF-29 get an internal GPS installed or some of the 3G/EVDO cards? My goal is to get built in GPS and wireless (Gobi preferred) and if I can do that on one of the older models super!

 

Yes, yes and yes on both.

 

Personally, I love the new cf-19 mk 3 beause it has an LED backlight instead of flourescent. Both the 19 mk2/3 and 30 can use Gobi modems. They both have hookups for external antennas using the appropriate dock.

 

I took the plunge and got a CF-19 off of ebay. Should arrive tomorrow not sure if it is a mk2 or a mk3 though. First thing I am going to to do is send it back to Heartland I guess to get the Gobi card installed and start looking for a good docking station!

 

Excellent! I think those guys drop by here to help out on occasion. They are a good crowd there... And know their stuff.