Toughbook CF-30 keyboard options

I know that there are several types of keyboards..

From what I know there is a standard style keyboard, a style similar to current macbooks, and a fully rubberized.

Reading here, the standard style is described as semi water proof, but the entire computer seems completely waterproof, and I cant see them offering a keyboard that is such a weakpoint.

http://images.google.com/imgres?img...firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&sa=N shows a cup of water poured on an older model with a standard keyboard, which seems to be just about completely waterproof.

Is this the case with the standard keyboard on the CF-30?

Thanks for the info guys.

 

Yes it is the same it will not hurt the keyboard.

The oher style is completly waterproof which is better but really not needed as the toughbooks are water resistant not waterproof.

The major reason people want the other keyboards is they have backlighting so you can see them inthe dark and they are much easier to clean when you get them dirty.

Water can be poured and splashed on toughbooks but they cannot be submerged under water.

-James

 

Cuhna,
The CF-30 does have three types of keyboard.
1. Standard, Looks pretty much like any laptop keyboard and is at least water resistant, can take splashing and rain, but is not well protected from crud and dirt etc getting between and under keys.
2. Fully rubberized, which is completely encased in a silicon rubber, illuminated, and immune from dirt, crud, and water. Some don't like the effort required to type on these.
3. Emissive, Sort of a cross between the above, is also backlit, but has more protection to keep crud and dirt from getting under the keys. It is at least water resistant and types just like a standard keyboard.
All of the keyboards sit on a surface which is well sealed and which should keep water out unless the computer is actually submerged.
Hope this helps,
CAP
Edit: I was typing while James was posting but its all valid.

 

Both of your posts are helpful so I am glad that I was able to read them both.

Thanks a ton. I am just sort of re-discovering the toughbooks and reading about them is pretty exciting. Passive cooling and a completely sealed system is wonderful. I dont plan on doing anything extremely out of the ordinary for the computer, but I like the idea of a computer that is actually made to work well and tested to do so. One I can keep with me and not have to worry about what happens to it (besides taking it scuba diving or rolling it down a cliff)

I want one, and for my uses I think the standard keyboard is correct, though the fully rubberized is of course, the coolest.

Which rubberized models are compatible with the CF-30?

 

Under the keyboard the connecter wires where they enter the base of the toughbook are sealed with a metal cover, which uses a foam gasket to seal

This does not provide a totally complete seal ( as in able to be submerged)
The rubber keyboard is my favourite for spill resistance as it provides a better barrier for water to wash off and away

The issue that the rubber keyboard has, is that of touch feel
Depending on how much you use it, or how fast you type you might not like it
It’s purpose is to provide maximum water resistance for outdoor use



Alex

 

The keyboards from CF-2X models work?

 

I wouldn't try it....

As a general rule... ALL Toughbook keyboards are "Water Resistant"... NOTHING PANASONIC sells is waterproof! There is a BIG difference. I can't remember what the rule of thumb is but to be called waterproof... Something has to go below a certain depth for a certain period of time.

You can pour water on all Toughbook keyboards.... Now Maple syrup.... Coffee with sugar... Then THAT is a different story! It all depends on what you need/want it for. If it will be subject to water/grease... Get a rubberized one... They type slower but won't foul. (It's also illuminated and the least expensive of the illuminated ones. The plain one will work fine unless you need to see it at night. (In which case you could probably bend your screen over and turn up the screen brightness like everyone does on their other laptops! The emissive are the best in my opinoin.... But sticky stuff WILL get them.... It all depends on what you need!

 

Are CF-30 keyboards specific to CF-30's or are there some compatible models?

Thanks for all the help. Now I just have to find one I can afford. Passive cooling is such a wonderful idea..

 

No, CF-29 and CF-30 keyboards are the same. The only difference with a CF-30 is that their are hooks that hook the keyboard into place (a bracket per-say that you would have to remove from the original keyboard and put on whatever upgrade keyboard you are installing).

The emmisive one I have for example I had on my CF-29 2 years ago before I got my CF-30. When I got my 30 I simply swapped it out and sold my CF-29 with the normal keyboard.

 

In a week or so James, forum user name (Zippyman) will have 1 or 2 cf-30's for sale
Send him a pm before he lists on ebay etc


Alex