2008-07-03 14:27:08 -
- Ventyx Gary Frazier, 770-989-4188 (direct) gary.frazier@ventyx.com or Cohn & Wolfe for Panasonic Computer Solutions Company Aida Causevic, 415-365-8537 (direct) aida_causevic@sfo.cohnwolfe.com Toughbook-PRTeam@cohnwolfe.com Ventyx, the world's largest private software provider to the utility industry, today announced the availability of Service Suite(TM) for the Panasonic Toughbook(R) U1, the first rugged ultra mobile PC (UMPC) to integrate
the new low power Intel(R) Atom(TM) processor. The U1 reinvents handheld computing by integrating robust features previously only available on a full size Toughbook PC in a rugged UMPC form factor that can be used anywhere.
"Ventyx provides performance-proven enterprise workforce management solutions for the energy, utility and communications industries with more than 100,000 mobile users worldwide," said Kyp Walls, director of product management, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company. "The combination of Ventyx Service Suite and the Toughbook U1 enables utilities, telecommunications and cable/broadband companies to turn walking workers into knowledge workers equipped with an ultra-mobile computing solution within a rugged package for maximum durability for the environment in which they work."
Service Suite automates clients' service workflow end-to-end--from scheduling and optimization of order assignment, to dissemination of work to the field, order processing and performance measurement. The solution enables seamless, real-time data and communications flow between enterprise systems and mobile workers, enabling companies to increase operational efficiencies and heighten productivity, while optimizing performance and improving internal controls to reduce costs.
"With the Toughbook U1, our clients will have the value of portability available from a PDA combined with the power and robust feature set of a fully functional PC device," said Tony Morris, Ventyx Partner Manager. "Rather than leaving their laptops locked in the truck, field technicians can now have their device with them wherever they go--improving real-time communication, enhancing status tracking, and increasing workers' efficiency. As a result, Service Suite on the U1 will help our clients improve customer satisfaction through increased data accuracy, optimized service delivery and shorter resolution times."
The Toughbook(R) U1 runs the full-function Windows(R) XP and Windows Vista(R) operating systems, giving users unprecedented remote access to feature-rich software applications in the field. The Toughbook U1 features a thumb-friendly and always-accessible backlit QWERTY keyboard that makes data input fast and easy. State-of-the-art Panasonic LCD technology enables sunlight viewability with low-power, white LED backlighting. Its fanless all-weather design also reduces noise, weight and eliminates points of failure; its twin, long-lasting, hot-swappable batteries enable battery replacement without disrupting operation; and its magnesium alloy chassis delivers protection from bumps and drops of up to 4 feet. The solid state drive contributes to reliability, while also expanding the U1's operating temperature range.
Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Toughbook U1 UMPC will be available worldwide in August 2008. In the United States, the base U1 model is expected to be available at an estimated street price of $2,499 from authorized Panasonic resellers. Ventyx Service Suite is available immediately from Ventyx and its certified reseller partners. For more information, contact your local Ventyx sales representative or email
sales@ventyx.com.
About Ventyx
Ventyx is a leading business solutions provider, delivering asset management, mobile workforce management, customer care, energy trading and risk management, energy operations, and energy analytics solutions to more than 900 energy, utility and communications customers, as well as to asset-intensive customers in selected commercial markets. With approximately 1,200 employees in more than 20 locations worldwide, Ventyx delivers best-of-breed business solutions that maximize operational and financial performance, backed by the industry's deepest available industry-specific domain expertise. For more information, visit our Website at www.ventyx.com.
About Panasonic Computer Solutions Company
Panasonic Computer Solutions Company empowers the mobile workforce. The company is a unit of Panasonic Corporation of North America, which is the principal North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE: MC). Panasonic has delivered reliable, durable mobile solutions through its Toughbook(R) line of notebook computers for fifteen years and has expanded the boundaries of wireless communications technology through a broad portfolio of products, ranging from fully rugged, industrial strength notebook computers and tablet PCs to business-rugged thin and-light and ultraportable notebooks. A core manufacturer, Matsushita and its subsidiaries control the entire process of design, manufacture, quality assurance, service and support. As a result, Panasonic Toughbooks are known for having the lowest failure rates in the industry. Government, industrial, and commercial users--from Fortune 1,000 companies to small businesses--rely on solutions from Panasonic, wherever their work takes them.
All brand and company/product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies. All specifications are subject to change without notice. Information on Panasonic's full line of notebook PCs for the mobile professional can be obtained by calling 800-662-3537 or at
www.panasonic.com/toughbook.
Rugged Toughbook(R) Ultra Mobile PC Delivers Key Benefits for
Enterprise Workforce Management Clients
