With the Semi-Rugged Toughbook CF-54, Panasonic brought budget, durability and performance together into a sleek package; taking the feedback they received from the hugely successful CF-54, Panasonic has improved upon the design and released the FZ-55 Toughbook. Virtually identical in form factor visually, the FZ-55 improves upon the CF-54 in key aspects. More durable, the FZ-55 Toughbook is now IP53 protected against dust and liquid spills compared to the CF-54 IP51 rating. Doubling the amount of audio microphones, adding an infrared webcam and increasing the decibel output of the speakers, the FZ-55 improves the users audio/visual experience. Featuring a standard default 512GB SSD, 8GB and 8^th generation Intel processors, the Toughbook 55 also increases performance from its predecessor on all fronts. One of the biggest complaints with the CF-54 is the user having to wait (often 30-90 days) for the required configuration to be manufactured, Panasonic has rectified this by adding modular user upgrades as an option for the FZ-55. Everything from extra batteries, different ports, insertable smartcard readers to fingerprint readers and dedicated graphics can be added by the user, post factory to an FZ-55 they already own or is readily available. The upgrades for the Toughbook 55 come in the form of xPaks, cafeteria style choices that can occupy one of 3 bays on the FZ-55. Upgrades can be as simple as plug and play for new xPak modules, with some requiring a few security screws. This user upgradeable experience is unprecedented in the rugged industry and a huge leap forward for the Toughbook brand. Another user requested feature for the new Toughbook that Panasonic listened to is backwards compatibility. The FZ-55 is compatible with all CF-54 desktop and vehicle docks. The Toughbook 55 took everything you know and love about the CF-54 and improved upon it, paving the way for more innovation and ease of use in the rugged world. If you are interested in purchasing an FZ-55 or have any questions, visit us at: https://theruggedstore.wpengine.com/panasonic-toughbook-fz-55-current-generation/