The VAR Guy

Ubuntu Linux is now available on Panasonic Toughbooks — those rugged devices typically found in harsh environments and vertical markets like health care, transportation, real estate and insurance. But this blog entry comes with a twist — care of EmperorLinux, a system reseller in Atlanta, Georgia. Here’s the scoop.

Generally speaking, Panasonic has bet its Toughbook business on Windows-based systems, and Panasonic is gearing up for the Windows 7 launch on October 22. According to a notice on Panasonic’s Web site:

“Panasonic will begin offering Windows 7 as an option at the time of Microsoft’s release of the new operating system, expected in Oct. 2009. All Toughbook computers available today are fully compatible with the Windows 7 operating system.”

The Linux Connection

Meanwhile, EmperorLinux is building a market niche installing various Linux distributions on name-brand hardware — including on Panasonic Toughbooks.

During Atlanta Linux Fest (Sept. 19), EmperorLinux CEO Lincoln Durey demonstrated a Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 running Ubuntu. The VAR Guy’s sister site, WorksWithU, captured two FastChat video conversations with Durey. Take a look…

Overview: Linux in the Rugged Notebook Market

Demo: Panasonic Toughbook running Ubuntu Linux

Reality Check

The VAR Guy certainly realizes rugged Linux is a niche opportunity. But resellers like EmperorLinux seem to be carving quite a niche for themselves.

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