HP were obviously demonstrating a reasonably-specified model, which whipped through Windows 7 with no issues. HP expect the EliteBook 2540p to go on sale in April 2010, priced from $1,099.

Thought HP was done unleashing its new line of semi-rugged EliteBooks at CES? So did we, but apparently it needed just a little bit more time to pull the 12.1-inch 2540p and 2740p out of the oven ...

Priced at $1629 (as of May 5, 2010), the EliteBook 2540p is especially noteworthy for its solid case–a clean, metal-and-plastic design that HP says can withstand 300 pounds of pressure when closed.

HP's EliteBook 2540p is durable, capable and small enough to always keep on hand and can become a workaholic's best friend.

The HP EliteBook 2740p starts at $1,599 and will be available in the U.S. next month. HP also announced the new 12.1-inch EliteBook 2540p, which it calls its lightest rugged notebook at 3.3 lbs.

The HP EliteBook 2540p makes the fewest sacrifices among its rivals, but you have to be willing to put up with a 12-inch screen.

HP has announced a host of computing machines -- the ruggedised EliteBook 2740p multi-touch tablet and 2540p laptop, and a bunch of new ProBooks ...

All in all, the EliteBook 2540p is a good choice for frequent travelers who are looking for a nice balance of performance, ruggedness, and battery life.

The HP EliteBook X G1i is a sleek, AI-powered business laptop with strong performance, premium build and excellent battery life. However, its high price and non-upgradable RAM may deter some ...

HP EliteBook 2560p in the foreground. MacBook Air (13.3-inch) and Dell Adamo in the background. Brooke Crothers And, yes, I wondered for a moment if this was the last opportunity to handle a new ...