They're working on that for the next model

http://www.dell.com/xfr Apparently this is dells solution to your problem, has ballistic armor and is apparently able to be drop kicked into a pool with rabid sharks who have chainsaws for teeth.

You could get an external drive and possible cluster them together for the enhanced processor power? Dont know but this taptop seems to be able to handle the enviroment you want it to. Also UPS plus Solar Panels = headache so be prepared!

Any of the A+, Network+, etc books put out by exam prep are relatively cheap and are GREAT (imho, read again in MY honest OPINION) in terms that they cover the information presented and do a very good job of prepping for the exam the book covers. (Also offers a discount on buying a testing slot) The advantage and draw back however is that they cover ONLY what will be found on the test, which means your prepped for the exam, which is usually fairly comprehensive, but it doesnt go very far beyond that. Again this can be forgiven because the test is usually pretty comprehensive