The importance of understanding your options before selecting a device
When planning to deploy new data collection system at your company, there are a lot of points to consider before signing on the dotted line. So prior to making the investment, assess the unique operational needs of your company. Analyze your business process requirements and the technology infrastructure. Those tasks may seem daunting, but it will ultimately mean the difference between extreme frustration and a sense of accomplishment once the solution is deployed. Having the right technology, like handheld computer devices, in place will mean the job gets done with the desired results that fit your overall business goals.
Once you have that knowledge in place on which to base your decision, you need to know which options are available. Fundamentally speaking, there are three types of barcode data collection methods that should be considered:
Batch Data Collection
A batch data collection device is a type of handheld that stores data directly on the device, and as the data is scanned or keyed in, it stays in the memory of the device until such time it can be connected to a computer and uploaded. Afterwards the data can be erased, freeing the memory of the device for its next use.
Pros:
- WLAN is not necessary: Because the information is stored on the device and then uploaded or “batched” to a computer over a wired connection, such as USB, there is no need for a wireless infrastructure in the facility.
- Remote use: It can also be used in remote areas where wireless connectivity may not be an option at all.
- Low cost: The device itself is a smaller investment than a Wi-Fi equipped device because there is no radio. For the same reason, battery life tends to be better as well.
Cons:
- Software: A small software program or application must be produced and loaded onto the device in order to generate the screen prompts telling the operator to scan or enter data. This can usually be accomplished with a program generation tool that can be used by non-programmers, but still takes some time and thought to properly execute.
- Not real-time: This means that the information is not available to be processed by the host software application until it has been uploaded to the computer and then imported into the host package. Until the data is uploaded, it is still somewhat vulnerable should the device get damaged or destroyed.
- Low-volume: Batch data collection devices may not be the best choice for a receiving application in a high-volume, high-velocity distribution center where the information is needed on a more real-time basis. They are limited to relatively simple applications such as physical inventory counts.
Android™ Mobile Computing for Wireless Data Collection
Today’s rugged handheld computers are primarily powered by Android operating systems. Modern Android mobile computers combine barcode scanning, wireless connectivity, touchscreens, cameras, and enterprise software compatibility into a single device.
Unlike older dedicated terminal emulation devices, Android mobile computers are designed to support multiple workflows simultaneously. A single device may include:
- Modern terminal emulation applications such as Ivanti Wavelink and Velocity software, or StayLinked SmartTE
- Browser-based warehouse software, specifically using industrial browsers such as AML Applync
- Integrated cameras for image capture in the field
- Standard and long-range barcode scan engines to scan any type of 1D or 2D barcode
- Voice communication applications
Modern Android devices are also more familiar to users because their interfaces closely resemble those of consumer smartphones, reducing training time and improving adoption.
Pro:
- Versatility: The ability to run traditional terminal emulation software and support for future upgrades to more modern web-based applications on the same device. This allows businesses to support legacy workflows while also adopting newer cloud-based platforms, browser applications, and real-time operational tools.
- Familiarity: Familiar touchscreen interface similar to modern smartphones and tablets, helping reduce employee training time, improve user adoption, and create a more intuitive experience for workers who may already be comfortable using Android-based mobile devices in their everyday lives.
Cons:
- Higher costs: Higher upfront cost compared to basic batch data collection devices due to the added hardware and software capabilities, including wireless connectivity, larger touchscreens, faster processors, expanded memory, cameras, and support for multiple enterprise applications and real-time communication.
- Complexity: An Android device is not designed to be dedicated to one specific purpose. It may have to be “locked down” to remove options that the user doesn’t need to see or access. Taking a tool that is designed to be versatile, and then deploying it in such a manner that it is dedicated to a single task, is sometimes harder than it first appears.
The most important part of any discovery process is to first understand what options exist, and then selecting the option that is the most ideal for meeting the specific needs of the application. Whether or not it makes sense to “future- proof” by purchasing equipment that might have more features and capabilities than what is currently necessary, is a business decision that has to be made on a case-by-case basis.