How the data collection terminal works. Optimization of warehouse processes using data collection terminals

How a terminal differs from a scanner, how to choose a TSD, which models of devices have earned a reputation as inexpensive and reliable, is described in the article.

Owners of even small stores with a team of 3–5 people prefer to automate the accounting of goods by purchasing equipment capable of reading barcodes. One of the leading devices of the automation system is the data collection terminal (DCT). It is responsible for reading, remembering, and processing information “hardwired” into product barcodes. How a terminal differs from a scanner, how to choose a TSD, which models of devices have earned a reputation as inexpensive and reliable, is described in the article.

How does a TSD differ from a scanner?

A portable terminal for data collection is a miniature computer running on the Microsoft Windows Mobile, Palm OS, DOS or Linux operating system. It is equipped with a scanning device that reads product codes, as well as a module that communicates with the warehouse computer via WiFi.

They also produce stationary devices, but these devices, costing from 2-3 thousand dollars, are designed for use by large warehouse and logistics companies that process several hundred items of cargo daily.

The color display of the TSD is often made using touch-screen technology, only you need to work on it not with your fingers (as with a smartphone), but with a special stylus included in the kit.

A regular scanner will read the code (they are located at store checkouts), and the terminal will not only read it, but remember it and allow you to immediately add the quantity, batch number and make notes about the condition of the goods. Data entered into the device is stored in its memory and then transferred to a computer with an installed accounting program via a wired or wireless connection.

Three steps to choosing a terminal

A person who has never faced the choice of special equipment will simply be confused by the abundance of brands, models, and modifications of data collection terminals. Start with the simplest:

Note
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Step 1: Decide what you need the device for

The cheapest model (200-300 USD), with a minimum of functions, can accept goods, carry out inventory, and move between the warehouse and the sales floor. But if the business is to develop, the capabilities of technology should not interfere with this development.

Example: a device has been selected that does not support a wireless connection to a PC, the store has moved, the warehouse area has doubled, and the number of goods accepted daily has increased. The device’s memory has become insufficient; to free up space, you have to constantly run to the warehouse, connect via a cord to your PC, and spend 2-3 hours per shift on this.

Step 2: Consult a specialist

The data collection terminal should not complicate life, but simplify accounting. Therefore, it is important that the device’s hardware is synchronized with the accounting program installed in the store. The IT specialist who installed the software will be able to tell you which models are suitable. If you are just planning to automate accounting, immediately discuss the set of equipment that will be needed in your store.

Step 3: Set a Budget

The cost of models with approximately the same capabilities differs significantly. It’s better to immediately decide what price category of devices the store can afford. In the selected price niche there will be 2-4 device models, from which you can find the most suitable ones: technical characteristics, availability of support, service center, warranty duration, speed of replacement of a broken (defective) device.

When the first steps are taken, start studying the technical characteristics.

Technical specifications

How much the terminal will help in the operation of the store, how much it will cost, is determined by the technical characteristics:

1. Reading type. Three types of devices are produced:

• laser: read linear barcodes, do not work well with damaged, blurry labels, cost from $150;
• equipped with a photo scanner(largest group): reads 2D codes, PDF417 and QR codes, can be used to work with EGAIS, will read even damaged code, cost starts from $350-400;
• working with radio frequency tags or RFID: works only with special tags (these are used to mark products made from natural fur, expensive clothes), the optimal choice for large stores with a warehouse area of ​​200 sq. m. m.

2. Housing protection: each model is provided with data on recommended operating temperatures, moisture resistance, and protection from mechanical influences. There are models that operate at subzero temperatures and can withstand a fall from a height of 2-3 meters after being completely immersed in water. For heated warehouses, most protective functions can be neglected, but if you have to receive goods on the street, it is better to choose a device that can work normally in negative environmental conditions.

3. Method of transmitting information to the host computer: wireless or using a cord (the second name is a batch) connecting the TSD to a PC. As a rule, devices with a wireless connection are additionally equipped with a cord for RS-232 and a USB port. Wireless data transfer is possible via IrDA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM. Batch standard models are cheaper, but you won’t be able to add a wireless module to them.

Nowadays, for effective business development, data collection terminals (abbreviated as TSD) are actively used. They are specialized computers with ergonomic design and compact dimensions. The devices are used to automate trade, accurately account for products, control the movement of goods and other processes. They are mainly purchased for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and retail outlets. The largest device manufacturers are companies such as Motorolla (Symbol), Datalogic, CipherLab, Unitech and Honeywell. In this article we will talk in detail about the operational purpose of TSDs, their appearance and operating features, and how to use the terminals correctly.

Why use TSD?

A specialized computer is capable of reading barcodes, storing and processing information according to specified algorithms. As a rule, a data collection terminal is equipped with a processor, a certain amount of RAM, a display and a keyboard. The device is also equipped with a scanner that allows you to read barcodes.

TSDs operate under various operating systems, for example:

• DOS – as a rule, is installed on computers equipped with a monochrome screen (text information is displayed on it);
• Windows Mobile - the operating system is installed on devices with a touch screen, which displays both graphic images and texts;
• Palm OS;
• Linux.

The standard package includes power supplies (batteries) and a communication stand along with the terminal. All terminals operate in autonomous mode. Devices are often equipped with professional software that allows you to integrate the device into a commodity accounting system and increase staff productivity.

Now you can, restaurant, cafe, pharmacy, grocery store, hypermarket, enterprise. Modern computers allow you to effectively solve various problems:

• The devices read product barcodes.
• Using terminals you can monitor price tags.
• The devices allow you to receive products, accurately control the receipt and movement of various goods within the warehouse, as well as monitor their expiration dates and balances. Using the devices, they quickly select the required products based on invoices.
• TSD make it possible to carry out inventory, control goods and fixed assets of the enterprise.

Getting to know the terminal and setting it up

Before purchasing a specialized computer, it is important to learn about all the important operational advantages and disadvantages of the selected terminal. You need to understand how to properly configure it and integrate it into your existing accounting system. Typically, additional information about setting up a data collection terminal can be found on thematic websites or forums created by the manufacturer. Its representative provides advice and answers current questions. Many useful videos are posted on YouTube.

After purchase, as a rule, drivers are installed and the device is configured. If necessary, the device is connected to the 1C system. If you connect a printer to your computer and install special software on your PC, you can print labels.

After setting up the terminal, staff are introduced to it. Employees are trained on how to use the device correctly and how to enter information. They are told about the functionality of the TSD.

Features of the scanner: what does the user need to know?

To read information, you need to point the laser beam that the scanner emits at any barcode. The processor recognizes the barcode and automatically performs the necessary (programmed) actions. During the transfer of information, the device emits a characteristic sound signal, indicating that the data is recorded in memory. If for some reason it is not possible to scan the code or an error appears, then the data is entered into the terminal using the keyboard or touchscreen. Typically, the user taps on a sensitive color screen using a stylus.

The TSD can be equipped with a WI-FI module, which provides access to the Internet or to the local network of a warehouse, retail outlet, or restaurant. Almost all modern models operate both outdoors and indoors. Special data collection terminals, which are designed for use in industrial environments, can operate in low temperatures, dust or high humidity levels. Such devices are equipped with a shock-resistant casing that does not allow moisture to enter.

Some models are equipped with a rotating scanning head. With its help, the user scans barcodes at any angle.

The data entered into the terminal is transferred to the accounting system in various ways. For example, information can be transmitted via USB, WI-FI, Bluetooth, or infrared.

TSD design features

Functional models are equipped with additional useful buttons. During operation, the user often has to manually enter information (for example, batch number), select the desired item from the list, and refuse various actions. If you need to keep track of products and monitor their movement and quantity in the warehouse, then you need to order a terminal with numbers. The TSD is selected based on the future conditions of its operation and the format of the data to be worked with.

Currently, manufacturers produce six main types of terminals. They differ from each other in design, operational capabilities, functionality and other parameters. The modern market includes pocket computers, full-size, transport, wearable devices, as well as entry-level models and devices equipped with a pistol grip. Let's look at how each type of TSD is used.

Entry class terminals

The devices have limited functionality: they are the simplest type of equipment. Information entered using the keyboard or scanning is stored in memory in text form.

TSDs are not equipped with WI-FI, so data is transferred to the accounting program using a cord connected to a personal computer or laptop. As practice shows, you can inexpensively buy a data collection terminal for a warehouse, because the device allows you to take inventory of site balances and fixed assets.

Transport TSD

Such computers are designed for use in transport logistics. The devices are equipped with a high-strength housing that can withstand various mechanical loads and vibrations. As a rule, data collection terminals are not equipped with a scanner. To read barcodes you need to connect a special device. Transport TSDs are used during product acceptance and shipment, as well as when packaging goods and products.

Pocket terminals

The devices are characterized by compact sizes and at the same time decent power and functionality. The device allows the user to access the necessary information, which is stored in a remote database.

The terminals are convenient to use because many models are equipped with Bluetooth, WI-FI, GPS, WAN. Typically, devices are purchased for delivery drivers, employees of various delivery services and other specialists working outside the office (store, warehouse and other facility).

Full-size TSD

The devices have excellent functionality. They are equipped with a full keyboard that allows you to enter any information into the device’s memory. The terminals are equipped with different types of scanners.

Full-size models are used indoors and outdoors. TSD is often ordered for hypermarkets, construction sites, and warehouses. To experience all the benefits of the device, the user must undergo training and become familiar with many functions.

TSD with pistol grip

The devices are designed to work in difficult conditions. Thanks to a powerful scanner, the devices are able to read barcodes from a distance of up to 8-9 meters. If there is no Wi-Fi connection at the facility, the TSD is used as a storage device.

As a rule, such models are distinguished by their reliability in use. As a result, they are purchased for construction sites, cargo terminals, and warehouses.

Wearable TSD

Computers have a well-thought-out appearance. They are attached to the wrist, so the user will have his hands free while working. But the scanner’s design resembles a ring and fits on your finger.

Such terminals are convenient to use. The devices respond to the user's voice and carry out his commands. As practice shows, such TSD make it possible to improve labor productivity at the site.

What's happened ? The data collection terminal is a device for updating the database on a PC. The terminal allows you to read barcodes from products and store information about it in its internal memory.

Operating principle of the data collection terminal.

Imagine that a shipment of goods has been delivered to you. Using a data collection terminal, to enter information about new products into the database, you read the barcode from the product, indicating its quantity. After all the barcodes have been read, you connect the data collection terminal to the computer (via a stand, interface cable, IR port, etc.) and transfer the read information to your database (for example 1C).

Appearance of the terminal.

The appearance of the data collection terminal resembles a mobile phone. Only the terminal is more massive and has a shock-resistant design, specifically designed to work in difficult conditions. For example, some terminals can withstand operation at temperatures of -30 C. Most terminals have a monochrome display. But new devices are increasingly delivering brighter color images. Modern premium segment data collection terminals have a touch screen.

Where is the data collection terminal used?

Traditionally, terminals are used when carrying out warehouse operations: goods acceptance, consumption, inventory. But the device can also replace a barcode scanner during field sales or customer service at home (usually in the service sector).

Advantages of using a data collection terminal.

Undoubtedly, the main advantage of using this device is an increase in the speed of work during warehouse and trade operations, as well as a reduction in errors.

Additional functions.

In addition to entering data about new arrivals of goods, the terminal allows you to place a pre-order and obtain data on the product range.

Main types of data collection terminals:

Cumulative data collection terminals.

They are designed to collect and accumulate information about products for further transfer to the information base. In essence, such terminals are a more reasonable alternative to wireless barcode scanners, since they allow you not only to read information, but also to see it on the screen, as well as correct it (for example, indicate the quantity). Such terminals are used in hypermarkets or warehouses where the area is large enough to work with a wired barcode scanner.

These TSDs are the most budget options. Today, models and

Radio terminals.

These devices allow exchanges between the terminal and the accounting system in real time. Information is transmitted using wireless communications (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi). This mode of operation allows you to maintain the relevance of information and allows you to quickly eliminate shortcomings.

As a stably operating radio terminal, we can recommend the model, which is already installed by many of our clients. The model is available with different screen sizes and operating systems.

Data collection terminal (DCT) is a compact, portable device that fits in your hand and is equipped with a barcode reader, keyboard or touch screen. Terminal receives power from the built-in battery, has a fairly powerful processor and memory (which is why data collection terminals (DCTs) sometimes called mobile computers).

Software for TSD

Leading global manufacturers data collection terminals- This Unitech, Datalogic, Honeywell, CipherLab, Motorolla (Symbol) and others. Included TSD, as a rule, enters himself terminal, battery, communication stand or cradle, as well as basic terminal software, which copes with the task of reading and collecting barcodes. However, sometimes terminal a special software, which, along with collecting information, solves integration problems TSD into the commodity accounting system, increasing employee productivity and reducing their errors. Among the most functional and trouble-free software for data collection terminals are SOTI MobiControl, CITYSOFTWarehouse, Logistic Solution, 1C extension for a mobile computer.

Operating systems on the data collection terminal

Most manufacturers use terminals Windows Mobile operating system, less popular, but DOS-like ones are still in demand terminals. Terminals with OC DOS are presented in the Cipherlab line. Windows OS is a color touch screen, graphic images, high performance; DOS OS is installed on terminals with a low-resolution monochrome screen that displays only text information in several lines, but the continuous operation time without changing the battery is more than a day.

Interaction between the terminal and the host system

Data collection terminals can accumulate information and transfer it to a database when connected to a PC thanks to the built-in memory and barcode scanner. Terminals storage type is an alternative to wired scanners. In a large room, when the operator needs to move from place to place to scan various goods, the terminal will be more convenient than a scanner. Another work option data collection terminal– instant transmission of information to the database when scanning a barcode via radio or Wi-Fi. In fact, with this operation, the terminal is part of the network. The system responds to information received from the terminal through various instructions, commands and actions, communicating them to the operator and displaying them on the device display.

How to choose the right data collection terminal?

For the right choice data collection terminal many factors need to be taken into account. First, you must decide where you are going to use terminal– in a sales area, in a small warehouse or in a distribution center. Secondly, it is necessary to clearly understand what data format the enterprise will work with - it can be either linear barcodes or PDF417, or electronic signatures or radio frequency tags. If will be used in a distribution center, then a greater range of the reader may be required - up to 2 or 5 meters. It is worth noting that if the barcode is applied to multi-layer polyethylene or glass, this may make it difficult to read the barcode. Another important factor is the mode in which data will be exchanged between terminal and the head system. Data collection terminals support offline packet modes via USB/RS232, WiFi or GPRS/EDGE/3.5G, real-time modes via WiFi or GPRS/EDGE/3.5G. You may need Bluetooth or Ethernet built into the terminal.

Thus, is an intelligent bar coding equipment that allows you to automate all typical warehouse processes (reception, shipment, inventory, etc.), manage prices at retail outlets and production processes.

What TSD (), how to use it, and under what conditions these devices are needed, should be presented to those who are going to set up a computerized system for recording the movement of goods in their trading enterprise.

The basis of the entire information system is to supply all goods received in a store or warehouse with barcode labels, which contain all information about the product in encoded form. Some products arrive with a barcode printed on the packaging, while others are provided with such labels already in place.

At the time of sale, the terminal installed at the cashier’s workplace, using a scanner included in its structure, reads the information and transmits it to the base computer, which stores a program that takes into account the movement of goods.

But it’s not only at the checkout that you need to have information about the product. It is necessary to register all incoming goods, track their movement to the sales floor, and during inventory it is necessary to check the list quantity of goods with their actual availability.

That's what a data collection terminal is for - tracking the movement of goods. You need to have a good understanding of how to work with the data collection terminal and what functions it performs.

Device functionality

If you look at any data collection terminal, its operating principle is . This is how the accounting system receives information about what products are available. But in order for her to receive all this, she must first decode the barcode, which requires the efforts of a laptop computer, and then contact the base computer wirelessly and transmit this information.

Barcode scanning

The use of a data collection terminal for scanning can be based on various scanning technologies. You can illuminate the barcode in order to analyze the reflection using LEDs or a laser beam. The latter method is more efficient and can distinguish smaller images.

By its design, the scanner can operate in one plane - then the device must be brought to the barcode, oriented precisely. Multiplane scanners work at any angle to the barcode and to the surface on which it is printed. They can perceive two-dimensional codes that carry an increased amount of information.

Computer component

The first question asked by a merchandiser who picks up a TSD (data collection terminal) for the first time is: how to use it? There is no particular difficulty in using this device: the built-in processor does everything automatically. The ability to enter information from a keyboard or touch screen is necessary mainly to correct the read barcode if its damage leads to an error during scanning. Then you can correct the technique by entering the required numbers manually.

Having read the code, the device processes it, decodes it, and in this form transmits the information to the base computer. Another function is storing information. If you had to use the device beyond the communication capabilities, the processor gives a command to switch to offline operation - in this case, all scanned barcodes are stored in memory and only after communication is restored, they are transferred in a common package to the host computer. Nothing is lost.

Wireless Capabilities

The Bluetooth wireless interface reliably connects the mobile and base processors at a distance of no more than 10 meters. In a small warehouse this may be quite enough. If we are talking about large warehouses in which the merchandiser has to move, moving 100 or more meters away from the base, it is best to use another interface - Wi-Fi.

How to link two computers

Organizing a wireless connection is not enough. It is important that the software is reliably connected to each other. A basic computer running on the Windows operating system usually easily recognizes the connection of a data collection terminal and receives the transmitted information without loss. If inconsistencies are found at the software level, you have to use a special driver, sometimes even developed by a programmer.

When everything is ready

So, the company’s commodity experts received a DCT (data collection terminal) and were told how to use it and were given training. You can start working - just go through all the products and swipe the device over the barcode. Working with the data collection terminal is extremely simple - the only task is not to miss anything. Employees quickly get used to it, and the inventory process speeds up many times.