How to choose a data collection terminal - tips on Yandex.Market. Data collection terminal in a warehouse: turning expensive equipment into profitable investments

Let's compare these two models in terms of performance

The appearance of these terminals is significantly different

Data collection terminal Proton PMC-2160 - has a wider, massive body and a primitive design.

The Proton PMC-8100 data collection terminal has a more elongated, thinner and lighter body, narrowed towards the bottom, which significantly increases the convenience of working with the terminal over a long period of time. The terminal's keyboard is organized in the shape of a wave, which significantly increases ease of use and data typing speed.

operating system

The operating system of the PMC-2160 - Windows CE 6.0 Core is not much different from the Windows Embedded CE NET 6.0 operating system installed on the PMC-8100. You get the well-known convenient interface that allows you to get used to working with this device without wasting time.

Product directory loading time (30,000 products)

Wireless WiFi, Bluetooth II and wired USB 2.0 interfaces allow you to quickly load and unload impressive amounts of data from the terminals. As we can see in the diagram, the data loading speed differs slightly.

Strength

The Proton PMC-8100 is the most rugged model among Proton terminals and competes with the most rugged terminal competitors. The TSD can withstand falls from a height of 1.8 meters and has an IP65 degree of protection, which ensures safe operation in almost any environmental conditions.

Proton PMC-2160 is practically not inferior to PMC-8100 in strength, can withstand a fall from a height of 1.5 m onto a concrete floor, has IP64 dust and moisture protection, and an operating temperature range from -10°C to +50°C.

Laser scanner

The scanning speed of the terminal directly depends on the built-in laser barcode scanner, which ensures fast, uninterrupted operation of reading information.

Proton PMC-8100 and PMC-2160 guarantee fast and error-free reading of all types of linear barcodes: EAN, Code 128, Code39, ITF, UPC, etc.

Memory

Proton PMC-8100 and PMC-2160 have the same memory capacity: 128MB RAM and 128MB ROM. This allows you to download directories containing 200,000 product items.

If you need to download a larger product guide, you can use a microSD memory card.

Screen resolution

TSDs are equipped with touch color screens with a resolution of 240x320 QVGA, 65,536 colors, LED backlighting, which is very convenient when using the terminal in a dark room.

The PMC-2160 has a wider diagonal of 3.5 inches, the PMC-8100 has a diagonal of 2.8 inches, but is no less convenient to use.

Components and additional accessories

What is included in the basic kit when purchasing a data collection terminal?

Basic kit PMC-2160:

Data collection terminal

power unit

Battery (lithium-ion batteries 1920 mAH, 3.7V, 8-10 hours in operating mode)

USB cable

Wrist Strap

Basic kit PMC-8100:

Data collection terminal

power unit

Rechargeable battery (Li-on 2200 mAH, 3.7V, 8-10 hours in operating mode)

Wrist Strap

Protective film

Ready-made solutions for your business

Inventory

Automation of the inventory process using a special software product “Goods: Inventory” and mobile data collection terminals PMC-2160 and PMC-8100. With this solution, your specialists will only have to read barcodes and upload ready-made reports.

Using these terminals, you can conduct an inventory in several ways, from the simplest (without downloading a product directory) to a complete audit (with identification of storage locations of goods, downloading a product directory and information about balances from the accounting system).

Order selection and goods acceptance

Problems associated with goods receipt and order selection can be easily solved using the PMC-2160 and PMC-8100 data collection terminals. It is enough to purchase a data collection terminal with the “Goods: Order Selection” or “Goods: Goods Reception” solution installed on it. This solution will eliminate errors and reduce the time for processing orders and accepting goods at the point of sale. At the same time, all warehouse accounting can be maintained in a simple Excel table. Moreover, if the supplier’s prices for goods have changed, the employee receiving the products will always be notified about this.

Revaluation, labeling and printing of price tags

If you install “Goods: Mobile labeling” on data collection terminals PMC-2160 and PMC-8100, you will be able to carry out initial labeling of goods, print labels with changed prices for goods directly on the sales floor, print cardboard price tags for shelves, while saving significantly employee time!

Labeling products, as well as printing price tags, will not be difficult if you have one of our data collection terminals, “Goods” software and a mobile thermal printer for printing labels or price tags.

Marking

Let's imagine situation No. 1: a consignment of goods arrives at a retail outlet or warehouse; the packaged goods have only one label with a bar code, but you need such labels to be present on each unit of goods. It is very simple to carry out such an operation if you have a PMC-2160 or PMC-8100 data collection terminal, Goods software and a mobile label printer: scan a label with a barcode, specify the required number of such labels in the data collection terminal menu, print labels with Using a mobile printer, stick labels on the goods.

A data collection terminal (DCT) is a mini-computer designed to read barcodes and store information about completed operations. TSD is used in warehouses, during inventory in large companies, for conducting trade operations and accepting orders in online stores or at car washes. Terminals help reduce queues and simplify inventory.

Reading type

Based on the type of reading, terminals can be divided into laser, photo scanner and radio frequency identification (RFID).

The laser scanner reads only linear barcodes and can be used for inventory in the office or issued to a field employee.

A TSD with a photo scanner even reads a damaged barcode. It can be used to work with EGAIS - such a terminal can recognize 2D codes, PDF417 and QR codes. They are used in alcohol stores, large grocery stores, supermarkets and large warehouses where it is necessary to quickly carry out inventory and promptly process incoming goods.

TSDs with RFID reading type are more expensive than conventional ones, but they allow you to work with tags that, for example, mark natural fur coats. The terminal will find application in fur stores, large supermarkets or warehouses with a large number of product categories.

The operating time without recharging for most terminals is approximately the same and varies from 8 to 15 hours.

Memory

For large warehouses and commercial enterprises with a large range of products, TSDs with a large amount of memory or the ability to expand it using a card are recommended. RAM is also of great importance: the larger its volume, the faster the terminal can process data. If there are not many operations, you can choose a TSD with a memory capacity of 32 to 64 MB. If there is a large amount of data for prompt processing, it is better to choose a terminal with a memory of 128 MB or more.

In small stores or online stores with a small turnover, TSDs with less memory or without the ability to increase it would be appropriate - such models are much cheaper.

Protection level

The high protection class allows you to work with the terminal in adverse weather conditions and places with high humidity. The maximum level of security is IP 67; the closer the terminal’s protection class is to it, the more reliable it is.

Data transfer methods

To transfer data, the terminals use RS-232, USB ports, as well as wireless data transfer methods: IrDA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM.

Models that support Wi-Fi are convenient to use in large warehouses - they allow you to exchange data in real time.

RTDs that do not have Wi-Fi store data in a file, which can then be copied to a computer using a cable or Bluetooth. They can be used to carry out inventory in small warehouses and companies.

operating system

Most data collection terminals use the Windows operating system. Simple models are released on Windows CE, while more expensive terminals have a mobile version of Windows installed.

There are also TSDs on DOS and Android. The DOS terminal can be used only for very simple operations that do not require high performance. They are equipped with a small amount of memory, which does not allow processing significant amounts of information. Android TSDs are just beginning to enter the market. They are slightly cheaper than Windows models.

Terminals are produced with pre-installed software components and those for which programs must be purchased separately. TSD can use Cleverence or MobileLogistics software.

Drivers for TSD

The terminals use batch drivers, Wi-Fi drivers or Wi-Fi prof drivers. TSDs with a batch driver interact with the computer only through a cradle - a stand with USB, which ensures data exchange. The Wi-Fi driver allows the storekeeper to receive and transmit documents without connecting to a computer with 1C. However, some of the work will have to be done manually. Wi-Fi prof driver allows you to create orders on the terminal and perform automatic upload in 1C, check prices. It also supports online work with the 1C database.

Reference article based on the expert opinion of the author.

Program selection

It is necessary to choose a program that can adapt to all future improvements. To do this, consult with your IT specialist and warehouse management department. Please note that you will most likely have to modify the software to suit your needs.

Determine the scope of use of the terminal

Any basic terminal will handle tasks such as shipping, receiving and inventory. But over time, the functionality of the cheapest TSD will not be enough - as the warehouse increases, new needs will appear. This is when you will feel the need to purchase a new terminal. A TSD with a WiFi module costs $30-40 more than a similar batch one without a module.

Decide on the price

When choosing, pay attention to the manufacturer, the price, and the warranty service offered. The largest terminal manufacturers are Motorola, Intermec and Datalogic. If the terminal breaks down, the entire enterprise will be paralyzed for at least several hours, so ask the seller for breakdown statistics, terms of warranty service, and read reviews from other customers.

Now let's talk directly about the characteristics of the TSD.

Screen

The larger the screen, the more expensive the device, but the greater its functionality. To begin with, you can buy a device with a small screen; this will be enough for a small warehouse.

Degree of protection

Employees are people too, so they can make a mistake and break the terminal. To prevent a fall from becoming fatal to the device, pay attention to its degree of protection. The modern standard is a guarantee of the device’s functionality after a fall from a 1.5-meter height.

Memory and CPU

The more powerful the processor, the faster and more efficiently the employee will be able to carry out operations in the warehouse. It is good if all the data is stored on several devices, so that if one of them breaks down, the data will not be lost. Therefore, it would be useful to have a slot for SD cards.

OS

There are mainly two OS representatives on the TSD market: Windows and DOS. Solutions with Windows are more expensive than those with DOS, but they are much more technologically advanced - the latter are already obsolete. There are rare representatives of TSD on Android, which, nevertheless, are gaining popularity.

Data transfer method

The terminal can be a batch one, which means no wireless communication modules, or with a Wi-Fi module. The price difference between these configurations is minimal, but if you choose the first one, you won't have any option to establish a wireless connection afterwards. Therefore, it is better not to waste money and buy a TSD with integrated WiFi.

Scanning module

There are 1D and 2D barcode readers. There is a significant price difference between the two, although it has been coming down lately. Today, 1D barcodes still predominate, so it is better to choose an appropriate terminal, and after the development of your enterprise, you can switch to 2D technology.

TSD battery

It is desirable that the terminal can work a full day without recharging. But even if you choose such a model, buy additional batteries so that you can put them in the device at any time - in case the first one breaks or an employee forgets to charge it.

Electronic equipment It is widely used not only in everyday life, but also in business. By empowering your employees, you will dramatically increase the speed, accuracy and number of tasks completed during the workday, from inventory to field sales.

However, the main problem is to find a device that meets all the necessary requirements. Due to the variety of data collection terminals available, understanding the main differences between them and choosing the right device is not so easy.

Choosing the right data collection terminal will allow you to get the maximum benefit and take full advantage of this technology. The first step in finding what you need data collection terminal (mobile computer)

• is to determine your specific needs.
• For what operations are you going to use the device you have chosen?
• Where and under what conditions will you be the data collection terminal? Perhaps in an aggressive environment?
• What software did you choose for the data collection terminal?
• Which barcodes can your data collection terminal read?

Do you plan to work in the database in real time using a wireless network connection? The answer to the question of how you will use the data collection terminal will help you decide device form factor

, operating system and other options you need. All this will help you choose the model that is right for you.

The first and most important step when searching for a device is to decide what type of data collection terminal you need. This point determines the functionality of the device, so choosing the right type is extremely important. There are 6 main types and each has advantages depending on the application.

Primary class

This type of mobile computer is the simplest and is the first representative of mobile devices. These devices don't have Wi-Fi or WAN (cellular) support, and everything you scan or type is saved in a text file, and then you have to put the terminal on a stand connected to your computer and upload the file to your inventory program. Basic data collection terminals have a fairly robust design, but operation in harsh conditions is undesirable. Models like these are great for inventory of warehouse balances and fixed assets or for other tasks that only require data collection, without connecting to a real-time inventory program.

PDA

PDAs are designed to give mobile workers complete access to all the information they need in a small, yet powerful device. These devices also have additional functions: Wi-Fi, WAN (GPRS, 3G), Bluetooth, as well as a GPS connection. Given their size and durability, these devices are ideal for delivery service employees, delivery drivers, site managers, i.e. for those employees who have to leave the office due to duty. The PDA, represented by the model, can serve as a laptop, phone, and scanner in one device to expand the capabilities of your employees. Wherever their business takes them, they can always cope with the task at hand, having such a data collection terminal with them.

Full size

Similar to a PDA, these full-size data collection terminals combine rugged design with high wireless performance. Full-size data collection terminals also have a full keyboard row and a variety of scanner types to suit any application. Devices such as Honeywell Dolphin 99EX, You can use inside a warehouse or distribution center, as well as outdoors, on construction sites, in trucks on the highway, and even on oil rigs. Some of these devices can even work underwater! If you need a device that has the entire wireless connection package and can cope with any task you put in front of it, this is the most suitable and reliable option.

With pistol grip

Pistol grip terminals are designed to work in harsh conditions using a Wi-Fi network. These devices usually do not work with mobile networks, but they can be used as data storage devices when out of range of the wireless network. As full-size devices, these mobile computers offer a wide range of scanners, including long-range scanners that can scan over 9 meters away. Models such as Motorola MC9190- G, perfect fit for warehouse workers and forklift drivers where performance, durability and ease of use are a must. Outside of the warehouse, these terminals can also be used for retail operations where intensive work is required and there is no desire to constantly repair and replace failed devices.

Wearable

Wearable data collection terminals provide the same functionality as pistol grip terminals, but at the same time free your hands for other tasks. In models such as Honeywell HX2, user can control the terminal operation by voice, the device itself is attached to the wrist, and scanning is carried out using a compact scanner in the form of a ring that is worn on the finger of the right or left hand. This frees up your hands and allows you to do other work at the same time. Wearable terminals may not be the most common models, but when used correctly, their hands-free capabilities can radically improve work efficiency.

Stationary/transport

These data collection terminals combine rugged design and high processing power to cope with vibration on loading docks and other vehicles. Transport mobile data collection terminals, unlike other types of devices, do not have a built-in scanner. However, for example Motorola VC5090, paired with a wired handheld scanner LS3408ER corrects this deficiency. These terminals are usually released based on the operating system Windows Mobile e, but some models come with Linux And Windows XP, which expands the possibilities of their integration. Picking, reserving, receiving, shipping - all of these operations can be benefited by increasing the speed of work and reducing the number of errors when using these data collection terminals.

Types of mobile computers depending on application

OS

Each data collection terminal has operating system(OS), which is similar to the one on your desktop personal computer (PC). The OS is the software platform that connects your mobile computer's hardware to the applications you run on the device. The functionality and available applications for a mobile computer will completely depend on what operating system will be installed on it. There are currently 3 types of operating systems available for data collection terminals.

DOS/Proprietary

This option can only be found on older models and they are very limited. Unlike other operating systems, it runs only specific software provided by the device manufacturer or applications written by you in programming languages ​​such as Visual Basic or C++.
The vast majority of users use application software, since these devices are focused on simple data collection. A device such as the Honeywell SP5500 includes an easy-to-use software builder that can be configured on a personal computer to create simple mobile applications.

Windows Mobile/Windows CE

Windows is by far the best and most flexible operating system for a mobile computer. Although it is entirely possible to write your own application for the operating system, most users use pre-built applications. The range of Windows-compatible applications based on the operating system includes all mobile point-of-sale inventory applications. Keep in mind that these apps are not compatible with Windows Vista or Windows 7, which have their own list of compatible apps. There are also several differences between Windows CE And Windows Mobile. Windows Mobile is more common and is suitable for cases where cellular (WAN) networks are used. While Windows CE requires less and costs less, so it is preferable for people developing their own applications. In any case, you should make sure that the application you are using is compatible with the specific operating system on your mobile computer.

Palm OS

Palm OS is more of a legacy that was once the standard for mobile devices. Before the advent of Windows and widespread wireless connectivity, Palm OS was the preferred option. There are still a few manufacturers that offer solutions on Palm (OS) - these devices are cheaper, and only the software capabilities limit their scope. If Palm OS meets your needs, it certainly does. more economical option compared to other operating systems.

Wireless connection

Although every terminal stores information in memory, most businesses rely on devices that support wireless communications. The ability to collect, analyze, and update information in real time will allow you to conduct business faster and more efficiently. By using wireless access on a mobile computer, you can maximize the productivity of your workers and expand their capabilities. There are several different technologies that a device can use to support wireless communications and, depending on the specific application requirements, one or more of these devices can be used.

WiFi

This is the most common wireless terminal technology and, just like a home wireless network, as long as you are within range of the network, you will have access to network resources. We often use the term Wi-Fi, you may also hear other technical names from the following list - 802.11 a/b/g/n. Different letters mean various data transfer rates and, depending on what your network supports, one or all speeds may be used. Fortunately, data terminals usually support more than one speed. Wi-Fi is an ideal solution for applications that are in a fixed location where you can configure network infrastructure, such as access points and switches. Warehouses, retail stores and hospitals- Everyone is using Wi-Fi connectivity on mobile devices to share and access information in real time.

WAN (Cellular)

Cellular network (WAN) is the same cellular network that your cell phone uses. Mobile computers that support cellular communications support Internet access and/or telephone communications, like smartphones. The big advantage of cellular communication is that the device can leave the local network and work in the global one. Maintenance workers, delivery drivers This type of connection will allow you to receive scheduled tasks, delivery information (manuals, client accounts, routes, etc.), and send requests to the main office without being in it.

Cellular connection can make a big difference in how your business operates and also connect with your customers. One of the key points you should consider when choosing a cellular device is compatibility with specific models depending on the provider you choose. Unlike Wi-Fi, mobile radios often tied to a specific media type. Some data collection terminals have switchable radios to support multiple providers, but you'll need to check this before choosing a device.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a unique wireless technology because does not require the functioning of network equipment. Its main purpose is to connect two devices without a cable. As long as both devices have Bluetooth enabled, they can communicate wirelessly. Bluetooth has a limited range about 11 meters, but easy to use and easy to customize. Bluetooth is often used to wirelessly connect a terminal to a printer.

GPS

Global Positioning System(GPS) is not the same as other wireless options as it is only used to obtain location information. This is the same search technology found in car navigation systems. There is no remote connection via GPS, but when combined with cellular connectivity, this solution allows you to know your exact location for tasks such as: formation of routes, cartography, location determination on the way or creation of property index marks. GPS, of course, is not the most necessary wireless extension, but for a number of areas of activity it provides additional convenience and information to improve the accuracy of production processes.

Scanner type

Once you have chosen your terminal type, operating system and connection type, the last important decision is to determine what type of scanner you need. When choosing a scanner, what type of barcode you will read and at what distance is of great importance. Data collection terminals support 3 types of scanners:

Laser

This is the most famous type of scanner that uses a red diode laser to read the reflectance of the black and white bars in a barcode. Laser scanners can only be used to read standard linear (1D) barcodes, but are the most cost-effective solution. Standard laser scanners can read from a few centimeters to several decimeters, depending on the size of the barcode. If you need to scan property, product, or inventory labels, most likely a regular laser scanner will suit you.

Long Range Lasers

These scanners are just like regular laser scanners, but can read barcodes from a distance more than 10 meters. The actual distance will depend on the size of the barcode and the material it is applied to. If the barcode is large and on reflective material, the reading distance increases. Full-size and pistol grip terminals most often have the ability to use a long-range laser. This type of scanner is widely used in warehouses where products or bar codes are high on shelves and can be scanned by a worker while standing below.

2D imagers

Instead of reading the reflected laser beam, imager takes a photo of the barcode. It then analyzes this image to extract information from the code. 2D imager can be read by anyone one-dimensional (linear), mixed, or two-dimensional (matrix) barcode and, in most cases, can cope with more complex tasks . Another advantage of the image scanner is that when reading a barcode, the reading direction does not matter. When using a laser, you must move the indicator horizontally across the barcode. The imager produces a clearer image and is smarter so you can read the code in any direction. This allows for quick reading without particularly careful aiming of the device. Image scanners also read barcodes from any surface, including a monitor or phone screen. Standard imager scanners have a reading distance that is not much different from simple laser scanners, but there are a few long-range models that can read at a distance of about 10 meters.

Finding the right mobile computer

With all the options available for data collection terminals today, it is important to find the right device for your business needs. Determining how you'll use your mobile devices and what features you need will make it easier to choose the right device. If you are still experiencing difficulties or have additional questions, you can call our center. We will be happy to assist you.

The terminal is a mobile computer with a built-in barcode scanner. It reads the product identifier, be it a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code or a radio tag, and compares the product nomenclature and quantity with the document downloaded from the accounting system. Or it independently generates a movement document from the list of goods or components whose tags have been read.

Basic operations of accounting for the movement of goods performed using TSD:

• - inventory
• - order assembly
• - price reconciliation or revaluation
• - document authentication

Types of TSD for warehouse and trade

Datacollectors

Their main task is to remember the read barcode and then send it to the accounting program for processing. Such devices do not have screens for displaying readable codes and do not provide the ability to download and edit documents from an accounting program. At the same time, in conjunction with a mobile application for Android, they reduce the cost of implementing full-fledged accounting. We also recommend the light terminal.

DOS terminals

For example, Opticon SMART cannot directly transmit a list of products loaded when scanning into a computer. To do this, they require special processor programs (utilities). Working with DOS terminals requires checking compatibility and contacting programmers to implement any changes in goods accounting.

Data collection terminals on
Android or Windows

The most modern TSDs use an OS - these are full-fledged mobile computers that are in constant communication with the accounting program. They will clearly show which product was scanned, check the actual balances with the inventory document loaded into the terminal, and send the document ready for signing to the accounting program.

TSD with mobile version of Windows appeared first, so they became widespread.

Advantages:

• low OS requirements for processor frequency and RAM capacity
• Low power consumption allows you to work without charging for a long time

Flaws:

• such TSDs, like DOS terminals, require additional utilities and software
• poorly suited for working with cloud accounting programs

Terminals running Android OS appeared less than three years ago, but are quickly gaining popularity thanks to:

• - lack of complex utilities for working in the accounting program
• - initially a mobile platform that allows you to take advantage of cloud versions of accounting programs such as VLSI
• - more productive hardware - processor and RAM

The only drawback of Android devices is the shorter battery life. Additional batteries, stands and charging stations for several batteries will help ensure uninterrupted operation of the data collection terminal, and the hot-swap battery function will save the most sluggish employees from downtime.

Scanning Device Types

TSDs, like scanners, are equipped with readers of one-dimensional and two-dimensional codes 1D and 2D. Motorola reader modules are recognized as the most reliable.

If you do not have a record of alcoholic beverages or goods marked with QR codes, use a high-quality terminal.

For warehouses with high racks or difficult access to storage areas, “long-range” Long Range terminals are produced. With such a terminal, the storekeeper will be able to take inventory without leaving the forklift (without using a stepladder); the reading range of one-dimensional codes is from 4 to 12 meters, depending on the size of the code printed on the label.

To record goods that are specially marked with radio tags of the RFID standard, terminals with an NFC module are used. It allows you to read RFID tags installed on clothing, medical supplies or jewelry simply by walking past the racks with the terminal. These TSDs include.

Form factor

A data collection terminal with a push-button keyboard is needed by warehouse workers to adjust the names of goods, their quantities, assign a number or other details to a document loaded into the TSD. With the terminal keyboard, the employee will not miss when processing a long list of items.

Degree of protection and working conditions

The main reason for TSD failure is mechanical damage. This is due to the shock-sensitive design of 1D and 2D readers, screens and Wi-Fi communication modules. We recommend choosing models that can withstand repeated drops from a height of at least 1.5 m, for example.

TSDs are often used in conditions of pollution and suboptimal humidity. One of the key characteristics when choosing is the degree of dust and moisture protection IP. To work in a relatively clean warehouse, it is enough to use a terminal with a protection level of IP 54, and for outdoor work, choose a protection level of at least IP 64. We recommend the model. Learn more about the IP standard.

Remember, you shouldn’t drop or drown the terminal in water on purpose, despite the declared impact resistance and IP rating. Mechanical damage is not considered a warranty claim.