What does an inventory Mobile device need?
Latest operating systemWith an Mobile device specifically for inventory, you should pay particular attention to the fact that the operating system enables intuitive and simple operation. Since not only the own employees participate in the inventory, but also occasionally inexperienced temporary workers, a familiar interface is necessary. Android, the leading mobile operating system, represents the right operating system here, because not only is it familiar to many from their private smartphones, it also offers future security thanks to its updateability. Many modern Mobile devices already rely on the latest Android versions and represent the next generation of Mobile devices.
Scan qualityInventory is a scan-intensive process that demands a lot from Mobile devices. Speed and precision in scanning each barcode make a crucial difference here, contributing to more efficient operations and time savings. Depending on the barcodes used and the environment, companies have to choose between different scan engines, each of which performs differently. If only labels with 1D barcodes are being captured, a 1D scan engine that can only capture 1D codes is recommended. On the other hand, if 1D and 2D codes are to be captured, 2D imagers that can capture both barcode types should be used. Modern scanners are technologically well equipped and allow fast, high-performance scanning with excellent scan quality.
Devices management Especially if you use or want to use multiple Mobile devices in your company, device management plays a crucial role. Software tools such as mobile device management provide the necessary functions for remote support, provisioning and configuration of multiple new devices as well as the rollout of software updates. SOTI, the leading mobile device management, helps you with device management and relieves your valuable IT resources.
Rental devicesIf you need additional Mobile devices for the inventory, you do not necessarily have to buy new devices. You can also simply rent Mobile devices for the duration of the inventory and pay only a manageable flat rate. The Mobile rental devices will be configured for you by COSYS and delivered on the due date. However, if you need more Mobile devices for inventory and other business processes, you can also buy them from COSYS.
InterfacesThe interfaces of a device determine how inventory data is transmitted. If inventory data has to be exchanged in real time, Mobile devices should have a WLAN interface to transmit transaction data recorded in indoor areas to the ERP system. In the field or in outdoor areas, mobile communications are enormously important to enable real-time data exchange. For this purpose, the Mobile devices require a SIM card slot that preferably supports 4G or 5G. If only poor network coverage is available, data can be stored offline on the device and then transferred via cable or docking station. Wireless interfaces, such as NFC or Bluetooth, are suitable for navigation applications. Bluetooth also enables connection to peripheral devices such as label printers. Interfaces for WLAN, Bluetooth or docking stations / cables are particularly important for inventory.
Important Mobile device features
The CPU represents the heart of an Mobile device and is the central computing and control unit. The number of cores and the clock speed of the CPU determine the speed of data processing.
Bluetooth provides the ability to wirelessly transfer data to or connect with other devices. Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) technology, which has been available since Bluetooth 2.0, enables three times faster data transfer.
The operating system enables the user to use the Mobile device and allows the execution of applications. Currently available operating systems for Mobile devices are Android and Android versions modified by manufacturers, as well as Windows.
WLAN is a wireless connection to your company network and enables data transfer between Mobile device and ERP system. Different WLAN versions offer different data rates and frequencies.
Mobile devices have a GPS unit that makes it possible to track the exact location of the device. In case of loss or theft, the Mobile device can be located quickly through GPS.
A 1D barcode scanner can only decode and capture classic 1D barcodes such as EANs and other barcode types. Capturing 2D codes and QR codes is not possible with a 1D barcode scanner.
A 2D imagerengine is the optimal choice for capturing codes. A 2D imager is capable of decoding and capturing both 1D barcodes and 2D codes. 2D codes offer the advantage that significantly more information can be accommodated in a single code.
RAM memory is also called working memory and enables the temporary storage of data during processes. The more RAM memory an Mobile device has available, the more data can be cached in RAM and the faster and smoother the device runs.
The flash memory represents the storage capacity of the Mobile device and ensures that data can be stored and applications installed. In some Mobile devices, the flash memory can be expanded thanks to a MicroSD card.
MIL STD and IP are protection classes that determine the drop resistance and sensitivity of the device to water and dust.
Android mobile devices
Windows mobile devices
Handheld scanner scanner
Printer printer
