OS Migration: The Cost of Procrastinating

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Microsoft announced that, in 2020, it will discontinue support for Windows CE and Windows Mobile operating systems. Their decision would impact 15 million computers, about 90% of the enterprise computing market. If you’re using either of these operating systems, you have some important choices to make. With the heavy (and still growing) reliance on mobile devices in the workplace, the choice you make for the operating system will impact users, device choices, application accessibility, network security, and the IT time to handle it all. You have invested in legacy devices but remember that the best OS for a situation is important and Migration may be needed. Are you going to see the ROI or will it be written off to “lesson learned”?

What are your options for Migration?
OS Migration Options

You could sit still. Continue using Windows and move up to Windows 10. However, you’ll be running without the support of security patches next year, because Microsoft is also pulling that plugin 2019. It seems clear that Microsoft’s commitment to enterprise mobile computing is tenuous. Don’t commit to a company that isn’t committed to you.

Your next option is to choose a direction for the operating system that will replace Windows CE/Mobile and rewrite your applications to run on the OS of choice. Android and are good options. Google and Apple have proven themselves to be reliable and innovative. Between Android and iOS, they own 99% of the mobile device market share; however, Android dominates the space with 87% worldwide. Android’s open platform makes it more inviting for developers, which has caused concern over security.

In recent years, companies like Zebra have addressed the perceived weak spots in Android’s security. Zebra’s rugged mobile devices come pre-installed with Mobility Extensions (Mx), which elevates the operating system to an enterprise level for security, device management, data capture, and connectivity. Zebra’s rugged handhelds and enterprise tablets are ready to operate in an Android environment and perform at the high levels of reliability, security, and computing power you should expect from your technology.

Do you need to retire your legacy devices now and make the move to new technology?
Android Legacy Device Migration

At Avalon Integration we’ve been looking at the path for this OS migration. It’s not realistic for a company to buy all new devices, so we’re helping our customers to make a gradual transition. Decide on the operating system and look at those devices that are ready for upgrades. But while you’re trying to hold onto those legacy devices, consider that you might not be saving money. A rugged device’s life expectancy is three years, with an average failure rate of only 1% in the first year. By the fourth year, the rate escalates to 8%. That’s not a big number, so maybe you’re fine with the prospect of extending the life of your rugged devices.

What does 1% really mean for Migration?

OS Migration Android Phone

Every percentage point of device failure translates to a 5% increase in your total cost of ownership. By the fourth year, when your failure rate jumps 7%, you can expect a 35% rise in your TCO. Are you actually saving money by procrastinating or merely avoiding the inevitable business decision?

Those four-year-old legacy devices are also using old technology. The speed is slower, the connectivity is weaker, the resolution is probably less, and it may not have the features that today’s mobile devices offer. Every one of these downsides represents a negative impact on your productivity. You’re not maximizing the potential of your workforce. You’re probably also pushing the limits of your IT staff’s effectiveness.

Millions of enterprise users are faced with the OS migration decision. Avalon Integration can give you more insight, evaluate your current situation, and guide you to the strategic transition that will deliver the best results for your company. Talk to us to steer your migration along a smart route.

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Legacy Operating Systems

As the end of support dates for legacy operating systems approach, customers need to make decisions and plans to move forward, as application development can require considerable time and effort.

Customers currently running applications that require a legacy Microsoft operating system (Windows CE 6 or Windows Mobile/ Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5) will soon face the end of support for their platform. Mainstream support, which includes regular updates, has ended for both legacy systems. Microsoft extended support (security fixes) will end for Windows CE 6 in early 2018 and for Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 in early 2020. After those dates, vendors will be unable to provide patches should a vulnerability or error be found in Microsoft code. For this and other reasons, many customers have begun planning a transition to new applications running under a modern operating system.

As the end of support dates for legacy operating systems approach, customers need to make decisions and plans to move forward, as application development can require considerable time and effort. One way to provide more time to make decisions is to select a hardware offering that can support multiple operating systems. The Honeywell CN75 and CK75 Series mobile computers, along with the Honeywell CN51 mobile computer, offer a choice of Windows Embedded Handheld or Android. In addition, customers purchasing Windows Embedded Handheld can convert their devices to Android at a future date. This allows existing legacy applications to continue running until the organization is ready to move to Android, at which time a simple field-based software conversion is performed. Only a small investment in software is required; no changes are required to the hardware.

Android’s large market presence supports a broad variety of OEMs and hardware form factors, making it more likely that a device is available to meet the customer’s use case and cost requirements, including devices that offer integrated physical keypads.

*Content Provided By Honeywell

Contact us today to learn more.

 

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Zebra et50 and et55: Enterprise-Grade Tablets That Make the Grade

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There’s no doubt we rely on smartphones for a variety of computing tasks. The phone is likely one of the lesser used functions. As smartphones became more convenient and functional, they drifted into the workplace. Then came tablets, and workers appreciated the increased landscape of the larger screen, without the unwieldy size of a laptop. With enterprise-grade tablets, workers could access enterprise systems for updates and communicate across the network with more ease than ever before.

Yet, in demanding conditions, like a warehouse or manufacturing facility, consumer devices just don’t last. Drop that tablet on the concrete floor and it’s either headed for repair or replacement—which means downtime and cost. You might also be compromising your data security by using a consumer-grade tablet or limiting the computing power.

Zebra ET50 and ET55 Enterprise-Grade Tablets
Zebra ET50 and ET55 Enterprise-Grade Tablets

Avalon Integration is focused on serving the technology needs of today’s warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturers. We recognized that consumer devices just don’t deliver value in a tough, enterprise environment. So, we looked toward Zebra, a leader in this space, and found the answer.

The Zebra ET50 and ET55 enterprise tablets are purpose-built for the workplace. These enterprise-grade tablets make the grade—with a higher level of security, data capture, connectivity, and durability. Use these powerful mobile computing devices to:

  • Access real-time reports
  • Transmit work orders
  • Check equipment status
  • Track orders
  • Review and adjust workflows
  • Trigger replenishment
  • Place supply orders
  • Locate people and inventory
  • Capture and send high-quality photos or videos
  • View schematics
  • Record inspections with the date and time stamps
  • Use voice and messaging functions to communicate with the workforce

The Zebra ET50/ET55 enterprise tablet is designed to handle all of these functions with ease and reliability. With the sleek design of a consumer tablet, the ET50/ET55 is unquestionably rugged. Drop the tablet from three feet without worry. Add the rugged frame and the device will handle a drop from more than six feet. The ET50/ET55 will also withstand rain, snow, and dust. The IP65 sealing protects it from even a heavy spray from a hose.

This high-powered, intuitive, and rugged tablet also comes pre-installed with Zebra’s Mobility Extensions (Mx), a suite of features that elevate your operating system to enterprise-class Android. The result is more streamlined and effective device management, security, Wi-Fi performance, and application access. You can do more, better.

Zebra ET50 and ET55 Tablets Are Built to Work for You
Zebra ET50 and ET55 Tablets Are Built to Work for You

Data capture is also enhanced with the enterprise-level ET50/ET55 tablet. Scan 1D and 2D barcodes easily and quickly from a printed paper or electronic screen. Even damaged barcodes can be read. The tablet is also equipped with an integrated 8MP rear camera for image capture and a 2MP front camera for video conferencing.

You can add a hot-swappable battery to keep working without missing a beat. Or keep your ET50/ET55 powered up on the mobile-powered cart.

The ET50 is configured for robust connectivity within your facility’s existing WLAN infrastructure. If you need an enterprise tablet that hits the road with you, the ET55 supports 4G LTE.

Avalon Integration proudly partners with Zebra to provide our customers with the most advanced technology solutions for their business. Ask us about the ET50/ET55 enterprise tablets and other enterprise-grade mobile devices that increase operational efficiency.

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Find and plug the profit leaks in your warehouse

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The demand for maximum efficiency and accuracy in your warehouse forces businesses to look closely at every task. Excess motion, inventory, production, and downtime can reduce an already-squeezed profit margin. If you haven’t already examined your operation, it’s time to find and plug the profitability leaks in your warehouse.

Unnecessary motion presents a huge yet overlooked waste in the warehouse and affects Profitability

Man Lifting box in Warehouse wearing Zebra Scanners

This space a vast area to cover. Requiring workers to wander back and forth to workstations—to fetch orders, check inventory location, and gather shipping labels—is time that could be better spent doing revenue-generating tasks. Keep them in the aisles, or wherever they need to be, by equipping the workforce with enterprise-grade mobile devices. A handheld computer or enterprise tablet with a built-in scanner and voice communication and a mobile printer gives them the ability to access orders, locate inventory, communicate with other workers as needed, and stay focused on their work—not distractions and delays. Use a mobile-powered workstation with a built-in battery to keep the devices ready to go.

Manual processes contribute to slow and error-ridden results. 

Manual Profitability - Avalon Integration

Shuffling paper forms and orders, searching for items (inventory, equipment, tools), and conducting cycle counts by hand present a gaping hole in your profitability. Every manual count, notation, and task allows an opportunity for errors and delays. The wrong item or quantity is picked. An order is misplaced. Inventory is miscounted. Products are misplaced. A barcode system shrinks the time-consuming tasks and eliminates human error. Your workforce spends more time with productive results than fixing mistakes.

Downtime is another preventable profitability leak.

Downtime Profitability - Avalon Integration

With more visibility over the state of your equipment and workforce schedules, you can make changes to positively impact your bottom line. Downtime caused by equipment failures, which can be avoided through preventive maintenance. Downtime that results from waiting for someone or something (e.g., replenishment) is a glitch in the process. Improve communication with mobile devices, like a handheld computer that allows for multitasking, like voice and messaging. Work proactively and plug this profitability leak as well.

Excess inventory results from inaccurate information and projections.

Excess Inventory Profitability - Avalon Integration

Your inventory numbers should be automatically updated as products are received, returned, and shipped. At any time, management would have clear visibility of inventory counts. Using automated data collection systems (barcode scanning, RFID) enables every transaction to be recorded in real-time.

Talk to Avalon Integration about your operational efficiency—or inefficiency. We specialize in warehouses and manufacturing, so we can guide you to the solutions that deliver the best results.

Contact us today to learn more.

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Sharpen Accuracy and Efficiency in Warehouse Picking with Better Mobility

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The ever increasing demand for more efficiency and accuracy in warehouse operations leaves no room for errors. At the same time, many warehouses are processing more orders and juggling more SKUs, adding to the challenge.

Picking is one area where delays and mistakes happen. You can reduce these problems by automating the process with mobile technology. Your pickers can verify every item they pick and achieve this heightened accuracy with more accuracy than ever before.

Mobile-Powered Cart

Power Carts

A mobile-powered cart acts as a workstation on wheels, allowing your pickers to keep all of their technology close by and powered up. Eliminating the unnecessary movement between aisles and a central workstation increases efficiency. A mobile-powered workstation, like the EcoCart, delivers 8 hours of battery power and the heavy-duty reliability to withstand the tough conditions of a warehouse or distribution center. Equip it with a mobile computer, like an enterprise-grade tablet (e.g., Zebra ET50), and an industrial printer (Zebra ZT230), and your employees are connected with all the information and output they need.

Mobile Computers for the Hands-Free Approach

tc8000-accuracy

Mobile computers, like a Zebra TC8000 handheld computer, are multi-functional. They enable your workers to view orders on the screen, scan and verify products, check product locations, and instantly update inventory. This particular rugged mobile computer has been shown to increase productivity by 14%, the equivalent of one hour per worker per shift, which contributes to a rapid ROI.

The hands-free, voice-directed picking (VDP) approach to wearable technology increases efficiency even more. The combination of a ring scanner, wearable wrist terminal, and computer headset provides total freedom of movement to use both hands for picking orders. The picker responds to a voice command, points the ring scanner, and confirms the accuracy. There’s no device to carry, wrist strain is reduced, and your team picks more orders per shift, which boosts your profitability and helps you meet your operational goals.

Technology Allows for More Accuracy in Your Warehouse

According to Zebra, one of the industry leaders in mobile data collection technology, voice-directed picking solutions result in 99% accuracy and increase warehouse productivity by at least 10%.

Zebra’s research also presented some interesting statistics that support the decision to invest in better mobility solutions that enable multi-modal picking. With this approach, users achieved these results:

  • 14% less walking time to complete an order
  • 18.1% less time to pick all items in an order
  • 15.4% less time to fulfill an order
  • Error rate that is 63% less than those with voice-only systems

Technology will enable you to tighten control over your warehouse operations. Automating processes, like picking, overrides human error, allows you to process orders more quickly, optimize your labor costs, and achieve real-time visibility. Acquiring technology is not an expense, but an investment in the strength of your business.

Avalon Integration specializes in technology solutions for warehouses and manufacturing. Use our mobility expertise to customize the solutions for your business. Contact us to realize the potential.

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The ROI of Preventive Maintenance on Your Barcode Label Printer

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Preventive maintenance is important, you know you need to take care of your car to keep it running smoothly, so you follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Also, you can recognize that regular check-ups are vital to maintaining your health and catching potential issues before they become serious.

You should treat your barcode label printer with the same consideration. Following a preventive maintenance schedule reduces downtime and repair costs and extends the life of your printer. Dirt, dust, debris, and adhesive build up in your printer, damaging the printhead and compromising the quality of your barcode. The printhead is the most expensive and sensitive component in your thermal printer. Replacing it prematurely from lack of maintenance is an expense you can avoid.

Start Maintenance by Simply Cleaning Your Printer

cleaning-the-printer - Avalon Integration

Every time you change the label roll or thermal printer ribbon, clean the printhead. Use a cleaning card, cleaning pen, or cleaning roller to safely handle this task. You can also use 70% isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth or cotton swab, but be very careful you don’t apply too much or rub too hard. Turn off the printer and remove any jewelry that could scratch the printhead. Click here for instructions for cleaning your thermal printer.

Use Preventive Maintenance to Protect your investment

preventive maintenance - protect-your-investment - Avalon Integration

Routine maintenance should be periodically performed on your thermal printer—operation, settings, print quality, and more—by a certified technician. Just like your health check-up, this procedure assesses every aspect of your barcode printer. The technician identifies potential problems and makes adjustments to prevent equipment breakdown. During this procedure, the service technician might make recommendations for the way you use your printer, like the type of media or ribbon you’re using and printer settings that provide quality without straining the equipment.

A printer maintenance contract puts the responsibility of protecting your investment in the hands of your provider. The return on investment for proactive preventive maintenance is reflected in the extended life of your printer, reduced downtime and cost from preventable repairs, and a lower total cost of ownership (TCO).

Talk to us at Avalon Integration about your data collection and thermal printing needs—from hardware and software to supplies, service, and repair, we deliver end-to-end solutions for warehouse, manufacturing, and field operations.

Contact us today to learn more.

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How to Choose the Right Barcode Labels

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Barcodes look simple enough, and technology has made it easy to use this process for data collection. But with so many uses for barcodes today, you need to pay attention to the label media you choose. Some are designed for specific purposes, like cold storage or affixing to a curved surface. If you don’t choose the right barcode labels, you’ll risk losing the data that this process is intended to provide. That could mean anything from printer damage and downtime to a product recall.

Understand Barcode Labels Easily with “PRESS”

When assessing your options, we follow the acronym “PRESS” that is suggested by Zebra, one of the global leaders in barcode printers, labels, and supplies.

P = Printer: Choose a barcode label that matches the specifications of your thermal printer: print speed (inches per second or ips) and print resolution (dots per inch or dpi). Some labels are designed to print at faster or slower speeds, and won’t serve you well at a different print speed. If you’re using a high-resolution printer (e.g., 600 dpi), don’t expect a label designed for 300 dpi to produce the same clarity and definition.

Your thermal printer’s specs will also identify the material thickness and roll size, as a minimum and maximum output size.

R = Resistance: Will your barcode label have to withstand tough conditions, like exposure to chemicals or contact with other surfaces? Some label media is coated to protect the printed barcode from chemicals, light, and abrasives that could smudge or destroy the barcode. Window cleaners and water are considered weak; alcohol and bleach are moderate chemicals; but oil, gasoline, acetone, and xylene can ruin a label that isn’t printed on the right media. Exposure to UV and fluorescent light can fade it.

E = Environment: Barcodes that will be exposed to extreme temperatures require a specific type of substrate and adhesive that stands up to those conditions. If you’re producing barcodes for products or parts that will come in contact with intense cold (freezers, outdoors), heat (sterilizing), or moisture (steam, rain, snow), look for a synthetic barcode label that is manufactured for these environmental situations.

S = Surface: Consider the type of surface where the label will be applied. A smooth surface could be flat or curved, and that makes a difference in the media. A rough surface presents a different challenge. The type of surface material also impacts the barcode label adhesive you choose. Metal, paper, plastic, and corrugated have different characteristics for adhesion.

S = Size: The dimensions of your label are obviously critical to choosing the right barcode labels. Are you printing multiple labels side by side? Would rolls be the better choice for your printing volume? Your supplier can advise you on the best choice to fit the size of the barcode labels.

Avalon Integration can guide you through the barcode label choices so you’re sure to get the ideal pairing with your printer and purpose. We have partnered with Zebra to ensure the quality, consistency, and unmatched selection of thermal printing supplies. We also provide pre-printed labels and custom labels. Contact Avalon Integration to maximize the ROI in your barcode label printing.

Contact us today to learn more.

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The Business Professional’s Choice: Apple or Android?

Apple and Android Devices Stacked

My Device photo c/o Kristine Moser

In life, sometimes you just have to pick between A and B. Chocolate or vanilla? Cat or dog? Walk or run? The list goes on indefinitely and gains new additions each year. One subject that most consumers have a hard answer to is the debate between Apple or Android as their phone designer of choice. But, how does the Apple/Android debate carry over into the business and technology world, is it even a debate at all?

Zebra and Android Collaboration

With recent collaborations between Zebra Technologies and Android, the two companies have brought together their software and user interface to create the new “My Devices” mobile aid for Target stores nationwide. You may have already seen employees using the devices when searching store stock or checking the status of an item online, as the product was debuted in Summer 2017. While the company did not cite a reason for the switch, Target employees have leaked on various social media platforms that they were unhappy with the frequent errors and inability to change the device’s batteries.

However, Apple still remains a worthy partner for businesses selling directly to consumers and looking to keep familiarity. Both Nordstrom and makeup giant, Sephora, utilize iPhones in stores for point of sale purchases to avoid long wait times for customers and efficient check out times. Using Apple products allows both retailers to create a seamless experience for the vast majority of their shoppers since Apple is still holding on to the number one spot for consumer phones. This allows customers to take advantage of the new technology available, without forcing retailers to deal with the stress of teaching them how to use the items, etc.

It is logical to assume, that the debate between Apple and Android will be one that continues for the years to come. As technology advances, so does the need for all platforms to grow along with that advancement. We are already beginning to see BIG changes coming to Apple’s interface and IOS Operating Systems with virtual reality capability expected to launch at any moment. We are also seeing Windows become an outdated operating system, and slowly being phased out by many companies to be replaced by Android. 2018 is certainly an exciting time in the technology industry and we surely are in for a few surprises before the year runs out!

Contact us today to learn more.

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Get up to $550 Cash Rebate When You Upgrade to Zebra ZT600 from Avalon

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When you rely on your thermal printer to deliver heavy-duty performance, you can’t afford to hold onto an outdated printer. The cost of downtime, repairs, and replacement supplies eats into your profitability. Avalon Integration has partnered with Zebra to give you a solution to questionable barcode label printer performance.

The Zebra ZT600 industrial printer series was introduced last year, as an upgraded replacement to the company’s legendary Xi4 industrial printers, which already lead the industry in performance, durability, print speed, and quality. When we learned that Zebra had raised the standard for barcode label printing in tough environments, we knew our customers needed to explore it.

ZT600 Two Front Facing View

Then, Zebra helped us sweeten the deal with a cash rebate for these new printers. Buy a ZT610 or ZT620 thermal printer from Avalon Integration and get $250 back for a ZT610 and $500 for a ZT620 when you trade in your current industrial printer—even if you’re not using a Zebra model. Add in the Zebra OneCare Printer Service and you’ll receive an additional $50 cashback.

The cash rebate provides an incentive for making the move to the ZT600 barcode label printers, but there are many more reasons to upgrade now.

ZT600 Right Side View Printing

Zebra has incorporated “future-facing technology” in the ZT600 Printer Series—improvements that are designed to extend the life and value of your printer investment.

  • The ZR610’s 600 dpi resolution prints micro-labels are as small as 3 mm—ideal for circuit boards, chips, and miniature components.
  • Highly precise registration produces micro-consistent printing without waste.
  • Adaptable design enables field upgrades.
  • Long-life printheads reduce replacement costs and downtime.
  • Printhead pressure toggles with color-coded pressure indicators make it fast and easy to complete simple adjustments.
  • Zebra Link-OS Printer Profile Manager Enterprise, Mobile Device Management connectors, and Visibility Services streamline device and network management.

ZT600 Left Side View Printing

In addition, the ZT600 printers have kept the features that distinguished the Xi:

  • All-metal components resist extreme temperatures, moisture, dust, and dirt.
  • Side-loading and guided media paths simplify the task and reduce the printer’s footprint.
  • Built-in thermal management eliminates vents and fans to prevent dust and debris.
  • High-quality construction delivers superior quality, speed, and reliability.

Now is a great time to move up to more reliable, higher quality barcode label printing. Talk to us at Avalon Integration about the Zebra ZT600 industrial printers and the GO Zebra trade-in program.

Contact us today to learn more.

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Partner Spotlight: Mobile Power Carts with Newcastle Systems

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To “provide innovative solutions that make equipment more mobile and information more readily available across an entire enterprise. Period.” is the philosophy of Massachusetts-based Newcastle Systems. This company expands on the idea of a mobile workplace and innovating new pieces of equipment each year to help companies simplify their day-to-day operations, without making major changes to their software and workspace. With 2018 just beginning, many businesses are looking for ways to beat 2017 numbers, start the year fresh or just expand on their already deemed successful procedures. No matter what your reason for innovation may be, Newcastle Systems is a company that should be at the top of your radar!

While Newcastle Systems has a wide variety of products, their mobile power carts are quickly gaining the attention of many in the warehouse industry and beyond. Each of the mobile power stations comes equipped with its’ own battery to power the carts as they move throughout a day’s work. Their PowerSwap Nucleus model alone comes equipped with a battery able to charge a laptop, barcode scanner and printer for over eight hours! If that doesn’t make your heart flutter, we don’t know what will!

All power carts are 100% mobile and come standard with NO cords or external charging required! This freedom to move your workstation throughout any area for a full workday increases productivity, and takes away the stress of seeing that blinking red battery icon while rushing to a charging station! We should also mention that Newcastle System’s batteries support the most power per pound of ANY workstation battery on the market! WOW!

While mobile power carts are a relatively new concept in the warehouse industry and beyond, the potential this item could bring is truly limitless. We are very excited to welcome Newcastle Systems to our vendor list and we can’t wait to show you how they can help you achieve maximum results in 2018!

Contact us today to learn more.

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