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3 Zebra Products Designed for Augmented Visibility

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It’s not news to anyone at this point that visibility has become an indispensable necessity in today’s complicated supply chains. Although new demands and changing guidelines seem to affect every industry across the globe, not every visibility solution is fit to address your needs. Moreover, as demands grow, businesses are faced with multiple factors to track, from delivery times to storage status, to worker safety. Therefore, to better serve our wide variety of customers, Avalon Integration has taken the time to unfold the unique benefits and features of three of Zebra’s most popular tracking solutions, crafted for dependable visibility in today’s unprecedented changes.

Start small with durable identification

Durable Identification with Zebra Labels

Zebra Certified Consumables as a cost-effective and simple way to ensure accurate identification

When increasing operational visibility, we’ve found that even the smallest changes can yield big results. With that in mind, we turn to your labeling and identification system. Recent surveys have found that over half of “lost orders” are misplaced due to faulty labels that carry vital delivery and storage information. To prevent your stock’s information from getting lost (and eventually jeopardizing your product), we recommend evaluating the following label criteria:

  • Adhesive strength
  • Surface coating
  • Resistance to temperatures, moisture, dust exposure
  • Reel orientation and perforations

Not only can cheap labels harm your printer, but they can peel off or fade away over time, resulting in misplaced and inaccurate orders that hinder the customer experience. To amplify labeling efficiency, Avalon has continuously recommended Zebra Certified Consumables as a cost-effective and simple way to ensure accurate identification no matter the size of your operations. 

Take it up a notch with intelligent applications

RFID Solutions with Intelligent Applications

While RFID solutions serve as a modernized option to track assets and inventory simultaneously

As your business grows, so does the need for flawless technology, which is why when even one device goes missing, your whole team may suffer. As a matter of fact, 80% of costs attributed to lost devices come from data breaches, meaning that one lost tablet could very well impact your whole operation depending on what sort of data it holds.

While RFID solutions serve as a modernized option to track assets and inventory simultaneously, there are other cost-effective tools you can use to track your devices. For example, all of Zebra’s Android-powered mobile computers provide you with access to Mobility DNA applications that expand insight into your devices’ performance.

  • Device Tracker – Ensure continuous uptime with an application that helps you locate your misplaced device anywhere in the workplace.
  • PowerPrecision – Manage battery lifecycles across your entire digital fleet and pinpoint when a mobile device is underperforming to prevent surprise downtime.
  • LifeGuard – Extend security measures with recurrent 90-day patches that keep your devices updated automatically and silently. 
  • Device Diagnostics – Test major systems and deploy simple diagnostics to keep devices running and available without overburdening your IT department.

Expand visibility across the supply chain with RFID-powered MotionWorks

RFID Powered MotionWorks Warehouse

Zebra MotionWorks provide the greatest ease of use, flexibility, and versatility

Last, but certainly not least, when tracking multiple assets, products, and workers throughout the supply chain, visibility solutions like Zebra MotionWorks provide the greatest ease of use, flexibility, and versatility. Customize and grow your system to incorporate new goals by tracking:

  • Crucial assets – Manage all your deployed tools to verify location, condition, performance, and need all in real-time.
  • Material flow – Track and automate the flow of material while updating your WMS and ERP systems with actionable data that can be used to adjust to changes in demand.
  • Yard systems – Increase gate transaction speed to make sure inventory is transported to the correct dock in a timely fashion.

Bring the dependability of accurate tracking to where it matters most with the new MotionWorks Proximity for seamless worker safety, deployed directly on your Zebra mobile device. Reduce touchpoints to prevent germ spread and count on a user-friendly interface that accelerates safe and efficient contact tracing. 

In response to the health-crisis,  Zebra and Avalon have leveraged MotionWorks for efficient Worker Safety. Tune in to our newest podcast to learn more:

Of course, the above three suggestions fail to encompass the multitude of ways you can efficiently grow operational visibility without increasing costs. To learn how you can integrate a modernized visibility solution in your business, contact our automation specialists for a comprehensive assessment of your workflows.

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How to Decide if Click-and-Collect is Right for You

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As industries continue to navigate through the “New Normal”, several distinct shopping patterns have risen to prominence such as click-and-collect. Way before the pandemic, click-and-collect had already climbed 47% within the 2017 holiday season. During the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, click-and-collect purchases skyrocketed 443%, and it is estimated to continue rising as customers adapt to a new more convenient way to shop. To remain competitive in today’s retail landscape, more and more stores are turning to click-and-collect services. However, because every enterprise is inherently unique, Avalon Integration recommends the following questions to ask yourself before committing to a new order fulfillment system.

Does your team have access to inventory visibility?

Warehouse worker using a powercart

Inventory visibility is crucial

Now more than ever, customer expectations drive engagement. Reports indicate that nearly 85% of customers consider returning to retailers who allow them to track their orders. Those same expectations carry over to click-and-collect services, which is why inventory visibility is crucial. Superior inventory visibility empowers you, teams, too:

  • Mitigate surprise out-of-stocks by replenishing items before they reach established risk thresholds 
  • Locate inventory more promptly to increase throughout 
  • Prepare for purchase surges by tracking high-demand inventory

Have you secured reliable communication between team members and customers?

Two warehouse workers checking inventory in a warehouse

Reliable Communication between Team Members is key for any warehouse

To further meet customer expectations and diminish worker stress, companies are encouraged to maintain secured communication channels within the supply chain to avoid any surprises. While there are many connectivity options available, superior options are marked they their versatility and flexibility, such as Zebra Technologies various connectivity systems:

  • Zebra Workforce Connect – Easy to deploy, Workforce Connect brings your mobile device to a new level by integrating push-to-talk and PBX capabilities and secured text messages into your devices without interruptive backend changes. Scalable and cost-effective, Workforce Connect allows users to create groups and assign roles within an adaptable architecture, streamlining communication channels into your mainstream operations.
  • WorryFree WiFi – As part of Zebra’s family of Mobility DNA applications, WorryFree WiFi helps secure wall-to-wall connectivity to enhance device performance anywhere in the warehouse, making sure your device is able to receive order changes as they come since it remains connected to WiFi. Accelerating response times, WorryFree WiFi also delivers better voice quality and network diagnostics to maximize uptime.
  • Complete cellular network flexibility – Zebra’s line of ergonomic compact touch-computers can provide safe communication channels that fit your current operations, connecting your warehouse and field teams through their current mobile devices. Choose from either cellular, Bluetooth, or WiFi connectivity all protected by Zebra’s fortified Android interface.

What is your staff size?

Two warehouse workers moving a pallet

Click-and-collect solutions generally require a smaller team to operate

Last but not least, to accommodate a smaller workforce within a more demanding market, click-and-collect solutions generally require a smaller team to operate, diminishing unnecessary labor efforts and 3PL expenses. This also allows other team members to focus on different tasks without impacting throughput. By refocusing in-store tasks, click and collect services can empower you to enhance:

  • Inventory management
  • In-store customer service
  • Delivery services
  • Online couponing

Simply put, click-and-collect opens up a myriad of opportunities if integrated correctly. To see if click and collect are right for your business, contact us today.

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Does Your Mobility Solution Lead to Operational Visibility?

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Whether in the storefront or on the warehouse floor, mobility and visibility have proven to be essential assets in securing dependable productivity. However, facing increasingly complex supply chains – brought about either from the rise of e-com and/or new BOPIS purchase patterns – companies must learn to maximize both mobility and visibility in order to meet demands without compromise.

As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, Avalon Integration is able to explore multiple ways to leverage both mobility and visibility within today’s operations. From enterprise-ready rugged tablets to on-demand RFID mobile printers, modern warehouses can take a variety of pathways to building a mobility solution that enhances visibility. That’s why we’re exploring three mobility solutions that directly maximize visibility. 

Warehouse Handheld Enterprise Mobility Solutions from Zebra

Mobility Solutions for any warehouse

  • Enterprise Mobile Computing – According to surveys conducted by Zebra Technologies’ specialists, over 70% of warehouses are currently investing or seeking new ways to invest in mobility solutions. Failure to do so may damage your competitiveness. Operating with high-speed connectivity and flexible networking options, Zebra’s line of handheld computers secure viable communication channels inside and outside your warehouse, enhancing:
    • Inventory management
    • Order processing times
    • Efficient reverse logistics
  • Migration to Android – While migration may seem like an overwhelming task, it also opens doors to new opportunities such as secured data protecting and facilitated onboarding. Moreover, Android houses Zebra’s exclusive line of productivity applications, Mobility DNA, that allow you to:
    • Deploy push-to-talk features
    • Scan multiple barcodes simultaneously
    • Remotely manage battery performance and life cycles
    • Convert green-screen apps to touchscreen right out of the box
    • Track missing Zebra devices
  • Real-Time On-Demand Tracking – To meet new demands for faster delivery and fulfillment transparency, real-time locationing systems help track your inventory and/or assets. However, Zebra has taken tracking efficiency a step further with the all-new ZQ511/521 mobile printer, which can print 3 to 4 inches of RFID labels on-demand, virtually eliminating wait times and mislabeling errors since labels are readily available when and where needed, so you get:
    • Rugged mobile printing and RFID power fit for field service
    • Efficient workflows in and out of the warehouse
    • High battery performance that survives your longest shift
    • Adaptable printing speeds and darkness to accommodate temperature conditions

Have more questions about RFID? Ask Roi.

Avalon ROI Robot and Zebra

Needless to say, none of these solutions are mutually exclusive, which is why our modernization specialists work diligently to create custom solutions that adapt to your business.  Contact us to see how modernization can maximize mobility and visibility in your operations.

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Measuring Productivity with Mobility DNA

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An efficient tracking system can be the only thing standing between you and complete operational chaos. For example, an enhanced asset management system can yield unparalleled benefits such as:

  • Seamless productivity as workers know where and when to find assets
  • Maximized profits backed by accurate stock quantities
  • Increased customer loyalty

From dock to doorway, inventory must be accounted for in order to mitigate overstocks and/or product shrinkage. Furthermore, while durable hardware and labels are vital in establishing a reliable tracking system, complete visibility also depends on intelligent software. 

TC77 Utilizing Zebras Mobility DNA Reliable Tracking System

TC77 Utilizing Zebras Mobility DNA Reliable Tracking System

As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, Avalon Integration sets a higher standard of inefficient inventory management with data capture and computing software – all designed to strengthen your ergonomic device. When it comes to enhanced inventory management, Avalon equips the workforce with Mobility DNA, Zebra’s line of intuitive applications dedicated to maximizing warehouse visibility. 

Intelligent Visibility Leads to Intelligent Actions with Mobility DNA

TC51 Uses Mobility DNA to Simplify Common Tracking Tasks

TC51 Uses Mobility DNA to Simplify Common Tracking Tasks

Maximizing accuracy through Zebra’s next generation of Android devices, Mobility DNA applications simplify common tracking tasks such as:

  • Scanning – Experience the next edge of automation with SimulScan by capturing up to 20 barcodes with one trigger pull, eliminating extraneous hours of individual scanning.
  • Data entry – Reduce the errors associated with manual data entry through DataWedge. Simply capture data via scanner, camera, NFC, or peripherals to share it to your open applications.  
  • Workforce communication – Clean communication channels enhance visibility as your workforce can better operate as a team. Applications such as Workforce Connect transform your Zebra devices into efficient push-to-talk communicators with minimal backend configurations.

Plus, with WorryFree WiFi delivering enhanced connectivity, your applications stay running anywhere within the four walls, providing easy access to your inventory’s information at all times.

From RFID tags to rugged handhelds, Avalon Integration is committed to equipping you with the best solutions available. If you are not sure how to start enhancing your tracking system, get a free assessment of your current workflows for a customized visibility solution centered on your business’ unique needs.

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The Versatile Future is Here: See How the TC57 Fits Your Dynamic Workflow

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On June 19th, 2018, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued its 10 millionth patent, testifying a nation’s commitment to innovation and technological advancements. From the overarching internet to self-driving cars, technology has advanced to deliver innovation to virtually every industry worldwide — all in less than 30 years. Facing what’s been coined as the 4th Industrial Revolution, Avalon Integration has partnered with Zebra Technologies to provide groundbreaking technology that shatters through pre-established industry boundaries.

Here to set an unparalleled standard, the TC57 fits multiple use cases, serving as one of the most versatile devices in the industrial market to date. Adaptable form the inside out, this all-touch computer continuously increases productivity in and out of the four walls, which begs the question…where does it fit? 

Where in the World is the TC57?

Equipped with rugged ergonomics and an intuitive platform, the TC57 can be integrated into almost any dynamic workflow with minimal infrastructure changes, streamlining operations in…

  • Extreme Conditions — Sporting military-grade durability, the TC57 is equipped with a rugged exterior that endures harsh temperatures, humidity, and drops up to 6ft. Zebra’s fortified Android delivers the ultimate processing power while securing OS updates that future-proof your device. Lastly, it’s best-in-class 5 in. display delivers maximized readability perfect for graphic-intensive applications in any lighting condition. Protected with Corning Gorilla Glass, the glove-friendly touchscreen remains fully operational when wet.

    TC57 Extreme Conditions Workflow

    TC57 Extreme Conditions Workflow

  • In Remote Places — Supporting carrier aggregation, the TC57 ensures network connectivity through multiple networking channels.  With WorryFree WiFi, devices can stay connected and running during your on-the-move operations.

    TC57 Remote Places Workflow

    TC57 Remote Places Workflow

  • In Overwhelming Landscapes — Supply chains have become increasingly more dynamic in and out of the warehouse. Running on an open ecosystem, the TC57 gathers Zebra’s best Mobility DNA applications as well as long-range data capture to maximize productivity. Capture barcodes multiple barcodes as far as 70ft with one trigger-pull and omnidirectional scanning.

    TC57 Overwhelming Landscapes Workflow

    TC57 Overwhelming Landscapes Workflow

And with Avalon Integration, integrating the latest upgrades in mobile computing is seamless and affordable. From now till December 31st, upgrade your technology with the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Get cash-back rebates when you swap out legacy devices from any manufacturer for the newest generation of efficient technology.

Technology is advancing fast, and the TC57 is just one of many next-evolution devices available. Navigate through a new landscape of opportunities when you contact us for more information on how the TC57 and other devices can innovate your production workflow.

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Zebra’s Rugged Tablets – Made for the Wild

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Analysts at Inc. Magazine estimate that the average delivery driver can deliver close to 200 packages in an 8-hour shift, one package per 2 minutes and 24 seconds –breaks included. As the demand for same-day shipping and online retail grows, the estimate shrinks. Modern-day field services have become ever more complex as mobile workers face multiple obstacles throughout the day. Researchers at the Capgemini Consulting Group outline several issues facing field mobility, with the top three being:

  1. Escalating Fuel Costs
  2. Changing Business/Technology Practices
  3. Maintaining Customer Satisfaction

As the market evolves, Avalon Integration identifies the value of extending efficient organizational patterns in field service. Emphasizing connectivity, flexibility, and innovation, our mobility experts equip you with versatile tools that minimize stress. Simplifying field demands for over twenty years, we’re introducing Zebra’s Rugged Tablets as the foundation of next-generation mobility solutions —designed for wild challenges of field service.

Work with Technology that Works for You with Zebra’s Rugged Tablets

Committed to enterprise success, Avalon Integration makes sure new implementations streamline workflows efficiently. As a result, we’ve chosen Zebra’s Rugged Tablets as a user-friendly and innovative launchpad into optimized functionality.

Increased Connectivity with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Get Increased Connectivity with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Enhance customer satisfaction with increased connectivity — Track your workforce’s whereabouts and routes to better predict delivery times with the help of 802.11ac WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth, GPS, and 4G LTE mobile broadband technology. Plus, combine connectivity with data capture on Zebra’s XSLATE to update delivery logs on-the-fly.

Flexible Business Technology Practices with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Get Flexible Business Technology Practices with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Raise the bar with flexible business and technology practices — Operating through Zebra’s fortified Android OS, these rugged tablets secure uptime with faster onboarding and maximized security that expands the device lifecycle. Functional in three different models, Zebra’s Rugged Tablets fit your workforce’s usage needs. Lastly, further boost productivity with Zebra’s Mobility DNA applications, which allow you to manage devices remotely, conduct small repairs independently, and maximize connectivity all with a tap on your touchscreen.

Focus on What Matters with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Focus on What Matters with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Cut extraneous costs to focus on what matters — While Zebra’s Rugged Tablets can’t bring down gas prices, they can minimize repair costs with a durable IP65 sealing and military-grade design. Functional in extreme temperatures and altitudes, tablets reduce costly downtime from repairs and replacements, maximizing profits that can be allocated towards fuel and other important expenses. As always, Avalon facilitates upgrades through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Drive down upgrade costs when you trade in outdated devices from any manufacturer for a cash-back rebate towards your newest device.

Despite all its benefits, Zebra’s Rugged Tablets are only the start of mobility enhancement. From novel software to multi-functional peripherals, equip your mobile workforce with all the tools they need to overcome the challenges of field service with the utmost ease. Contact Avalon Integration today to create an end-to-end mobility solution based on your workforce’s greatest needs and bring productivity beyond the four walls.

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Introducing the EC30: But Where Does It Go?

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Standards were made to be raised. Serving warehouses and distribution centers for over twenty years, Avalon Integration has specialized in high standards. As a proud Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, we have the privilege of raising your standards again with Zebra Technologies’ newest breakthrough in mobile computing – the EC30. 

Increasing productivity using the latest form factor, the EC30 serves as the newest and most cost-effective solution when it comes to connectivity, data capture, and inventory management. As the smallest mobile computer on the market, the EC30 fits virtually in any use, which has left manufacturers wondering where exactly to properly integrate it.

The EC30 Allows You to Take Help on the Go, Anywhere You Go

EC30 and Avalon Integration

EC30 and Avalon Integration

With new market demands such as same-day shipping and the e-commerce boom, mobility solutions have become crucial to maintaining efficient continuous operations. From picking to shipping, your digital workforce should facilitate tasks with minimal interruptions. Therefore, devices should be lightweight, fast, and durable to match the new work environment. Fortunately, the EC30 fits all these requirements, making it the first multi-purpose computer, functional in any part of your supply chain.

  • Strengthen your teamwork with the EC30’s voice communication features, sustained by WorryFree WiFi. Keep communication channels open throughout your workforce for better decision-making and real-time insights inside all four walls. 
  • Expedite scanning rate with accurate data capture technology. Whether in the warehouse or the storefront, equip your employees with fast-processing technology that ultimately elevates customer satisfaction with rapid price-lookups. 
  • Improve inventory management with better visibility conducted through Zebra’s Mobility DNA, installed in a lightweight device. Smaller than Zebra’s current touch-computers, the EC30 lets your workers bring all your necessary applications without the hassle of carrying a larger device.
Zebras EC30 on Table

EC30 on Table

A picture worth a thousand words, so check out our video and meet the next generation of mobile computing for yourself. See all these benefits and more when you contact our warehousing experts to schedule a free demonstration and choose your preferred integration strategy to optimize your workforce with the latest solutions.

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The Familiar Face with New Features: What’s New in the TC57

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It may look like your everyday cellphone, but Zebra’s all-touch computer, the TC57, is built for the enterprise environment. Gathering all the innovative benefits of Mobility DNA and the rugged strength of Zebra technology, the TC57 streamlines your workforce’s functionality by hosting tomorrow’s advancements in a familiar platform.

Reshape the Future of Barcode Technology with the TC57


Like consumer phones, barcode technology is rapidly advancing to address some of the harshest environments a workforce can face. From icy temperatures to clumsy foremen, the TC57 encapsulates all the needed changes without forsaking the dependability of former devices, excelling the user experience with:

  • 5-inch display built with outdoor readability that ensures visibility even in bright sunlight
  • An omnidirectional scanner that captures data even without proper alignment
  • Elegant rugged design that withstands drops, tumbles, unfavorable weather, and scratches
  • Pre-set Mobility DNA such as LifeGuard and PowerPrecision+ supported by Android OS
Zebras TC57 Using Simulscan on a Document

Zebras TC57 Using Simulscan on a Document

And along with these timeless benefits, the TC57 brings its own new features to take your production line from great to grand.

  • The SimulScan app captures multiple barcodes on a single label with just one press of a button.
  • PRZM intelligent imaging ensures the capture of 1D and 2D barcodes, including Digimarc.
  • Warm Swap mode allows for battery replacement without closing apps or powering off the device.
  • 2×2 Multiple-User Multiple Impute Multiple Output supports communication between multiple devices while increasing WiFi speed and range.

Swap Vintage for Vigor

We know that keeping up with the latest technology can be costly. That’s why Avalon Integration has partnered up with Zebra Technologies in the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Upgrade your TC56 with Avalon to get more out of your touch computer.

Upgrading technology should never force you to compromise familiarity with innovation. Supplying a variety of businesses with the latest technology, Avalon Integration understands the need for familiarity in a company as it facilitates production. To learn more about how to integrate the TC57 into your production line, contact us, and get the technology of tomorrow on the device of today.

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Zebra’s Mobility DNA Is Evident in the New Generation TC52

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Mobility is a common term that is thrown about these days. From business to pleasure, we’re all looking for the technology that delivers the functions we want with the reliable connections we’ve come to expect. On the industrial side, Zebra is known for its suite of mobility functions and tools for industrial-grade computing. And Zebra’s Mobility DNA is evident in the new generation TC52 touch computer. We took a close look at the TC52, and Avalon Integration wants to share with you the advances available to you in enterprise mobile computing.

 

From the front of the store to the most remote locations in a warehouse or on the road, there are no questions that an enterprise mobile computer out-performs a consumer device. The ruggedness, security, data capture, connectivity, device and app management, and other functions are purpose-built for this more demanding workspace. Then, you have the choice of which industrial mobile computer fits your needs. The Zebra TC52 touch mobile computer gives you everything you need for computing on the go, and it’s supported by what Zebra calls its “Mobility DNA” enterprise-class apps.

Zebra’s Mobility DNA Enterprise-Class Apps

TC52 Apps for Zebra's Mobility DNA

Start with the WorryFree WiFi, which seeks out and optimizes the strongest signal available. Your workers don’t have to worry about falling off the network. They can work uninterrupted, at least from a connectivity perspective. WorryFree WiFi is a free tool that comes with the TC52, and it also provides outstanding voice quality and network diagnostics.

The PowerPrecision Console is another free solution included in Zebra’s Mobility DNA suite. Use one central dashboard to monitor the status of the battery power of your connected devices. Check the battery status to proactively manage the power of the devices and prevent downtime from devices with dead batteries.

LifeGuard was developed to stay on top of updates. This program—free with the Zebra OneCare Support contract—shows you all apps that need to be updated, and which devices are impacted. Then, LifeGuard enables remote updates of all your network devices.

Zebra’s Mobility DNA Is Built into the TC52

TC52 Built Mobility DNA

Mobility, by its very nature, keeps moving. If you’ve experienced the OS Migration challenge, you know that operating systems aren’t exempt from significant changes. The TC52 runs on Zebra’s fortified Android, with guaranteed support for the next two versions of Android, up to ten years!

The TC52 is lightweight and looks like a smartphone, but it’s built to handle the tough stuff and keep working. The advances that increase productivity make this rugged handheld computer worth a closer look. Contact us at Avalon Integration to get a demo and explore Mobility DNA for yourself. When you make your choice to deploy the TC52, Avalon Integration will fully configure each device so it’s ready to run right out of the box!

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What Is OS Migration?

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Simply put, if you currently use any Windows Operating System other than Windows 10 or Azure IoT for your enterprise devices, you will need to migrate to another operating system even if it’s to a newer Windows OS to be prepped for the upcoming OS Migration.

A challenge – yes – and maybe an opportunity. The entire debate begins with Microsoft appearing to throw in the towel on windows phones – they are not just cutting support for older iterations but they seem to be giving up on the Windows phone. Enterprise users will need to find alternatives and plan strategies that move their businesses forward.

OS Migration Schedule

OS Migration Schedule

Here is the schedule for Windows OS withdrawal from the rugged enterprise market.

Operating System General Support Ends Extended Support Ends
Windows Embedded Compact 7 Ended April 13, 2021
Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 Ended January 13, 2020
Windows Embedded CE 6.0 Ended Ended
Windows Embedded Handheld 8.1 July 9, 2019 N/A
Others (CE 5.0, WM 5.0, WM 6.1, WM 6.5, WEHH 8.0) Ended Ended

Windows’ dilemma affects 15 million mobile enterprise computers— approximately 90% of the enterprise computing market and the impact will be felt across all industries.

No more security patches. No more updates.

For some, the search for a suitable OS began as soon as the announcement was made. Sooner or later everyone using the older Windows OS will need to find a new one and migrate their apps.

What are the options?

  1. Continue with Windows, without security updates. You’ll be risking your network to malware and eventually, your productivity will suffer as devices go down and can’t be serviced.
  2. Rewrite your apps to fit Windows 10 and IoT. Your users still need to learn a new interface even as you invest in rewriting apps.
  3. Move to a different operating system, like Android or iOS. Yes, you rewrite apps, but you move to viable Operating Systems that users know well.

Android or iOS?

TC20 - OS Migration

Most of your workforce is already very familiar with Android. 85% of consumer and enterprise mobile devices currently in use run on Android; 14% run iOS. It’s pretty clear these are the two most likely choices – Android and iOS.

There are plusses and minuses to each. Android offers a much larger population of software developers, but it has suffered in the past from security issues associated with its open-source platform. If, as it appears now, that problem has been resolved, Android would present a distinct advantage over iOS. Also, iOS is only available for consumer-grade Apple devices. They are enormously popular with consumers but don’t have nearly the enterprise-level features of durability, scanning, and computing that Android offers. 

An Enterprise Android Solution for OS Migration

OS Migration - DNA Mobility

Zebra has deep Android experience and created a solution that is gaining a lot of traction among enterprise users. Zebra’s Powerful Mobility Extensions (Mx) and Mobility DNA Solutions overcome security issues and create robust management capabilities to meet the needs of the modern enterprise user.

With the Zebra overlays, Android looks like the OS leader in enterprise-ready devices. Your data is secure. The OS is eminently flexible and customizable. Android’s familiar interface makes it easy for almost every member of the workforce to use and it’s affordable. And Zebra’s commitment to enterprise mobility offers an opportunity to substantially upgrade performance once you’ve made a plan to migrate to Android.

You have important choices to make if you’re using Windows CE/Embedded. Migrate now or wait until you no longer have security patches to protect your network. In future blogs, we’ll take up, in more detail, the impact of the OS Migration as well as where and when to migrate to a new operating system.

Avalon Integration can help you 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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