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Where does Zebra’s new WS50 fit?

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Zebra’s newest wearable computer has gained much attention for being the world’s smallest wrist-mounted computer. Lightweight and fully ergonomic, the device replicates many functions currently conducted by larger handheld computers, yet it brings unique benefits to specific applications. To best harness its features, businesses seeking to implement the WS50 should consider its top use cases. Developed to simplify data capture and sharing, the WS50 has seen the most proficiency in:

  • Retail markdowns – Shifts in demands can cause rapid price changes over shorter periods of time. Team members equipped with unbreakable data accessibility through wearable devices can quickly scan and verify inventory information without extra bulky devices or paper stock counts.
  • Task management – Operating with smaller workforces under constant labor turnover, warehouse teams require real-time task management that can prioritize in-need operations in real-time based on current workforce size. The WS50’s flexible connectivity features allows teams to update task assignments on the go for less unbroken productivity.
  • Warehouse order fulfillment – Encompassing over 50% of labor efforts, order fulfillment is the foundation of successful distribution. With customers demanding consistent accuracy rates within smaller delivery timeframes, automated picking, sorting, and loading hastens the fulfillment process while increasing throughput without overburdening your workforce. Mobile computing also curbs unnecessary travel since workers no longer need to check in with a centralized desktop to update reports.
  • Accuracy verification – Lastly, whether in the warehouse, in a storefront, or even in non-traditional settings such as food service and hospitality, the WS50’s intelligent scan engine provides higher accuracy rates by verifying product data without paper-based systems.

 

How is this different from a traditional handheld computer?

While the WS50 shares many similarities with leading mobile devices, its small size and wearable capabilities increase responsiveness since workers can be expected to be wearing their devices. Wearable technologies have consistently shown to be easier to adopt since they leverage natural human movement, ultimately empowering teams to…

  1. Cut down device management costs since the device already fulfills the role of a ring scanner
  2. Further connect teams through embedded push-to-talk features on a wearable band
  3. Customize mounting and applications to create a tailored wearable solution that’s easy to grasp by new hires.

 

The road to effective modernization can take many forms. While a hardware upgrade can be essential, sustainable efficiency is developed with tested expertise and solution support. To translate the benefits of the WS50 into your workflows, consider meeting up with one of our automation experts to pinpoint bottlenecks and optimization opportunities in your workflows.

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Why Add a Keypad to Rugged Scanner?

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Zebra’s newest DS3600-KD is expected to set a new standard in ease-of-use, yet at face-value, one might wonder how an additional keypad is more beneficial to a scanner, and how it differs from previous touch-computers. While similar to enterprise computers, the keypad-scanner merger lowers adoption rates since it is familiar to employees already using handheld scanners, particularly the frontline workforce. An additional keypad harnesses small-scale benefits that work together to speed up data entry for faster service. In doing so, distribution centers can meet higher customer expectations surrounding faster and same-day shipping – all without additional strain and costs to an already busy workforce.

4 Ways Zebra’s Additional Keypad Elevates Operations

When workers can key in crucial data such as location and quantity directly on the spot, they no longer have to waste time interacting with additional host devices or rescanning the same object for more data. Moreover, the DS3600-KD is equipped with pre-built applications to further elevate operations through:

  1. Eliminating additional trigger pulls – A keypad boosts ergonomics by decreasing instances of finger fatigue as workers can adjust quantity data with one hand.
  2. Adding location data to individual products – Quickly update locationing information by entering aisle and shelf number to your scanned data. This further accelerates order picking as following shifts can use previously captured data to find products in the warehouse.
  3. Image documentation – Capture images of the assembled order and share it with your host for a recorded verification track of orders and possible damages.
  4. Quick matching scans – Scan the container’s outer label and then each individual item inside an order with the help of the screen’s visible confirmation to make sure the container has an accurate completed order before shipment.
  5. Sustainable inventory cycle counting – To ensure 99.99% inventory accuracy across the warehouse, the DS3600-KD has been developed to retain connectivity even when away from the cradle, so your data is always transmitted to the host as your workers navigate around the workspace.

Get a closer look into how the DS3600-KD is setting a new standard in intelligent durability with our application brief, available here.

The limits of innovative efficiency are constantly expanding to embrace a new generation of fast, accurate, and customer-centric technologies. Reach out to an Avalon modernization expert to explore a new way to optimize data capture with Zebra’s newest ultra-rugged scanner.

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4 Benefits DataCapture DNA Brings to the Table

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While a rugged scanner’s design can help secure uptime, intelligent software goes beyond data capture by expanding performance and streamlining data processing. As we continue to explore the qualities of a modernized scanning solution, we turn to Zebra’s DataCapture DNA software as it eliminates modernization complexities while accelerating deployment. When paired with Zebra’s rugged scanners, DataCapture DNA can…

Simplify device management

To alleviate your IT team, Data Capture DNA comes with three remote-management applications:

    • 123Scan – Create a programming barcode that can be used to update one or more scanners without extensive programming.  
    • Remote Management – Access scanner information to set updates and create parameters through your Zebra Scanner Management Service or Windows Management Instrumentation tool. 
    • PowerPrecision and Battery Management – Prevent downtime by monitoring battery cycles for all your deployed devices. 

Expand operational visibility across the workplace

Track operations and collect insightful data with two scanning applications to prevent surprise downtime

    • SuperSpeed Analytics – Identify operational patterns through collected data to create safety parameters within your inventory. 
    • Remote Diagnostics – Collect asset data to monitor maintenance schedules and spot issues before they cause downtime.

Enhance scanner productivity

While there are many productivity tools designed to support unique workflows, the following applications assist in streamlining workflows for faster processing.

    • PRZM Intelligent Imaging – Optimize decode performance with an application that allows you to capture codes in virtually any condition, increasing scanning capacity by 56% compared to competing solutions.
    • Multi-Code Data Formatting – Accelerate scanning with a 2D imager that decodes multiple barcodes at once. Scan up to 20 barcodes on one label simultaneously and automatically format them on your device.
    • Preferred Symbol – Automatically detect and scan your preferred barcode without having to cover up the rest of your label and expect accurate and fast scanning with every trigger pull.
    • WiFi Friendly Mode – To eliminate interruptions, Zebra’s WiFi Friendly Mode keep Bluetooth-operated scanners from overlapping with other WiFi channels.
    • Intelligent Document Capture (IDC) – Unlike flatbed scanners, IDC takes a digital image of your document and deciphers any barcodes for quick and efficient scanning. 

Accommodate developmental changes

Facilitate pairing with just one step for accelerated integration with:

    • Scanner Software Development Kit – Shorten development cycles with Zebra’s technical assistance resources such as how-to videos, source codes, and sample applications. 
    • Scan-to-Connect Connect scanners to your mobile devices via Bluetooth. 
    • Scanner Control Application – Control your Bluetooth-enabled scanner via your preferred tablet or mobile computer. 

Get a full view of how DataCapture DNA goes beyond the barcode in our infographic.

Whether you are looking for a general-purpose scanner or enterprise-intensive data capture, expect more from your devices with intelligent high-performance applications developed to increase efficiency. Contact Avalon Integration today to see how you can bring the benefits of DataCapture DNA into your operations.   

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