When the industry refers to warehouse data collection, often the first thing that comes to mind is a bulky, gun-style mobile terminal. These devices have been used for many years, have become quite common in warehouses. However, as technology improves and tablets become more industrialized, you may want to consider using a rugged-style tablet with integrated 2D barcode scanner software for warehouse data collection, rather than using the traditional gun-style device.
There are a few facts about industrial tablets and how they can improve warehouse operations:
1. Data Collection Device Ergonomics
Gun-style mobile terminals offer the benefit of mobility, but this is in exchange for ergonomics. Often large, heavy, and uncomfortable to use, traditional mobile terminals have been known to cause worker fatigue and pain through repetitive motions, which can inhibit warehouse data collection operations. Not only that, but injuries can cost employers significantly in terms of productivity and worker’s compensation.
While you may think that a tablet would be even bulkier and more difficult to use, rugged-style tablets that have been developed specifically for industrial use are more compact and lightweight than their commercial counterparts. Many industrial tablets also come with a comfortable hand strap as well, which makes them easy to hold with one hand, while additional tasks can be carried out with the other hand. The ergonomic design of these tablets makes them a great alternative to traditional devices.
2. Data Collection Device Display
Displays on industrial tablets have many of the same elements workers are used to on their own personal mobile devices. Traditional data collection devices have always been more difficult to navigate, but the user-friendly interface of industrial tablets makes them much easier to learn. The intuitive design also speeds up the data collection process significantly compared to manual data collection.
Industrial tablets also have much larger screens than what can be found on traditional gun-style devices. This makes warehouse data collection much easier, allowing for more information to be displayed on their larger 7-10 inch screens. While large displays can be a drain on battery life for some devices, rugged-style industrial tablets are built to have a much longer battery lifespan, capable of lasting throughout long shifts.
3. Data Collection Device Durability and Reliability
While commercial tablets and mobile devices sold for personal use often succumb to cracked screens and water damage, industrial tablet devices are built to withstand the harsh environments that are inevitable within the warehouse data collection sphere.
Often, these operations take place in very hot or very cold environments. Since it’s uncommon for a warehouse to be temperature-controlled at a balmy 68 degrees consistently, it’s critical that any mobile devices used can withstand intense heat, cold, and humidity. High-quality mobile tablets are able to operate between 32ºF and 104ºF, and can be stored in temperatures from -45ºF to 114ºF.
Furthermore, these devices are built to withstand drops to the hard warehouse floor from up to 4 feet. Many industrial mobile tablets now come with IP54 ratings, which mean they are unaffected by dust and water, in addition to extreme temperatures.
Improving Warehouse Data Collection
All in all, rugged-style industrial mobile tablets have been able to increase operational efficiency and provide a much more user-friendly experience to warehouse data collection workers. By investing in high-quality technology, organizations can expect a much bigger return on their investment.
