September 2002

A radio-frequency warehouse management system based around LXE spread-spectrum networking and mobile computing technology is now in use at the Bedford warehouse of Fuji Photo Film (UK). It integrates with a new implementation of the SAP R/3 enterprise resource planning system.

Key benefits in the system, according to logistics manager Graham Fieldsend, will include real-time stock integrity improvements in customer service.

Staff access the system with LXE's MX3 mobile handheld terminals and VX1 vehicle-mounted computers, which are connected via a TelNet server to the SAP Console system. Using this equipment, staff will receive instructions for activities such as pallet movements and shipments, and will capture confirmation of movements in real time as well as scanning and general online data entry.

At the heart of the installation is LXE's Spire Antenna system, which is built round IEEE802.11b compliant radio technology, and uses DSSS (direct sequence spread spectrum) transmission in the 2.4Ghz waveband.

 

This is linked to a Cisco Systems wireless backbone, and the whole system is specially designed to minimise the number of access points that are required to cover the 14,000 sq m warehouse.

Fuji Photo Film (UK) supplies the imaging, printing and graphics industries, as well as professional and enthusiast photographers, and the Bedford premises are used for handling film, paper, liquid developer and development plates.