May/June 2004

The humble data capture terminal is undergoing a transformation, becoming a versatile mobile computer with a host of communications and data input options. Sharon Clancy looks under the skin of ruggedised handhelds, and suggests what to look out for

If you've been keeping track of new product developments in recent issues of m.logistics, one trend that has become clear in the past year is that ruggedised handheld data capture terminals are getting more versatile. Manufacturers have started to look beyond the warehouse for other operations where tough handheld-computers can be a cost-effective data-capture instrument. And they've hit on mobile computing, and particularly delivery operations, as a key target market.

Not only are handheld units for these applications likely to be quite similar to those used in warehouses; the manufacturers also think there are other reasons handheld terminals will prove attractive for transport operations. For instance, as more operators hire in vehicles, hard-wiring full-scale on-board computers into cabs creates potential problems. Ruggedised terminals equipped with GPRS cards are self-contained, so they offer an attractive alternative.

The extending of automatic data capture beyond the warehouse has resulted in two developments in ruggedised handhelds Ð modular terminals that can accept a variety of communications and scanning protocols; and entry-level models costing around £700.

 

The creation of low-cost units is partly a defensive move, aimed at buyers who might otherwise be tempted by top-of-the-range PDA (personal digital assistant) devices. PDA vendors are certainly targeting the logistics market, using the argument that although PDAs may need more frequent replacement, users can afford this if necessary because the units cost only a third of the price of conventional ruggedised handhelds Ð which typically cost between £1,000 and £1,500 each.

The ruggedised handheld manufacturers' riposte is that purchase price is only part of the equation. In mission-critical operations, they say, you need excellent service back-up too.

All the latest terminals have the Microsoft Windows CE operating system in one form or another, which has broadened their appeal because more applications can run on them.

Going beyond the warehouse means incorporating more choice of communications options, of course, so the latest ruggedised handhelds usually have 802.11b and GPRS capability and a choice of Bluetooth or IrDA (infra-red) connections for peripherals such as printers. Some terminals with barcode scanning engines are also enabled for RFID (radio frequency identification).

"Buyers want to use the same terminals for different tasks in their company," says Duncan Smillie, managing director of Psion Teklogix. "Windows CE means they can use the same application across different devices. Customers are demanding terminals that can operate on personal area networks, local area networks, wide area networks, and 802.11b. They want devices that can be upgraded at a future date without having to pay through the nose for application updates or having to recall all the deployed terminals. If you spend £1,000 on a terminal, you don't want the expense of paying £300 to £400 per terminal to retrofit additional communications facilities."

However, with more choice comes complexity. "The risk is greater if you try to deploy too many technologies at once," warns LXE's UK marketing manager Damien Perry. "It is better to start small with a proven 802.11b system and with batch data transfers. You can add GPRS later, and the equipment can even be in a holster, not on the unit itself."

Ugo Sogaro, managing director of Datalogic, says buyers should not wait for next-generation products or they will miss out on benefits available now. "Buy the tool that meets your current needs," is his advice. "The perfect garden does not exist."

If the terminal is to be used for barcode scanning, there is a choice of scanning engines. Laser scanners are gaining in popularity, but as Perry points out, they have moving parts that can go wrong. An area image, which takes a digital image of the barcode, is an alternative solution.

Sogaro also advises caution with RFID adoption. "Barcode scanning is a stable and cheap technology, so is ideal for small companies. Large companies are better able to pioneer RFID because the risk is smaller for them."

Ruggedised specifications

Most ruggedised manufacturers quote IP ratings and US military standards for drop tests (see inset panel). A computer that has a lower IP or MIL rating than a competitor or another model from the same manufacturer may still be fit for purpose. There is a price to pay for ultra-toughness, and it may be over-the-top for your operation.

LXE cautions against too much reliance on IP ratings. "The terminal needs all-round robustness. It can have a high IP rating, but be let down by the screen," says UK marketing manager Damien Perry. He points out that menu-driven application software can sometimes mean that users may be pressing one particular corner of the screen all the time, and it may not have been designed to cope with that sort of treatment.

You need to pay particular attention to damp ingress on chilled operations, for obvious reasons. A cold-store operation with workers moving from ambient to chilled will create condensation and mist on the screen. How quickly they clear can be a key to productivity. You can invest in terminals with heaters, but not only is that expensive, it also poses the risk that water on terminal keys may turn into vapour and refreeze when the terminal is back in a cold environment. It is one reason why chilled distribution applications are seen as ideal for voice-controlled picking systems.

Psion Teklogix reckons the mean time between terminal failures is a good clue to ruggedness. "Not enough buyers consider the cost to the business if you take the terminals out of it," says Duncan Smillie. Terminals that regularly require repair are going to be a drain on the business, either because you are going to have to keep some spare units at the ready, or because of the productivity you lose. It will also test the level of support available from the manufacturer. Warranty and repair times can vary from one year to three. Same-day, three-, five- or seven-day repair contracts are all available. Psion offers online track and trace, so you can check the progress of your repair.

Screens are also a key factor when you are specifying handhelds for outdoor field service applications. The screens need to be easily read in bright sunlight and dull conditions, and to be resistant to the elements.

Although not an aspect of ruggedness, it is also worth remembering to check that the screen is large enough to display all the information the worker needs. And if you are adopting electronic POD, is the screen large enough for recipients to sign their signature?

Peripherals

Terminals can now connect to peripherals in a variety of ways, although there are clear signs that Bluetooth is fast supplanting infra-red. Unlike infra-red, Bluetooth does not require line of sight.

Most damage is the result of simple wear and tear in a tough environment, but some is caused by user abuse or accidents such as the handheld being run over. Screen damage is typical Ð they get smashed or cracked. Keys are another area for damage. As mentioned above, damp ingress can be another problem, especially with chilled operations.

There is no doubt that with ruggedised handhelds you pay for what you get. However, that does not mean you have to over-specify to insure against an event that is only a remote possibility or in a bid to future-proof devices. A £700 terminal can still bring a host of automatic data-capture benefits to the business.

Ruggedised standards

IP Ratings

IP stands for Ingress Protection. The standards are defined by the International Eletrotechnical Commission. The first number represents the level of protection against solid contaminants such as dust, the second against liquids. Solid ratings go from 0 to 6, and liquids from 0 to 8.

The higher the number, the better the protection. So a terminal with an IP67 rating is very rugged, one with a rating of IP54 rating less so.

MIL-STD

This is the US military standard that requires devices to be dropped on plywood-covered concrete from various heights. The most common one is 810F, although there are others. However, there is a fair amount of leeway in how manufacturers pass the tests, with up to five devices being allowed. Itronix and Psion Teklogix are among those companies keen to point out that their units pass using just a single device. Psion Teklogix drops its handhelds on each corner and records the tests on videos.

Recent rugged contenders

Most of the leading players in the ruggedised handheld computer market have some recent developments to wow you with. Here we present a roundup of some of their latest models, although this list is by no means comprehensive. It is not intended to include all models in their ruggedised lineups, but more to give you a flavour of what's currently available.

Belgravium

Belgravium has added the Milan 8500 to its established Atlanta range of mobile computers. This is a top-of-the-range pistol-grip handheld computer incorporating a digital camera and integral 802.11b and GSM/GPRS wireless capability. It has an Intel X-Scale processor and Pocket PC operating platform; lithium-ion battery technology with extended life performance; and a colour display.

Datalogic

Datalogic, best-known for its Viper barcode readers, has added the Minec 4X, an entry-level CE-enabled handheld terminal which incorporates an RFID reader. The reader-end has additional shock protection; Datalogic says that is the most likely impact area if the unit is dropped. The upgraded 7400E terminal has extra memory and 802.11b connectivity, but retains its DOS operating system. Full-colour models with larger screens are of course available too (see page 18)

Diagnostic Instruments

Diagnostic Instruments' speciality is ultra-rugged handheld computers. Its latest model is a combined barcode and RFID reader, and in August it will launch a CE-enabled version of its Di225 terminal which will also incorporate four user-definable fast function keys to reduce the need for touchscreen or stylus inputs.

Gotive

Gotive's H41 combines handheld computer, mobile phone, barcode reader and GPS navigation system in a single unit, and runs under Windows CE .NET. It can also accommodate smartcard reader, magnetic-stripe reader, printer and camera.

www.gotive.com

HHP

HHP has upgraded its 9500 range of handheld computers to operate on Pocket PC. The 9500 model is now available with integrated GSM/GPRS, and there is a new model, the 9551. This pistol-grip unit has a 802.11b wireless card, colour display and 35 or 56 keys, and is designed for long-range scanning applications. HHP's 4800 handheld terminal is the first to include the company's Adaptus imaging technology which speeds up bar-code reading.

Intermec

Intermec's 700 and CK30 models are both contenders in the ruggedised handheld market. The 700 series has integrated wireless LAN and Bluetooth connections and a linear imager. The CK30 is the first in a new range of modular handhelds which can include Bluetooth, 802.11b and batch models, mono or colour screen and a choice of key layouts.

Itronix

The Q-200 is the handheld terminal in Itronix's GoBook range. Described as ultra-ruggedised, it is aimed at sectors such as field service and repair, inspection and service, public safety, telecommunications, utilities, insurance and Government and military environments. It supports up to three wireless networks concurrently, including Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) compliant 802.11b wireless LAN, GPRS and Bluetooth. It exceeds MilSpec 810F and has an IP67 rating.

LXE

The MX range covers warehousing and transport applications. The MX6 is designed for out-for-out-of-the-warehouse applications. At 560g it is light and has a magnesium-alloy and engineering-grade plastic case. IP rating is 64 and there is a 400MHz Intel X-Scale processor running Pocket PC. It has integrated image capture and is voice-enabled.

Psion Teklogix

Psion Teklogix's revised Workabout Pro family has been designed to bridge the gap between tough PDAs and conventional ruggedised handhelds. There are mono or colour screens, integrated Bluetooth and 802.11b connectivity. They operate on Windows CE.NET and are lighter than their predecessors. Psion's Netpad (left) is another competitor in the transport sector: its landscape profile provides a large screen for signature capture or navigation maps.

Radix

Radix's FW 700 has an IP67 rating. It has a 1.4-size VGA colour touch-screen display and comes with CE .NET as its standard operating system, although DOS 7 is an option. Connectivity includes 802.11b wireless LAN, GPRS and GSM mobile data connections, and Bluetooth. The company is pitching the FW700 at a variety of mobile applications such as parking enforcement, utilities management, van sales, transport, logistics and distribution, and inspection and maintenance

Symbol

Symbol has recently launched a new drive into the mobile handheld market, building it round its MC9000 series. Models all feature a 400MHz Intel XScale processor and run the Windows Mobile 2003 operating system or Windows CE .NET 4.0. Other features include 802.11b, Bluetooth and GPRS, plus options such as a single-dimension Symbol barcode scanning engine or its SE 4400 engine for omni-directional reading of 1D and 2D symbologies. Image capture at 640 by 480 pixels is also available.