The Rising Popularity of Portable Data Terminals

Portable barcode scanners are also termed as Portable Data Terminals or PDTs which are experts in mobile data collection. They are also predecessors of the modern laptops and effective in an environment where there is dire need for portability and durability. It is the champion of small screen displays and boasts of extremely low voltage memory and low consumption of battery technology. Proprietary technologies are used to power the applications so that they can perform data collection tasks for the enterprise.

With the popularity of personal data assistants, mobile data collection has commenced with enhanced capabilities with the help of new technologies. PDTs can run custom programs and now can widely perform various functions with available programs including worksheet, word processing and e-books. The market for such PDTs has extended to portable mobile computing and has been an instant hit with warehouse users. They have now utilized various mobile platforms and wireless connections and boasts of consistent communication with the use of email, SMS and voice.

With the development and evolution of the new devices, the new Symbol SPT-1700 and SPT-1500 utilized the PalmOS operating system considering the focus of the PDT market, while some of them even embrace the Windows operating system. The portable data terminals have now given way to mobile computers which are capable of many more tasks that the terminals used to perform. The cell phones and the ability of Windows Mobile operating system for efficient cell network identification gives the manufacturers for good "real time" data collection and even generates updates on a regular basis. One can fulfill data collection needs with the help of rugged devices and all types of barcode scanners which are being manufactured off late.

Mobile computers now include several diverse devices which even include laptops to cell phones but portable data collection terminals remain the most basic mobile computers.

The devices include an integrated Barcode Scanner and mainly used for light to industrial purposes. They boast of long battery life and primarily used for data collection by mobile workers and warehouse professionals in all types of job sites or work areas. It has a small display for showing data and a VGA screen which displays only 4 or 5 lines of data at a time. Users can see the data which is being collected depending on the query results related to data entry operations.

The devices also feature a robust UI which also include physical keys or a touch screen with a persistent memory.

It collects reference data for transfer to a PC with the help of wireless connectivity through WAN and WLAN using the latest connectivity standards. The wireless network connections are basically strong enough. The other connectivity option is PAN which sports Bluetooth wireless connectivity for connecting devices such as printers and keyboards. The data transfer connections from and to a PC are usually performed through a physical connection and include peripheral devices including printers and modems. The devices and PDTs also have a robust GUI interface which helps in an efficient working of the device for long period of time.

Intermec CN3 - In Demand for Efficiency!

Intermec CN3 was one of the best mobile computers in its heydays. It is still one of the best device if you get a refurbished Intermec CN3. Designed to meet the requirements posed by workers for performing critical tasks related to transportation, logistics and field service, the mobile computer is an adept and a powerful combination of communication tools packed in a single compact, rugged package. With standard WiFi features and Bluetooth technology along with the option of an integrated, network independent GPS receiver, it is still one of the best mobile computers from the house of Intermec. It features WWAN voice and data services too which helps the company to stay connected with its mobile workforce anytime.

The device promotes increased asset visibility across different organizations. The CN3 is perfect as the sole point of access information at work, thus allowing the deployment of right resources thus helping mobile workers to tap into the required information. Mobile intelligence is boosted in these companies thus enhancing customer responsiveness while also reducing inventory and transportation costs. The device is good enough to survive the rigors of the road since it meets the environmental specifications and thus proving to be of immense use to mobile workers. The CN3’s 2.0 megapixel color camera is an accurate data validation tool which enables workers to document proofs of vehicle inspection. The CN3 has a touch-screen display and has an all-day power capacity with 128 MB RAM. The CN3 runs Windows Mobile OS and also supports wireless email with real-time connectivity. It has CCX support which means that it can be seamlessly interoperable in Cisco infrastructures. It also support the comprehensive system of management of device including installation and maintenance. All the processes can be automatically managed remotely, thus reducing the overall downtime. Intermec Medallion Support services also help the mobile workforce on a global scale. Intermec CN3 is affordable and is available with all types of capabilities along with the opportunity of deployment in different areas thus helping you out to recover mobility investments quickly.

As mentioned earlier, the CN3 helps in connecting with the mobile workforce in real time and boosts productivity and efficiency across the enterprise. The Intermec CN3 also provides access to information and also employs the right resources to the right location thus reducing overheads. The device is also safe to handle since it aids hands-free navigation. With its Bluetooth and other radios, users are connected with the web through different channels anywhere they go. Here are some of the important features of the product:

• Thin, rugged form factor of the device is perfect according to the requirements of an average mobile worker in different conditions
• Integrated GPS with an antenna is helpful for deploying resources efficiently thus also improving asset visibility
• Features WiFi, Bluetooth, and different channels for 3G connectivity thus keeping the field workforce connected with the world
• The 2-megapixel Color camera is good for proof-of-service documentation
• The extended battery is ultra-light providing power for about 24 hours to the device