Monday, May 19, 2014

Low-Cost, High-Performance Imaging Technology from Datalogic

Post image for Low-Cost, High-Performance Imaging Technology from Datalogic In early 2012, Datalogic released a low-cost imaging scanner in limited markets called the Quickscan Lite. After deploying hundreds of thousands of these units in those markets, in September 2013, they made these units available to the US market. The QW2100 imaging scanner is the perfect low-cost solution for your 1D imaging needs. Whether it’s retail, document/invoice processing, bank/finance environments, or other light-duty scanning, the QW2100 is great! Some of the highlights: Lightweight and ergonomic Quick reading capability USB and RS232 options Datalogic patented ‘Green-Spot’ technology IP42 rating 3-year factory warranty

Ruckus Brings Together Smart Wi-Fi with Cloud Computing to Simplify the Provisioning, Management and Monetization of Wi-Fi Access with SAMS

The Ruckus Team at Uniquepos is really excited about the introduction of Ruckus’ Cloud-Based Smart Access Management Service, SAMS for short. The ability to manage a Wi-Fi network in the cloud is yesterday’s news. Unlike the dozens of other offerings already in the market, SAMS enables partners to manage and monetize the access points they have deployed from the cloud, saving the expense of on-premise controllers and servers and monetizing these networks by collecting analytics and layering on custom other services. The first of a new breed of Ruckus Smart Wireless Services (SWS), SAMS enhances the guest experience by letting businesses quickly create and customize wireless hotspots for single or multiple sites without building extensive data centers, or deploying expensive and cumbersome infrastructure typically required for offering managed Wi-Fi access services. SWS is a flexible framework for layering value-added software services, such as cloud-based wireless access (SAMS) and Ruckus SPoT location services, as well as virtualized management software over carrier-class Smart Wi-Fi infrastructure products and platforms to give organizations unprecedented flexibility to build reliable, scalable and robust Smart Wi-Fi solutions based on their specific requirements, and to enable channel partners to easily migrate to recurring revenue-based service models. As WLAN management shifts to the cloud, venue owners now have access to cost-effective, easy-to-manage enterprise-grade wireless at a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). SAMS delivers flexible deployment and management options through a simple, Web-based portal that allows highly customized Wi-Fi access services to be defined and created in a matter of minutes, and provided at a low TCO. Unlike other public wireless access alternatives, SAMS combines all the necessary infrastructure components and service elements into a single solution. Ideal for any organization or venue offering managed public wireless access, such as shopping malls, stadiums, convention centers, airports and retail outlets, SAMS transforms the traditional model for offering managed Wi-Fi services by moving local network infrastructure, such as WLAN controllers, authentication servers, captive portals, advertising engines and content filtering into the cloud as a service. Tailored for venues looking to more easily and conveniently offer users a better wireless access experience without the need for multiple services from multiple vendors and extensive IT staff or infrastructure equipment at every site, SAMS also represents a compelling new managed services opportunity for channel partners looking to become managed service providers (MSPs), by creating recurring service revenues with minimal investment. From a single, easy-to-navigate Web-based console in SAMS, channel partners can now easily create, customize and manage a wireless access service on behalf of a wide range of customers. SAMS can be set up and managed either by the channel partner or the customer’s own staff with a minimum level of IT expertise, through the use of intuitive Web-based management tools, including flexible and customizable advertising tools that are simple and easy to create and set-up. Once the service is configured through a simple wizard driven setup, Ruckus Smart Wi-Fi access points automatically “phone home” to register with the cloud controller. However, unlike other cloud-based Wi-Fi services, if the access points can’t reach the cloud controller, local access services are not disrupted. Ongoing management of SAMS and monitoring of access points and clients, along with historical reporting, is provided through a comprehensive network portal that gives administrators a wide range of controls, such as creating AP zones, templates and management domains for different customers. SAMS works transparently with your already deployed Ruckus ZoneFlex Smart Wi-Fi access points and/or on-premises Ruckus ZoneDirector WLAN controllers for unmatched deployment flexibility, compared with existing hotspot services. All requisite authentication services, WLAN administration and service management tools are integrated directly within SAMS. When configuring SAMS, customers have complete control over service branding and functionality, such as the ability to enable authentication with popular social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Service enforcement controls can be used to limit the length and number of sessions, restrict bandwidth consumption or filter access to specific content. To further customize access services and enrich the user experience, SAMS provides a rich set of user analytics that can be collected over periods of time. Each venue is provided with a view into their wireless access service from a single Web-based dashboard. From this dashboard, customers have at-a-glance information, such as popular registration methods, total user sessions and visits, new and returning user visits, registration by device type, age group and gender, and the most popular devices being used on the network, as well as the average duration of user sessions. The process to enable managed wireless access with SAMS is simple. Once logged into the service portal, customers simply create a new site, configure access settings, customize the registration page and user journey and upload any ads or messages to be displayed.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Cutting-Edge 2D Imaging at an Affordable Price

Recently, Datalogic announced the release of their new Quickscan QD2400 series of 2D imagers. As a leader in scanning technology, they were able to bring together exceptional quality and performance in a 2D imager, while maintaining a competitive price point. In stock at ScanSource and ready to ship now, the QD2400 series features: Omnidirectional reading performance Datalogic’s patented Green-Spot good read feedback Outstanding snappiness LED-based aiming for reduced visual stress Advanced motion tolerance optics The perfect device for retail point-of-sale applications, the Quickscan QD2400 imager delivers high-end performance and reliability at a more cost-effective price!

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

SCANSOURCE SECURITY,TECHNOLOGY,VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

VideoIQ + FLIR = Thermal Power = Measureable ROI


FLIRVideoIQ
If you’re in the business of securing outdoor perimeters, you don’t want to miss the partnership of FLIR and VideoIQ.  VideoIQ has teamed up with FLIR, the leaders in thermal imaging, to build a high-performance perimeter protection solution for an affordable price. VideoIQ’s new Site Protection Solution uses the high contrast of FLIR thermal video with a special FLIR optimized algorithm to deliver unmatched detection – rain or shine, day or night.
Thermal analytic solutions use fewer cameras, require no additional lighting or IR illuminators, and provide vigilante protection while virtually eliminating nuisance false alarms. Check out how Insurance Auto Auctions uses the powerful combo in the Video below. Do you have a project that could benefit from this duo? To find out more about the solution, please reach out to your ScanSource Security Sales rep today!

Using the Intermec SF61b with Apple iOS Devices

Using the Intermec SF61b with Apple iOS Devices
Intermec
Here is a quick video showing the ease of setting up Intermec’s SF61b barcode scanner for use with an iOS device, such as the iPad or iPhone.

For more detailed information, take a look at these written instructions from Intermec.

Tool Cool: Cisco’s “The SELL”

Cisco
The SELL is an amazing online resource for Cisco partners to assist them in becoming more productive, knowledgeable, and competent in selling Cisco solutions.  The Sales Enablement Learning Lifecycle is divided into five key areas, making it super easy to navigate.
  • Talent Acquisition:  learn to attract, recruit, and onboard the right staff, and use the Cisco Partner Talent Network Portal to find the perfect employee to meet the needs of your company.
  • On-Boarding:  Everything you need for your first 90 days of doing business with Cisco – checklists, guides, tool lists, and even an acronyms cheat sheet.  YTKYNT!  (Cisco for, you totally know you need that!)
  • Foundational Training: training to establish a foundation for selling Cisco solutions.
  • Intermediate Training:  architecture-specific training with segment, verticals, and competition.
  • Advanced Offerings:  cross-architecture selling and certifications

You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!

You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!


Intermec
Not if you use an Intermec by Honeywell scanner designed for Healthcare applications. Both the new Intermec SF61B bluetooth and the SR31T tethered scanners are available in a healthcare configuration.  These scanners use a 2D area imager with an LED aimer so there is no laser light emitted that could potentially “shoot your eye out.” Moreover, these scanners are built with a white plastic housing that has been tested with over two dozen cleaning solutions typically used in hospitals to sanitize equipment. Sorry Miss Shields.
For more information, follow these links:

Walmart Mandates PTI Compliance

Walmart Mandates PTI Compliance


Produce Tractability Initiative (PTI) came about as a response to the 2006 spinach crisis, an event that sickened hundreds, lead to the death of four people, and resulted in a complete recall of spinach products across the nation – a huge toll from both a human and economic standpoint.  Another scare in 2008 with tainted jalapenos just reinforced to the produce industry that comprehensive case-level traceability was needed.
PTI meets that need, but, up until now, compliance has been voluntary.  January 1, 2014 changes that for many in the produce supply chain when Walmart starts mandating that all fresh produce suppliers must include a PTI-compliant label on all their shipments.  Several others, including the Publix grocery store chain, are also planning on instituting a similar requirement in the near future, and they are just the early adopters.  Mike Agostini, senior director of produce for Walmart, predicts between 60%-85% compliance by the end of 2015.
As a reseller, if you have end-user customers in the produce supply chain that are not moving forward with PTI, or are hoping it is all just going to go away, now is the time to engage with them.  If you are feeling as confused about PTI as your customers, ScanSource has ISV partners who specialize in providing PTI solutions, who would be happy to help you and your customer with a PTI solution.
For you BarTender users, Seagull Scientific released an update in November 2013 with increased PTI label support.
Even if your customers are not supplying Walmart, now is the time to be seriously moving forward with PTI.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Uniquepos Mobile Shopping Experience

Uniquepos.com announced mobile shopping that lets customers to shop with iphones, ipads, mobile computers, android devices !

 Unipos.com Mobile Shopping

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Consumers are Driving Retail Transformation and Epson Answers

Epsonepson-tm-t88vdt-receipt-printer-retail
Walk into any retail environment and you can see the retail transformation taking place. It is being driven by the consumer, how they shop and the mobile devices that they use.  I do it myself.  I find a product in the store and then use my smart phone to shop for the best price, search for an immediate coupon, etc. The question is: how will retailers and technology manufacturers respond to this transformation?

Epson America has answered with the NEW! OmniLink Solutions. Mobile. Smart. Connected.

The OmniLink product is on the cutting edge of technology change and will allow retailers to take advantage of how consumers are shopping, while providing enhancements to their levels of service.
Epson has taken the reliability and performance of their TM printers and added intelligence expanding functionality.  The entry-level product can print from any mobile device and is a gateway providing direct connectivity to the Cloud and access to loyalty program, couponing and real-time analytics.
The upper tier OmniLink can print from any mobile device and can also drop into and work seamlessly with existing POS systems, providing a smaller footprint.  It is a quick and cost-effective enhancement or alternative to the standard POS station.
The OmniLink allows retailers to protect their legacy POS investments while gaining access to the technology changes seen in the market. Point of Sale needs to more. It needs to provide a better service and customer experience.

Call to day for Epson thermal printer expert : 1866-888-0303

Sales & Marketing Strategy Conclusion: Frequently Asked Questions

What are some ways that I can quickly increase sales?

This is a tough question that is very dependent on your business. There are many ways to both motivate your customers and to motivate your internal sales force. Increasing sales is a general term; you must first set a goal of how you wish to increase sales. Is it a straight volume increase of your existing offering? Perhaps you want to increase the cross-selling of software applications and peripherals to increase your profit margins. Regardless of the goal, be sure to inspire your customers and sales people to move to action today. Find out what your sales representatives and customers need to drive them to your desired action and then develop a mutually beneficial incentive to drive them to that action. Increasing your value-adds, rebates, bundles and internal sales incentives are all good ways to give your sales numbers a boost. The key is defining a balance where you are still profitable while allotting for a volume increase.

Should I outsource my sales/customer service departments?

Outsourcing your infrastructure can often save your organization money; however, it’s important to look at the following things:
  • Will my level of service increase or decrease?
  • Will I spend more time educating and managing an outsourced department?
  • What control will I lose and what will I gain from outsourcing?
  • Are there any competitive risks associated with outsourcing?
Evaluate carefully how an outsourced department will impact your business, as larger firms are moving their service departments off-shore. Watch and learn from their successes and failures and determine for yourself if this would hold a positive impact on cost-savings both short-term and long-term.

Which marketing vehicles have the most impact for my business?

The answer is all of them. Each marketing vehicle plays an intricate role in creating an impact for your business; however, depending upon your message and medium (as well as the type of industry you serve), the marketing vehicles and their value to your organization will change. For example; if you are selling to an industry that is a bit more tech savvy, you may want to try and implement a more technical approach. This may include targeted emails, electronic forms to gather information and online webinar/seminars. However, if your primary demographic is the green industry (plant growers, landscapers, etc.) these marketing tactics would be rendered useless, as they primarily rely on hardcopy items and fax machines for communication.
Your message also speaks more clearly depending upon the medium; for example, a simple statement on a simple postcard “SAVE 25% TODAY” will go a long way if you are targeting the right audience. If you were developing a technology newsletter where the information could change daily, it would be more intelligent to develop an electronic newsletter or website where the content is more dynamic.
The final answer is…it depends.
It depends on your message. It depends on how you wish to communicate that message. It depends on who is the target audience who will be receiving that message. It depends on the call-to-action (incentive to move them to action) that you have in your message. Utilize trial and error; measure what works and discard those things that do not work with the dependencies in mind.

What is one-to-one marketing?

One-to-one marketing is a very useful tactic. With the advancement of technology, we are now in the age of marketing where we can develop a message that personally relates to specific demographic groups. It’s as simple as adding the name of the intended recipient to an email blast, or as complicated as using a business intelligence engine to craft a message specific only to the recipient. Here is a good example:
  • Message one: Dear valued customer, We are offering great rebates and discounts on select computer peripherals and software. Hurry, the sale ends this month! Come see what we have in store for you!
  • Message two: Dear John, We noticed that you recently purchased an HP Pavilion Notebook on September 14th. We hope you have enjoyed your purchase. For being our valued customer, we would like to offer you a 10% off coupon the next time you come into our store to purchase any one of these accessories for your notebook: HP Pavilion Power Supply HP Pavilion Docking Station Targus Cooling Lap Station 3COM 802.11g wireless PCMCIA card
Again, thank you for your recent purchase, we want to ensure you receive the highest quality of service from Profit Corporation, so please feel free to contact us at any time.
Message two specifies the product that the customer purchased and offers suggestive products that he/she can actually use for that product. Expect incremental returns from making the investment to implement one-to-one marketing and look for future modules in our Profit Maps courseware to explain this in more detail.

Why Aruba is the “Instant” Solution You Need

Aruba
Today’s lean enterprise organizations are turning to IT solution providers to help them with a wireless dilemma that they are constantly facing:  a choice between consumer-grade Wi-Fi gear and feature-rich, but costly, high-end wireless LAN (WLAN) equipment.
According to Dave Dunlap, Distributor Systems Engineer with Aruba Networks, these same organizations also have to prepare for the continued growth in Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) mobile devices that are driving the need for enterprise-class WLANs.  And there’s no stopping the influx of these devices. Market analysts predict that in 2016, one billion consumers will use smartphones and 350 million of those will be used for work.
This presents a unique challenge for IT organizations everywhere – to find a robust enterprise-class WLAN that is affordable in terms of both capital expense and operational overhead. Additionally, finding a mobility solution that’s simple to set up, highly reliable, and can be managed centrally can seem next to impossible.
While talking with Dave, he explained that security is yet another concern that must be considered for WLAN solutions. For example, hotel operators, restaurant owners, and retailers must comply with data privacy regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standard. These and other distributed organizations need a feature-rich WLAN that meets a variety of challenges.
Aruba’s Instant product portfolio addresses all of these concerns. Aruba Instant uses innovative Virtual Controller technology to deliver enterprise-grade WLAN capabilities — including robust security, performance, and scalability.  Instant allows for scalable and flexible growth and doesn’t require an expensive controller to support an enterprise-type wireless solution, but it allows the option to upgrade to a wired solution as organizations outgrow or need to expand their capabilities down the road – without loss of investment.
With Aruba Instant, enterprise WLANs can be deployed at numerous sites without any tradeoff between feature richness, affordability or ease of use. And Instant can be set up in minutes with minimal IT assistance and managed centrally through Aruba AirWave.
Why you should consider Aruba Instant in your next WLAN deployment:
  • Ease of deployment for you
  • Network readiness for BYOD
  • Remote Management through Aruba AirWave platform
  • Opportunity to scale network growth when customers need it

It’s time your video surveillance was as smart and easy as your other tech gadgets, don’t you think?

Axis
With all of the advancements in the network video market over the past several years, our friends at Axis Communications continue to push the envelope as the market continues to migrate from analog to network-based solutions.
In the spring of 2012, they released Axis Camera Companion,and in just a years’ time they have had over 60,000 downloads of this FREE video management solution worldwide.  It is the perfect solution for SMB video solutions up to 16 channels providing unprecedented cost savings, which enable resellers to sell a network video solution at a price unimagined just a few years ago. Camera Companion is a free download, but that is not the only cost savings, it also eliminates the need for a dedicated PC or server to be connected to the solution since the processing and storage are managed at the edge using the SD card slot on the camera.
AXIS Camera Companion is developed with focus on ease of use for the casual as well as the more active end user. The interface is simple and intuitive, with easy access to the most common activities, such as viewing live video, searching through recordings and exporting videos and snapshots. You can step through recorded video and export high-quality HDTV video clips or snapshots to colleagues and authorities.

Here is how it works

video-surveillance-1An AXIS Camera Companion system consists of Axis cameras, SD cards, software for PC and mobile devices, and network equipment. Video is recorded to the SD card inside the camera, making each camera an independent surveillance device. That means there’s no need for a DVR, NVR or computer during operation — making the system extremely simple and cost-effective.
The AXIS Camera Companion software client automatically discovers all the cameras and helps you set up the system in no time. Simply mount the cameras and it’s ready to go. (And with cameras powered over the network, installation is extremely easy.) The real-time video is available for secure viewing anywhere, anytime on a smartphone, tablet, laptop or remote computer.
video-surveillance-2Camera Companion is a scalable and future-proof network video solution for up to 16 cameras. Adding new cameras to the system is easy. No extra charge or additional equipment needed. Existing analog cameras can be integrated using Axis video encoders. If you want to step up to another IP solution in the future, you can re-use all your installed Axis network cameras and video encoders, as well as your network equipment.

The Market’s first completely open full HD Decoder

decoderwithremote“Next Level Security Systems’ HD Media Decoders provide a convenient way to display video from IP cameras and video encoders on LCD, LED and Plasma monitors or televisions,” said Peter Jankowski, Chairman and CEO, Next Level Security Systems. “The technology delivers unprecedented picture quality, accurate color and precise image scaling and enables users to monitor security video more effectively, and stream stored or online media when needed.”
NLSS HD Media Decoders can display up to four simultaneous streams of HD video to a single monitor. It supports multiple video pane layouts including 1×1, 1×2 and 2×2. The NLSS HD Media Decoders can also stream stored media content or available online content, making it ideal for digital signage or viewing video from the Internet. 7.1 Surround Sound audio is also supported with the NLSS HD Media Decoders. When combined with the NLSS Gateway, multiple NLSS HD Media Decoders can be networked to build a cost-effective multi-display video wall.
The product offers flexibility and openness by supporting common digital video formats, such as H.264, MPEG-4 and M-JPEG, and supports most IP cameras and encoders that incorporate ONVIF and PSIA standards, and RSTP protocol. It also includes auto discovery capabilities for most IP-based surveillance cameras and encoders and is customizable through an API. Furthermore, it offers an intuitive camera/media channel menu and view and sequence browsing via an optional remote control.
  • Stunning HD Picture Quality Multi-Stream Capability
  • Multiple Video Formats
  • High-Quality Audio
  • Camera Auto-Discovery
  • Intuitive Browser-Based Interface
  • Remote Control / Joystick / Keypad

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Consumers are Driving Retail Transformation and Epson Answers

Epsonepson-tm-t88vdt-receipt-printer-retail
Walk into any retail environment and you can see the retail transformation taking place. It is being driven by the consumer, how they shop and the mobile devices that they use.  I do it myself.  I find a product in the store and then use my smart phone to shop for the best price, search for an immediate coupon, etc. The question is: how will retailers and technology manufacturers respond to this transformation?

Epson America has answered with the NEW! OmniLink Solutions. Mobile. Smart. Connected.

The OmniLink product is on the cutting edge of technology change and will allow retailers to take advantage of how consumers are shopping, while providing enhancements to their levels of service.
Epson has taken the reliability and performance of their TM printers and added intelligence expanding functionality.  The entry-level product can print from any mobile device and is a gateway providing direct connectivity to the Cloud and access to loyalty program, couponing and real-time analytics.
The upper tier OmniLink can print from any mobile device and can also drop into and work seamlessly with existing POS systems, providing a smaller footprint.  It is a quick and cost-effective enhancement or alternative to the standard POS station.
The OmniLink allows retailers to protect their legacy POS investments while gaining access to the technology changes seen in the market. Point of Sale needs to more. It needs to provide a better service and customer experience.

Consumer vs. Rugged Devices: The Great Debate

MobilETC
If you are like me, you are trying to keep up with mobility trends and the impact of consumer devices in our space. I came across a solid piece from the Mobile® Enterprise editorial staff regarding consumer vs. rugged devices with regard to field force automation recently, and I think it makes a lot of sense.
Many think that consumer-grade devices are well suited for field service, but they don’t consider every day wear and tear that will cause premature device replacement. End users need to consider the total cost of ownership when considering consumer-grade devices – not just the initial purchase price.
It is important to consider the following when comparing consumer vs. rugged devices:
  • Environment – will it be too hot, too humid?
  • Peripherals – will there be additional costs for peripherals for key functions such as card swiping?
  • What is the failure rate or need for 3rd-party assistance? Or, what is the potential of downtime and loss of productivity? How will the issue affect the bottom line?
Consumer devices aren’t necessarily the right way to go when automating the field force.

The Datalogic Elf PDA Squashes those Pesky Bugs!

Datalogic
Considering the amount of ant hills I see in my yard every year, I can really appreciate the importance of a good bug man! To me, pest control seems pretty simple… find bug -> kill bug. However, it is a full blown field force application that, with the use of a good mobile PDA, can be really streamlined. Enter Okolona Pest Control (OPC) and Datalogic. Using the Datalogic Elf PDA, the OPC technicians have an electronic record of the service ticket, the client history, and their day’s work in the palm of their hand.
Find out more about the OPC story and how the Datalogic Elf Mobile PDA is keeping technicians efficient and customers happy!

Using Datalogic Mobility to Develop Remote Inventory Management in Healthcare

When most people think of ADC in healthcare environments they think Barcoding at the Point of Care (BPOC). Well yes, that is a major application in that vertical, but inventory management is huge in healthcare as well. Consider the tools that are floating around a hospital/doctor’s office/medical facility. If these items are not tracked appropriately that could be a huge area of lost dollars.
Datalogic recently worked with a company called Angioscore inc, which manufactures a balloon catheter used in treating arterial disease. Because Angioscore must track inventory and keep records of when their devices are used to get paid, it’s very important for them to stay on top of what is happening with them.
Check out this video with some more information on the implementation and uses of the Memor mobile computer in inventory management in the healthcare vertical.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Thermal Barcode Printers: A look at Printhead and DPI Requirements

Every printer needs a way of locating the Top of Form (top of the label.) Thermal Barcode Printers have two ways of doing this. Which one you use depends on the type of label you are using.

How the printer locates the Top of Form

  • Gap/Notch Media
  • Black Line Media (Black Bar, Mark)
  • Continuous Media
Most labels have an 1/8th inch gap between each label. In this case the printer uses a Transmissive or Gap sensor. This sensor shines a light at the label while another sensor measures how much light is getting through. More light gets though the gap between labels letting the printer know where the Top of Form is. The same sensor works on labels/tags that have a hole or notch on one side.
The second type of sensor is a Reflective or Mark sensor. It is used for media that has a black line on the back. Instead of shining light through the label it shines light on the bottom and watches how much light is reflected back. When the light hits the black line the light level changes, letting the printer know where the Top of Form is.
Some media does not use either sensor. It is called Continuous, meaning there is no way for the printer to determine top of form. In these cases the sensors are just turned off. The printer just prints when you tell it to without looking for top of form. Receipt paper is an example of a continuous media.

Thermal Barcode Printers: Explaining Media and Ribbons

Labels

What’s important to keep in mind is there is a media for every application, be that a simple shipping label that only needs to last 3 days, or a warning label that needs to last 10 years on the side of a fishing boat in the North Atlantic. Both are labels, and both can be printed using the same Thermal Barcode Printer, but each is specifically designed to meet the needs of a very different environment.
  • Paper Labels
  • Synthetic Labels
  • Tags
  • Specialty Media
    • Wrist Bands
    • Jewelry
    • Linerless
Paper Labels:
These are perfect for a wide range of applications such as shipping labels, labels on file folder and shelves, price tags, etc. or any application where the label does not need to stand up to the elements. Their chief advantage is price.
Synthetic Labels:
These labels are made of synthetic materials such as polypropylene and polyester (plastics). They are used in situations where the label will be exposed to an environment that is unfriendly to paper. While outdoor application come to mind (the side of the fishing boat), they also have some level of resistance to exposure to chemicals (think Health Care). How much exposure and which chemicals can very on the specific make-up of the label which is why there are such a wide variety of synthetic materials available.
Tags:
Tags tend to be thick paper without adhesive on the back. Garment and shelf tags are their most common application.
Specialty Media:
Labels and tags tend to be the most common media, but we need to mention at least a few of the most popular specialty Medias. Wrist bands are not only used in health care but also common in event management. Jewelry labels are all referred to barbell or butterfly labels because of their unique shape. They are used for wrapping around small items such as rings. Linerless labels are labels without backing materials. They use special adhesives and usually require a non-stock Thermal Printer with special non-stick label handling mechanisms.

Ribbons:

The label is only half of the media solution. For Thermal Transfer labels it is important to keep in mind the ribbon has to match the type of label you are using. When in doubt just ask whoever made the label which ribbon is appropriate but there are some general rules you can follow. The difference between ribbons boils down to the type of ink they carry. Different formulations of inks are used to adhere to different types of materials.
  • Wax
  • Wax/Resin
  • Resin
Wax:
Wax ribbons are for use with paper labels.
Wax/Resin:
Wax/Resin ribbons are used with synthetic labels that have a matte finish. Also good for certain “coated paper labels” which are paper labels that contain a thin clear coating.
Resin:
Resin ribbons are used with synthetic labels that have a gloss finish. It is usually clear when the wrong ribbon is being used, as the ink will tend to either print very light, or the ink that does transfer will flake off easily.

Call us today to learn more on thermal printers : 1866-888-0303

Thermal Barcode Printers: A look at Printhead and DPI Requirements

In real simple terms a Thermal Printhead is made up of a series of perfectly square heating elements over a ceramic substrate. These heating elements are usually referred to as dots. The number of these dots per inch (dpi) indicate the resolution of the printhead. The standard DPIs are 203, 305, 406, 609. The higher the DPI the smaller each dot, hence a higher resolution. Matching the DPI to the application is almost as important as selecting the correct media. The next few slides detail when each DPI would be used. Outside of North America it is common to see the printhead referred to in Dots Per Millimeter.
  • 203 dpi – 8 dot
  • 305 dpi – 12 dot
  • 406 dpi – 16 dot
  • 609 dpi – 24 dot

203 dpi – 8 dot

One reason the DPI is so important is it dictates the size of the barcodes that can be printed. For most general barcoding and labeling purposes a 203 dpi printer is adequate. Each dot in a 203 DPI – 8 dot printhead is 5 mils wide. Each mil is .001 of an inch. This means the dot is .005 inches wide. Since you cannot turn on half a dot (it is all or nothing) the smallest barcode that can be generated is 5 mils. The size of the barcode then goes up in increment of 5. So a 203 dpi – 8 dot printer can generate barcodes of 5 mils, 10 mils, 15 mils, etc. For most general applications a 5 mil barcode is small enough. Most standard scanners usually have a minimum read spec of about 5 mils anyway. As you can see from the illustration below some basic graphics are printable with 203 DPI – 8 dot.

305 dpi – 12 dot

305 dpi – 12 dot printer have dots that are 3.3 mils wide. This allows for printing of barcodes of close to 3 mils. Since most high density scanners have a minimum read spec of 3 mils, 300 dpi – 12 dot printers are adequate for most customers high density barcode printing needs. 305 dpi – 12 dot also allows for more detailed graphics and smaller font sizes. It also allows for a range of barcode sizes that are not available using 203 – 8 dot, printheads, 3 mil, 6 mil, 9 mil, etc. It is important to keep in mind that if a customer’s barcode spec is very specific, which some compliant barcode specs can be, that a specific DPI printer may be required. For example if the customer has to product a 5 mil barcode, with no variation at all, they will have to go with a 203 – 8 dot printhead. A 300 DPI – 12 dot printhead just cannot produce a 5 mil barcode. Thankfully most customers do not have to be quite so specific. Most customers would have a hard time telling the difference between a 5 mil barcode printed with a 203 dpi – 8dot printer and a 6.6 mil barcode generated with a 305dpi – 12dot printer.

406/609 dpi – 16/24 dot

406 DPI – 16 dot and 609 DPI – 24 dot, are used for applications where extreme resolutions are needed. Often the need is for very detailed graphics or fonts. They both also offer a greater range of barcode mil sizes as well, useful if a specific size is required. They also allow for extremely small 2d barcodes.

Determining your DPI

DPI/MM and “X” Dimension

  • How does this relate to a bar code?
  • Remember the “X” Dimension?
  • How would I print a 10 mil bar code?
  • What about a 5 mil bar code?
  • 12 mil?
  • 50 mil?
  • Mil Spec 1182 or 100% UPC?
  • Graphics?
  • Highest quality graphics or photos?
As we have seen the Dots Per Inch directly effects the size barcodes that can be generated. It also effects the quality of the graphics and fonts. Take a second and think about which DPI you would recommend for each application.

Printhead Widths

In addition to different resolutions, printheads (and the printers that contain them) come in different widths. This allows you to chose the width that is closest to the actual label size you are printing. By far the most popular width in label printers is 4 inches. There are other options which would be used for narrow or wide labels. The sizes listed here are just examples. With a print width of 5.04 inches, the Zebra 140XiIII+ for example, will fall between these sizes and the Sato M10e has a printhead that is 10.5 inches wide. It is important to remember there is a max label width and a max print width listed on printer spec sheets. Max label width indicates the actual width of the label and liner that can fit in the printer. Max print width indicates the actual width of the heating elements. For example the Datamax I-4210 has a max media width of 4.65 but a max print width of 4.10 inch. Using media wider than 4.1 inches will simply result in white space on the edges.

Mobile Computer Terminals: A Closer Look At Form Factors

Mobile Computers come in numerous designs and form factors to meet the ergonomic needs for many jobs and situations.
There are three main form factors categories:
  • Handhelds
  • Wearables
  • Vehicle Mounts

Handheld Terminals

A handheld mobile computer is ergonomically designed to be held by the user. Some of the many options include:

  • A choice of scan engine options (laser scanner, imager or camera for scanning barcodes)
  • A touchscreen for ease of use.
  • A number of different keypad configurations available ranging from simple PIM keypads to 53 key full alphanumeric keypads.
  • Optional snap on devices that support a Mag Stripe Reader, GPS radio, RFID snap on or Cable Attachment Modules.
  • Personal attachment options such as wrist straps and holsters for both hip and shoulder.
Handheld mobile computers are compact and easy to carry.
Many solutions may require add on items to accommodate printing or credit card transactions. Some mobile computers have optional snap on devices that support a Mag Stripe Reader, GPS radio, RFID snap on or Cable Attachment Modules.
Gun style handhelds:
Ergonomically best for scan intensive applications such as warehousing and back room inventory
Brick style handhelds:
Best for mostly data entry with a light scanning. Often seen in field service, route accounting and retail
Enterprise PDAs:
Compact form factor that incorporates WWAN communications and GPS, combining multiple devices into a single platform

Wearable Terminals

  • Freedom of movement to perform barcode reading tasks quickly, safely and comfortably
  • Wrist mounted or waist mounted with ring scanner
  • Key based, pen based (touch screen) or both
  • Hands-free wearable data collection
Wearable mobile computers are designed to allow the user to be able to use their hands to be able to perform other tasks, and be able to perform barcode reading tasks quickly, safely and comfortably. These units are mounted either on the wrist or waist, with a scanner that is worn on a finger or back of hand. The computer often has a keypad for data entry and a touchscreen for running applications.

Vehicle Mount Terminals

  • Works with all forklifts (propane, gasoline and electric)
  • Some designed for automobile use instead of forklifts
  • Extremely rugged and shock tested
  • Touch screen or full/compact keyboard options
  • Peripheral ports for external scanners and/or printers
  • Vehicle terminals support Win Mobile, Win CE and Win XP OS
Vehicle mount computers are designed to be used in vehicles such as forklifts, automobile, and trucks. They are built to be extremely rugged and tested against industry vibration standards. VMCs often have touchscreens and a variety of keyboard options for data entry. They have more real estate for dedicated peripheral ports for external scanners or printers. A variety of operating system options exist, such as Windows Mobile, CE and Windows XP.

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Motorola RS507 Hands-Free Imager – Setting up HID Bluetooth

Motorolars507hires
Originally the RS507 scanner was designed to work with and complement Motorola’s range of rugged mobile computers.   After the initial product launch, support for Bluetooth HID mode was added.  This allows the RS507 to be connected to a wide range of devices, including PCs.
You will need the following:
Firmware v004-R00.  HID Bluetooth support was added in firmware v004-R00.  The RS507 will need this version or greater. Details can be found here:  v004-R00
RS507 Product Reference guide (PRG) – Make sure it is rev. B or higher:Product Reference Guide

motorola-rs507-open-bluetooth-1

How to change to HID mode

    1. Perform Clean Boot to the RS507:
      • Remove the battery from the RS507.
      • Press and hold the Restore key.
      • Install the battery onto the RS507.
      • Keep holding the Restore key pressed for about five seconds until a chirp is heard and the Scan LEDs flash green.
    2. Scan the HID bar code
      • If you have trouble scanning this barcode it can be found on Page 7-3 of the PRG.motorola-rs507-open-bluetooth-2
    3. Perform a Cold Boot by removing and re-installing the battery onto the RS507. The RS507 starts to operate and is discoverable as a keyboard.

Default PIN code is 12345 if needed
Details on pairing and connecting with a Window 7 or XP PC can be found starting on page 7-4 of the PRG.
In testing, it was found that in some cases the North American Standard Keyboard barcode also needed to be scanned for the data to transmit correctly.   It can be found on page 7-11 of the PRG.
motorola-rs507-open-bluetooth-3