Transforming warehouse operations with barcode technology increases efficiency, throughput, and cost-effectiveness. However, businesses that have always relied on manual processes may need to learn the steps to ensure their tech investments lead to value and ROI. Barcodes, Inc. provides the guidance and expertise necessary for successful warehouse transformation.

The project at Monat Global Corp. is an excellent example of how proper barcode technology implementation can improve operations and position a business for greater success. This direct sales haircare, skincare, and wellness product company was 100% manual, even relying on employees to build boxes. However, putaway and picking were also manual. Employees memorized product locations in the warehouse and jotted down the quantities they needed to fill orders, an inefficient and sometimes error-prone process.

Steps to Warehouse Transformation

Barcodes, Inc. and its partner Alpine Supply Chain Solutions worked with Monat to implement barcode technology with dramatic results.

Step one was creating a naming structure that worked with Monat’s SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) system.

Then Barcodes, Inc. generated labels in batches for warehouse racking so Monat could save time and apply the labels systematically.

With labels in place, Monat relied on Barcodes, Inc.’s expertise to test mobile devices and barcode scanners to select the best options for the warehouse. Monat chose Honeywell CK65 mobile devices and Granit XP 1990iXR corded scanners. The solution also included Honeywell vehicle-mounted computers and industrial printers.

The technology allowed Monat’s team to no longer memorize product locations or depend on handwritten notes. They now use modern processes, such as directed putaway, triggered replenishment, and triggered case picking.

See Monat’s Digital Transformation in Action

The Advantages of a Modern Warehouse with Barcode Technology

Monat monitored key performance indicators before and after the transition and found that using barcode technology significantly impacted its overall operation. Monat’s warehouse increased from 80 to 260 lines per hour and from 20 to 60 orders per hour, tripling throughput.

The company also saw a vast improvement in order accuracy and decreased the time necessary to train new employees to work independently from days to just an hour.

Download our case study  to learn more about the Honeywell technology that made this successful transition to a modern warehouse possible.

Our focus today is on an unconventional smartphone for the enterprise, namely the Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro.

The latest rugged model from Samsung is identified as an Enterprise Edition, signifying its appropriateness for corporate usage, especially by employees working in warehouse or industrial environments. The XCover 6 Pro also caters to individuals seeking a robust phone for sports activities or challenging situations.

The base product box includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, while the XCover 6 Pro itself is presented encased in plastic, showcasing its impressive display, light form factor, and thin, yet rugged design.

The XCover 6 Pro possesses a unique design with a singular black color option, complemented by glossy red rings encircling the camera lens and red accents on the top and X Cover key.

Despite common stereotypes about rugged phones lacking aesthetic appeal, the XCover 6 Pro challenges these preconceptions with its harmonious black and red color scheme.

Another characteristic that stands out immediately is the XCover 6 Pro’s distinct tactile surface, reminiscent of rubber which feels softer than a typical consumer smartphone body. This characteristic imparts a sense of additional protection, akin to the phone already being encased in a protective covering.

The detachable battery is also a a clear giveaway that you are looking at a rugged smartphone meant for commercial use.

The exterior of the phone boasts a LED indicator on the top, a volume rocker with a power button on one side, an XCover key on the other side, and a USB-C port with a pogo pin at the bottom, allowing for charging via a docking station. Rounding out the exterior is the power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor for an additional layer of security.

Upon opening the phone to insert the battery, access is granted to the SIM and SD card slots, with a rubber lining on the back cover designed to prevent water intrusion.

The display is slightly smaller than the phone’s overall size, featuring a vibrant LCD screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate. Regarding protective gloves, the touchscreen display is more responsive than anticipated.

After several days of usage, the XCover 6 Pro has the expected weight of a handheld mobile computer, but ultimately feels lighter than expected. Its secure grip and touchscreen round out a thoughtfully designed device for workers on overtime shifts who are scanning and communicating constantly.

To see the rugged smartphone in action and see a full list of detailed technical specifications, have a look at our previous XCover 6 Pro coverage.

Get Your Hands on Your Own XCover6 Pro

Ready to learn more? Contact a rugged smartphone expert today to explore applications, bulk pricing, and custom integrations and deployments from Barcodes, Inc.

Do you need reliable connectivity for hardware devices inside or outside the four walls? Are you having challenges managing multiple carriers/platforms/portals/contacts? Is it difficult and/or expensive to test locations and routes for the best wireless connectivity? Are you unhappy with the level of service you’re getting from carriers?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be interested in learning more about Advantix SmartSIM.

What is SmartSIM?

Advantix SmartSIM connects to a dozen leading carriers in North America including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, and provides auto-failover. If the connection fails, the device will hunt for and connect to the next-available carrier, ensuring business as usual without loss of revenue or productivity, or negative customer experiences. SmartSIM benefits include: 

• Provides universal coverage (600 carriers globally)
• Provides auto-failover/inherent redundancy
• Streamlines ordering/procurement
• Simplifies SIM management
• Eliminates carrier and plan management
• Backed by helpful network engineers and account personnel

What Makes Advantix Different?

Conventional carriers are pure-play providers that focus on managing their infrastructure. Advantix focuses on the customer experience with tools built for optimization, visibility, monitoring and management. This is done via Advantix’s operator-agnostic SaaS platform.

The platform’s proprietary technology eliminates the complexities of managing different carriers, software platforms and web portals, and offers a number of other advantages, including:

• SIM card provisioning at scale
• Fast over-the-air (OTA) updates
• Proactive optimization of usage
• Network tuning and meticulous application control
• Expense management reporting and cost allocation
• Real-time data on network performance and carrier switching  

The Advantix platform also supports native SIM connectivity from leading carriers with a front end that is easier to use than ordinary carrier systems. It’s like a one-stop shop for your carrier(s) of choice.

Level Up Your Organization’s Telecom & Overall Connectivity

Advantix makes it easy to secure and manage wireless connectivity. You get the coverage you need from the best networks in the world without the headaches of dealing with carriers. For more information and use cases in verticals including transportation and logistics, warehouse and distribution, retail, hospitality, healthcare and more, please contact our telecom experts today.

Epson’s OmniLink TM-m30III Thermal Receipt Printer combines an elegant, modern design with advanced connectivity. Enhance your business with the OmniLink TM-m30III receipt printer and experience the ideal combination of form and function.

An Deeper Look at Epson’s Compact Thermal Receipt Printer

For those in search of a dependable and efficient receipt printer suitable for business operations, the compact 3″ thermal receipt printer stands as a commendable choice. The OmniLink TM-m30III is designed with a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, and equipped with an array of impressive features that make it ideal for mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) receipt printing.

Compact Design with Flexible Paper Exit Options

At the core of this printer’s appeal lies its design. Characterized by its sleek and compact physique, it combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Its diminutive size renders it versatile and adaptable to various work environments, effortlessly integrating into any mPOS setup. In addition, the receipt printer accommodates both front and top paper exits, affording users the convenience of selecting their preferred method of receipt handling.

Swift and Reliable Network Connectivity

A prominent attribute of the TM-m30III is its capability for swift network tethering. Establishing a wired network connection with iOS^® or Android^TM mobile devices via a USB-C connection is possible, with data transfer rates reaching up to 20 Mbps .¹ This ensures expeditious transaction processing, contributing to customer satisfaction.

Diverse Connectivity Options

Regarding connectivity, this printer offers a comprehensive selection. It comes equipped with built-in interfaces, including USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and Ethernet. For those seeking wireless connectivity, an optional dual Wi-Fi^®/ Bluetooth^® interface is available. The TM-m30III printer supports the connection of up to two USB point-of-sale peripherals, complemented by the Sync and Charge feature, which can deliver up to 18 W of power to mobile devices. For two more USB slots, consider the TM-m30III-H model. This versatility caters to a wide range of user preferences for different mPOS applications.

Seamless Cloud Integration

In the contemporary digital landscape, cloud printing holds considerable significance. This printer provides an option for Server Direct Print, facilitating the retrieval of print jobs directly from the cloud.² Such functionality proves invaluable for businesses relying on cloud-based systems for online ordering and document management, streamlining operations and minimizing manual interventions.

Effortless Setup and Rapid Printing

Setup procedures are streamlined for user convenience, particularly when opting for the dual wireless interface. It enables the swift establishment of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections, expediting the deployment of the printer. Subsequently, the printer’s rapid print speed impresses with its ability to generate sharp and precise text, barcodes, and logos at speeds of up to 300 mm/sec, ensuring operational efficiency.³

Superior Service and Support

Epson, renowned for its commitment to quality, extends a 2-year limited warranty for this printer. For added assurance, Epson PreferredSM Plus Extended Service Plans are available, offering up to 5 years of uninterrupted coverage. These provisions safeguard your investment and contribute to the seamless operation of your business.

Paper Conservation and Enhanced Enclosure

In an era marked by environmental consciousness, even small measures can make a significant difference. This printer incorporates a paper-saving feature, potentially reducing paper consumption by up to 49%.⁴ Moreover, the printer’s IPX2-rated enclosure not only exhibits water resistance but also features antimicrobial properties and easy-clean attributes, ensuring a hygienic printing environment.

For a comprehensive list of features, download the TM-m30III and TM-m30III-H spec sheet.

A Reliable, Versatile mPOS Elevates the Modern Customer Experience

The OmniLink TM-m30III printer presents itself as a formidable choice for those in need of a reliable, efficient, and versatile receipt printer for their mPOS systems.

Characterized by its modern design, rapid network connectivity, diverse connectivity options, and an assortment of other features, the TM-m30III is an invaluable asset for the enterprise. With this printer, experience smoother transactions, enhanced customer satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency.

Getac’s S410G5 rugged laptop redefines the cutting edge, with a dazzling screen, strong processing capabilities, and a stylish chassis.

The S410’s ergonomic rugged design achieves the ideal combination of size, weight, and power, which is critical for personal carry mobile computing in tough terrain.

This sturdy laptop, which has been shown to be dependable, lightweight, and powerful, provides exceptional processing and battery performance thanks to an updated CPU and hot-swappable batteries.

The S410-G5 from Getac provides users with a reliable solution that offers adaptable port options and RF passthrough for real-time database access via the car’s antenna. It supports in-vehicle applications through third-party vehicle dock providers.

Please contact us if you have a need for rugged laptops in the field. Our team of experts can design a mobile computing solution with S410s at the forefront, deploy the devices with your exact imaging, and provide ongoing support throughout the laptop’s lifecycle.

The CW45 is an arm-worn, wearable mobile computer with optimized ergonomics and performance.

The wearable device from Honeywell offers the highest solution return on investment due to its user-friendliness, power, portability, and compact size.

Primary Benefits of the Honeywell CW45

The CW45 features a low profile, HD display, and enterprise-grade durability, all while being designed for user comfort and convenience.

Based on the most recent generation of Honeywell’s Mobility Edge platform, the CW45 rugged wearable computer improves productivity by making workflow-related data and tools available on demand.

As for general performance, the CW45 is a resilient, secure, and long-lasting wearable solution, no matter the application or industry.

For a detailed list of capabilities and features, download the CW45 spec sheet.

Why Wearable Mobile Computers are Being Widely Adopted

In a recent Honeywell wearables roundtable, we spoke in depth about different applications and setups that work the best for our customers and partners. It’s highly recommended that you watch the webinar recording as a starting point for wearables in general.

Watch Bluestar’s excellent unboxing video below to see the Honeywell CW45 in action: