Handheld Data CollectionHow To Select A Device

BizSpeed IntroductionExperience delivering mobile applications for over 10 years as of 2009Handheld data collection software for:Proof of DeliveryPickupInspectionsField serviceAsset trackingInventory

Consumer or rugged?The first question…

Consumer DevicesPurchased from wireless carriers directly (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, etc.)Usually free when buying 20 or moreDesigned as phones firstExamplesAT&T Tilt2Blackberry

Rugged DevicesPurchased from Resellers specialized in devicesAvg price approx. $2000/ea (or more)Designed for field data collectionRugged – can be dropped on concrete, in puddles, etc.Built-in barcode scannersIntermec CN3

Do You Need Rugged?Many people will steer you to rugged based on TCO.A better indicator is whether you need barcode scanning.Good quality Bluetooth barcode scanners are $500+.If scanning is a more than an occasional part of the job, then having ONE integrated device vs. two (mobile and scanner) is recommended.

Why No External Scanner?Requires Bluetooth pairing – if field techs switch devices, they have to re-pair.Two devices means they have to use 2 hands (one for the scanner, one for their mobile)….not safe on a ladder!One more piece of equipment to keep track of

Importance of Device SelectionRugged devices are a significant investmentDevices are not upgradeable – you have to specify features at the time of purchase.For example, you cannot add a cellular radio after you purchase a device, or GPS, or barcode scanner, etc.

Key questionsWhat mobile software will you run?Barcode scanner – 1D or 2D?Signature capture?GPS – tracking and navigation?Camera – resolution, flash?Cellular data – carrier, coverage and speed 2.5/3G?Ruggedness rating – drops, snow, rain?Vehicle mount –charging in the field?Battery – high capacity for longer charges?WiFi – a/b/g or batch?Printing – connect via Bluetooth or serial?Device management - software updates and security?Keyboard size - numeric only, large keys for big hands?Phone use – used a cell phone or just mobile data collection?

Can I user consumer devices?Maybe. It depends on….Do you need barcode scanning?Will data be entered in the field in rugged conditions – ex. Fuel delivery in the snow, meter installations in the mud, surveys outside?Will the mobile phone be used a lot? Do you need signature capture for Proof of Delivery?

Typical rugged devices

Typical DevicesIntermec CN3Rugged – 6’ drop spec3G radio (e.g. Verizon)1D or 2D barcode scannerNumeric or alpha keypadDoes NOT have a cameraGPSWindows Mobile OSStreet price with cradle and accessories ~$2500

Typical DevicesMotorola MC55Rugged – 4’ drop spec2.5G radio AT&T or T-Mobile1D or 2D barcode scannerNumeric or alpha keypadOptional cameraGPSWindows Mobile OSStreet price with cradle and accessories ~$1750

Typical DevicesMotorola MC9000Rugged – 6’ drop spec (most rugged)3G radio1D or 2D barcode scannerNumeric or alpha keypadGPSMany options (like vehicle cradle with serial port)Windows Mobile OSStreet price with cradle and accessories ~$2500+

Typical DevicesZebra RW420 thermal printerRuggedConnects via Bluetooth4” thermal printerRequires mobile software that supports Zebra or mobile printer driverStreet price with accessories ~ $900

What else should I ask?

Other questions…What mobile software will I use?How will I update applications in the field – devices in a warehouse are easier than ones spread across trucks.Can I remotely control the device for support?Do I need a spare pool?Can I lock the device so only specific apps can be used?Can I see the device GPS history? Where is it?Do I need one device per person or per role/truck?Should I get a spare battery? Will it last a whole shift?Do I need a vehicle cradle?

More InfoHow to choose between Motorola devices athttp://www.bizspeed.com/2009/08/how-to-choose-between-a-motorola-mc55-and-mc75-handheld/Submit a comment/question at http://www.bizspeed.com/about/contact/