Better Management of Mobile Device Fleets with Zebra’s Storage Solution
As businesses acquire growing fleets of mobile computers and tablet PCs, effective management of these devices presents challenges. Enterprises often struggle with ensuring devices are adequately charged, tracking who has last signed out devices, and maintaining security to keep the company assets safe.
These challenges can lead to increased operational costs: worker downtime due to devices which aren’t adequately charged, and economic costs due to device loss or theft. Zebra Technologies addresses these issues with its Intelligent Cabinets product line, offering a comprehensive solution for device storage, charging, and management.
Challenges in Managing Mobile Devices
Companies deploying numerous mobile computers face several hurdles:
- Device Tracking: Without a centralized system, keeping tabs on each device’s location becomes cumbersome, increasing the risk of loss or misplacement.
- Charging Management: Ensuring all devices are charged and ready for use is critical. Inconsistent charging can lead to downtime, affecting productivity.
- Security Concerns: Unauthorized access or theft of devices can compromise sensitive data and lead to financial losses.
These challenges not only disrupt workflows but also escalate costs related to device replacement, repairs, and operational inefficiencies. That’s where the Intelligent Cabinets storage solution steps in:
Zebra’s Intelligent Cabinet Solution
Zebra’s Intelligent Cabinets provide an integrated approach to these challenges by offering:
- Secure Storage: Customized cabinets and racks ensure devices are stored safely, reducing the risk of loss or damage.
- Efficient Charging: Built-in charging capabilities guarantee that devices are powered and ready for use at the start of every shift.
- Automated Management: The system automates device tracking and access management, streamlining operations and enhancing security.
By consolidating devices into a centralized system, Zebra’s solution enhances device readiness and operational efficiency.
Key Features of the Intelligent Cabinet Product Line
- Configurability: The modular design of Zebra’s cabinets allows businesses to customize storage solutions to fit various device types and quantities, ensuring optimal space utilization.
- Device Monitoring: Integrated software provides real-time insights into device status, including battery levels and usage patterns, facilitating proactive management.
- Charging Options: The cabinets are equipped with power distribution units, ensuring that all stored devices are charged simultaneously, eliminating downtime due to uncharged equipment.
- Security: Enhanced security features, such as key barrel locks and the Zebra Access Management System (ZAMS), control and monitor device access, reducing unauthorized usage and potential theft.
Ensuring User Accountability with ZAMS
The Zebra Access Management System (ZAMS) is a pivotal component in promoting user accountability. This software solution automates device access management by:
- User Authentication: Requiring personnel to authenticate before accessing devices, ensuring that only authorized users can retrieve equipment.
- Usage Tracking: Recording which user has taken which device and when, fostering a sense of responsibility and enabling quick issue resolution.
- Battery Status Monitoring: Providing visibility into device battery levels, allowing users to ensure devices are adequately charged before use.
By implementing ZAMS, organizations can significantly reduce device loss and damage, leading to a lower total cost of ownership.
Hardware Requirements for ZAMS
ZAMS can run on Zebra Tablet PCs such as the ET60, or the Zebra CC6000 Kiosk computer. The device is mounted on the outside of the cabinet, and as seen in the screen graphic above, it provides at-a-glance visibility into quantities of devices which are available, in use, or missing, allowing managers to quickly remedy problems. Behind the scenes, ZAMS keeps track of device usage, enabling audits and accountability if devices go missing.
Learn More About the Intelligent Cabinet Mobile Device Storage Solution
Zebra’s Intelligent Cabinets, combined with the Access Management System, offer a robust solution to the challenges of managing large fleets of mobile devices. To learn more and to discuss how this device storage solution can help your business, please contact CSSI.