Customer Alert: Expected Computer Price Increases in 2026
Surging AI Demand for Memory Causes Shortage
We want to make you aware of global and industry‑wide factors which are likely to affect computer pricing in 2026.
Over the past several months, the global market for memory components — including DRAM and solid‑state storage — has experienced significant volatility. These components are essential to every PC, handheld, and tablet/laptop, as well as many associated products. Rising memory costs will ultimately impact final product pricing for all products which utilize memory. CSSI has already started to receive price increase notifications from our manufacturing partners, and we anticipate that all manufacturers will take action.
Why Memory Prices Are Increasing In 2026
Several major factors are driving these changes:
Surging demand from AI data centers Large‑scale artificial intelligence systems require enormous amounts of memory. This rapid growth has created unprecedented demand for DRAM and NAND, tightening supply for all manufacturers.
Manufacturers are shifting production to high‑bandwidth memory (HBM) HBM is used heavily in AI servers and is far more profitable for chip makers. As a result, production capacity is being redirected away from standard consumer memory, reducing availability and increasing costs for everyday PC components.
A global shortage that began in late 2025 The memory industry entered a shortage cycle late last year, and analysts expect it to continue through 2026 and possibly into 2027. This shortage has already pushed component prices sharply higher. It takes time for new supply to come online.
Rising costs being passed through the supply chain Memory modules and storage devices have increased in price by double‑ and even triple‑digit percentages in some categories. PC and tablet/laptop manufacturers are now adjusting their pricing to reflect these higher component costs.
What This Means for You
The enterprise equipment manufacturers with which CSSI partners have begun to announce price increases. During the COVID-era, we all experienced price increases driven by overall supply chain challenges. In this case, it is specifically increasing demand for computer memory which is driving prices higher.
What Action You Can Take
If you have near-term needs, it would be smart to try to get orders in before price increases take effect. Waiting it out may not be an option – there may be future waves of increases if the supply/demand balance persists. New supply is unlikely to be a near-term solution, because of the very long start-up time for new capacity. Your account representative can help you understand the current pricing for the equipment you utilize and can help guide you to your best options. The pricing situation is fast-moving at this time, so please keep in touch with us. We will do our utmost to support you. Contact CSSI to discuss your options.
2025 has been an exciting year for mobile device technology – hardware, apps, services and technologies. There are so many advances to consider… we did our best to keep you informed and educated along the way. As the year winds to a close, we wanted to call attention to several of our best posts over the past 12 months.
Without further ado…!
1) Enterprise vs Consumer-Grade Tablets – Why You Should Go for Quality
When using a tablet computer for business workflows, it can be tempting to opt for less-expensive consumer-grade options. However, there are severe impacts to the total cost of ownership (lifespan, productivity impacts, safety & security). Here’s a look at the benefits of enterprise tablet models.
2) Mobile Device Support Services – Why They Matter
Our friends in IT have more on their plate every day. As difficult-to-control mobile devices proliferate, life doesn’t get any easier. That’s why support services for mobile fleets can make an impact. Whether for configuration, deployment, upgrades, or device support, CSSI’s mobile device professional services and mobile device management capabilities can help ease the IT burden.
3) Non-Incendive Mobile Computers & Tablets: How are They Different?
Hazardous environments require special mobile computing device models which qualify as non-incendive. This means that appropriate mobile devices must be sourced. Here’s information about this special class of handhelds, and how they are made to be non-incendive.
4) How Machine Vision Systems Detect Defects on a Production Line
Machine vision systems are on the cutting edge of industrial automation. More than just industrial high-speed scanners, machine vision systems incorporate machine vision and AI to enable you to ‘train’ the computer to differentiate between good/bad based on a camera image. Here’s how these systems work, and the components involved.
5) Android 11 and Scoped Storage: Alert for Those Who’ve Not Yet Migrated
Many companies have not yet upgraded the Android OS running Android device models beyond 10 or 11. 11 and 13 introduced some major changes to this mobile operating system, and thus there is information you need to know so that you can plan your upgrade without breaking key applications.
6) The Benefits of Implementing Barcoding in your Warehouse or Production Operation
If you have not yet implemented barcodes to aid your production and warehouse operations, there are time-tested and proven reasons to consider doing so. Automated data capture technologies like the barcode reduce human errors and improve productivity and inventory accuracy.
7) Interested in RFID? Why You Should Begin with an RFID Pilot Project.
While RFID is a powerful technology which can aid the automation of your inventory management, it requires projects to be carefully planned and tested. An investment in a pilot project is the best way to ensure the success of your future RFID investment.
8) What are the Different Varieties of Label Printers?
There are several varieties of label printers. The right choice for you will depend upon your applications and how the labels will be used. We run down the various technologies and form factors which are available for your label printing needs.
Applications served to a handheld computer via terminal emulation (telnet) typically use bland ‘green screens’ without touch screen capabilities. You can efficiently modernize those applications to create a touchscreen interface with modernization technology. This improves the user experience, along with user productivity.
10) Why You Should Use an Industrial Browser for Mobile Enterprise Applications
The consumer web browsers which come with your mobile devices are insufficient for enterprise needs. Here’s why you should use industrial browsers to serve applications via the browser.
Supporting Enterprise Mobility with SOTI MobiControl
Mobile devices have become the backbone of field service, transportation and logistics, retail, healthcare, and countless other industries. As organizations deploy more tablets, handheld computers, barcode scanners, and IoT endpoints, managing those devices reliably—and securely—becomes far more complex. That’s where SOTI MobiControl , one of the industry’s leading enterprise mobility management (EMM) platforms, comes in. As a certified SOTI partner, CSSI Technologies offers expert support and device management services for SOTI MobiControl.
What Is SOTI MobiControl?
SOTI MobiControl is an enterprise mobility management (EMM) and mobile device management (MDM) platform designed to help organizations deploy, secure, support, and manage large fleets of mobile devices . It supports a wide range of device types, including rugged handhelds, enterprise scanners, smart sensors, smartphones, tablets, and even custom Android enterprise devices, from manufacturers like Zebra, Honeywell, Datalogic, and more.
Some of the key capabilities of SOTI MobiControl include:
Centralized device configuration and provisioning – enrolling devices is simple
Real-time device monitoring and remote support tools
Security enforcement and user management (passwords, encryption, compliance policies)
OS and app management, including remote updates (OTA)
Device tracking and geofencing
Automation, scripting, and lifecycle management
In essence, MobiControl gives IT teams one pane of glass to manage thousands of distributed rugged devices without needing hands-on access.
How Enterprise Mobility Management Helps Companies Manage Mobile Devices
As mobility scales, manual processes like physically updating devices or relying on field employees to troubleshoot issues quickly become unsustainable.
EMM software such as MobiControl solves these challenges by enabling powerful function right from the SOTI MobiControl console:
1. Centralized control of a distributed device fleet
EMM consolidates management tasks—configuration, software distribution, and compliance—into one platform, eliminating the need to touch devices individually.
2. Stronger security and compliance
Tighter user management – organizations can enforce policies, restrict unauthorized app usage, wipe lost devices, and ensure each device meets regulatory requirements.
3. Faster support and reduced downtime
Remote control viewing, diagnostics, and scripting allow IT teams to fix devices without bringing them out of service, reducing operational disruption.
4. Lifecycle and OS management
When a device needs an OS update, app patch, or profile change, EMM pushes it out remotely—whether to 10 devices or 10,000. Android management becomes much easier.
5. Visibility into real-world device health
Battery analytics, connectivity logs, and usage insights help teams identify early signs of failure and optimize field performance.
This software becomes essential once mobility reaches any meaningful scale. Without it, device fleets drift out of configuration, support costs spike, and security risk increases.
Examples of Situations Where Mobility Management Software Is Especially Valuable
Enterprise Mobility Management solutions such as SOTI MobiControl are widely used across industries. Here are several examples of how organizations rely on EMM:
1. Logistics and Transportation
A trucking company with thousands of drivers using rugged handhelds for route navigation, electronic logging (ELD), and proof of delivery.
MobiControl ensures each device is locked to approved apps, protected from misuse, updated over the air, and remotely supported if something breaks mid-route.
2. Retail
A big-box retailer utilizes large fleets of mobile computers for inventory, price checks, and picking. Devices are deployed in stores nationwide.
MobiControl enforces kiosk modes, pushes new apps during seasonal changes, and ensures devices stay compliant and ready for peak periods.
3. Field Service
At a regional HVAC provider, dozens of field technicians rely on mobile devices for service orders, diagnostics, and parts management.
When devices are spread across a region, an EMM platform is critical for geofencing, remote troubleshooting, usage auditing, and reducing downtime.
4. Healthcare and Home Medical Services
A hospital system uses large numbers of tablets and scanners for patient care and medication workflows.
Hospital IT staff use MobiControl to ensure devices remain encrypted, secure, and patched—critical in regulated environments.
5. Manufacturing and Warehousing
A manufacturer uses scanners, forklift-mounted tablets, and rugged handhelds for warehouse operations such as order picking, receiving, and inventory management.
MobiControl manages diverse device types, enforces controlled access, and provides visibility into uptime and performance.
Why It’s Helpful to Have an Experienced EMM Support Partner
While SOTI MobiControl is a powerful platform, maximizing its value requires expertise. This is why many organizations work with dedicated mobile device management partners such as CSSI Technologies.
A knowledgeable mobility management partner can provide:
1. Proper design and architecture
EMM for a business critical mobile device fleet should not be configured “on the fly.” A partner helps define enrollment methods, security models, update strategies, and role-based access controls that match your operational needs.
2. Faster deployment and onboarding
Experienced teams know how to help with configuring the software, enrolling devices, integrating with existing systems, and automating provisioning to avoid time-consuming manual setups.
3. Troubleshooting and ongoing optimization
Mobility environments evolve as apps change, OS versions update, or new device models are added. Partners provide SOTI MobiControl upgrades and support, solve issues quickly, and continually refine the business mobility environment.
4. Best practices from real-world deployments
A seasoned EMM partner has likely managed solutions across logistics, retail, and industrial operations. They bring proven policies, templates, and workflows that dramatically reduce risk and effort.
5. Long-term scalability
As businesses grow, EMM must scale smoothly. A partner ensures your environment is future-proofed, well-documented, and ready for expansion.
Let’s Discuss MobiControl and Enterprise Mobility Management
SOTI MobiControl is a leading platform for managing any Android enterprise device model at scale. It provides the security, control, visibility, and support tools organizations need to keep operations running smoothly—especially in industries where mobile rugged devices are mission-critical. As an experienced SOTI partner and MobiControl expert, CSSI can help with SOTI MobiControl installation and ongoing device configurations and upgrades. With our Device Lifecycle Management program , we can even take over your device deployments and OS upgrades. Please contact us to discuss your situation and how we can help!
Zebra Wearable Scanners and Computers Drive Picking Productivity
As demands on order fulfillment processes increase (higher volumes and faster picking expectations), high-performing companies turn to wearable scanners and computers for a tech edge. Zebra Technologies Corp offers a range of wearables in its data capture and mobile computing portfolio.
We’ve previously discussed the advantages of wearable computers and scanners (see prior articles Why use wearable scanners in the warehouse? and Wearable technology drives warehouse productivity ). Let’s sum it up by saying that wearables enable workers to receive, ship, or pick orders faster by keeping their hands free and by reducing time spent picking up and putting down scanners and handheld computers. Workers stay on task and move quicker, as documented by time studies.
Zebra offers a complete range of wearable items – both Zebra barcode scanners which link to a mobile computer, and Zebra wearable mobile computers. Take a look at the current lineup:
Zebra Wearable Mobile Computers and Barcode Scanners for 2025
The Zebra RS2100 Wearable Scanner is the world’s smallest and lightest enterprise-grade wearable barcode scanner. The light design creates maximum comfort for users, while maintaining enterprise class wearability and offering a great scan engine.
The WS301 Android Wearable Computer is the latest addition to Zebra’s wearables family. It is the smallest and lightest wearable, and empowers workers for hands-free workflows and seamless communication. Use for voice-picking, push-to-talk, and task management.
Combine the powerful RS5000x Corded Ring Scanner with a Zebra wearable computer for hands-free productivity. Suitable for use in freezer and refrigerated environments.
The RS5100 Bluetooth Ring Scanner lets your users go cordless… easy device pairing via bluetooth. The ergonomic design features a thumb trigger. Choose from several bluetooth wearable scanner options to best suit your environment.
The feather-light RS6100 Bluetooth Ring Scanner improves on the RS5100… this wearable lets you scan at distances from 2 inches to 40 feet! Choose between cordless and wired versions (for intense all-day usage).
The unique WS50 Android Wearable is a powerful mobile computer and scanner with color touch screen worn on the back of the hand. Combine scanning, computing/WMS direction, and voice communication into a single device!
The Zebra WT6400 Wearable Mobile Computer maximizes utility and computing power, with an optional keypad and features to power hands-free picking operations. Android OS. This updates prior products such as the WT6300 wearable computer.
The Zebra WT5400 Wearable Mobile Computer is a new lower-cost yet purpose-built wearable computer packed with innovations to support hands-free picking. Android OS.
Android Wearable Computers: WT6400 and WT5400
The best-in-class dedicated wearable computers are the WT6400 and WT5400. These are the go-to choice for demanding warehouse environments worldwide where a wearable device is needed.
Let’s Talk about Zebra Wearable Scanners & Computers
Would you like to discuss and test Zebra wearable scanners or Zebra wearable mobile computers? You can start by speaking with the barcode scanning and Zebra product experts at CSSI Technologies – we handle the complete range of Zebra mobile devices and fixed industrial scanners. We’ll take a look at your workflows and recommend products to trial. Please contact us to discuss Zebra wearable computers and scanners.
Zebra ET401 Rugged Tablet: A Reliable and Affordable Alternative to Consumer Grade Tablets
When companies evaluate mobile computers for warehouses, field service teams, retail associates, or technicians, it’s common to ask: “Why can’t we just buy iPads or consumer Android tablets? They’re cheaper.”
It’s a fair question—and also the biggest trap companies fall into. While consumer grade tablets look inexpensive at checkout, they’re rarely the better value once they hit the realities of business operations. Enterprise-grade tablets are built for the grind, not the couch. And when you dig into the numbers, performance, and lifecycle costs, the advantages become clear.
That’s why Zebra has unveiled the ET401 Android Tablet, a rugged tablet which is truly enterprise-grade, but at a price competitive with consumer tablets.
Consider the differences between the ET401 tablet and consumer Apple or Android tablets:
Zebra ET401 Rugged Tablet
Consumer-Grade Tablets
Focus Area
Designed for demanding enterprise use
Designed for light-duty consumer needs
Platform
Zebra’s Android DNA platform, built for real-world enterprise applications. Commitment to future Android versions.
No commitments on OS upgrades. Focused on consumer experiences, not enterprise.
Life Cycle
Commitment for 4 year sales cycle
Short sales cycle (1-2 years max)
Service & Support
Commitment for 4 years of support beyond end-of-sale
Limited and short-term service policies
Security Updates
Your business controls security updates
Updates made automatically on consumer devices
Ruggedness
Rugged build, tested to exceed standards
Easily breakable, not built for rough-and-tumble use
Battery
User-replaceable, hot-swapping, energy management solutions
Batteries not user-replaceable; unsuited for back-to-back or extended shifts
Data Capture
Options for integrated data capture (barcode scanning or RFID reading)
Requires additional peripherals for data capture
Accessories
Backwards compatible accessories, built for enterprise needs
Must buy new accessories with each new product version
Why are Enterprise Tablets Worth the Premium Price?
Why do companies go with the enterprise tablet, even if it is a little pricier than a consumer product?
1. Enterprise Tablets Deliver Lower Total Cost of Ownership
Sticker price is the least important cost factor in business mobility. Consumer tablets:
Break more often
Need more accessories to make them usable
Get discontinued quickly
Cause workflow interruptions when they fail
An Enterprise Android tablet typically last 2–3× longer, come with proven accessories, and have predictable product lifecycles. As a result, companies spend less over time, even though the initial purchase may be higher.
2. Rugged Reliability Keeps Operations Running
An enterprise-grade rugged tablet is designed for work environments—not living rooms. It will survive:
Drops
Dust and dirt
Freezer conditions
Rain
Vibration from forklifts and vehicles
A cracked consumer display isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s lost productivity, downtime, and a scramble to find a spare.
If a workflow involves scanning barcodes, this difference is massive. Enterprise tablets include:
Industrial barcode scanner
Fast capture of 1D/2D barcodes
Ability to read damaged, dirty, or low-contrast codes
Long-range options for warehouses
Reliable scanning in bright sunlight
Consumer tablets rely on their camera, which is slow, inconsistent, and drains battery life in high-volume scanning environments. For retail, manufacturing, logistics, or inventory work, integrated scanning is a game-changer.
4. Long, Predictable Lifecycles
Enterprise tablet computer models typically stay in production for five to seven years. The accessories stay available. The Android operating system images remain stable. Businesses can deploy consistently without rewriting apps or redesigning mounts every year.
Consumer grade tablets refresh constantly. When your model gets discontinued, you’re stuck with:
Retraining workers
Adapting apps
Replacing accessories
Managing a mixed fleet of devices
Standardization is key in enterprise IT—and enterprise tablets make it possible.
5. Enterprise-Level Security and Device Management
Businesses need control, visibility, and security compliance. Enterprise tablets support:
Zero-touch provisioning
Kiosk mode for locked-down apps
Remote troubleshooting
Granular MDM integration
Enterprise OS patching
Device location tracking
Consumer devices simply aren’t built with this level of control in mind.
6. Hot-Swap and Extended Batteries for All-Day Use
Shift workers can’t stop to charge a mobile computing device. Enterprise tablets offer:
Hot-swappable batteries
Extended battery packs
Fast-charging docks
Vehicle cradles with pass-through power
Consumer tablets, by contrast, are optimized for intermittent personal use—not 16-hour shifts.
7. Business-Critical Support and Service
When a device fails, every minute counts. Experienced rugged computer vendors such as CSSI Technologies offer:
Expert product support and advice
Predictable repair turnaround
Coverage for accidental damage
Long-term parts availability
With consumer tablets, support means mailing it in or waiting at a retail counter. That’s not viable for operations running at scale.
8. A Purpose-Built Accessory Ecosystem
Enterprise workflows often require:
Forklift and vehicle mounts
Rugged boot cases
Trigger handles for scanning
Secure multi-bay charging cradles
Payment and RFID sleds
Cold-chain compatible cases
Consumer accessories don’t stand up to industrial use, and many don’t exist for specialized workflows at all.
9. Superior Connectivity Options
Enterprise tablets often include:
High-performance Wi-Fi (2×2 or 3×3 MIMO)
Fast roaming for warehouse access points
Dedicated GPS modules
Optional private 5G/CBRS radios
This makes them more reliable in warehouses, outdoors, and environments where coverage is spotty or constantly changing.
10. Features Tailored for Industrial and Field Use
Enterprise devices offer functional advantages, such as:
Glove-friendly touchscreens
Sunlight-readable displays
Dedicated programmable buttons
Integrated NFC or RFID
Hardened USB or pogo-pin connectors for reliable charging
These details matter in real-world workflows where workers don’t have time to fight with their devices.
Learn More About the Zebra ET401 Enterprise Tablet Computer
Understanding How Machine Vision Performs Quality Control Tasks
In modern industrial production, ensuring product quality and eliminating defects is critical—not only for cost control, but for brand reputation, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This is where machine vision systems play a key role. Specifically, companies like CSSI’s partner Zebra Technologies offer machine vision technology designed to perform tasks such as defect detection on production lines.
In this post we will discuss how a machine vision system is able to perform defect detection: the main components involved, how they fit together, and what the overall workflow looks like.
What is machine vision & why is defect detection important?
What exactly is meant by the phrase ‘machine vision’?
Machine vision systems use hardware + software to give machines the ability to “see” objects, extract information from images, and make decisions (such as pass/fail, sort/reject) based on what is seen.
In the context of defect detection, machine vision systems are used to automatically inspect components, assemblies or finished goods for anomalies such as scratches, dents, missing parts, misalignment, incorrect printing, surface defects, etc. This replaces or supplements manual inspection with capabilities beyond that of human vision, enabling greater speed, consistency, repeatability and often cost savings.
Main components of a machine vision defect-detection system
So what are the key building blocks of a machine vision system?
It’s important to think of machine vision as a computer vision system, as opposed to a single product. That’s because a machine vision solution for defect detection typically consists of several interacting components, each fulfilling a specific role. Using Zebra’s product architecture as a reference, we can group the components into these broad categories:
1. Image acquisition hardware
Cameras / sensors: To capture images (2D) or scans/point-clouds (3D) of the object under inspection. For example, Zebra’s machine vision camera offerings (e.g., the CV60 series) support high-resolution CMOS sensors, color or mono, with GigE or USB3 interfaces.
Lighting / optics / lenses: Proper lighting and optics are critical for selecting the field of view, resolution, contrast and image quality so that defects can be reliably detected. While not always spelled out in product listings, good lighting design is foundational. Zebra offers some camera products with integrated lighting to solve this problem without requiring further external items.
3D scanners / sensors: For more complex surfaces, shapes or features, 3D sensors provide extra information. Zebra offers 3D vision sensors (for example dual-camera + laser systems) to capture height/profiles and detect defects that may not appear in simple 2D imaging.
Frame grabbers / vision controller hardware: In higher-end systems, cameras may feed into frame grabbers or vision controllers (industrial PCs) that manage capture, preprocessing, triggering, and hand off the image data for analysis.
2. Image processing & analysis software
Once images or point clouds are captured, software analyzes the visual data for object recognition and object detection. The core software tasks include preprocessing (noise reduction, contrast enhancement), segmentation (isolate the part), feature extraction (edges, textures, geometry), comparison to reference models/standards, and finally decision logic (is it acceptable or a defect?). Machine learning enables the software to update its model for more accuracy over time.
Zebra Aurora suite of machine-vision software is designed to accomplish these analytical tasks:
The Aurora Vision Library (SDK) for programmers, offering tools for processing 2D/3D images and OCR (optical character recognition)..
Aurora Vision Studio – a graphical, no-code/low-code environment to build vision applications via drag-and-drop filters.
Aurora Design Assistant – for more guided workflows to build applications, especially for deep learning use cases.
Deep-learning / anomaly-detection tools – newer additions enabling unsupervised / semi-supervised learning of defects. For example, Zebra’s new deep-learning features allow training on “normal” (good) parts and detecting deviations.
3. Integration & automation interface
A vision system doesn’t exist in isolation; it must integrate with production equipment, conveyors, reject mechanisms, PLCs, HMI (human-machine interface) and higher-level control/MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems). Key integration blocks include:
Triggering / synchronization: Telling the camera when to capture (e.g., when a part is in position), synchronizing with motion/line.
I/O / communication: Digital I/O (e.g., to signal a reject arm), or higher-level communication protocols (Ethernet, OPC UA, etc). Zebra includes I/O cards as part of its offerings.
User interface / monitoring: Operators may need to review inspection results, override decisions, look at logs or analytics dashboards. The software suite often supports HMI components.
Data logging / traceability: For quality assurance, records of inspection results, images of defects, timestamps, part IDs, may be collected and integrated.
4. Mechanical / physical system setup
Though not strictly “vision hardware/software”, the mechanical setup matters a lot for defect detection:
Mounting / positioning: Cameras/sensors must be mounted rigidly and aligned so that the object is in the correct field of view and orientation.
Conveyor / motion control: The object may be moving (on a line), so synchronization matters.
Reject mechanism / marking system: If a defect is detected, the part may be removed or flagged.
Environment control: Vibration, lighting variability, ambient noise, dust/particles and variable backgrounds must be managed to ensure reliable vision inspection.
How the system works—step by step
Putting it all together, here’s a typical workflow of how a vision system like Zebra’s might perform defect detection:
Setup / calibration
Identify the part(s) to inspect and define what constitutes “good” vs “defective”.
Choose and install camera(s), lighting, lenses, mountings.
Configure field of view, resolution, exposure, trigger method (e.g., conveyor sensor triggers camera).
If using 3D sensors, calibrate depth/laser/point-cloud settings.
In the software environment, define or import reference images (good parts), set up inspection logic or train the model.
Image capture (runtime)
A part arrives in the inspection zone (e.g., on a conveyor). A trigger (for example a sensor) signals capture.
The camera snaps an image (or sequence) under controlled lighting. If motion/multiple angles are needed, multiple cameras or shutters may capture.
If a 3D sensor is used, it may scan the surface and produce a point cloud or height map.
Pre-processing
The raw image is processed: e.g., apply filters to reduce noise, enhance contrast, correct for lighting non-uniformity, rectify perspective if needed.
Possibly convert to grayscale, thresholding, edge detection or segmentation to isolate the region of interest (the part surface).
Feature extraction / comparison
The software extracts features of interest: edges, contours, texture patterns, geometric dimensions, 3D profiles.
The extracted features are compared to expected “good” features or patterns. For example, a surface that’s supposed to be smooth – any scratch or dent changes the texture or geometry.
In deep-learning or anomaly-detection approaches, the system may compute a “difference” from a learned normal model. For example, Zebra’s anomaly-detection tool can be trained with only good‐part images and then highlight deviations as defects.
Decision logic
Based on the comparison, the software decides: pass or fail. If a deviation exceeds thresholds (dimension out of tolerance, missing part, scratch present), mark as defect.
Some systems provide heatmaps or visual overlays indicating where the defect is. Zebra’s tutorial video shows how their “Detect Anomalies” tool uses a heatmap.
Output / action
The decision is communicated: for example, a “reject” signal is sent to remove the defective part.
The system logs the inspection result, possibly saves the image (especially for defects), links to part ID.
The HMI may show a real-time dashboard of number of defectives, pass rate, images of recent failures, operator alerts.
The system may feed data into MES/ERP for quality traceability and analytics (e.g., defect trends, cost of scrap, root-cause analysis).
Continuous improvement / feedback
Over time, the inspection logic or model may be refined: adding new defect types, adjusting thresholds, extending to new part variants.
Deep-learning modules may be retrained as product changes occur (e.g., new material, new surface finish). Zebra’s recent updates allow easy retraining of models via their Aurora suite. (Zebra Technologies)
Key considerations / best practices
When implementing a vision-based defect detection system, there are a number of things to keep in mind:
Image quality matters: If lighting is poor, camera resolution too low, or the field of view mis-aligned, defect detection will suffer. Good lighting, proper optics and mechanical stability are essential.
Define “normal” clearly: Especially if using anomaly-detection (unsupervised) approaches, you need a robust set of “good” part images so the model can understand acceptable variation. Zebra’s anomaly tool trains on normal parts only.
Set tolerances appropriate to process variation: You need to balance false positives (good parts flagged as defective) and false negatives (defects passed). Too strict leads to waste; too loose leads to quality problems.
Consider speed vs resolution trade-offs: On a fast production line, you may need high frame rate or fast capture; yet higher resolution or 3D scanning may slow things. The system must keep up with throughput. The “What is machine vision?” article notes that frame rate, processing capability and complexity determine defect detection speed.
Integration with automation/line: The vision system must trigger correctly in context of the production line, interface properly with PLCs/I/O, and ensure the rejected parts are physically removed or flagged.
Robust to variation: Real environments involve variation (lighting changes, part orientation, background, vibration). The vision system must be robust and tolerant of expected variation while still sensitive to real defects.
Data logging and traceability: For many industries (automotive, electronics, medical, packaging) you’ll need traceability of inspection results, images of failures, analytics of defect trends.
Scalability and maintainability: As product lines evolve, the vision system should be easy to update (e.g., new part, new surface finish). Zebra’s platforms emphasize “hardware-agnostic” software and easier adaptability.
Choosing between traditional “rule-based” vs deep-learning methods: Traditional systems (edge detection, thresholding, templates) still work well for many structured inspection tasks. But for unstructured defects (scratches, complex surfaces, variable shapes) deep learning / anomaly detection may offer better results. Zebra has added deep-learning tools to their Aurora suite for exactly this reason.
Case Study: Detecting dents on a metal cover
Let’s walk through a concrete hypothetical example consistent with Zebra’s offerings: inspecting a stamped metal cover for dents or surface scratch defects.
The part moves on a conveyor to the inspection station. A sensor triggers the camera.
A high-resolution mono camera with ring lighting captures an image of the cover. (Lighting ensures uniform illumination and highlights subtle surface deviations.)
The image is pre-processed: perhaps smoothing, background subtraction, alignment of part.
The inspection region is defined (the cover top surface). A deep-learning anomaly-detection model (trained on many “good” covers) computes a deviation heatmap: any area that diverges beyond a certain threshold is flagged.
The software checks whether the deviation meets criteria for “fail” (e.g., dent depth > X mm or scratch length > Y mm).
If fail: the system sends a reject signal; the conveyor diverter pushes the defective part into a scrap bin. The image of the defect is stored with timestamp and part ID. If pass: the part continues down line.
The operator sees on the HMI a summary: “Today: 42,123 covers inspected, 17 failed (0.04 %).” The data logs feed into quality analytics to identify trend (e.g., increased defect rate correlating with a certain stamp die change).
If die wear increases, the inspection system may start seeing more dents; the QA team sees the trend, triggers maintenance. The system may also be retrained with new “good” samples after die replacement.
Why Zebra is a Great Match for your Machine Vision Project
CSSI is an authorized machine vision partner for Zebra Technologies. Here are a few reasons why Zebra’s machine-vision ecosystem is a great fit for your next project:
Zebra offers full stacks: smart camera options, 3D machine vision sensors, frame grabbers, vision controllers, I/O cards, and software (Aurora suite) for building inspection systems.
Zebra’s software now incorporates deep-learning / anomaly-detection tools, which are increasingly important for more complex defect visual inspection use cases.
Zebra highlights that machine vision is hardware-agnostic and designed to support both traditional rule-based and newer AI-based inspection workflows.
Let’s Discuss Machine Vision for Defect Detection and More
Defect detection via machine vision is a powerful and increasingly accessible way for manufacturers to raise quality, reduce waste, perform automated inspection tasks. A well-designed vision system doesn’t simply “see” defects better than the human eye—it’s engineered end-to-end (from lighting and optics to algorithm to mechanical integration) for the specific inspection task. A machine vision application is your ideal entry point into using artificial intelligence technology in your business.
Seeking an affordable yet enterprise-ready tablet PC to tackle your business workflows? The new ET401 tablet from Zebra Technologies Corp is worth a look. The ET401 is the next generation of the popular Zebra ET40 enterprise tablet. It is intended as a go-to option for work which requires a rugged tablet more durable than consumer tablet models, particularly when capabilities such as barcode or RFID data capture are desired. It is at a lower price point than more rugged Zebra tablets such as the ET6.
ET401 Offers Multiple Configurations
The Zebra ET401 enterprise tablet is available in both 8″ and 10″ screen size variations. The core version boasts a 1920×1200 screen, while the lower-priced Essentials model offers a 1280×800 screen.
What kind of connectivity do you require? You have the option of paying only for what you need. The ET401 is offered with both a Wi-Fi only version (Wi-Fi 7) and a Wi-Fi/Cellular version (5G/Wi-Fi 7)
The ‘Essentials’ version is designed as an alternative to a lower-featured and less reliable consumer tablet. It arrives at a lower price point by trading down some of the optionality and features available… but will still far exceed consumer grade tablets in terms of enterprise qualities such as life cycle and durability.
Key Features of the Zebra ET401 Tablet
Android operating system
AI-enabled touchscreen!
Data Capture: Front camera, optional barcode scanner, optional integrated RFID reader
Durability: 4 ft drop spec (3 ft for Essentials)
Sealing: IP 68 (IP65 for Essentials)
Hot-swappable battery
Extended lifecycle vs. consumer tablets: 4 years availability + 4 years of support
Great Applications for the ET401 Rugged Tablet
Consider the ET401 for common tablet applications:
Faster Path to Automated Data Capture with Zebra’s FS80 Fixed Scanner
Fixed industrial scanners are critical for modern automation of data capture processes. Modern scanners can capture a broad range of barcode symbologies as well as OCR. The FS80 is Zebra Technologies Corp’s top of line fixed barcode scanner. This is a peerless product which combines a powerful feature set along with fast setup capabilities which can get you online quickly. As an authorized Zebra mobile computer, barcode scanner, and machine vision partner, CSSI can help you test Zebra scanners for successful process automation. Learn more about the FS80 fixed scanner:
Key Features of the Zebra FS80 Fixed Industrial Scanner
As Zebra’s top-of-line fixed industrial barcode scanner, the FS80 offers a peerless feature set. Some key features include:
Variety of sensor resolution models: 5MP, 9MP, 12MP, 16MP
Bright integrated lighting, and red, white and infrared angles
Audible feedback helps in loud environments
Dual laser-aimer
360 degree decode and job status LEDs
Zebra Aurora Focus software enables quick control and configuration of your industrial fixed scanner fleet.
Target Critical Workflows with the FS80 Fixed Barcode Scanner
There are an endless variety of key data capture jobs which can be tackled by the FS80 industrial barcode scanner. Consider some of these common tasks:
Scan tunnels
Tote and container ID
Forklift scanning
Batch and pallet reading
Barcode verifier
Learn More About the Zebra FS80 Fixed Industrial Scanner
CSSI is a certified Zebra technology sales and support partner. We can meet your mobile computer, barcode scanner and machine vision needs, as well as label printers. Contact us to discuss your project.
CSSI Technologies has attained certification as a Zebra Industrial Automation system partner. The industrial automation specialization means that CSSI is a source for cutting edge Zebra automation technology products such as:
Industrial Automation Drives Business Productivity Gains
In the modern business environment, industrial automation solutions are critical for improving process performance, efficiency, and accuracy:
Boost throughput in the production process
Increase accuracy with an automated system for data capture and defect detection
Optimize manufacturing facility and warehouse efficiency
Increase savings
Zebra’s industrial automation solutions include scanners & AI-powered cameras which are ready for rapid deployment in flexible automation systems. As a Zebra partner, CSSI can work with you to analyze your project and recommend optimal products for your manufacturing process or warehouse operation. We offer both pre- and post-sale support for your Zebra purchases.
Contact CSSI to Discuss an Industrial Automation Solution
New Desktop Barcode Label Printers from Honeywell: PC41e-D and PC42e-D
Honeywell has launched 2 new desktop label printers aimed at those with entry-level to mid-range printing needs. Compact design, attractive appearance, and advanced features such as cutter and peeler can streamline your label production, whether for inventory management,warehouse automation or retail promotions. If your print requirements are up to 1,000 labels per day, take a look at the Honeywell PC41e-D desktop printer and the PC42e-D desktop printer.
Key Features of PC41e-D and PC42e-D
These quality Honeywell printers are ready for productivity:
Max print speed: 8 ips
Flexible Connectivity: Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac
High Resolution Options: 203 and 300 dpi
Plus, select from optional accessories such as a cutter, peeler, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module, and USB-to-serial connector.
