Zebra Improves on MC3300 with new MC3400/MC3450 Handheld

Many of CSSI’s customers have been thrilled for years the Zebra’s MC3300, which was one of the first dedicated Android warehouse handhelds. Now Zebra has launched the next-generation device for that product line, the MC3400 (Wi-Fi only) and MC3450 (Wi-Fi and public/private 5G).

This exciting new devices combines an ergonomic yet tough form factor with a whole list of improvements, such as improved scanning, years of future Android upgrades, and enhanced, user-friendly security. Supply chain, transportation and field service applications are a great fit for the very intentional features of this product.

Connectivity: Use it on Wi-Fi or private/public cellular

One major enhancement when compared with the prior MC3300 series product is that a cellular version (the MC3450) is now available. This lets you choose between the Wi-Fi only MC3400 and the Cellular/Wi-Fi MC3450. Combined with the rising popularity of Private 5G networks, you can use your MC3450 in a range of outside-the-building applications – field service while using a public network, or in shipping yards and ports using a private 5G network.

When on Wi-Fi, you’ll be glad to know that the MC34 uses Wi-Fi 6E, which provides 4X the bandwidth and 3X the speed for your users.

Other Notable New Features for the MC3400 / MC3450

New to this product line is the addition of both front- and rear-facing cameras. This also unlocks the use of Zebra’s Identity Guardian software, which uses facial recognition to provide your users with secure device access.

As the industry leader in scanning technology, Zebra provides a choice of several different scan engines, capped off with the best-in-class SE58 scanner: 20% longer read range! The laser aimer on the MC34 is green, which Zebra has determined to provide 7X improved visibility. These are factors which will create ROI as your users increase productivity.

Future-proof: The MC3400 and MC3450 will receive Zebra support all the way to Android 18. This guarantees years of usability.

Let’s Discuss the MC3400 / MC3450

Contact CSSI to discuss the MC34xx and let’s see if it is the right fit for your business. We are ready to setup hands-on demos and trials of this powerful new handheld. CSSI offers technical support for your evaluation and deployment of Zebra handhelds, including complete device and upgrade management through our Device Lifecycle Management program.

As 2024 winds to a close, we wanted to take a look back at the many topics we wrote on this year:

• Mobile computing technology
• AIDC technologies such as barcoding and RFID
• Connectivity such as Wi-Fi, 5G and CBRS
• Inventory management and supply chain workflow improvement opportunities

We tallied up the results and can introduce you to our 10 most popular posts from 2024!

1) Challenges in upgrading to Android 11, 13, and beyond

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2) 5 ways MDM software can help you manage your devices

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3) All the reasons you need to upgrade Windows Mobile/CE to Android

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4) What is session persistence? How to eliminate session drops

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5) Top 6 applications for barcodes in warehouses and manufacturing

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6) Choosing the right enterprise tablet: Android versus Windows

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7) Time for CBRS and Private 5G Networks?

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8) Should you use vehicle-mounted computers (VMUs) or rugged tablets on your forklifts?

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9) Exploring RFID? Start with an RFID pilot project

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10) Why use wearable scanners in the warehouse?

How Can CSSI Technologies Help You with AIDC Technology?

Our team at CSSI are experts in handheld computers, rugged tablets, thermal printers, RFID, and the many workflows within which these technologies are utilized. If you’d like to discuss your challenges or projects, please contact us and let us know how we can help.

Convert a handheld computer into a mobile RFID reader

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology is transforming how businesses track inventory, manage critical assets, and monitor workflows. Among RFID devices, handheld RFID solutions are gaining popularity due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. A standout option in this category is the UHF RFID sled—a versatile accessory that works in conjunction with mobile devices. In this article, we explore RFID sleds, their advantages, and their ideal applications.

What Is an RFID Sled?

An RFID sled reader is an accessory that provides a handheld mobile device with RFID tag reading capability. Unlike a standalone fixed RFID reader, this mobile solution provides flexibility for the user, which can be essential for certain RFID workflows… and can be instantly implemented without having to mount physical antennas. While there are dedicated mobile RFID readers, the sled solution provides additional flexibility to the company, which can create RFID reading functionality without having to invest in dedicated devices.

Typically, RFID sleds are compact and lightweight, featuring ergonomic grips for easy handling. They are available with varying ranges, frequencies, and capabilities, making them suitable for different industries and use cases.

Examples of Reliable RFID Sleds

Here are several examples of reliable RFID sleds. Your CSSI rep can help you select the right choice for your needs:

What Are the Benefits of Using an RFID Sled Instead of a Dedicated Handheld RFID Reader?

RFID sleds offer several advantages over traditional handheld RFID readers:

1. Cost Efficiency
   RFID sleds are often more affordable than standalone RFID readers, especially for businesses that already use handheld computers. By pairing an RFID sled with an existing mobile device, organizations can reduce upfront costs.
2. Modularity and Versatility
   The modular nature of RFID sleds allows users to upgrade their mobile devices independently of the RFID reader. This flexibility helps businesses stay current with advancements in mobile technology without replacing their entire RFID system. Also, the company can get more use out of existing mobile devices without having to make significant new purchase investments.
3. Enhanced User Experience
   The company is able to use the familiar interface of the mobile devices to which users are already accustomed. Custom apps can be developed or integrated to optimize workflows and meet specific operational needs.
4. Portability and Convenience
   RFID sleds are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for on-the-go applications. Their compact design is particularly advantageous in environments where space is limited or users need to move between locations frequently.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Mobile RFID Reader Versus a Fixed RFID Antenna?

Mobile RFID readers, including sleds, offer distinct advantages over fixed RFID antennas for certain usage scenarios:

1. Flexibility in Coverage
   Fixed antennas are stationary and best suited for monitoring specific areas, such as doorways or conveyor belts. Mobile readers, however, provide the flexibility to scan tags in various locations, making them ideal for dynamic environments like retail stores or warehouses.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
   Installing multiple fixed antennas can be expensive. Mobile RFID readers are a cost-efficient alternative for businesses that need occasional or location-specific scanning without investing in permanent infrastructure.
3. Ease of Deployment
   Fixed RFID systems require complex setup and calibration. Mobile readers, on the other hand, are plug-and-play devices that can be used immediately, with minimal technical expertise.
4. Scalability
   Mobile solutions are easy to scale as business needs grow. Adding more handheld devices is often simpler and cheaper than expanding a network of fixed antennas.

What Are Good Applications for an RFID Sled or a Handheld RFID Reader?

Handheld RFID readers, including sleds, boost operational efficiency in a variety of industries and applications:

1. Retail Inventory Management
   Handheld RFID devices streamline inventory counts, making it easier to update stock levels, locate items, and improve accuracy. This reduces out-of-stock scenarios and enhances the customer experience.
2. Warehouse and Logistics
   RFID sleds enable quick scanning of pallets, cartons, or individual items, helping businesses track shipments and ensure accurate order fulfillment.
3. Asset Tracking
   Asset management is a common use for RFID. In manufacturing and warehouses, you can use RFID to track high-value assets. In healthcare, hospitals and clinics use RFID sleds to monitor medical equipment, track patient movements, and manage inventory of consumables like medications and surgical tools.
4. Event Management
   RFID sleds simplify attendee tracking at events by reading RFID-enabled tickets or badges. They can also assist in managing equipment and resources during the event.
5. Field Service and Inspections
   Technicians use RFID sleds for equipment inspections, maintenance tracking, and ensuring compliance with operational standards, especially in remote or outdoor locations.

Learn More and Try Out an RFID Sled

RFID sleds represent a highly adaptable and cost-effective solution for businesses looking to leverage RFID technology. By pairing the functionality of a handheld RFID reader with the convenience of a mobile device, they provide an excellent alternative to both standalone readers and fixed antenna systems.

If you would like to explore RFID for your business, CSSI can help you evaluate your RFID project as well as test an RFID sled to use with your current mobile devices. Please contact us to discuss RFID sleds.

If you are new to buying label or receipt printers, you will first need to determine the type of printer which is best suited for your application. Thermal printing technology has long been a favorite for businesses requiring fast, reliable, and high-quality printing solutions. But there are 2 different methods used… when deciding between thermal transfer printers and direct thermal printers, it’s essential to understand their differences, applications, and cost implications to make the right choice for your needs.

What’s the Difference: Thermal Transfer vs. Direct Thermal Printers?

Both thermal transfer and direct thermal printers rely on heat to produce images, but they use different methods and materials:

Thermal Transfer Printing

A thermal transfer printer uses a thermal ribbon coated with wax or resin. Heat transfers the ink from the thermal transfer ribbon onto the label or substrate, creating a durable print. Thermal transfer printing offers excellent resistance to fading, smudging, chemicals, and environmental conditions. Overall print quality can be excellent, and a thermal transfer print label can remain intact for years. A thermal transfer label printer can print on various media types, including paper, polyester, and polypropylene.

Direct Thermal Printing

A direct thermal label printer uses heat-sensitive media that darkens when heated, eliminating the need for ink, toner, or ribbon. Printed direct thermal items are less resistant to heat, direct sunlight, and abrasion, typically lasting 6–12 months before fading.  Direct thermal label printers work exclusively with specialized thermal paper. There is no thermal printhead to replace.

Why Choose One Over the Other?

The choice between these label printer technologies depends on your business’s specific needs:

Choose Thermal Transfer Printing If You Need:	Choose Direct Thermal Printing If You Need:
Long-lasting, durable prints.	Simplicity and minimal maintenance (no ribbons to replace).
Labels that can withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, or exposure to chemicals.	A cost-effective solution for short-term labeling.
Versatility in printing on different materials.	High-speed printing for time-sensitive tasks.

Typical Applications for Thermal Printers

Thermal transfer printers are the go-to for industries requiring longevity and resilience in their printed labels. Examples include:

• Manufacturing: Barcode labels for inventory, equipment, and raw materials.
• Healthcare: Patient wristbands, medical equipment labeling, and pharmaceutical packaging.
• Retail: Product labels, shelf tags, and branding on flexible packaging.

Common Applications for Direct Thermal Printers

Direct thermal printers are designed for short-lived applications that prioritize simplicity and speed. Common use cases include:

• Logistics & Shipping: Shipping and mailing labels for packages.
• Retail: Receipts and price tags.
• Event Management: Temporary event badges or tickets.

Are There Cost Differences in Print Media?

Yes, there are notable differences in media costs for these two label printing technologies:

Thermal Transfer Media:	Direct Thermal Media:
Requires both a ribbon and a compatible label or substrate, which adds to the material cost.	Uses only heat-sensitive paper, making it initially less expensive.
However, the durability of prints reduces the need for reprinting, offering better long-term cost efficiency for permanent labeling.	Prints are prone to fading or damage, potentially increasing costs if reprinting is necessary.

Pro Tip: When calculating costs, consider not only the media expenses but also maintenance and reprinting frequency.

Ready to Evaluate Thermal Label Printers? CSSI Can Help

Thermal and direct thermal printers each bring unique benefits and limitations. For businesses requiring robust, long-lasting labels, thermal transfer printers are the ideal choice for printing labels. On the other hand, direct thermal printing technology shines in applications needing fast, temporary, and cost-effective solutions for printing receipts.

The team at CSSI are experts in direct thermal as well as thermal transfer printers. CSSI is an authorized dealer for all of the industry leading printer manufacturers and can help you evaluate, select, and deploy thermal printers in your operation. Contact CSSI to discuss thermal printers for labels, receipts, and more.

Secure Unified Communications for your Mobile Workers

As companies utilize increasing numbers of mobile workers, communication and the flow of real-time information becomes a challenge. Companies need to keep the whole team in sync. Worker are concerned with efficiency and convenience. Many mobile workers who utilize handheld scanners must carry a second device to use as a phone and to stay connected with the team. Obviously, this is a hassle and results in both additional expense for the firm as well as potential security risks if a BYOD (bring your own device) policy is followed, with the field workers using personal devices for business communication.

Enter Honeywell Smart Talk as a communications solution which solves multiple problems simultaneously:

• Consolidation to one device per worker (no need to carry both a scanner and a phone)
• Improved security, since all communication occurs on company hardware
• Worker efficiency, as workers don’t need to juggle multiple devices
• Multiple methods of communication (phone, text, media messaging) all available from one device.

What is Honeywell Smart Talk?

Honeywell Smart Talk is an all-in-one workforce communications solution designed to address the challenges of fragmented communication systems. Smart Talk provides enterprise-grade security for voice calls, text and media messaging, and user presence, making all of these accessible through a single device.

It seamlessly integrates with your existing phone system, enabling workers to use familiar contacts to make and receive high-quality VoIP calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data networks. This ensures optimal call quality, whether communicating with colleagues or customers. The secure, reliable Smart Talk client extends your locally hosted or cloud-based PBX, making it an ideal choice for businesses of any size managing the demands of BYOD and mobile workforces.

Benefits of Smart Talk

Smart Talk software on your mobile device provides a number of benefits:

Superior call experience

Smart Talk provides call continuity as the device switches between wi-fi and cellular – ideal for workers moving in, our, and around your facilities. It supports a variety of audio codecs such as OPUS and SILK.

Advanced Enterprise Security

Improve your communications security. Smart Talk offers voice and messaging encryption. TLS and Mutual TLK environments are supported. You can use MDM to lock or wipe containers when necessary.

Rapid Onboarding

Get up and running quickly with Smart Talk, which is interoperable with over 100 SIP-based call server, PBX, and hosted providers. Smart Talk works with both Apple iOS, Android, and Windows OS. It is also agnostic as to device platform, running on desktop, laptops, mobile, and tablets. Smart Talk does not restrict you to only Honeywell devices, you can use your device brand of preference.

Smart Talk is Device Manufacturer Agnostic

You can select both hosted and on-premise deployments, and can even use Smart Talk with your corporate branding. Both subscription and perpetual licensing programs are available.

Discuss Honeywell Smart Talk and Unified Communications with CSSI

To learn more about Smart Talk, contact CSSI for a demo and a discussion of your needs. CSSI is an authorized Honeywell dealer. We’d be happy to arrange a trial so that you can experience this powerful communications software for yourself.

Device Maintenance Protects Your Business When Devices Go Down

Unexpected surprises are welcome in many areas, but not when they affect the devices that keep your business running. A single unplanned issue can disrupt anything from one employee’s productivity to an entire workflow, and few can afford that kind of interruption. This is where a maintenance contract for your devices can play a role… getting you back up and running quickly and inexpensively.

What is a Hardware Maintenance Agreement?

A technology device maintenance agreement is a hardware support contract between a service provider (often a device manufacturer or technology vendor) and a customer to provide maintenance, repair, and support services for certain technology devices. These agreements cover ongoing service for hardware such as computers, servers, networking equipment, or other specialized devices. Here’s what’s typically included:

1. Regular Maintenance and Repairs: The agreement usually covers routine inspections, cleaning, software updates, and troubleshooting. It also specifies how repairs and replacements will be handled.
2. Response Times and Support Levels: Agreements often outline service levels (SLAs) for response and resolution times. These can range from same-day repairs to next-business-day support, depending on the plan.
3. Preventive and Predictive Maintenance: Advanced agreements may include proactive measures, such as monitoring device health, to prevent issues before they occur.
4. Replacement Parts and Equipment Upgrades: Some agreements include parts replacements as part of the service, while others might offer a discount. Upgrades may be included, depending on the contract level.
5. Remote Support and On-Site Visits: Many agreements offer remote support to quickly address software or system issues and on-site visits for complex issues that require in-person support.

These agreements are commonly used by businesses to ensure consistent performance, minimize downtime, and keep devices operational without the need for in-house IT expertise.

Hardware Maintenance Agreements Improve Device Uptime & Provide Cost Predictability

Handheld computers , tablet PCs and label printers are essential to your operations. When they go down, production goes down and the flow of information stops.

Faster Repairs: Many maintenance agreements, such as the OneCare agreement offered by Zebra Technologies, will guarantee repair times in the SLA. For example, you may receive a guarantee of 3-day repair, which means that your devices are prioritized over other devices not covered under agreement.

Cost Predictability: A Maintenance agreement can also help you with predictable costs, since when purchasing the agreement, you are covering future replacement parts and labor. These services and parts can be extremely expensive when purchased a la carte, and it can be frustrating for the customer to be hit with surprise bills.

By purchasing a service level agreement at the same time you are purchasing the device, you will receive much better pricing than you would ultimately spend for spare parts and labor. Even if you neglected to buy the support contract at time of original device purchase, there are 3rd party service providers which offer maintenance agreements for your AIDC devices.

Maintenance Agreement Example: Zebra OneCare

Looking for an example of a contract maintenance agreement? Zebra Technologies offers warranty service agreements under a program called Zebra OneCare . As you can see from the chart below, there are a number of different options, each offering a different level of benefits. For example, while OneCare Special Value offers response time of 5 business days from device receipt, One-Care Select can offer same day shipment of a ‘like new’ replacement device, which comes as close as possible to eliminating your down time.

Your CSSI rep can work with you to determine how your business needs map against plans such as Zebra OneCare in order to help you select the right program. The more time-critical your operations, but faster response time will need to be to support you.

Speak to CSSI to Purchase or Renew Hardware Maintenance Agreements

Do you have a hardware maintenance contract in place for your critical mobile devices and computer hardware? CSSI can help you to explore your options and select the right program to offer you protection and peace of mind. Speak to CSSI to discuss device maintenance agreements.

Zebra Details Trends in Manufacturing’s Digital Transformation

Zebra Technologies has released the latest in its series of Vision Studies, surveys of global leaders providing insights into trends which impact competitiveness in specific industry verticals. We have previously provided vision studies on warehousing , field operations , and food safety . As the industry leader in enterprise mobility, Zebra is uniquely positioned to gather insights into how technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine vision, and robotics are transforming the world of work.

In this new manufacturing vision study titled The Rise of the Connected Factory , Zebra uses a survey of global manufacturing leaders and supply chain execs to explore how digital transformation is reshaping manufacturing, enhancing efficiency, innovation, and scalability. Key insights reveal that a majority of manufacturers prioritize digital initiatives despite the challenges of cost and time. Effective collaboration between C-suite, IT, and OT is critical for overcoming data silos and fostering agile manufacturing environments.

The report highlights a visibility gap in real-time product monitoring across production lines, emphasizing the need for technology investments that can yield quick returns. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrating digital tools to empower a skilled workforce, suggesting that a unified approach across departments is essential for navigating the evolving industrial landscape. Overall, the study advocates for embracing digital transformation to drive competitive advantage and operational excellence in the manufacturing industry.

Top Benefits of Digital Transformation for a Manufacturing Leaders

The manufacturing vision study outlines 3 primary benefits of digital transformation for those pursuing manufacturing excellence:

Some of the Zebra Technologies Vision Study Revelations

• 92% of leaders believe that digital transformation is a strategic priority
• 89% of smart manufacturing decision makers plan to increase technology investments in 2024 warehouses
• 99% expect to implement RFID by 2029!

Download your free copy of the Manufacturing Vision Study

View or download the Zebra Manufacturing Vision Study “The Rise of the Connected Factory” below:

New State-of-the-Art Mobile Computer for Hazardous Environments: MC9400/MC9450

Do you require intrinsically safe (also referred to as non-incendive or explosion proof) handheld computers for a potentially explosive atmosphere in your facility? In the past, there haven’t been many options, and you tend to be routed to devices which don’t reflect the latest technologies and OS editions. But good news: Zebra’s new MC9400 / MC9450 is now available as a non-incendive handheld computer. MC9400 is a wi-fi only model, whereas MC9450 offers both wi-fi and cellular/5G/ CBRS connectivity.

This gives you access to absolute cutting-edge mobile computing power, Zebra’s best-in-class data capture and barcode scanner technology, and OS support all the way to Android 17. If you are seeking to upgrade or add new computing devices for hazardous environments, this is a great time! See the data sheet below for all of the MC94’s powerful specifications.

Even better: Zebra Technologies is currently offering a special price incentive for the MC9400 (which runs until April 26, 2025) so you can obtain extremely attractive pricing on the best handheld in the market! The MC9400 is the replacement product for the Zebra MC9300, which has for several years been Zebra’s top-of-line rugged mobile computer.

What is the Non-Incendive (NI) Certification All About?

Non-incendive certification refers to a safety standard for electronic devices, including mobile computers, used in potentially explosive environments. This certification indicates that the device does not produce sparks or heat that could ignite flammable gases or vapors.

In practice, intrinsically safe / non-incendive devices can be used in hazardous locations, such as oil rigs or chemical plants, where the risk of explosion is a concern. The certification ensures that the equipment is safe to operate in these environments, provided it is used in accordance with specific guidelines.

In the rugged mobile computer category, this means they can be deployed in industries where explosive atmospheres may be present, allowing workers to use them without the fear of causing an ignition.

Examples of Potentially Explosive Environments Where a Non-Incendive Handheld Computer is Needed

Examples of potentially explosive environments where explosion proof equipment is necessary include:

1. Oil and Gas Industry : Refineries, drilling rigs, and pipelines where flammable gases and vapors are present.
2. Chemical Manufacturing : Facilities that produce or use volatile chemicals, solvents, or powders that can form explosive atmospheres.
3. Mining Operations : Areas where flammable dust or gases may accumulate, particularly in coal mines or metal mines.
4. Agricultural Facilities : Grain storage and processing areas where dust from grains can create explosive conditions.
5. Wastewater Treatment Plants : Locations where methane and other flammable gases can be produced during the treatment process.
6. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing : Areas where flammable solvents and chemicals are used in production.
7. Paint and Coating Facilities : Environments where flammable vapors from paints and solvents are prevalent.

In these hazardous area examples, using non-incendive devices helps ensure worker safety and compliance with regulations regarding explosive atmospheres.

What are the Classes of Intrinsic Safety Certifications?

Non-incendive certification is often categorized based on the standards set by organizations like the National Electrical Code (NEC) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Here are the main classes:

1. Class I : This includes environments with flammable gases or vapors. Devices in this class can be used in areas where flammable gas is present, such as oil and gas facilities.
2. Class II : This class covers environments with combustible dust. Devices certified for Class II can be used in locations where dust from materials like grain, plastics, or metals could create an explosive atmosphere.
3. Class III : This class involves environments with ignitable fibers or flying materials. Non-incendive devices for Class III can be used where these materials are present, such as textile manufacturing areas.

Divisions

Each class is further divided into divisions based on the likelihood and duration of the hazardous conditions:

• Division 1: Indicates that hazardous conditions are present under normal operating conditions.
• Division 2: Indicates that hazardous conditions are present only under abnormal conditions or in the event of a malfunction.

Standards

Different standards may apply, such as:

• NEC : Focuses on electrical safety in the U.S.
• IECEx : Provides international certification for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

These classifications help ensure that devices are appropriately designed and tested for safety in various hazardous environments.

What Non-Incendive Ratings Does the MC9400 Mobile Computer Meet?

Zebra’s MC9400/MC9450 handheld mobile computer is available in configurations which meet Class I, II, III Div 2. It is important that you let your CSSI rep know that you require non-incendive mobile devices so that we can specify the correct SKU for you. Further detail on non-incendive specs:

• Gases: Class I, Groups A/B/C/D
• Dusts: Class II, Groups F/G
• Fibers/Flyings: Class III

Discuss Intrinsically Safe / Non-Incendive Computing with CSSI

If you would like to discuss the MC9400 non-incendive handheld computer for a hazardous location and get your own personal demo or loaner unit to test, please contact the Zebra experts at CSSI to get started.

Is an MDM platform a fit for your business? And what are the benefits, anyways?

Confused about mobile device management or enterprise mobility management? As a mobile device manager, how can you determine if your business is likely to benefit? And what are the benefits you can expect to obtain? We are MDM experts at CSSI, so we wrote up this brief explainer to discuss these 2 questions.

How to tell if a Mobile Device Management Solution is a fit for your business

MDM software such as SOTI MobiControl or Microsoft Intune supports your management of mobile devices. Because of the cost and setup overhead involved, MDM implementation doesn’t make sense for everyone, particularly businesses with small numbers of devices and simple deployments. But there are 2 factors to consider to evaluate the benefit you are likely to get from MDM:

1. Do you have many mobile computing devices in use? As you tally up the number of handhelds, tablets, laptops and phones under management, the more devices you have the more benefits you are likely to receive from MDM software. As a rule of thumb, consider that a business with more than 20 devices is likely a great candidate for MDM. Scenario: You manage 100 mobile devices and just received an important security patch which needs to be deployed immediately. How are you going to get that done?
2. Do you manage devices in more than one location? An important additional consideration is the number of locations in which your mobile devices are used. If your business has multiple plants or warehouses, or if you have many remote users, you are more likely to benefit from MDM. Scenario: Your business has locations in several states, and you regularly get support calls from users hundreds of miles away. How can you help them quickly?

As a quick summary, both a business with many devices in one location and a business with few devices spread across multiple locations are both likely candidates for MDM software. For a business with many devices in multiple locations, MDM is a must-have to improve device management and the efficiency of the IT team.

5 benefits that MDM offers to managers of mobile devices

So how can mobile device management software help your business? Here are 5 very real benefits you can receive from MDM:

1. Standardize mobile device configuration

Mobile device management software is a key tool to support standardization of a mobile device configuration. By creating device profiles and enrolling devices under the correct profile, you can ensure that each computer is setup identically and follows corporate policies for device security. This dramatically eases both technical support and user training, since you can be assured that your users are sharing a common experience.

2. Faster new device provisioning

New employee devices on the way? You can get a head start by building out the MDM profiles, enabling you to quickly update and then deploy the devices upon arrival! If you work with an MDM support expert such as CSSI under our Device Lifecycle Management program, we can even ensure that your devices arrive ready-to-deploy right out of the box! This takes a significant burden off of the overworked IT staff.

3. Simplify device software upgrades and security patches

If your organization uses dozens (or hundreds) of devices, the prospect of having to put hands on each device to perform OS upgrades, apply patches and perform mobile application management might cause you to suffer from nightmares! But with an MDM tool, the burden is lifted. If devices share a common profile, you can perform mass updates without having to touch each device. It’s a lifesaver for operations with quantities of mobile computers!

4. Faster, more efficient user support and trouble-shooting

It’s hard enough to keep up with end-user’s requests for device technical support… so what if those users aren’t in the same building or even the same state as the IT support staff? Mobile device management solutions such as SOTI MobiControl allow device remote management and remote control, which enables the IT staff or anyone in a mobile device manager role to virtually look over the shoulder of the end user regardless of where in the world they are. Support tickets can resolve faster and device user satisfaction will increase. Even better from the standpoint of the business, users can get back to productive behavior more quickly!

5. Improve device security & reduce device losses

Concerned about your valuable mobile computers walking out the door with users at the end of a shift? MDM tools such as SOTI help with asset management, providing features such as geofencing, which can lock the device once it leaves your defined usage zones. Also, you can use MDM for device tracking to determine where a missing device was last seen, and hold the responsible end user accountable for a loss.

CSSI can help you implement and manage an MDM platform

Do you have questions about a mobile device management solution, or do you wish to explore its potential benefits in your business? Do you need help managing your device fleets? CSSI is an MDM provider – our MDM experts are available to help, both with MDM implementation, subscription support programs and ad-hoc hourly support. Please contact us to discuss MDM to manage your mobile computers.