Introducing the Zebra TC201 Handheld Computer: The Next Generation of Cost-Effective Mobility
Meet the new Zebra TC201 Mobile Computer
The new Zebra TC201 mobile computer is a rugged device designed to deliver the best of all worlds: smartphone styling and usability alongside big business features. It equips your frontline workers with cutting-edge technology to boost productivity and customer service quality.
What Are the Key Features of the Zebra TC201?
Next-Generation Connectivity: Available in both LAN and WAN configurations, featuring cutting-edge 5G and WIFI 7 capabilities to ensure workers are always connected.
Vivid Display: A large 6-inch display provides ample room for complex applications, mapping, and data entry.
Advanced Data Capture: Equipped with powerful SR500 or AC670 scan engines, plus a 16MP Rear-Facing Camera (RFC) and 5MP Front-Facing Camera (FFC) for effortless barcode scanning and proof of condition.
Robust Memory & Power: Configurations up to 8GB RAM / 128GB Flash with a Secure Element. Shift-long power is guaranteed with Standard, Extended, or Hot Swap battery options.
Extensive Accessory Ecosystem: Compatible with a wide range of accessories including rugged boots (SKU: SG-TCVT-BOOT-01), RAM GDS USB-C Vehicle Docks (SKU: 3PTY-RAM-V12Z2434CPU), and versatile multi-slot Ethernet/USB ShareCradles.
What Are Ideal Workflows for the TC201 Zebra Mobile Computer?
With its advanced connectivity and rugged accessories, the TC201 is perfectly positioned for computing and data capture solutions in two of your primary focus areas:
Using the TC201 in Transportation and Logistics:
Proof of Delivery: Drivers can use the 16MP camera and advanced scanners to document deliveries, capture customer signatures, and record parcel condition instantly.
Fleet and Route Management: Uninterrupted 5G connectivity ensures drivers receive real-time dispatch and routing updates, optimizing in-motion operations.
Yard and Dock Operations: Real-time workforce communication and parcel tracking ensure seamless cross-docking, inbound logistics, and outbound logistics.
Using the TC201 in Field Operations Applications:
Service Order Management: Technicians have real-time access to asset inspection data, diagnostics, and step-by-step guidance right on the 6-inch display.
On-Site Quoting and Invoicing: Close work orders faster by providing on-site quotes and capturing customer signatures.
Seamless In-Vehicle Transition: Paired with the RAM GDS Vehicle Dock, the TC201 smoothly transitions from the truck cab to the job site.
Where Does the TC201 Fit Within the Zebra Device Family?
The TC201 is a proud addition to the TC2X Series Mobile Computers . This series is engineered to offer the smartphone-like styling and pricing your business desires, backed by the enterprise-grade durability and features you need.
While the TC5 Series (like the TC501) represents the pinnacle of ultra-rugged design and performance, and the TC7 Series provides maximum ruggedness for the most demanding environments, the TC2X Series (including the TC201) strikes the perfect balance for cost-conscious deployments. It provides a highly capable, cost-effective solution that enables you to affordably connect more workers in the field and the warehouse without compromising on next-generation features like Wi-Fi 7 and 5G.
How To Learn More & Schedule a Demo with the Zebra TC201
CSSI is an authorized Zebra Technologies Corp partner, and a Zebra mobile computer expert. We can discuss your rugged device requirements, and arrange a hands-on demo of the TC201. Contact us to discuss TC201 devices.
Honeywell AIDC Business Acquired by Brady – What This Means for CSSI Customers
August 3, 2026 – Much as the former Intermec was once acquired by Honeywell in order to create an AIDC powerhouse, Honeywell’s Productivity Solutions division has now been acquired by Brady Corporation. Given that CSSI is a platinum Honeywell dealer with many customers using Honeywell mobile computer, vehicle mounted computers, and printers, we want to provide some initial details.
The Transaction in Brief On August 3, 2026, Brady Corporation (NYSE: BRC) closed its acquisition of Honeywell’s Productivity Solutions and Services (PSS) business — the division that makes the mobile computers, scanners, and related software CSSI resells — in an all-cash $1.4 billion deal funded with cash on hand, a senior unsecured credit facility, and private placement debt. The transaction had been previously announced and is now fully closed as of this week.
Ensuring Continuity for your Honeywell AIDC Products and Support
With the acquisition complete, Brady will maintain the purchased Honeywell AIDC product line in its Intelligent Productivity Solutions segment. Product availability, service and support will continue via CSSI Technologies. Over time, you will start to see the Honeywell Brand replaced by the Brady brand on products you purchase. However, you will still work with CSSI (as a Brady dealer) to maintain your existing deployed products and begin new projects.
What Are The Honeywell-Brady Deal Highlights?
This transaction creates a much larger company, and positions Brady with an excellent product footprint to cover your needs. At CSSI, we feel that ultimately this change will benefit you as a customer through more product and solutions development. Here are some more of the transaction details:
Combined company: The deal establishes Brady as a leading identification, safety and productivity solutions partner, pairing Brady’s strength in printers and consumables with PSS’s leadership in mobile computing, scanning, RFID and workflow software.
Segment structure: Brady will now operate two reportable segments: Identification Solutions (legacy Brady) and Intelligent Productivity Solutions (the former PSS business).
Scale: The PSS business generated approximately $1.1 billion in sales in 2025, and the deal opens access to a roughly $9 billion productivity solutions market.
Context for Honeywell: Honeywell’s CEO Vimal Kapur described the divestiture as the final step in the company’s transition to a pure-play automation company, following the earlier sale of its Warehouse and Workflow Solutions business and its Personal Protective Equipment business. Honeywell is retaining its automation-focused portfolio for building, industrial, and process sectors.
Questions? Contact CSSI to Discuss
Contact us at CSSI to discuss any questions you have regarding the Honeywell-Brady transaction.
Printer Technologies – How To Choose Between Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Label Printers
When selecting a label printing solution for your manufacturing facility or logistics operations, understanding the printing technology is just as important as the hardware itself. The two most widely used technologies for dedicated barcoding systems are Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer printing. While both utilize a heated thermal printhead to create an image, their methods, durability, and ideal use cases differ significantly.
Here is a breakdown to help you choose the right printing technology for your barcode printing or receipt printing needs.
What Are the Core Differences Between Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer Printers?
The fundamental difference between the two technologies lies in how the image is produced on the label:
Direct Thermal Printing: This method uses chemically treated, heat sensitive paper. When the media passes under the heated printhead, the heat causes a chemical reaction that blackens the paper to create the image. It does not use a ribbon, ink, or toner.
Thermal Transfer Printing: This technology requires a thermal transfer ribbon. The thermal printhead applies heat to a thin ribbon (coated in wax, resin, or a wax/resin blend), which melts the ink directly onto the label media to form a crisp, continuous image.
(Note: To determine if a specific media roll requires a ribbon, you can perform a quick “scratch test” on the label surface with a pen cap. If a black mark appears, it is Direct Thermal and needs no ribbon. If no mark appears, it is Thermal Transfer and requires a ribbon.)
Direct Thermal Printers: What Are the Advantages, Limitations, and Use Cases?
Direct thermal printers are celebrated for their simplicity and ease of use, as there is no ribbon to monitor or replace.
Direct Thermal Printer Advantages:
Simplicity & Lower Costs: Simple to operate with low long-term maintenance costs since there are no ribbons to replenish. Direct thermal print label material is less expensive.
Eco-Friendly & Efficient: Enables batch or single-label printing with virtually no waste. Recyclable material options are also available.
Print Quality: Direct thermal labels offer sharp print quality with excellent scanner readability for high-definition barcodes.
Direct Thermal Printer Limitations:
Environmental Sensitivity: Labels are highly sensitive to heat, direct sunlight (UV light), abrasion, and chemicals. Exposure causes the material to darken, rendering barcodes unreadable.
Short Lifespan: The paper remains chemically active after printing, meaning images may fade over time.
Typical Use Cases for Direct Thermal Printers: Direct thermal printers are best for short-term applications where the label only needs to last from one week to one year. Common applications include: • Shipping labels (perfect for Transportation & Logistics) • Receipts and picking tickets • Short-term compliance labels
Thermal Transfer Printers: What Are the Advantages, Limitations, and Use Cases??
Thermal transfer printing is the gold standard when you need extreme durability and archival-quality labels.
Thermal Transfer Printer Advantages:
Unmatched Durability: When matched with the right ribbon and media, labels are impervious to extreme temperatures, UV exposure, moisture, harsh chemicals, and abrasion.
Long-Lasting Image Stability: Thermal transfer labels produce crisp, glossy, high-definition text and graphics that will not rub off or fade over time.
Media Versatility: Can print on a nearly unlimited variety of media stock, including paper, polyester, vinyl, polypropylene, and polyimide.
Thermal Transfer Printer Limitations:
Higher Supply Costs: Requires the ongoing purchase of thermal ribbon supplies, which can be wasteful if little is printed on a single pass. Must factor in occasional print head replacement.
Compatibility Requirements: The ribbon and media substrate must be compatible. If mismatched, printhead heat could melt the ribbon onto the label and cause internal printer issues.
Typical Use Cases for Thermal Transfer Printers: Thermal transfer printers are ideal for demanding environments (like Manufacturing) and long-term storage. Common applications include: • Asset tagging and long-term inventory labeling • Chemical drum labeling • Component and specimen labeling (electronics or pharmaceuticals) • Outdoor labeling exposed to the elements
Feature Comparison: Thermal Transfer vs Direct Thermal Printers
Feature
Direct Thermal
Thermal Transfer
Ribbon Required?
No
Yes
Image Durability
Minimal resistance to heat, light, and chemicals.
Highly resistant to heat, light, abrasion, and harsh chemicals.
CSSI offers reliable and durable label and receipt printers from industry leaders such as Zebra Technologies. Our print experts can help with both thermal transfer and direct thermal printers, as well as print supplies such as label stock/print media, and print ribbons.
Contact CSSI to Discuss Label Printer and Receipt Printer Options
Our Zebra-certified printer experts at CSSI can help you evaluate your options and select both the right technology and best printer model for your application. Please contact us to discuss your printer needs.
Would Your Warehouse Benefit from Wearable Scanners?
If you’ve walked a distribution center floor lately, you’ve probably noticed a growing number of workers scanning barcodes without ever picking up a handheld device. Instead, they’re wearing a small barcode scanner on a finger, the back of their hand, or a glove — squeezing a trigger and getting back to the task in front of them.
These are wearable scanners , sometimes called ring scanners or glove scanners, and they’re one of the more practical technology upgrades available to warehouse operations today. But like any capital investment, they’re not automatically the right call for every facility. This post walks through what wearable scanners actually do for your operation, what you need (and don’t need) to deploy them, how to know if they’re worth the money, and why testing before you commit is non-negotiable.
What Is a Bluetooth Wearable Scanner, Exactly?
Wearable scanners are compact barcode scan engines worn on the hand — typically mounted to a single finger (a “ring scanner”), across two fingers, on the back of the hand, or integrated into a glove. They connect wirelessly, usually via Bluetooth, to a host device: a wearable mobile computer worn on the wrist or forearm, a vehicle-mount computer , or a handheld / tablet carried or holstered elsewhere.
Leading options in this category include the Zebra RS5100 wearable ring scanner and WS501 all-in-one wearable computer, Datalogic’s CODiScan wearable barcode scanner series, and Honeywell’s 8680i Wearable Mini Mobile Computer . While the form factors vary — finger ring, back-of-hand mount, or glove — the underlying idea is the same: put the scan engine on the worker’s hand instead of in it.
The Real Benefit: What Wearable Barcode Scanners Offer That Handhelds Can’t
The case for wearable barcode scanners comes down to one thing — keeping a worker’s hands free while still capturing barcode data. With a traditional handheld scanner, a worker has to locate the device, pick it up, aim it, scan, and set it back down (or holster it) before returning to the actual task — lifting a case, building a pallet, or handling a tote.
That pick-up-and-put-down cycle sounds small, but it adds up fast in high-frequency scanning workflows. Vendor data on ring and glove-style scanners has put the time lost per scan cycle from handling a handheld device in the range of a few seconds — and Honeywell specifically points to picking, sorting, putaway, and packing as the workflows where that lost time multiplies across a shift into a meaningful chunk of the workday. Multiply even a few seconds by hundreds or thousands of scans a day, per worker, across a warehouse, and the productivity impact becomes significant — not to mention the reduced strain on hands and wrists from never having to grip and re-grip a device.
There are a few concrete advantages worth calling out:
Two free hands, all the time. Workers scan mid-motion — while lifting, carrying, or stabilizing a load — instead of interrupting the task to handle a device.
Fewer dropped scanners and less device damage. A scanner that stays on the hand doesn’t get set on a conveyor, dropped from a ladder, or run over by a forklift.
Faster cycle times on repetitive tasks. Picking, put-away, packing, sorting, and receiving are all scan-intensive by nature; removing the handling step compounds across a shift.
Better ergonomics. Many wearable scanners weigh just a couple of ounces, which is a meaningfully lighter and more natural to hold for a full shift than gripping a handheld computer.
None of this means that the wearable ring scanner replaces the mobile computer in all cases — for tasks that involve less frequent scanning, or where a worker needs a screen in front of them constantly, a traditional handheld or vehicle-mount computer may still make more sense. The benefit of wearables is concentrated specifically in high-frequency, hands-busy scanning workflows.
Do You Need to Buy New Mobile Computers to Use Wearable Scanners?
This is one of the most common questions we get, and the good news is: usually, no.
Wearable barcode scanners like the RS5100, CODiScan, and 8680i (in Standard configuration) are designed to pair with an existing host device over Bluetooth — they capture the barcode and pass the data to whatever computer, tablet, or vehicle-mount terminal is already running your warehouse management or scanning application. If your team already carries handheld computers, wears wrist-mount computers, or works near a fixed terminal or vehicle-mount device, there’s a good chance your existing hardware can serve as the host. Datalogic’s CODiScan, for example, is built to pair with Android, Windows, or iOS devices, and can also connect to fixed PCs or vehicle computers through a gateway.
There are two scenarios where new hardware does come into play:
All-in-one converged wearables. Devices like Zebra’s WS501 combine the scanner and the computer into a single wrist mounted or hand-worn unit, so the worker carries nothing else. This is a different architecture than a scanner-plus-host setup, and it’s a deliberate choice — usually made when a facility wants to eliminate the host device entirely, not just the handheld scanner.
Compatibility gaps. If your current handhelds are older, lack Bluetooth, or aren’t supported by the scanner manufacturer, you may need to upgrade the host device alongside the scanner.
For most warehouses already running modern Android OS or Windows handheld computers, the wearable scanner is an add-on to the existing fleet, not a replacement for it — which keeps the incremental cost per worker relatively low.
Is It Worth It? How to Determine If Wearable Technology Make Sense for Your Warehouse
Wearable scanners carry a real added cost per worker — the scanner itself, mounting accessories, batteries, and charging infrastructure, on top of whatever host device is already in play. That cost is easy to justify in some environments and hard to justify in others. The determining factor isn’t warehouse size — it’s scan frequency and task type.
Wearables tend to pay off quickly in operations like:
High-volume e-commerce and parcel fulfillment centers, where pickers are scanning constantly across a shift and every second per pick compounds across thousands of daily orders.
Cold storage and freezer warehouses, where gloved hands make gripping and operating a handheld scanner’s touchscreen or trigger more cumbersome, and a wearable scanner mounted over a glove keeps the worker’s hands functional in the cold.
Cross-dock and distribution operations with high-frequency put-away, sorting, and load-building tasks where workers are constantly moving cases and need both hands free.
Manufacturing environments doing frequent work-in-process (WIP) scanning, component traceability, or line-side scanning, where workers are already holding tools, parts, or materials.
Operations with heavy lifting or two-handed material handling, where requiring a worker to hold a scanner interferes with safely handling the product.
Ring Scanners and Glove Scanners are harder to justify when:
Scanning is infrequent or happens in batches at a workstation rather than continuously on the move.
Mobile Workers primarily need to read information off a screen (pick lists, work instructions) rather than just capture a barcode and move on — in which case a handheld or vehicle-mount computer’s larger display may matter more than freeing up a hand.
The facility has low labor headcount, making the per-worker hardware investment harder to offset through time savings alone.
Warehouse workers are primarily moving pallets, and capturing barcodes while seated on the forklift.
Task variability is high and workers switch frequently between scan-heavy and non-scan work, reducing the share of the shift where the wearable form factor actually helps.
The simplest way to think about it: calculate roughly how many scans per hour your busiest workers perform, and how much of their task involves carrying or handling product with both hands. The higher those two numbers, the stronger the ROI case for wearables. If you’re not sure where your operation falls, that’s exactly what a proof of concept is for.
Why You Should Test Before You Roll Out Wearable Scanners
Here’s the part that gets overlooked: wearable scanners are a form factor change, not just a hardware swap, and form factor is deeply personal. A ring scanner that one worker finds comfortable and intuitive might feel awkward, loose, or irritating to another — depending on hand size, glove use, dominant hand, and even personal preference about wearing a device on their finger for eight hours a day.
This matters because a poorly received rollout doesn’t just fail quietly — it actively disrupts operations. If workers find the device uncomfortable, they’ll find ways to work around it, take it off, or slow down rather than adapt, which undermines the very productivity gains you were trying to capture. Unlike a software rollout, you generally can’t push a fix over the air for “the ring pinches” or “the trigger is in the wrong spot.”
A proof of concept (POC) — testing a small batch of devices with real workers, on real tasks, before committing to a facility-wide purchase — de-risks this in a few important ways:
It validates fit and comfort across your actual workforce, not a generic user profile. Glove compatibility, hand size range, and mounting style (finger ring vs. back-of-hand vs. glove) all matter and vary by vendor.
It confirms compatibility with your existing host devices and WMS/scanning application before you’ve committed budget to a full deployment.
It surfaces environment-specific issues — RF interference, battery life across a full shift in your specific conditions (like cold storage), or durability concerns — that don’t show up in a spec sheet.
It gets frontline worker buy-in. Workers who get a say in testing new equipment are far more likely to adopt it willingly than workers who have a new device handed to them with no input.
It lets you build a real ROI case using your own scan volumes and cycle times, rather than vendor-provided averages, before scaling spend across the operation.
How CSSI Can Help You Test and Deploy the Right Solution
Choosing among ring scanners, back-of-hand mounts, glove-integrated scanners, and converged wearable computers — and matching that choice to your specific workflows, environment, and existing device fleet — isn’t a decision to make from a spec sheet alone. It requires hands-on evaluation with the people who’ll actually be using the equipment every day.
As a value-added reseller working with leading brands like Zebra, Datalogic, and Honeywell, CSSI can help you run a structured proof of concept before you commit to a purchase. That includes:
Recommending the right wearable scanner and host device combination based on your workflows, whether that’s picking, packing, sorting, put-away, or manufacturing WIP tracking
Providing loaner or demo units so your team can test comfort, fit, and usability directly on your floor
Confirming compatibility with your existing mobile computers, tablets, or vehicle-mount devices, and your WMS or scanning application
Helping you measure the results — scan times, error rates, and worker feedback — so you can build a real business case before scaling
Supporting the full rollout afterward, from procurement and configuration to accessories, charging infrastructure, and ongoing support
We have been seeing a years-long trend with increasing adoption of RFID technology due to its cost-efficiency, process automation, operational visibility, and reliability. Successful RFID projects require well-designed hardware as well as RFID partners with the expertise to implement your system. Zebra Technologies Corp offers a broad variety of RFID solutions, from handheld and fixed readers to RFID portals, RFID tag printers, RFID label and tag supplies, and supporting software. As an authorized Zebra RFID partner, CSSI can help you to navigate your options and select the best options for your project.
The Rise of RFID Applications: Why Are Companies Making the Switch to RFID?
Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology has experienced unprecedented, double-digit growth in recent years. In fact, as far back as 2018, approximately 15 billion UHF RFID tags had already been sold, with the Manufacturing and Transportation & Logistics (T&L) sectors emerging as some of the fastest-growing verticals.
So, why are companies rapidly adopting RFID over traditional data collection methods like the barcode scanner?
Cost Efficiency: The cost of passive RFID tags has dropped significantly, moving from 30 cents to just 5 cents per tag, making rapid ROI highly achievable.
Process Automation: Unlike barcode scanner methods, RFID allows workers to scan many tags simultaneously without requiring a direct line of sight, drastically reducing manual labor time and costs. RFID can be much faster than the barcode scanner.
Operational Visibility: RFID delivers extremely high inventory accuracy and real-time visibility, optimizing Work-in-Process (WIP), asset tracking, returnable containers, and pallet ID.
Maturity & Reliability: RFID technology now features stable and robust global standards alongside consistent, field-proven performance across highly demanding environments.
Why is Zebra An Industry Leader and Innovator in RFID Technology?
When transitioning to an RFID-enabled ecosystem, fragmented multi-vendor solutions often lead to interoperability headaches. As an industry leader in mobile computing and data capture, Zebra Technologies has been powering RFID from the very beginning. Zebra handheld RFID readers and fixed RFID readers are well known, but there is also a very broad portfolio encompassing integrated RFID portal solutions as well as printers, tags, and software to run your application.
Zebra’s pedigree is built on five decades of research, design thinking, and software development. With 600 RFID patents , Zebra has delivered numerous industry firsts, creating the market’s broadest, field-proven RFID portfolio. Zebra provides a cohesive, trustworthy ecosystem that mitigates implementation pains and unlocks the true ‘sense-analyze-act’ potential of your operational data.
What is Included in Zebra’s RFID Solution Portfolio?
Zebra offers a complete end-to-end RFID ecosystem designed to streamline discovery, design, and deployment. Here is a look at the core categories and top examples of Zebra’s offerings:
RFID Category
Description
Top Solution Example
Handheld RFID Readers
Improve associate performance and mobility by capturing many items simultaneously with the pull of a trigger.
MC9190-Z Handheld Computer: Built to deliver highly accurate, fast reads to reduce labor time and costs in manufacturing and warehousing.
Fixed & Overhead Readers
Streamline inventory and track goods in motion automatically, providing real-time visibility without human intervention.
Fixed Readers & Integrated RFID Portal Options: Ideal for dock doors and open floors to control tagged assets and monitor shipment validation.
RFID Printers
Accurately print and encode RAIN RFID labels, tags, and cards wherever and whenever needed.
ZT600R & ZT400R Series: High-performance industrial printers designed for rugged manufacturing and T&L environments.
RFID Antennas
High-performance RAIN RFID antennas that extend read ranges and throughput for high-volume tracking.
Zebra RFID Antennas: Engineered for large operational footprints like distribution centers and warehouses.
RFID Labels & Supplies
High-performing, pre-tested labels and inlays customized with the right materials and adhesives for extreme environments.
Zebra Silverline & Custom Inlays: Scalable tagging solutions that give physical assets a reliable digital voice.
Enablement Software
Intelligent platforms to easily deploy, manage, and scale large volumes of serialized data and edge devices.
Zebra MotionWorks Enterprise RFID Reader Management & Zebra Savanna: Cloud platforms and management tools to control thousands of readers globally.
How To Get Started on Your Next Project with Zebra RFID Readers
By partnering with CSSI and leveraging Zebra’s industry-leading, end-to-end RFID portfolio, manufacturers and logistics providers can completely transform their supply chain visibility, eliminate blind spots, and drastically improve their bottom line in common RFID applications such as inventory management. Please contact CSSI Technologies, an authorized Zebra RFID partner , to discuss your project.
What Are Excellent Applications for RFID Technology in a Manufacturing Facility?
Modern manufacturing sector operations run on visibility. Knowing where materials are, which assemblies are complete, what’s ready to ship, and where critical tools are located isn’t a luxury — it’s the foundation of operational efficiency. For years, manufacturers have relied on barcode scanning and manual data entry to maintain that visibility. But as production volumes grow, product complexity increases, and labor constraints tighten, those approaches are showing their limits.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology addresses those limits in ways that barcodes and manual processes fundamentally cannot. Unlike barcodes, RFID labels and tags don’t require line-of-sight reads, can be scanned in bulk simultaneously, and can be embedded in assets rather than affixed to their surface. The result is faster, more accurate data capture with less human effort.
Here are five RFID use cases for manufacturing environments where an RFID tracking system can deliver compelling, measurable advantages.
1. Using RFID for Materials Management
The Challenge
Incoming raw materials, components, and sub-assemblies are the starting point for everything a manufacturer produces. When those materials are misidentified, mislabeled, or simply lost in a large warehouse or receiving dock, the downstream consequences are significant — production process delays, quality escapes, and emergency purchasing that erodes margin.
Barcode-based receiving requires workers to scan each item individually, in the right orientation, with a clear label visible. In high-volume receiving environments, this creates bottlenecks and introduces error. Manual counts are worse: slow, inconsistent, and entirely dependent on worker attention and accuracy. Check out our case study on RFID inventory tracking.
The RFID Advantage
RFID enables bulk receiving at the dock door. As a pallet or tote of materials passes through an RFID portal — a fixed reader mounted at a dock door or conveyor point — every tagged item on that pallet is captured simultaneously, without a worker needing to touch or orient a single item. Counts are accurate, timestamps are automatic, and the data flows directly into your ERP or WMS.
Beyond receiving, RFID supports inventory accuracy and ongoing materials visibility throughout the facility. Tagged bins, totes, and raw material spools can be located in real time using fixed readers positioned throughout the warehouse. When a production planner needs to confirm that a specific material lot is on-site before committing to a production schedule, RFID delivers that answer in seconds rather than requiring a physical search.
RFID data also strengthens lot traceability. If a quality issue surfaces downstream, RFID read history allows manufacturers to quickly identify which production runs used material from a specific lot — critical for regulatory compliance in industries like aerospace, medical devices, and automotive. It’s a great solution for inventory management.
2. Implementing RFID for Work in Process (WIP) Tracking
The Challenge
Once materials enter production, tracking their progress through assembly stages is one of the most persistent challenges in the manufacturing process. Without reliable WIP visibility, supervisors are left guessing about where bottlenecks are forming, which orders are ahead of or behind schedule, and whether a specific unit has passed required inspection checkpoints.
Manual WIP tracking — clipboards, whiteboards, verbal updates — introduces delays and inaccuracies that make real-time status essentially unknowable. Barcode-based WIP systems can improve on this, but they require workers to stop and scan at each stage transition, adding non-value-added time and creating compliance gaps when workers skip scans under pressure.
The RFID Advantage
RFID transforms WIP tracking from an activity that requires worker action into one that happens automatically. When an RFID tag is attached to a work order traveler, product carrier, or the assembly itself, fixed readers at each production stage capture the unit’s movement without any manual scanning step. The system simply knows where each unit is, when it arrived, and how long it has been there.
This automatic capture yields several concrete benefits. First, supervisors gain real-time visibility into stage-by-stage cycle times, making bottlenecks immediately apparent rather than discovered after the fact. Second, compliance with mandatory quality checkpoints — inspection gates, torque verification stations, test stands — can be enforced automatically: the system can flag or stop a unit from progressing if it hasn’t registered at a required stage. Third, labor efficiency improves because workers are freed from the discipline of scan compliance.
For manufacturers running mixed-model production on shared lines, RFID WIP tracking is especially valuable. The system can distinguish between product variants moving through the same line and ensure that the correct assembly sequence and routing are followed for each.
3. Using RFID for Shipment Validation
The Challenge
Outbound shipment errors are costly in multiple dimensions. A mispicked or miscounted shipment generates customer complaints, return freight, and rework costs. In industries with compliance requirements — automotive OEMs with EDI advance ship notices, defense contractors with MIL-SPEC labeling, food and beverage distributors with lot code documentation — a shipment error can mean chargebacks, fines, or disqualification as a preferred supplier.
Manual packing verification is slow and error-prone, particularly under end-of-shift or end-of-quarter pressure when speed is prioritized over accuracy. Barcode-based verification improves accuracy but is still a serial process: one scan per item, one item at a time.
The RFID Advantage
RFID enables packing verification and quality control to happen at the speed of the packing process rather than as a separate, slower step. As items are placed in a carton or as a pallet is assembled, an RFID reader can continuously capture every tagged item present, comparing the in-progress contents against the expected pick list in real time. Workers receive immediate feedback — a light stack indicator, an audible alert, a screen notification — if an item is wrong, missing, or duplicated.
At the dock door, a final RFID portal read provides a 100% count of outbound contents before the load departs. This eliminates the sampling-based verification that most manual or barcode processes rely on and gives manufacturers the documentation needed to defend against false shortage claims.
For customers requiring advance ship notices (ASNs) or serialized item tracking, the RFID read data at the point of pack or shipment can automatically populate those records, reducing the administrative burden on shipping staff.
4. Deploying RFID for Fulfillment and Replenishment
The Challenge
Manufacturing operations that run lean — kanban systems, line-side stock, point-of-use storage — depend on reliable, timely replenishment of materials to production. When a line-side bin runs empty before a replenishment signal reaches the warehouse, production stops. When replenishment is triggered too early, inventory piles up in locations where it creates congestion and obscures true consumption rates.
Traditional kanban systems using physical cards or barcode-scanned bins require workers to take a discrete action — drop a card, scan a label — to trigger replenishment. Under pressure, those signals get missed or delayed, creating both stockouts and excess.
The RFID Advantage
RFID improves supply chain visibility and enables passive, automatic replenishment triggering. An RFID-enabled bin or rack location with a continuously active reader can detect when inventory falls below a defined threshold based on the number of tagged units present, and automatically generate a replenishment request in the WMS or ERP — without any worker action required.
This moves replenishment from a worker-dependent process to a system-dependent one, which is far more reliable. Consumption data captured in real time also gives planners accurate, granular visibility into actual usage rates by line and shift, which improves min/max and reorder point calculations over time.
For manufacturers managing returnable containers — totes, racks, dunnage — RFID also supports container tracking across the supply chain, helping to reduce container loss and improve utilization of expensive returnable assets.
5. Using RFID for Tool Tracking
The Challenge
In manufacturing environments — particularly aerospace, defense, and precision machining — tools represent significant capital investment. A single calibrated torque wrench, specialized fixture, or precision gauge can cost thousands of dollars to replace. More importantly, tools have defined calibration cycles, and using an out-of-calibration tool on a production unit can result in a quality escape that affects safety-critical components.
Manual tool tracking — sign-out logs, crib attendants, periodic audits — is time-consuming and creates gaps. Barcoded tool tags can improve tracking in a crib environment, but they don’t help locate a tool that has left the crib, and they don’t automatically enforce calibration status at the point of use.
The RFID Advantage
RFID asset tracking enables continuous, passive tracking of tool location and status. RFID tracking tags embedded in tool handles or attached to tool cases are read by fixed readers at crib exits, line-side panels, and storage racks, giving tool management systems real-time location data without requiring workers to check tools in or out manually.
Calibration enforcement becomes automatic. A torque wrench approaching its calibration due date — or already past it — can be flagged in the tool management system, and an alert can be generated before it is issued for use on a controlled operation. In environments with electronic interlocks or assembly station readers, an out-of-calibration tool can be positively identified and rejected before it reaches the assembly point.
Tool utilization data captured via RFID also supports better capital planning. Rather than purchasing replacement tools based on anecdotal claims that “the tool is always gone when we need it,” operations managers can review actual utilization by shift, by line, and by operation — and make data-driven decisions about tool inventory levels.
How To Get Help Exploring an RFID Implementation?
An RFID solution is not a single-point solution. Its greatest value comes from a thoughtful deployment strategy that aligns tag selection, reader placement, and system integration with the specific workflows where improved data capture will have the most impact.
When evaluating an RFID system for a manufacturing environment, the starting point is typically a use-case assessment: which of these problem areas is costing the most in labor, errors, or lost time today? The answer usually points directly to where an initial RFID deployment will generate the fastest return.
CSSI Technologies works with manufacturing operations to design and deploy RFID solutions using hardware from industry-leading partners such as Zebra Technologies and active or passive RFID tags. If you’re ready to explore an RFID application for your facility, contact our team to request a consultation.
The New Datalogic Skorpio X40/X45 Mobile Computer
If your team is pushing through long shifts in a warehouse, on the manufacturing floor, or across warehouses and distribution centers, you already know the pain points: devices that slow workers down, connectivity that drops at the worst moments, and chargers that wear out long before the hardware should. Datalogic’s new Skorpio X40 and X45 rugged mobile computers are engineered to address all of that — without compromise.
What Is the Datalogic Skorpio x40/x45?
The Skorpio X40 and X45 are enterprise-grade, Android-based handheld computers built for data-intensive environments. They’re compact, well-balanced, and designed to be carried comfortably across an entire shift — not just a few hours. The X40 is the Wi-Fi-only model, while the X45 adds cellular 5G and GPS for operations that span facilities or outdoor yards.
Both models run Android 15 (upgradeable to Android 19), are powered by a Qualcomm QCx4490 Octa-Core 2.4GHz processor, and ship with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage — more than enough headroom to run demanding enterprise applications without lag.
What’s New and Notable About the Skorpio X40/X45?
The Skorpio X40/X45 brings several meaningful advances over previous generations.
Wi-Fi 6/6E and 5G connectivity put these devices at the forefront of enterprise wireless. Wi-Fi 6E opens up the 6GHz band for faster, less congested connections, while the X45’s 5G support (including private network and CBRS) makes it a strong candidate for organizations modernizing their facility networks.
Green Spot visual scan confirmation is Datalogic’s patented technology that projects a visible green dot directly onto the scanned label the moment a good read is captured. For operators scanning hundreds of barcodes per shift, this eliminates doubt and keeps eyes on the work — not the screen.
Wireless charging is a standout operational upgrade. By eliminating the physical charging pins found on traditional cradles, there’s no contact wear, no debris buildup, and no maintenance headaches. The device is also fully backward-compatible with Skorpio X5 docks, so facilities already invested in that accessory infrastructure don’t need to start over.
Hot-swap battery means the 7,000mAh battery can be swapped without powering down or losing application data — keeping devices in use 24/7 across multi-shift operations.
Field-detachable handle lets workers switch between handheld and pistol grip form factors on the fly, adapting to picking tasks versus general use without any tools or downtime.
WHERE IT FITS – APPLICATIONS FOR THE SKORPIO X40/X45 The Skorpio X40/X45 is a strong fit across several of CSSI’s core verticals: • Warehousing and distribution — receiving, putaway, picking, and order fulfillment benefit from the ergonomic form factor, long-range scanning, and all-day battery life. • Manufacturing — inventory control, work order management, track-and-trace, and quality control are all well-supported use cases. • Transportation and logistics — the X45’s 5G and GPS capabilities make it equally capable in yard management and cross-dock environments. • Retail and healthcare — replenishment, order fulfillment, goods receiving, and returns processing are covered across both models.
What Are the Key Technical Highlights of the Datalogic Skorpio X40 and X45?
Scan engines: Datalogic Halogen DE2121 (standard or extended range) with Green Spot for aiming accuracy
Skorpio X40/X45 vs. Falcon X60/X65: Which Is Right for Your Operation?
Datalogic offers two distinct rugged mobile computer families for warehouses, logistics, distribution centers, and manufacturing or production environments – the Skorpio, covered here, and the Falcon, previously discussed here . Both offer excellent reliability— but they’re built for different environments and user profiles. Understanding the difference helps ensure you’re putting the right tool in the right hands.
The Falcon X60 and X65 are full-touch, large-screen hardware devices — think smartphone-style form factor with a bigger display, designed for workers who do more reading, navigating, and app interaction alongside their scanning. They’re a strong choice for roles where the screen is as important as the scan engine: supervisors reviewing dashboards, workers managing complex workflows, or environments where detailed data entry is part of the job. The Falcon line also supports a wider range of accessory configurations and tends to appeal to operations already moving toward a more consumer-device experience.
The Skorpio X40 and X45, by contrast, are purpose-built data entry workhorses. The physical keyboard options — 29, 39, or 48 keys — make them the better choice for high-volume, heads-down scanning and keying tasks where touchscreen-only input would slow workers down or introduce errors. The compact, pistol-grip-convertible form factor is also better suited to operators who are scanning constantly throughout a shift rather than occasionally referencing a screen.
Choose the Skorpio X40/X45 when:
Workers are performing repetitive scan-heavy tasks (picking, receiving, inventory counts)
Physical keyboard input is preferred or required
The environment demands glove-friendly, tactile key operation
Operators switch frequently between handheld and pistol grip modes
Choose the Falcon X60/X65 when:
The workflow is more app-driven, with workers navigating screens, forms, and menus
Touch-first interaction is preferred or the workforce is already comfortable with it
The use case benefits from a larger screen real estate, such as proof-of-delivery or field service
Both families share Datalogic’s Green Spot scanning of barcodes, Android enterprise platform, and Datalogic Connect cloud management — so IT teams get a consistent management experience across the fleet regardless of which device is deployed. If your operation has a mix of use cases, it’s also entirely reasonable to deploy both: Skorpios on the warehouse floor and Falcons in supervisory or field-facing roles.
Not sure which is the better fit? That’s exactly the kind of conversation CSSI is here for…
Ready to See Skorpio X40 or X45 Mobile Computers in Action?
Contact CSSI Technologies to request a demo or to discuss whether the Skorpio X40 or X45 is the right fit for your operation. We offer mobile computing and data capture solutions.
The Zebra WS501 Wearable Computer Brings Hands-Free Data Capture To Mobile Workflows
In today’s fast-paced operational environments, keeping up with fulfillment and production demands requires technology that moves as fast as your workers. Enter the Zebra WS501 Wearable Computer with integrated barcode scanner —the world’s smallest and most powerful all-in-one Android operating system enterprise-class wearable device. Designed for the most scan-intensive jobs, the WS501 brings hands-free, high-performance computing directly to your frontline workers who face scan intensive tasks.
The All-in-One Advantage: Why Upgrade from Handhelds and Ring Scanners?
Traditionally, hands-free data capture required a two-piece solution: a host mobile computer strapped to the wrist or hip, paired with a separate Bluetooth ring barcode scanner. The WS501 is a redesign and major update to the Zebra WS50 wearable computer, and completely revolutionizes this approach with a true “no-host” converged design. This is part of a broad line of wearables offered in the Zebra mobile computers lineup.
Why is it a better option?
Simplified Worker Experience: Workers only need to wear one lightweight, ergonomic device to capture and access data, removing the bulk and connectivity hassles of a two-piece setup. It can be worn on the back of the hand (hand mount) or as a two-finger mount. The barcode scanner is operated with an ergonomic trigger.
Reduced IT Burden & Cost: With an all-in-one solution, IT teams only have one device to procure, one battery to charge, one operating system to update, and one Zebra OneCare™ service contract to manage.
Uncompromised Power: Despite its size, it features 3GB RAM and 32GB Flash (five times the memory capacity of its predecessor, the WS50), enabling seamless multitasking across multiple applications without keeping workers waiting.
Transforming Workflows in Warehousing and Manufacturing
The WS501 is built to handle all-day, everyday enterprise use. It survives extreme temperatures, bumps, drops, and is dust-tight and hose-down waterproof. Here is how it fits perfectly into core operations:
Warehousing & Distribution
Item Sorting: The bright 2-inch AMOLED display provides instant, line-of-sight instructions to workers on the proper bin locations for scanned items.
Receiving & Put-Away: Workers can easily maneuver and move goods from the receiving zone to warehouse shelves with completely free hands.
Voice-Directed Picking: The integrated speaker and microphone support industry-leading voice-directed picking solutions. Workers can interact with voice apps while using the integrated scanner to verify picked items, locations, and quantities.
Manufacturing
Parts Tracking & Line-side Replenishment: Workers can scan parts as they move through the assembly process without constantly setting down a handheld device.
Finished Goods Verification: High-volume, heavy-duty data capture is made easy with the integrated SE4770 imager, which quickly reads dirty, damaged, or poorly printed barcodes, even if the worker or the item is in motion.
Key Technical Specifications
Below is a snapshot of the enterprise-grade power packed into the WS501:
2-inch AMOLED color touch screen with Qualcomm® TruPalette™ (No backlight required)
Scanning
Integrated Zebra SE4770 Imager (Captures large/multiple barcodes with superior motion tolerance)
Wireless Connectivity
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.3 for blazing-fast, reliable connections
Operating System
Android 14 AOSP (Future-proof with 2 additional planned OS releases up to Android 17)
Power
Hot-swappable batteries; fast charging in under 3 hours
Audio
Integrated microphone and speaker with Push-to-Talk (PTT) capabilities
Leveling Up with the WS501-R: Integrated UHF RFID
For workflows that require advanced tracking, Zebra also introduces the WS501-R Android RFID Wearable Computer . This model takes the all-in-one concept a step further by integrating a UHF RFID reader directly into the wearable device, completely eliminating the need for a separate RFID sled or reader.
Key Benefits of the WS501-R:
Simultaneous Capture: Workers can handle items and packages while reading UHF tags and scanning barcodes completely hands-free.
Configurable Read Range: The WS501-R offers a maximum UHF read range of up to 5 feet (1.5 meters). The read range can be dynamically controlled via applications to support short-range reading (a few inches) by automatically reducing RFID output power.
Applicable WS501-R Workflows:
Manufacturing: Pallet/container management, automated parts tracking, and finished goods verification.
Warehousing & T&L: Inventory management, sorting, picking, and loading/unloading tasks where RFID tags are heavily utilized to automate data entry.
Learn More About the Zebra WS501 Wearable Computer
Zebra ET60 and ET65 Certified for C1D2 Hazardous Environments
Operating in hazardous locations like chemical plants, oil refineries, and specialized manufacturing facilities requires uncompromising safety standards. Consumer-grade devices simply aren’t safe and put your workers at risk. That is why we are thrilled to announce that the highly versatile Zebra ET60 (wi-fi only) and ET65 (wi-fi and cellular) Enterprise Tablets are now Class 1/Division 2 (C1D2) certified for safe use in hazardous environments.
What Does C1D2 Certification Mean for Your Operations?
C1D2 is a widely accepted North American ANSI/ISA certification for devices tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) for safe operation in hazardous locations (HazLoc). The ET6x C1D2 configurations are specifically engineered to avoid generating a spark or enough heat to cause an explosion. To ensure safety, they include special physical enhancements such as screws to securely lock the battery and USB port covers before entering a hazardous area.
HazLoc Classification
Description
Class 1
Environments containing flammable gases, vapors, and liquids.
Division 2
The environment contains a hazard, but it is contained. It is only present under abnormal conditions, such as a system malfunction or a rupture.
The Zebra ET60 and ET65 Advantage: Rugged Redefined
Beyond its safety certifications, the ET60 and ET65 offer a versatile, single-platform solution that adapts to your evolving workflow needs. It can function as a rugged tablet, a desktop computer (with the snap-on friction hinge keyboard), or a fixed vehicle-mount computer in forklifts.
Unmatched Ruggedness: Features IP66 sealing (can be hosed down for easy cleaning), a 5 ft. (1.5m) drop specification to concrete right out of the box, and thrives in blazing heat, dust, and freezing temperatures.
Next-Generation Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6E, 5G, Private 5G, and CBRS (US only) for blazing-fast, reliable connections inside facilities or out in the field.
Superior Viewing: A super bright 1000-nit display protected by shatter- and scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass ensures readability in virtually any lighting condition, including bright outdoor sunlight.
Advanced Data Capture: Utilize the 16 MP rear camera with OCR Wedge to automatically capture license plates, VINs, TINs, and meter readings. For intense scanning needs, the optional SE55 Advanced Range barcode scanner captures barcodes from near contact up to 40 ft. (12m) away.
Powerful Performance: Powered by a Qualcomm® 6490 octa-core 2.7 GHz platform (for Android operating system) or the new Intel® Core™ Ultra platform (for Windows), enabling the AI and machine learning apps of today and tomorrow.
Hazardous Workflows Powered by the Zebra ET6x
Equipping workers with C1D2-certified ET6x tablets ensures they remain productive and safe when in hazardous locations:
Petrochemical & Chemical Manufacturing: Perform specialized manufacturing maintenance, mobile HMI, PLC programming, and safety and compliance inspections where flammable vapors or liquids may be present.
Oil & Gas / Utilities: Streamline critical infrastructure inspections, remote assistance, meter reading, and proof of service in potentially explosive environments.
Mining: Automate asset management and track personnel safely in extreme, high-risk environments.
Warehousing & Logistics: Utilize ultra-rugged forklift mounts to manage fleets, track inventory, and handle lineside replenishment seamlessly in facilities storing hazardous materials.
Learn More About the Zebra ET6x Tablet Certified for C1D2 Hazardous Environments
Datalogic Falcon X60 and X65 – New Ultra-Rugged Android Mobile Computer
If your operation runs hard — multiple shifts, cold storage, outdoor loading docks, forklift aisles — your mobile computers need to keep up. Datalogic’s Falcon X60/X65 is a handheld computer engineered from the ground up for exactly that environment, and brings several genuinely notable advancements to the rugged handheld market.
What’s New & Notable
A significant step forward in mobile computer scanning range and speed
The headline feature is Datalogic’s new XLR (Extra-Long Range) barcode scanner, which reads barcodes at distances up to 20 meters. Combined with the patented Green Spot™ technology — a visible confirmation dot projected directly onto the label — operators get instant, eyes-on confirmation without looking down at their device. The Green Spot is visible up to 10 meters on the XLR imager, which is a meaningful improvement for high-bay warehouse environments.
The TrueAim™ two-stage trigger adds precision targeting to reduce misreads before they happen — a small ergonomic detail that adds up to real efficiency gains across a full shift.
Key feature highlights:
XLR imager/barcode scanner reads barcodes up to 20 meters; Green Spot™ visible confirmation up to 10 meters
TrueAim™ two-stage trigger for precision targeting and fewer misreads
Wi-Fi 6/6E with WPA3 Enterprise security on both models
5G cellular, GPS/GNSS, and eSIM on the X65 for outdoor and multi-site operations
Qualcomm QCx4490 Octa-Core 2.4 GHz processor with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage
Operating system: Android 15 GMS with a committed upgrade path to Android 19
Connectivity is another major upgrade. Both models support Wi-Fi 6/6E with WPA3 Enterprise security. The X65 adds 5G cellular (including private network and CBRS support), GPS/GNSS, and an eSIM slot — making it the stronger choice for operations that span indoor and outdoor environments or require cellular backup.
Backward compatibility worth noting The Falcon X60/X65 is fully compatible with existing Skorpio X5 docks and accessories — both contact and wireless charging variants. For operations already invested in that infrastructure, upgrading mobile computers doesn’t mean replacing cradles.
Model Comparison – Two models, one platform
The Datalogic Falcon X60 and X65 models share the same processor, display, OS, keyboard options, battery, and ruggedization. The X65 adds 5G cellular, GPS/GNSS, a barometric pressure sensor, and an eSIM slot for operations that need cellular connectivity or location awareness.
Falcon X60
Falcon X65
Wi-Fi 6/6E / XLR Imager / Wi-Fi only (No cellular)
Where It Fits – Strong applications across several verticals
The Falcon X60/X65 is a natural fit across several demanding industries:
Warehousing & Distribution
Inventory management, receiving, putaway, picking, shipping, and work order management. The XLR imager handles high-bay racking without requiring operators to physically approach every scan point.
Transportation & Logistics
Truck loading and unloading, forklift operations, baggage management, and returns. The 5G-capable X65 is well-suited for yard management and outdoor dock use.
Manufacturing
Intralogistics, kitting, quality control, and traceability. The field-detachable handle supports both handheld and pistol-grip configurations for different task types on the floor.
Healthcare Warehousing
Receiving, inventory management, order fulfillment, and batch tracking in clinical supply chains where chemical resistance and reliability are non-negotiable.
Datalogic Falcon X60/X65 Specs at a Glance
Specification
Details
Processor
Qualcomm QCx4490 Octa-Core 2.4 GHz
Memory / Storage
8 GB RAM · 128 GB UFS Flash
Operating System
Android 15 GMS; upgradeable to Android 19
Display
4.3″ WVGA IPS, 600-nit, Gorilla Glass 7
Scan Engines
Standard 2D, Extended Range, or XLR (Extra-Long Range) — all with Green Spot™
Wireless
Wi-Fi 6/6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC; 5G FR1 (X65 only)
1-year factory warranty; EASEOFCARE plans available
Ready to evaluate the Datalogic Falcon X60 or X65 for your operation?
We are an authorized Datalogic partner. Contact CSSI Technologies for mobile computer pricing, demos, and compatibility guidance, or to speak with an enterprise mobility specialist.
