Organize, Store, Secure, Track, and Manage Your Mobile Device Fleet

Companies face real challenges in keeping track of their growing fleets of handheld and mobile devices. Many firms use ad hoc solutions such as tables or shelves for charging stations. Unfortunately, these methods lack an ability to ensure that devices are properly returned to charge at shift-end, and there is limited security and accountability for users.

We were excited to discover Zebra’s Intelligent Cabinets product line, which directly tackles these challenges… and does so in a way which is seamless and integrated with the popular Zebra mobile computers used by so many firms.

A Configurable Device Management Solution

The Intelligent Cabinets solution is highly configurable and adaptable to your preferred method of use. At core, the solution provides an organized method of storing and charging mobile devices when not in use. It also provides a check-in / check-out capability which enables you to track which employees have which devices. As further value add, you have the option of adding device security and keeping an eye on device battery health so that you can proactively replace failing items.

Your CSSI rep will work with you to spec out the features and configurations you need and will plan your deployment. We can create solutions for varying device quantities and types, as well as adding features like locking cradles or cabinets.

The Benefits of Zebra Intelligent Cabinets

What is the cost of device loss and/or lost device usage in your facility? These are significant for most companies. Not only do expensive handhelds occasionally go missing, but workers are unable to perform their job due to not being able to find the right device, or losing battery strength during the course of the workday. Intelligent Cabinets addresses those problems with immediate benefits:

• Ensure devices are charged daily
• Monitor battery life and battery health
• Limit device access, and provide accountability for device return
• Manage device software updates

Device Accountability and Oversight

The cornerstone of all intelligent cabinet installations is the device dashboard. This kiosk informs you at a glance how many devices are in use. Dive deeper, and you can gain visibility into which users have devices, and which devices are missing or not available for use. Reduce productivity lost due to the inability to find devices, or to devices with dead batteries mid-shift!

Learn More About Zebra Intelligent Cabinets

Contact CSSI to discuss this device storage solution. Our consultants will review your needs and specify a solution perfect for your business.

­LEWISBURG, PA October 20, 2023 — CSSI Technologies, an 11-employee industrial technology firm based in Lewisburg, PA which serves the rapidly expanding warehouse and distribution sector, announced that it has transitioned to new ownership. Company president Joe Tosolt purchased the business from long-time owner Dave Cornelius upon his retirement.

“I am thrilled to be able to carry on the tradition of technology leadership and excellent customer support established by Dave Cornelius in his years of ownership,” said Joe Tosolt, CSSI president and owner. “We will continue to support customers as they empower their edge workers, and improve productivity, inventory accuracy, security, and data availability throughout their organizations.”

Originally founded in 1973 by Ronald Lewis as Computer Support Services Group, Inc., the company was acquired in 1978 by Dave Cornelius and Del Ritter. The firm achieved success selling rapidly evolving computer hardware, software, and business forms, earning a spot in the Inc 5000 in 2007. With additional partner Tom Erickson, the company later developed Core Integrator, a successful accounts payable automation software package. Core Integrator was split off as an independent company in 2018.

Today CSSI Technologies LLC provides 3 business lines: 1) Rugged mobile computing and data capture technologies such as barcoding and RFID, which empower edge workers and improve business efficiency; 2) Support and service for Microsoft Dynamics GP accounting software, and 3) Custom programming services. While the company originally focused on the Pennsylvania market and continues to serve many leading regional companies, today the customer base is increasingly national in scope.

Tosolt is a Pennsylvania native and Lehigh University MBA, and formerly the CEO of Innovative Office Products LLC in Easton, PA. He will continue to operate with the same experienced staff from the company headquarters in Lewisburg, PA.

About CSSI Technologies LLC
CSSI Technologies LLC (https://cssi.com/) boosts business productivity with the smart integration of auto ID, mobile computing, and business software. Founded in 1973 as a datacenter for accounting software, CSSI has evolved to offer a complementary range of services which include: Barcoding and Mobility Solutions, Custom Software Development, sales & support for Microsoft Dynamics GP, and Microsoft analytics software. From headquarters in Lewisburg, PA, CSSI supports customers across the United States.

It has now been several years since Microsoft decided to exit the mobile operating system business, and several years since end-of-support for Windows Mobile/CE occurred. While there has been a massive amount of development of rugged mobile devices utilizing the Android OS, and while market adoption has been significant, it is true that more than half of mobile devices still in use are running the obsolete Windows OS options.

Is your company seeded with outdated handhelds running Windows Mobile/CE? We’ve outlined below a number of the risks to your business, and also outline why migration to Android may be much easier than you think.

The Risks of Using Windows Mobile or Windows CE Devices in 2023

Using older mobile computers with the Windows Mobile or Windows CE operating system in 2023 poses several risks and challenges for companies. These legacy systems may have served well in the past, but they are increasingly outdated and can hinder a business’s ability to operate efficiently and securely in the modern digital landscape. Here are some of the key risks companies face when using older Windows Mobile/CE devices in 2023:

1. Security Vulnerabilities

Perhaps the most critical risk is the heightened vulnerability to security threats. Microsoft has officially ended support for both Windows Mobile and Windows CE, meaning that there are no longer any security updates or patches for these operating systems. This leaves devices running on these platforms susceptible to malware, viruses, and other cyberattacks. With the ever-evolving threat landscape, using unsupported software can be a major liability. Now out of support for several years, devices using Win Mobile/CE are increasingly threats to your IT security.

2. Limited Support and Repairs

Your rugged devices endure some rough handling, and accidents happen. Device downtime can mean lost productivity and fewer units available for workers. At this point, most Windows Mobile/CE devices are no longer produced or supported by manufacturers, meaning that support plans have ended and replacement parts are near impossible to find. As these devices become increasingly rare and obsolete, companies may face longer downtime in case of hardware failures, leading to disruptions in business operations.

3. Limited Features and Functionality

Older mobile computers running Windows Mobile/CE lack many of the features and functionalities available on modern devices. This can limit the ability to take advantage of new technologies, such as advanced sensors, improved cameras, and augmented reality, which can be valuable in various industries.

4. Reduced Productivity

Outdated mobile devices typically lack the performance and features of their modern counterparts. Slow processing speeds, limited memory, and outdated hardware can result in reduced productivity for employees who rely on these devices for daily tasks. This can lead to delays in operations and decreased overall efficiency.

5. Employee Frustration

Newer employees who are used to modern smartphones and tablets may find it frustrating to work with outdated and clunky Windows Mobile/CE devices. This dissatisfaction can impact morale and employee retention, particularly among younger workers who are accustomed to intuitive, user-friendly interfaces.

6. Decreased Competitiveness

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, companies that rely on outdated technology risk falling behind their competitors who have embraced modern mobile platforms. Being unable to adapt to changing market conditions and customer expectations can put a company at a significant disadvantage.

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Android: What’s Holding You Back?

Warehousing and Manufacturing IT professionals may understandably have limited experience with the Android OS, and often have questions. The CSSI team has extensive experience in working through and addressing these concerns. Here are some of the frequent questions and concerns:

1. Is Android Secure?

In recent years, Android has made significant strides in bolstering its security features. The platform now offers robust security options such as file encryption, device management, and remote wipe capabilities. Android Enterprise, a set of tools designed for business use, provides comprehensive security solutions, including zero-touch provisioning and containerization of work-related data. This ensures that sensitive information remains protected even on employee-owned devices. It should also stay top of mind that Windows Mobile/CE is no longer supported or patched and thus is not a secure alternative.

2. Does Android have security updates?

Android’s development cycle involves frequent updates and enhancements, ensuring that your devices stay current with the latest features and security patches. Manufacturers and software developers are committed to providing long-term support for Android devices, reducing the risk of obsolescence. In contrast, Windows Mobile and Windows CE have been largely phased out, leaving companies vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues.

3. Are there acceptable product options?

Android’s popularity has led to a wide variety of affordable hardware options. Whether you need ruggedized devices for fieldwork or sleek, modern tablets for point-of-sale systems, there is an Android device to suit your budget and requirements. This affordability extends to maintenance and repairs as well, reducing the total cost of ownership compared to Windows Mobile/CE devices.

4. Can Android handle telnet / terminal emulation?

Yes, absolutely. CSSI can demonstrate for you how you not only can rapidly migrate your TE screens to Android, but we can help you go even further by implementing time-saving shortcuts and the ability to take advantage of your touch screen.

5. What if software needs to be rewritten?

CSSI offers custom development services, and is available to discuss the migration of your custom software to an Android environment.

Contact CSSI to discuss Migrating from Windows Mobile/CE to Android Devices

Contact the Android and mobile device experts at CSSI to set up a demonstration of the power that modern mobile devices can bring to your operations and warehouse teams, while creating a secure environment that can help IT sleep better at night!

What are ready-to-use indicators?

Ready-to-use indicators are small cards which contain temperature-sensitive areas which provide a visual signal triggered by environmental conditions. For example, a mark may change color if the temperature exceeds a certain threshold, or a different mark may appear if freezing conditions have been encountered. Indicator cards are available in various configurations, each intended to provide useful information in certain shipment workflows.

Ready to use indicators are one of several varieties of environmental sensors available from CSSI which prevent the consumption of unsafe foods or medicine. End-users benefit from improved confidence in the quality of the items received, and thereby improve their opinion of your brand.

What types of ready-to-use indicators are available?

Indicators are available in a variety of configurations, each intended to report on specific environmental situations:

1. Heat indicators
2. Freeze indicators
3. Shipment temperature indicators
4. Food temperature indicators
5. Blood temperature indicators

This indicator cards require no batteries or power. They work through the application of certain chemicals or inks which are affected by temperature. CSSI is able to help you find or specify the right type of indicator for your application.

What are great applications for ready-to-use indicators?

Ready-to-use indicators are ideal for situations where you need to provide assurance that acceptable temperature ranges are maintained for items during shipping or handling, particularly if there is a high volume of such items which make the cost per unit important. These indicator cards are disposable and inexpensive, so they are suited for one-way trips and customer shipments. Indicators are great for all situations where you need to ensure that food or medicine is properly handled after it leaves your direct control.

Some typical applications might include:

• Shipment of frozen food
• Shipment of temperature-sensitive food or medicine
• Handling of blood samples for which proper temperatures must be maintained

Contact CSSI to discuss ready-to-use indicators

Complete the form to connect with CSSI for a conversation on ready-to-use indicators. We are able to provide you with samples for testing, and ensure that you specify the right type of card for your application.

CSSI is a Reliable Source for Quality Labels & Print Supplies

Honeywell recently announced that it was closing its print supplies business effective in Q2, 2024. Honeywell has been a long-time significantly supplier of labels, tags, and print supplies, so this announcement means that many companies will have to find new suppliers for these items. In particular, companies which have custom or specialized labels and tags will need to act quickly to ensure that samples from new supplies can be qualified.

The last day to place an order for products is November 17, 2023. Full Honeywell media closure will occur by Q2 2024. We recommend planning ahead to avoid supply shortages.

For any current CSSI customers affected by this change, CSSI is already working on alternate supplies for any Honeywell products you source through us, and we have likely already been in touch with you. Our team will be contacting you to discuss alternative suppliers and arrange any necessary testing with you. We will then work with you through the transition to the new supplier.

CSSI Is a Print Supplies Expert

CSSI has years of experience providing thermal printers as well as labels and print supplies. We have always worked with a range of the industry’s top consumables suppliers. If you are in need of a reliable source for supplies due to the Honeywell media closure, please contact us to review options for labels, tags, receipt media, wristbands, ribbons, and more.

In an age where the global pharmaceutical industry is expanding and becoming increasingly complex, ensuring the safety and integrity of the drug supply chain has become a paramount concern. To address these concerns, the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA) was enacted, aiming to enhance the security and traceability of prescription drugs across the United States. This article delves into the key aspects of the DCSA, its implementation, benefits, and the preparedness required from drug manufacturers and pharmacists.

The November 2023 compliance deadline is rapidly approaching, so now is the time to take action to ensure your compliance.

1. What is the Drug Supply Chain Security Act, or DCSA?

The Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA) is a piece of legislation signed into law by the United States Congress in 2013 as part of the Drug Quality and Security Act. The primary objective of the DCSA is to establish a comprehensive system for tracing and verifying the authenticity of prescription drugs as they move through the supply chain, from manufacturers to patients.

2. Why is the DCSA being implemented?

The implementation of the DCSA is a response to the growing threat of counterfeit, adulterated, and stolen pharmaceutical products infiltrating the legitimate drug supply chain. These illicit activities not only jeopardize patient safety but also undermine the integrity of the pharmaceutical industry. By implementing the DCSA, the government aims to ensure that patients receive safe and effective medications while maintaining the credibility of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

3. When is the DCSA being implemented, and who is affected by it?

The DCSA implementation occurred in phases, with full compliance expected by 2023. The act impacts all entities involved in the distribution of prescription drugs, including manufacturers, wholesalers, repackagers, and dispensers. This encompasses a wide range of stakeholders, from large pharmaceutical corporations to local pharmacies, all of whom must adhere to the new regulations to maintain compliance.

4. What are the five top benefits of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA)?

Enhanced Patient Safety

The DCSA’s robust traceability system allows for rapid identification and mitigation of potentially unsafe or counterfeit drugs, minimizing the risks to patient health.

Improved Supply Chain Traceability

The act mandates the use of unique identifiers and barcodes, enabling stakeholders to track products at every step of the supply chain, reducing the likelihood of diversion or counterfeit products entering the market.

Efficient Recalls

In the event of a product recall, the DCSA facilitates swift and accurate identification of affected lots, helping manufacturers and distributors remove potentially harmful products from circulation more effectively.

Reduced Counterfeit Drugs

The DCSA’s stringent requirements make it harder for counterfeiters to infiltrate the supply chain, thereby protecting both patients and the industry from the detrimental effects of counterfeit drugs.

Preservation of Industry Integrity

By establishing a transparent and secure supply chain, the DCSA maintains consumer trust in pharmaceutical products and the businesses that produce and distribute them.

5. What do Drug Manufacturers and Pharmacists need to do to comply with the DCSA?

Both drug manufacturers and pharmacists play pivotal roles in ensuring compliance with the DCSA. Manufacturers are required to affix product identifiers, such as serial numbers and barcodes, on individual drug packages. They must also provide transaction information, history, and statements to wholesale distributors, ensuring the traceability of products.

Pharmacists, on the other hand, need to verify the legitimacy of drug products before dispensing them to patients. They should be well-versed in handling serialized drug packages and understanding the transaction history associated with the products they dispense. Training and education are crucial for pharmacists to seamlessly integrate DCSA requirements into their daily operations.

6. How can CSSI help with DCSA compliance?

DCSA compliance will require both manufacturers and pharmacies to have reliable, quality barcode scanners or RFID readers on hand. CSSI is the leading source for scanner guns and RFID systems from top manufacturers such as Zebra Technologies. Not just a source for equipment, CSSI can assist you in configuring, deploying, and maintaining these devices throughout their lifecycle.

CSSI can also provide quality barcode label printers and label stock to enable on-demand printing of product labels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Drug Supply Chain Security Act represents a significant stride towards safeguarding the pharmaceutical supply chain and patient well-being. By mandating stricter traceability and accountability measures, the DCSA brings numerous benefits, from heightened patient safety to industry-wide integrity. Manufacturers and pharmacists must proactively familiarize themselves with the requirements of the act to ensure a seamless transition to a more secure and trustworthy drug supply chain. As the DCSA continues to roll out, its positive impacts on patient health and the pharmaceutical industry’s reputation are poised to be realized.

Contact CSSI for DCSA compliance help

To discuss your needs for Drug Supply Chain Security Act compliance, please contact CSSI

Special Alert: Customer Challenges When Implementing Android 11 Devices

CSSI Technologies has recently encountered numerous customers who have run into major challenges when attempting to deploy mobile computers running Android 11. These customers discover that applications which have worked with prior versions of Android suddenly will not function.

This problem can occur either when attempting to deploy newly purchased Android 11 devices, or even when older devices return from a manufacturer repair depot upgraded to Android 11, as commonly occurs.

Even if you have not yet upgraded to Android 11 devices, this issue is still relevant to you… because you will face it when you eventually upgrade.

The Android 11 Problem

The root issue results from Google’s implementation of ‘scoped storage’. This is a security measure which changes the way apps can store and access files on a device, with the goal of protecting the privacy of app and user data. Scoped storage was originally introduced with Android 10, but new enhancements delivered with Android 11 enforce greater data protection and have played havoc with some companies’ operations.

Typical issues and questions associated with an Android 11 / scoped storage issue:

1. Why won’t my provisioning barcodes work on my Android 11 devices?
2. Why are my device’s configurations no longer working on my Android 11 devices?
3. Why are my MDM deployment packages not working on my Android devices?
4. Why won’t my WMS application work on my Android 11 devices.
5. What new firmware works with my current applications?

Scoped storage is a new Android reality and will be present in future OS versions. So, companies which might skip Android 11 will still encounter it in 12 or 13.

Working the Scoped Storage Problem With CSSI

The CSSI team has recently worked with numerous companies to solve the scoped storage challenge. We have developed a number of configuration and upgrade methodologies which have enabled customers to get back up and running. We are well-prepared to help you resolve your own Android 11 issues.

Consider the following recent case study…

Case Study – Android 11 Fixed

A major industrial manufacturer with a broadly distributed fleet of mobile devices managed with SOTI MobiControl (MDM) asked CSSI for help. Device configurations had been stable for some time, but when attempting to deploy new handhelds, critical applications would suddenly not work. CSSI researched the issue and determined that it was caused by configurations which would not work under Android 11, the OS installed on the recently purchased devices.

CSSI’s technical team examined the customer’s deployment environment and designed Zebra StageNow and SOTI MobiControl profiles which successfully worked around the issue. This customer is now able to run Android 11 devices side by side with devices on older versions of Android and is prepared for future Android updates as well.

Contact CSSI To Prepare for Android 11

Whether you are already experiencing issues, or are planning to upgrade to new devices, you are welcome to contact CSSI to discuss your configuration. We can help you to determine what issues you will experience with Android 11 and develop a plan to proactively resolve the problem. To learn more, please contact CSSI Technologies.

As of May 2023, Zebra has discontinued support for its long-time workhorse Xi4 industrial printer. This means that support and replacement parts are no longer available. If you are one of the many companies utilizing the Xi4, it’s time to update to a newer model so that you don’t risk unplanned downtime.

Best Upgrade Option for Zebra Xi4

Our recommended upgrade option for the Xi4 is the ZT600 family of industrial printers. The ZT600 is packed with Zebra’s latest innovations and brings the performance and durability you require to support your label printing operations. With the help of Zebra’s trade-in program, you can also save up to $350 per printer when you upgrade!

Contact CSSI to Demo the ZT600 Series

Please complete the form at right to setup your demo of the powerful ZT600 series printers. CSSI is able to assist your upgrade process with our Zebra product line expertise and money-saving Zebra trade-in rebates which are available if you act soon.

Opportunities & Challenges of Wearables in the Warehouse

Warehouse leaders searching for productivity gains and operational efficiency are increasingly turning to the wearable computer and products such as Zebra WS50 wearable computer due to significant increases in worker output. To learn more about the specific benefits of this technology, check out our related article on the top 6 ways wearables can improve warehouse productivity .

However, wearable computers also require some advance thought and planning. How will workflows need to change, and are there software updates necessary to effectively use the wearable devices?

Zebra WS50 – How To Make the Most of a Smaller Screen

The Zebra WS50 wearable computer is revolutionary in that it is not just a wrist mount or hand mount barcode scanner… the WS50 is a fully functional Android mobile computer. The benefit is that the user does not need to carry 2 devices – you gain single device simplicity – even allowing for communication capabilities. However, in order to take full advantage of the WS50, the company must adapt its software to fit on the smaller screen.

Good news, particularly if your company utilizes telnet/TE and ‘green screens’ on your mobile computer devices… you have a significant opportunity to make multiple workflow and interface improvements. Here’s a demo of the Zebra WS50 running TE workflows, but presenting a full-color touch interface specifically designed for the small screen:

Customizing Telnet Screens for the Zebra Technologies WS50

Which of the screens below are more user friendly, and more adapted to the requirements of a wearable computer user? Many companies are reluctant to upgrade these screens because of the time and expense required to upgrade back-end systems such as the AS/400.

However, CSSI can change device interfaces with no impact whatsoever to the back-end system! Our solution resides entirely on the mobile device itself.

The true power is unlocked when steps and keystrokes can be removed from a workflow with intelligent mobile screens. The result is reduction of wasted motion, improved user ergonomics, fewer errors, and faster training!

Contact CSSI to Discuss the Zebra WS50 Wearable Computer

The WS50 is much more than a ring scanner. It can improve task worker output and boost your operational efficiency. Set up your personal demo of the WS50 and discuss CSSI’s ability to customize mobile screens for your business. We would be happy to arrange a demo unit for you to try in your operation. Please contact us to get started today.

Reduce Training Time and Improve Productivity in Multi-Lingual Warehouses

Warehouses which utilize mobile devices running telnet/TE (the ‘green screen’) have for some time been able to take advantage of CSSI’s screen modernization capabilities, which enable users to take convert old-style green screens to modern touch-sensitive screens without touching complex back-end systems.

Now, we can take it even further… warehouses are diverse work environments. In many businesses, non-english or non-native-english speakers comprise a majority of employees. This complicates training, slows down workers, and has quality control implications.

CSSI can create alternate sets of screens which enable your workers to interact in their preferred language… and this can be done without impacting your back-end systems!

Imagine how much easier it would be to onboard non-native english speaking employees if they were able to interact with handheld computers in their native language!

Here are some side-by-side examples of english/spanish screens. We can customize your screens to suit your preferences and needs:

Contact CSSI to discuss the possibilities unlocked by screen modernization and multi-lingual screen tools.