What Is Wi-Fi 6? An Overview

Have you heard about Wi-Fi 6 and Wi Fi 6e, also known as ‘AX’, or 802.11ax? It’s the next Wi Fi standard, and it is in the process of rolling out now. While there are several exciting benefits to this new standard, the headline is that Wi-Fi 6 enables rapid continuing growth in the number of IOT devices connecting to each network access point.

Wi-Fi 6 is not so much about boosting the connection speed of an individual device, but rather, being able to accommodate a multiple devices connecting simultaneously . As increasing number of mobile devices are introduced in facilities, and particularly as IOT devices begin to proliferate, there will be a massive demand placed upon networks. Wi-Fi 6 is designed to make this possible.

This is less of a one-time speed increase and more of a future-facing upgrade designed to make sure our speeds don’t grind to a halt a few years down the road.

This is less of a one-time speed increase and more of a future-facing upgrade designed to make sure our speeds don’t grind to a halt a few years down the road.

Source: The Verge – Wi-fi 6: is it really that much faster?

If you are only connecting a few devices to your Wi Fi network, Wi-Fi 6 will not provide much benefit. However, as the number of devices continues to expand (perhaps exponentially as IOT grows), the network performance will be improved dramatically.

9 Potential Benefits of Wi-Fi 6 For the Warehouse

As discussed in the recommended article “ Ask the expert: Will Wi-fi 6 really give me enough coverage long-term for all my connected devices and IOT applications? ,” there are 9 potential benefits to Wi-Fi 6. Some of these factors may be more or less relevant to you, depending on your use case and the dynamics of your environment:

1. Higher data rates and faster speed
2. Better resource allocation
3. Improved uplink performance
4. Lower latency
5. Better 2.4 GHz support
6. Improved cell density and network efficiency
7. Improved power management – the ‘target wake time’ feature enables connection times to be pre-scheduled with devices requiring only intermittent connection.
8. Improved range for low-rate devices
9. Improved security – WPA3 is required, not optional as on current routers.

Timing For Wi-Fi 6 Rollout In The Warehouse

You can buy a Wi Fi 6 router today, although selection is still limited. Your ability to take full advantage of this new wireless network standard is limited however by the limited availability of WiFi 6 devices. However, this will change rapidly in the months ahead, as new ‘Wi-Fi 6-ready’ devices begin to enter the market and WiFi router options improve. Now is a great time to learn more about this new WiFi technology, and analyze the potential benefits to your organization. If you are in the process of upgrading your Wi Fi network, it is worth considering making the jump to Wi-Fi 6 capability so that you are ready when new devices become available.

One point which is good to know is that Wi-Fi technology allows ‘mixed infrastructure’, which allows you to upgrade your devices incrementally. So you might consider starting to purchase Wi Fi 6e devices as older ones die.

Learn More About Upgrading Your Warehouse To Wi-Fi 6

Would you like to explore upgrading your warehouse to Wi-Fi 6 / 6E, or have questions about Wi Fi technology in general? Or would you like to learn about rugged mobile computers capable of supporting this new standard? Contact CSSI today to speak with our WiFi device experts.

Zebra DS3678-KD Offers Rugged Performance With the Versatility of a Keypad and Color Display

Zebra Technologies continues its path of innovation with the release of the Zebra DS3678 rugged scanner, which extends functionality well beyond that of prior generation scanners. As a certified Zebra business partner , CSSI possesses expertise in Zebra products which enables us to help you boost workforce productivity in the world’s toughest environments.

Part of Zebra’s ultra-rugged family, the new DS3678-KD barcode scanner combines unstoppable performance with the versatility of a keypad and color display. Everyday picking, inventory and replenishment tasks can be completed faster and more accurately, as workers can easily key in data, such as adding quantity and location to any scanned barcode. If workers need to pick or ring up multiple quantities, they simply need to scan the item once, then key in the quantity on the keypad.

The ergonomic keypad is designed for easy one-handed operation, while the color display offers the modern and intuitive experience that today’s users expect. There are even five pre-built applications are ready to use right out of the box – CSSI can support you in developing further unique barcode scanning applications for your operation.

DS3678-KD is Packed With Features

Built for your toughest environments, the nearly indestructible cordless DS3678-KD is dust proof, waterproofed to IP65/IP68, can be hosed down and survive 10 ft./3 m drops to concrete. Workers can capture virtually any 1D or 2D barcode, even damaged and dirty barcodes, as fast as they can pull the trigger, from as far as 7 ft./2.1 m away. And that’s not all. This versatile scanner captures photos, intelligently de-skews and optimizes images, automatically parses GS1 label data and captures up to 20 barcodes in a single scan. The PowerPrecision+ battery can power the longest, toughest shifts – capturing over 60,000 barcodes per charge. Zebra’s Virtual Tether helps prevent downtime caused by a misplaced handheld scanner. The AutoConfig cradle lets you instantly switch workflows without having to manually change scanner settings. And Zebra’s unrivaled tools make staging and everyday management easier than ever.

Zebra 3600 Series Highlights

• Ultra Rugged Design – Takes more of a beating over a longer period of time, even in punishing environments. Avoid unplanned production line downtime and maximize staff productivity.
• Scan Range – Scans bar codes faster, and from standard range or extended range, with greater accuracy and lightning fast capture and unmatched scanning performance
• Enterprise-Grade & Unrivaled Manageability- Deploy faster and manage more efficiently across the enterprise
• Cordless – take it where you need it

Ideal Use Cases for the Zebra DS3678 Rugged Scanner

• Warehousing
• Cold Storage
• Outdoor Yards and Ports
• Manufacturing

To arrange a demo of the Zebra DS3678-KD, or to discuss your ultra rugged scanner challenges, contact CSSI by completing the form at right.

More Warehouse Speed For Less

Warehouse operations are booming, and challenged as never before with higher volumes and the need for faster processes. If outdated devices such as mobile computers and barcode scanners are slowing your team down, it’s a great time to upgrade to modern Android rugged devices and the latest scanners, all jam-packed with innovative new features. Or imagine how a powerful new Zebra printer can accelerate your operating productivity ( Learn how CSSI helped a high-volume warehouse adopt new technology and accelerate productivity).

Trade-In Cash For Old Devices

CSSI’s mobile technology partner Zebra Technologies offers a flexible and attractive trade-in program which allows you to earn cash back for trade in of your old devices such as handhelds, scanners, and even label printers. The program is open for trade-in of both Zebra’s eligible products as well as comparable competitive products:

• Barcode scanners
• Mobile device / mobile computer
• Label printer / barcode printer

Upgrading from Windows Devices?

Are you currently using handhelds running outdated Windows Mobile technology? CSSI is an expert in supporting migration to Android . We make it painless, and can demonstrate to you how simple the process can be. In many cases, we can make the transition with minimal end-user training.

Go Zebra Trade-In Details

CSSI can guide you through your rebate claims related to the Zebra trade-in program 2021. Contact us today to discuss, and learn how Zebra’s powerful printers and cutting-edge mobile computers can impact your business!

CSSI Technologies is pleased to announce that it will exhibit at MX2021, the York region’s only business expo for manufacturing. Sponsored by MASCPA (the Manufacturer’s Association of South Central PA), MX2021 will provide a way for manufacturer’s to connect with supply chain and operational experts such as CSSI. At the expo, CSSI will be available to discuss solutions for data capture, mobile computing, and video surveillance and security solutions.

MX2021 Manufacturer’s Expo will be held:
Wednesday August 25
10am – 2pm
York Revolutions Stadium, 5 Brooks Robinson Way, York PA

To learn more about the event, please click here.

When Dutch Valley Food Distributors was confronted with picking challenges and and aging fleet of mobile computers, it turned to CSSI Technologies for help. CSSI is pleased to announce that the ensuing project has been recognized by industry leader Zebra Technologies as a true success story!

In the Success Story write-up below, Zebra details how CSSI led Dutch Valley Food’s team through a successful technology upgrade. In addition to the upgrade of mobile computers, this project also presents a great example of CSSI’s Device Lifecycle Management program, through which CSSI removes the burden of device management, updating, and provisioning from the customer.

“Training was easy for our workers based on the seamless transition made possible by CSSI… We flattened the learning curve to the point where we had almost no resistance to changing to a new device.”

Dutch Valley Foods IT Specialist

Don’t miss our case study on CSSI’s implementation of Android handheld computers at Dutch Valley Foods in order to solve picking challenges and reduce IT workload.

To learn more about how CSSI can support your company in modernizing warehouse technology and upgrading scanners and handheld computers, contact us today.

The rate at which mobile computing and printing technology advances continues to accelerate. This pace of innovation puts at risk companies which delay investing in business equipment which maximizes productivity and reduced cost. However, expensive investments can be hard on cash flow… luckily, this is one business area where astute finance strategy can directly benefit the business.

Equipment leasing is a ‘have your cake and eat it too’ strategy. Instead of laying out large sums of cash for new equipment, your business can use a technology leasing program to gain immediate access to cutting edge tech. Protect your balance sheet, while gaining operational improvements.

See Our Quick Explainer Video On the Benefits of Equipment Leasing

Companies Confront Challenges in Refreshing Tech Equipment

There are common difficulties companies face when contemplating a major technology refresh. Available cash, working capital, and the ability to fit the purchase within a capital budget are often the largest issues. Fortunately, the financing option can resolve these issues for you.

How Do You Benefit From a Capital Lease?

There are many benefits to a leasing program. Some of these include:

• Don’t delay essential and strategic investments in new mobile computing, scanning, or printing technologies which can provide immediate benefits to your business
• Don’t parcel out equipment acquisitions over years in order to minimize cash impact – get the benefit of a complete tech refresh immediately
• Pay your monthly payment out of operating cash flow instead of tying up precious cash in the equipment asset.
• You may be able to classify the monthly payment as an operating expense, and keep the leased equipment off your balance sheet (check with your accountant).
• Tie the capital lease term together with the useful life of the product, and upgrade to cutting edge tech upon lease expiration.

Never A Better Time For Equipment Financing?

Leasing equipment has become a standard practice for many leading companies. Options for equipment financing have become increasingly friendly to the business owner or lessee.

• A historically low interest rate environment translates to lower monthly payments. Obviously, lower payments translate to improved operating cash flow.
• The typical equipment lease agreement is easy and fast to execute – leasing transactions can be executed almost as fast as a traditional cash equipment purchase.
• The lease period will match up closely with the typical usage of the technology leased. This sets you up to stay current with technology improvements rather than falling behind with wholly-owned equipment.
• Choose from a fair market value or dollar buy-out leasing option.

Equipment Leasing Company Recommendations

Whether you are a large corporation or small business owner, CSSI can connect you with a lender experienced in technology finance for business equipment, many of whom coordinate with each equipment vendor used by CSSI. This will lead to a faster and smoother leasing process.

Contact CSSI using the form at right to discuss an operating lease today.

Special In-Person Lunch & Learn Event

CSSI Technologies is pleased to announce a special in-person lunch & learn event on June 17 at our Lewisburg office with a representative from Verkada. The Verkada expert will demo, explain, and answer any of your questions about this remarkable product line.

What Does Verkada Offer?

Are you frustrated with out-of-date, difficult to use video surveillance equipment or access controls? Verkada offers a cutting edge line of equipment packed with next-generation features!

• Cloud video surveillance – Verkada’s remarkable cameras are powered by just 1 cable (power over ethernet), and provide powerful AI search capabilities, incredible storage, and the ability to easily search historical footage.
• Access controls – improve your level of access control, and easily trigger alerts or make access changes.
• Environmental sensors – detect air particulates, vaping, temperature and more, and easily access and trigger alerts through Verkada’s cloud-based software.

Details:

We hope you can join us in person at CSSI for a close-up demo of the incredible Verkada product line.

When: Thursday Jun 17
Time: 11:00am – 1:00pm
Where: CSSI Technologies, 145 North 15th St., Lewisburg, PA

The event date is now passed — but you can complete the form at right to discuss Verkada video surveillance with a CSSI rep.

CSSI Technologies is pleased to become a member of MASCPA, the Manufacturer’s Association of South Central PA. MASCPA is a partner and advocate for manufacturing, production, and logistics in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

With over 350 members, this organization provides a wealth of training, networking, and learning opportunities for manufacturers within its growing territory. As a VAR and integrator specializing in technologies for data capture and printing in manufacturing and warehousing environments, CSSI looks forward to offering its insights and expertise to MASCPA members.

To learn how CSSI can support your organization, please contact us.

Zero Touch Provisioning For Android Enterprise Devices

Manual provisioning of new corporate owned Android devices can be time-consuming for your IT staff, and bears the risk of setup errors as well as significant difficulty in maintaining a standard configuration. CSSI is much more than a device reseller – we are your technology partner, ready to assist you in deploying as well as maintaining devices throughout their lifecycle.

Zero Touch Deployment – CSSI Provisioning

We created zero touch deployment in order to solve a problem – our customers were challenged by unfamiliarity with Android, and unpreparedness to manage the rapidly changing Android OS on each corporate owned device. By offering device management and deployment support, CSSI’s mobile device experts take the burden off your internal IT team. Your mobile devices arrive at your facility ready to deploy to each user right out of the box!

With our Android zero touch deployment, you can say goodbye to:

• Complex and slow new device distribution processes
• Laborious manual device configuration
• Lack of attention paid to lifecycle management – applying updates and patches as necessary

CSSI provides varying levels of deployment support, ranging from assistance in establishing enterprise configuration standards, to zero touch provisioning of devices, to complete management of each managed device throughout its lifecycle.

Contact us to learn about supported devices, how we can help you to create a default configuration, what capabilities we have each device manufacturer, and the benefits of employing an MDM solution (mobile device management).

Click to learn more about how CSSI can support you with:

• CSSI Device Lifecycle Management
• CSSI Android Device Provisioning

Upgrade Your Barcode Scanning Power

Upgrade your scanning power with CSSI and rugged, enterprise-grade barcode scanners from Zebra. Don’t struggle to keep your inventory count updated with out-of-date scanning technology. CSSI can pair you with the latest easy-to-use scanners offered by industry leader Zebra Technologies.

Select Features of Zebra Barcode Scanners

• Capture multiple barcodes at once – reduce scanning effort and for your users
• Wifi-friendly mode – keep your wireless scanners connected and your workers productive regardless of where they roam in your facility
• 50% more battery capacity – keep the team active on the floor with scanners which last an entire shift

CSSI Technologies is the leading supplier and integrator of rugged barcode scanners, mobile computers, tablets, and printers. We’d be happy to consult with you to help you determine your best options for reliable data capture. Contact us to start today.