Valuable Service Contract Extension On New Honeywell Equipment Purchases
CSSI is pleased to announce a 2021 Honeywell trade-in program… when purchasing qualifying new technology from Honeywell, you can trade in old hardware and receive valuable service contract extension on your new device.
Why Update Your Technology?
Mobile computers: Windows has ended support for the Windows Mobile & Windows CE mobile operating systems. A new generation of Honeywell handhelds run on the superior Android OS, and are packed with new features such as improved battery life, better scanners, and faster performance. Improve warehouse worker productivity and performance with the latest mobile computers.
Barcode scanners: Honeywell’s latest scanners are faster, more accurate, and more rugged than ever before.
Label printers: Honeywell’s printers continue to provide cutting-edge features and rugged design.
Several Product Categories Qualify for a Trade-In Incentive
Contact your CSSI account rep to learn more. Our company is a platinum Honeywell partner, and well-positioned to help you navigate updating your mobile device fleet, scanners, or printers.
Ease your path to new handhelds, scanners, and printers with technology leasing
Are you ready to update to the latest technology, but need to preserve your working capital? Equipment leasing can provide the solution. Instead of tying up large amounts of cash flow in new mobile computers, barcode scanners, or label printers, you can set up a reasonable monthly lease payment which enables you to achieve your technology refresh fast!
CSSI can help facilitate your technology leasing solution…
Technology Leasing Can Accommodate
New equipment purchases, such as mobile computers, handheld scanners, vehicle-mounted computers, and thermal label printers. Most all of the new technology supported by CSSI qualifies for equipment leases.
Services and maintenance contracts to support that equipment.
Rebates Up To $250 Available For New Zebra Device Purchases
CSSI is pleased to announce ‘Go Zebra’ 2021, a program which allows you to trade in an outdated mobile computer, barcode scanners, or an older thermal label printer and receive a valuable rebate towards the purchase of new devices. Boost productivity, migrate to a modern Android mobile computer, and get all the benefits of a reliable new Zebra printer.
Vehicle mounted computers such as the VC8300 or VC80
Barcode scanners such as the DS3608 standard range scanner
Thermal printer such as the ZT600 or a mobile printer such as the ZQ600
Replacement device batteries
Effectively:
We buy barcode scanners so you can upgrade
We buy mobile computers so you can upgrade
We buy back label printers so you can upgrade
Qualifying Trade?
Don’t settle for outdated technology and legacy devices. If you are updating a fleet of eligible products, you can receive sizable rebates. Zebra’s eligible products for trade include competitor devices.
Contact your CSSI account rep to check whether your mobile device or older thermal printer is a qualifying product to trade-in, and get started today. We can assist with your application.
CSSI partner Zebra Technologies has launched a line of electronic temperature sensors which represent a step forward for any application which requires evidence of temperature maintenance. Examples include:
This new Zebra sensor solution has 3 major points of improvement over existing sensor products:
Bluetooth connectivity – access data faster, without having to open packages or containers. Allows you to quickly determine temperature with less effort and without losing cold or heat.
Cloud-enabled – Automate data uploads to the cloud to provide data accessibility and easier reporting.
Customizable – configure sensors and alerts to fit your application needs.
The Edge temperature sensors feature a unique design with integrated mobile connectivity (via Bluetooth), and are perfect for monitoring temperature-sensitive items throughout the cold chain. Temperatures can be monitored without opening boxes or cases.
A family of sensors for every need
A variety of sensors are available to suit various applications:
EDGE S-400 – non replaceable 12-month battery, and temperature range of -30 to 70 celsius.
EDGE M-300 – watertight IP67 housing, replaceable battery, and temperature range of -40 to 85 celsius
EDGE M-300-P – similar to EDGE M-300, but with an external probe accommodating temperature range of -200 to 200 celsius.
Bluetooth sensors enable access through packing materials
It’s no longer necessary to make a physical USB connection in order to access sensor data. Zebra provides Bluetooth sensors, which let you monitor and record data through packing materials, containers, vehicles, cold-chain equipment and temperature-controlled rooms. This convenience makes it easier for users to quickly view temperature data without opening containers, thereby helping to reduce potential for human errors and limiting products’ exposure, which can cause product loss, deterioration of efficacy, and harmful effects to consumers.
Remote access delivered via EDGEVue app and EDGECloud
To round out the product family, Zebra’s EDGEVue app and EDGECloud™ services provide immediate, remote access to device data via the cloud. EDGEVue app enables easy setup, monitoring and tracking of sensors using Android or iOS mobile devices. EDGECloud™ services provide wireless, cloud-based data-sharing, storage, and reporting for compliance or analysis.
Customize temperature sensor settings to suit your needs
Zebra’s electronic temperature sensors are also among the most customizable in the market. Other devices which are preconfigured with monitoring settings require users to purchase different devices for different needs. Zebra devices, however, can be configured for each cold-chain shipment or storage environment, giving users a wide range of options and controls over settings, including start time, reading intervals and alarm limits.
To learn more about electronic temperature sensors, please contact CSSI today.
In your business, do you need to print a variety of high quality color labels on the fly? The Canon LX-D1300 color inkjet printer is up to the task for eye catching packaging labels and barcodes.
In the video below, we take a look at the LX-D1300. It has a small form factor and prints 2″ labels in vivid color. It’s one of several printer options in Canon’s inkjet family.
Canon LX Series of Inkjet Label Printers
The Canon LX series includes 3 printer options:
LX-D1300 – This dye inkjet printer (seen in our video) handles a 2″ label
LX-P1300 – This is a 2″ printer similar to the D1300, but this model uses pigment ink.
LX-D5500 – This dye inkjet printer uses a 4″ label, and is the best choice for larger labels.
Why Choose a Canon Color Label Printer?
There are several core reasons to select a Canon inkjet label printers for quality color labels:
On-demand printing
Canon inkjets eliminate the need to maintain inventory of pre printed labels. Instead, you can print labels as you need them, running different label jobs on the same device. Not only does this lower inventory management costs and reduce label ordering headaches, it also enables you to make label changes on the fly… perfect for businesses which use a variety of different labels!
Inks
Vivid colors produced by the LX series makes your product ‘pop’ on the store shelf! Canon gives you printer options using 2 different ink cartridge types:
Pigment based ink is UV stable, and thus will be more durable over time
Dye based inks offers a more brilliant color
Printer performance
Canon inkjet label printers are tough and ready to support your demanding operating environments. Features include:
High quality labels in vivid color… 1200 dpi resolution
LX-D1300 & LX-P1300 provide a compact label printer to save valuable space — footprint of just 5.3″x9.8″. LX-D5500 is slightly larger at 15.2″ x 22.2″.
Fast performance! LX-D1300 & LX-P1300 prints 4.7″/second. LX-D5500 prints 7.9″/second.
LX-D1300 & LX-P1300 print smaller label dimensions – labels up to 2″ wide on matte or glossy media rolls. LX-D5500 prints up to 4″ wide labels, and can accommodate roll or fan-folded media.
Auto cutter is built in.
Applications
There are a broad variety of applications for color inkjets. Some include product labeling, distribution & logistics labels, retail inventory, barcodes and signage for warehouse applications, and easily customizable coupons. Broadly speaking, packaging applications which would benefit from a sharp color label which can be printed on-demand are a good match. Canon also has card printers available which can be used for ID badges and similar. CSSI can assist you in selecting and procuring the optimal label stock for your printer.
Summary
CSSI’s print experts can help you to choose the correct label printer for quality and affordable color labels. You are no longer obligated to stock pre printed inventory labels and pre printed product labels. To learn more about the best Canon color inkjet label printer for you, speak to CSSI’s print and barcode label experts. We have years of experience supporting print needs in operating environments, and we’d be happy to consult with you on your project.
RFID technology is a powerful tool for achieving real-time inventory or asset visibility in your supply chain. In a well-designed RFID implementation, items will flow through the process, with real-time quantity and location updates made to your systems with minimal human involvement.
One of the challenges in implementing an RFID solution is designing the software logic which will track and record events as you intend. It’s no longer necessary to wait until you’ve made the substantial investment in RFID hardware to begin designing your software solution. CSSI can design RFID software and prove out the solution in advance of RFID hardware installation.
In the video below, we demonstrate an RFID inventory tracking solution in a virtual environment:
This RFID asset tracking solution employs Android mobile computers and Clearstream RFID middleware, along with custom software developed by CSSI. Note that we can import a floor plan to create a visual representation of your site, mark out where RFID readers will be present, and virtually move inventory within the environment to test the software reaction.
By first modeling the RFID software solution in a virtual environment, we can then transfer to an actual physical workspace with confidence, knowing the RFID system logic is sound.
Potential Applications for Radio Frequency Identification:
Asset tracking of high-dollar items
Improved inventory visibility and reduced inventory errors caused by missed barcode scans
Eliminating the need for human participation in each data acquisition event
Reducing lost inventory and improving overall inventory accuracy through an RFID inventory system
A much faster periodic and inventory and asset audit or cycle count
What are the Components of an RFID System?
An RFID system will consist of an RFID tag (active or passive) applied to each pallet or asset, RFID reader (handheld scanner or fixed antennna), RFID middleware, and software such as an RFID inventory management system.
Printheads wear down over time, and print quality suffers. You may think of occasional printhead replacements as a standard cost of business for a direct thermal or thermal transfer printer, but good news… if your business uses Zebra desktop or industrial barcode label printers, CSSI can offer you a cost-saving way around this expense!
Get Replacement Printheads At No Cost
The Zebra Printhead Protection Program allows you to obtain no-cost replacement printheads throughout the life of your Zebra desktop or industrial thermal printer.
Here’s How It Works
Zebra’s print head replacement program is simple:
Speak to your CSSI account rep to determine that your Zebra barcode label printers qualify
Enroll in the program through CSSI
CSSI will work with you to specify high quality Zebra certified labels and ribbons in your label printer
Whenever you need a printhead to be replaced, CSSI will replace it for you at no cost.
Benefits of the Zebra Printhead Protection Program
There are many benefits to the program:
Reduce downtime with longer-lasting printheads which reduce wear on your thermal transfer printer or direct thermal printer
Eliminate unexpected printhead replacement costs
Take advantage of CSSI’s experts as a single source for your label printing needs
Enrollment and support through the program is easy
There are no barcode label order minimums
You don’t need to ship back your Zebra label printer, further reducing downtime
Why Use Genuine Zebra Supplies?
High quality barcode labels and ribbons
Certified Zebra supplies have been thoroughly tested to ensure minimal thermal printhead wear. Also, Zebra labels are reliable, resulting in consistent print quality, fewer bad labels, tears, and misprints.
Service and availability
CSSI can offer you the extremely wide variety of printing supplies and Zebra labels. Custom thermal labels? No problem – we will work with you to design and approve the optimal label for your process. We can even create inventory programs to reduce your label lead times.
Barcode label expertise
CSSI has decades of support in label specification and procurement. Combine that with our partner Zebra’s industry-leading position in barcode and RFID tag printing, and you are putting together a winning team!
How to Enroll
To get started, simply contact your CSSI account rep to discuss Zebra’s printhead protection program.
Are Your Customers Demanding Cold Storage Traceability?
While you may be confident about your system for cold storage traceability, research reveals that only 22% of customers have complete trust in food safety! If you operate a cold storage warehouse, freezer warehouse, or participate in cold chain shipments in any way, this video presents some interesting data.
Today’s complex cold chain logistics can leave a lot of room for costly errors. That’s one reason that 7 out of 10 customers cite food safety as their top concern when purchasing products!
The consequences of poor food traceability can include:
missed compliance
fees
cross-contamination
spoilage of perishable goods
recalls
CSSI Technologies brings you the tools you need to implement a tracebility system for the transparent cold storage warehouse and frozen food chain. We sell and support mobile computers and rugged scanners with a higher operational temperature range, freezer-grade screens, and ergonomic and glove-friendly form factors for employee comfort and productivity.
Contact CSSI to Discuss Implementing a Traceability System for Your Cold Storage Environment
To learn more about how CSSI can assist you in creating transparent cold storage in your operations, please contact us today.
There is a large disparity in the perception of food safety between food industry professionals and consumers. CSSI’s partner Zebra Technologies has produced a data rich white paper which is a must-read for food industry professionals. The 2020 Zebra Food Safety Supply Chain Vision Study is based on surveys with almost 5,000 consumers and 462 industry executives.
2020 Zebra Food Safety Supply Chain Vision Study Download
Complete form above to download.
Are you optimally employing cold chain technologies which ensure food supply traceability? This study will provide insights to guide you. The vision study is packed with useful information which will help provide insights for any food industry supplier.
Some insights from the report include:
Metrics around food safety and consumer trust
Zebra spoke with 4,957 consumers and 462 food producers and supply chain pros. Survey metrics bear out the realization that there is a disconnect in food safety confidence between food producers and the average consumer.
69% of industry decision makers believe the industry can manage food traceability and transparency… but only 35% of consumers agree!
Consumers have low faith in food safety
Food producers are under great pressure to improve speed and efficiency, all while maintaining strict food safety standards and addressing food safety issues which can result from a lack of preventive control. For example, frozen foods must be maintained at acceptable temperatures throughout the global supply chain.
Top 5 Food Safety Concerns
Hygiene of restaurant kitchen staff
Foodborne outbreaks
Illness from contaminated food
Recalls of food and beverages
Hygiene of restaurant wait staff
What are the business consequences of food safety incidents?
Outbreaks of foodborne illness borne from poor food hygiene, food fraud, and contamination can give the entire industry a black eye. The consequences can be financial, reputational, legal, regulatory, and even co-operative if bad actors are shunned. Supply chain transparency and cold chain food traceability can help to improve confidence and reduce food safety incidents.
Confronting the food information challenge
In general, consumer want to know where their food comes from, and a majority feel the industry is not sufficiently transparent about food quality. They expect the food safety professional to play a role in ensuring regulatory compliance in food facilities.
Key technology enablers to build consumer trust in food safety
Thankfully, technologies supported by companies like CSSI exist to address these food chain issues. Areas of benefit include:
Reduce risk through proper handling, transportation, and storage
Tracking of product perishability
Food supply chain optimization
Regulatory compliance with food safety guidelines
Intake management of raw material and ingredients
Greater transparency in the food supply chain and cold chain
Traceability technology investment
Technologies such as barcoding, RFID, freezer grade mobile computers, and software solutions play a role in addressing traceability, food safety, and regulatory compliance. As an example, consider the Zebra MC9300, a rugged freezer-grade handheld suitable for cold storage and challenging food production environments. Food safety risk can be diminished with confidence if a food manufacturer invests in technologies such as these, after consulting with an experienced integrator such as CSSI. 62% of food processing pros and supply chain partners expect to operate more predictively over the next 5 years — 62% increase from today!
Regional findings within the study
This is a global study, with findings from all continents. In North America, the typical food manufacturer or food safety professional trusts food production safety 2.5 times more than the average consumer!
The trust gap: information is power!
With sufficient visibility and access to information, it is possible to improve perceptions and results around the food value chain, while reducing food safety incidents!
How can CSSI Technologies help?
CSSI’s experienced team of integrators can support food producers, freezer warehouses, and cold chain participants in improving operational results. Contact us today to discuss your unique situation.
As we start off a new year in 2021, what does the investment roadmap look like for your company’s tech infrastructure? When it comes to warehouse management and material handling, are you ahead of, or behind, the technology curve in workflow optimization?
While the year is young, it makes sense to benchmark your workflow tech adoption against other companies. According to a new report from Vistage (Technology trends facing business in 2021 and beyond), a few broad trends can be expected:
IT will drive workflow optimization
IT spending clearly varies widely by industry, with the software industry unsurprisingly in the lead. However, it’s worth noting that traditional IT laggard industries such as transportation & logistics, manufacturing, and industrial products are already being impacted by the ‘Amazon effect’, in which consumer expectations have been raised owing to Amazon’s extreme investments in technology enabling it to dramatically improve service levels and throughput. Where does your company stand on IT spend as a percent of total revenue?
CSSI can help: Are you effectively utilizing automatic data capture, mobile computing, barcode scanning, and warehouse management software in your operations?
Digital transformation will be pervasive
In today’s fast paced business day, pen-and-paper processes are slow-moving and error-prone. By migrating from paper to digital, it’s possible to accelerate workflows and reduce errors as well as new employee training time. CSSI offers a range of tools to help you rapidly move to digital. Speak to your CSSI rep about custom programming options which can rapidly move you forward. For example, consider this case study in which CSSI supported a company’s adoption of a completely digital quality sample management process.
The adoption of robotics, automation, and AI is accelerating
If there is one long-lasting impact of 2020’s COVID crisis, it will be the further acceleration of robotics and automation. As technologies have evolved, companies are increasingly seeking ways to replace labor. Robots can work faster, cheaper, and with greater accuracy — and don’t get affected by illnesses.
One of the sweet spots of robotics has been the use of cobots, or collaborative robots — these machines augment, rather than entirely replace staff workers. As capabilities expand and training time diminishes, expect to see more use of these multi-purpose machines.
Artificial intelligence is another exciting area of advancement. Practical AI applications are available now which can save time and improve your capabilities. For example, AI-powered hybrid cloud security cameras enable your team to rapidly scan hours of footage to identify events and event specific individuals. Hybrid cloud video surveillance can save time and improve security workflows.
CSSI can help: Are you ready to explore technologies such as AI, robotics, or RFID? Contact us today to start a conversation.
Many industries anticipate significant increases in IT infrastructure investment
Based on Flexera’s 2020 Tech Spend Report, status quo IT investment levels are not expected to hold, but will instead increase. Note that respondents in retail/eCommerce indicate the highest overall percentage increase, with Industrial coming in second.
Concerned about how you will budget for and afford IT investments? Speak to CSSI about exciting technology financing options which are available — take advantage of current historically low interest rates with an equipment lease which enables you to match the equipment benefit with the cash outlay over a period of years.
Augmented reality & virtual reality tools are making inroads for workflow optimization
Extended reality, augmented reality, and virtual reality technologies are gradually making inroads in businesses. While some of these technologies may be a little ‘early’, other well-vetted technologies are ready for prime time in your business. for example, have you tested hands-free wearable computers and voice-directed devices? In fast-paced warehouse environments, the ROI can be compelling. Contact us for a demo today.
In summary, it’s a new year and a whole new technology world. As your enterprise mobile and automated data capture partner, CSSI can introduce you to technologies which can transport your business. Contact us today to discuss your opportunities.
