Rugged Mobile Computing for the Mobile Worker

Today’s tablets need to be built to survive the harsh, always-on work environments of the mobile worker. But they also need to be built for the job — your job! From screen size to weight, battery life, and accessory options, such as bar code scanners, they should have the right combination of mobile computer capabilities to serve your team in every moment. CSSI has years of experience in rugged mobile computing, and can say that Zebra’s family of rugged tablet configurations are ready to do just that.

Windows Tablet or Android Tablet?

Depending on your business requirements, you may desire either Windows or Android operating system. There are Zebra tablet configurations to accommodate both. CSSI can guide you to the right rugged device choice for your business.

Are you migrating from Windows to Android? CSSI can also assist with Android app design and migration of applications from Windows to Android.

Zebra’s Rugged Tablet Line Includes:

Zebra ET51 and ET56

• Super light enterprise tablet that can be taken anywhere.
• Thin and sleek, just over 1 lb.
• Hot swappable battery.
• Select your operating system: runs Android or Windows.
• Optional barcode scanner and many accessories.
• 8″ and 10″ screen options.
• ET56 adds connectivity – both LTE and Wifi.
• 8″ and 10″ screen options.

Zebra L10 Rugged Tablet PC

• Powerful rugged design for the toughest industries. This ultra rugged tablet line includes Zebra XSLATE L10, XPAD L10, and LBOOK L10.
• Includes rigid handles
• Integrated barcode reader.
• Choose your operating system: runs Android or Windows.
• Capable of morphing into a laptop.
• Multiple USB ports and options.

Zebra XSLATE R12

• 12.5″ screen with exceptional brightness.
• Runs Windows operating system
• Expansion bar
• Self-charging keyboard
• Vehicle docking

Get Your Tablet Upgrade Started Today

Which Zebra tablet is the right mobile device for you? Consult with the mobile computing experts at CSSI to discuss your usage environment. We will work with you to select and configure the perfect Windows or Android device for your application. Contact CSSI today.

Your Source for Microsoft Access Migration in Pennsylvania

We regularly interact with clients who have outgrown critical applications which were built using Microsoft Access. It’s a common story because Access is a handy tool which non-IT users love to use to quickly put together a small application. However, the company grows, the number of users expand, the data expands, and a day comes when everyone realizes it’s time to move up to enterprise-grade software.

CSSI’s experienced software development team can assist you in achieving a successful migration, upgrading your software to a more robust platform. But first… why migrate?

Why Migrate From Legacy Access Applications?

Perhaps the question is more ‘when’ than ‘why’. MS Access is a handy DIY solution until it isn’t. What are some of the factors which may cause you to realize you’ve outgrown Access?

1. Your business requires a more robust database — this is the basic catch-all answer. The relatively simple Access solution was the right choice at one point, but changes and growth in your business are causing you to run up against the limits of Access, which can no longer grow with your business
2. Multi-user environment — you may have started with a single user, but as the business grew, you started to have multiple users. This causes a cascading set of issues with Access, chief among these, a slower performing application.
3. Users in more than one location / geographically dispersed users — while you may have once operated from a single location, now you have multiple locations and/or mobile users who need on-demand application accessibility.
4. Need for an improved front-end — If you have need for more control, options, and features in the front end of your application, you may realize that Access no longer fits the task.
5. Microsoft Access is somewhat obsolete — While it is not true that Microsoft intends to end Access, it is true that the world of software development has changed over the years. There are now a broad range of tools which can be used to create ‘programming-lite’ applications, and immediately solve many of the shortcomings of Access. In short, you have more choices today – CSSI would be happy to help you evaluate.
6. You’d like to make use of web development and a cloud environment such as a MS Azure SQL database or AWS.
7. Security is a growing concern. With a more robust front end and SQl server back end, we can improve your overall security.
8. Application performance speed has deteriorated as the program has become more complex.
9. Database size has expanded dramatically — You may have started off with a relatively small amount of data, but over the years, data has grown and slowed down your app performance — time to consider a data migration project.
10. You wish to have remote users with mobile devices connect to your application. CSSI can help with applications well suite to mobile device usage.

Not convinced? Check out: 10 reasons why IT pros hate Microsoft Access

CSSI Database Migration Service and Application Rewrite

For an application or database migration away from Access, there are 3 options which Microsoft partner CSSI can propose:

1) Maintain your existing Access front-end, and migrate the target database to the more robust Microsoft SQL server.

2) Perform the Microsoft Access database migration and also use the migration process to rewrite/redesign the application front-end with a more robust framework.

3) Migrate your application to a light-code application solution. In some situations, depending on your application and migration scenario, we may recommend using a rapid application development tool.

Contact CSSI today to discuss Access database migration.

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

• Mobile computers
• Barcode scanners
• Printers – Desktop, industrial, and mobile

Get Started

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.
• Software customization can also be bundled into your lease agreement.

Many Ways To Create The Right Technology Leasing Option For You

• Select from a lease term which works for you
• Choose between a fair market value or dollar buy-out lease option
• Affordable financing! Current historically low interest rates keep monthly payments low, further protecting your cash flow
• Deferred payments may be available, allowing you to deploy new computer equipment prior to the onset of monthly payments
• Your CFO can guide towards whether your purchase would best be treated as an operating lease or a capital lease.

CSSI Leasing Company Partnerships

CSSI will connect you with experienced equipment leasing providers such as:

• Huntington Technology Finance
• Winthrop by TCF Bank

Learn More About Equipment Leasing

Contact your CSSI account rep to learn more about technology leasing today.

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.

Use the Go Zebra Trade-In Program For:

• Zebra mobile computer such as the MC3300x or MC9300
• 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:

• Food transport
• Cold storage
• Medication transport
• Emergency medical services

Superior Electronic Temperature Sensors

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.

For further reading on the importance of data in the cold chain, see Zebra’s Food Safety Supply Chain Vision Study.

Print Vivid Color Labels On Demand

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:

1. LX-D1300 – This dye inkjet printer (seen in our video) handles a 2″ label
2. LX-P1300 – This is a 2″ printer similar to the D1300, but this model uses pigment ink.
3. 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:

1. Pigment based ink is UV stable, and thus will be more durable over time
2. 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.

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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.

CSSI Support for your RFID Tracking Project

CSSI can assist you with all phases of project design, including RFID system design, hardware, custom programming, and selection and sourcing of your passive tag, active tags, and barcode labels with embedded RFID chip. We recommend starting with an RFID pilot project to assess viability.

Please click here to contact CSSI to discuss your potential RFID project.

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:

1. Speak to your CSSI account rep to determine that your Zebra barcode label printers qualify
2. Enroll in the program through CSSI
3. CSSI will work with you to specify high quality Zebra certified labels and ribbons in your label printer
4. 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.

For more detailed information on cold chain food safety, check out the Food Safety Supply Chain Vision Guide .

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.