What is Special About Non-Incendive Mobile Computers and Tablets?

For certain usage environments and industries, ‘standard’ rugged mobile computing devices will not suffice. For hazardous environments, there is a special category of intrinsically safe computing devices which must be used in order to operate safely. Learn more about these operating environments and how CSSI can help with suitable rugged mobile devices.

What Makes an Environment Hazardous?

Hazardous locations are those where an ignitable concentration of flammable substances (such as gases, vapors, dusts, or fibers) is present either continuously, intermittently, or under abnormal conditions. These atmospheres can turn ordinary electrical sparks or high surface temperatures into dangerous ignition sources.

Examples of hazardous environments include:

• Oil and gas refineries – where hydrocarbon vapors are common.
• Chemical processing plants – with solvents and volatile compounds in the air.
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing – involving ignitable concentration of powders or fine particulates.
• Grain handling and milling operations – where dust clouds can be explosive.
• Paint shops or spray-coating facilities – where flammable mists are present.

Regulatory frameworks like the National Electric Code (NEC) in the U.S. or ATEX directives in Europe define hazardous locations by classes, divisions, and zones, depending on the type of material present and how frequently it exists in ignitable concentrations.es, depending on the type of material present and how frequently it exists in ignitable concentrations.

How Are Mobile Computers Made Non-Incendive?

A non-incendive device, also referred to as intrinsically safe, is one designed for safe operation in hazardous environments by ensuring that under normal operating conditions, it cannot release sufficient electrical or thermal energy to ignite a flammable atmosphere .

Key Design Differences to Achieve Non-Incendive Certification:

1. Electrical Energy Limitation
   • Circuits are engineered to keep voltage and current levels below ignition thresholds. This prevents sparks from having enough energy to ignite a gas or dust cloud.
2. Surface Temperature Control
   • Components are designed and tested to ensure that their surface temperature never exceeds the ignition temperature of surrounding flammable materials.
3. Sealed or Reinforced Construction
   • Casings are ruggedized to prevent ingress of fibers, dust or vapors and to ensure that any internal faults don’t expose dangerous sparks.
4. Certification and Testing
   • Non-incendive mobile computers undergo certification through recognized standards bodies such as UL, IECEx, or ATEX . Certification ensures compliance with safety limits for operation in specific classes/divisions/zones.
5. Battery and Power System Safeguards
   • Since the battery is a potential ignition source, non-incendive models include specialized power management and containment systems that mitigate risks of overheating or short circuits.

Why Non-Incendive Mobile Computers Matter

For workers in hazardous locations, safety is paramount. A standard mobile computer might offer all the functionality needed for scanning, data entry, and wireless communication—but if it risks sparking an explosion, it cannot be used. Non-incendive mobile computers bridge this gap, providing rugged, full-featured computing power with the critical safety certifications required to keep both workers and facilities secure when working in a hazardous area.

Several Examples of Non-Incendive Computers Available from CSSI

	The Aegex 100M is a non-incendive rugged tablet PC rated for use in Class I, Div 1 and ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 0 hazardous environments.
	The Zebra Technologies MC9400 is an ultra-rugged Android mobile computer with configurations suitable for use in a Class I, Div 2 hazardous area.
	The Honeywell CK67 handheld computer is an Android device with configurations available for use in CID2 non-incendive / ATEX areas.

CSSI Can Help You Select and Test Non-Incendive Mobile Computers & Tablets

The mobile computing experts at CSSI are knowledgeable about the specialized field of non-incendive, intrinsically safe devices . We partner with the top manufacturers of these devices such as Zebra, Honeywell, and ATEX. Contact us to discuss your hazardous area and mobile computer requirements , and we will help you select and test the right device.

New Addition to Honeywell’s Mobility Edge Platform Supporting up to Android 19

Honeywell’s has launched its newest addition to its handheld computer line. The CT70 is a rugged and feature-packed choice for both frontline workers and in-house teams who require reliable mobile edge computing, flexible scanning, and a large 6-inch screen. Courtesy of Honeywell’s Mobility Edge platform, the CT70 will provide years of use… it is guaranteed to support Android 15 through 19.

Key Features of the Honeywell CT70 Mobile Computer

The CT70 is packed with features, here are several notable items:

• Support guaranteed from Android OS 15 to 19
• Withstands 6 foot drops (8 ft with rubber boot); IP65/IP68 rated for dust & water protection
• 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. Also supports private cellular/CBRS.
• Wireless charging and hot-swappable battery
• Optional integrated RFID reader

CT70 Technology Enables Diverse Work Tasks

The Honeywell CT70 mobile computer can be used for a wide range of workflows. A large 6-inch screen keeps plenty of data in front of your frontline workers. 2 barcode scanner options are available, including Honeywell’s versatile FlexRange scanner. The CT70 is even available with an integrated RFID reader for short distance data capture. Use it in the warehouse, logistics, field service, and transportation.

The CT70 is also ideal for unified communications… pair it with Smart Talk, Honeywell’s unified communications solution, which combines voice calling, texting, and media messaging in one handheld device.

Contact CSSI to Discuss the Honeywell CT70

CSSI Technologies is a Honeywell Corp platinum partner. Our team is experienced and knowledgeable in the Honeywell productivity mobile computer line. Contact us to discuss your project and set up a hands-on demo of the CT70.

Shipment volumes are rising. If your business handles packages of varying size, you likely contend with gathering accurate parcel dimensions for those items in order to charge the correct amount of freight. Traditionally, this has been a manual task, but with rising volumes and rising labor costs, that can lead to more workers, and more expensive errors.

As a result, companies have been exploring automated measurement solutions. Zebra has created a dimensioning solution which is integrated into the handheld mobile computers which your workers are already using. This allows you to quickly automate dimensioning without the need to add new hardware.

What is the Zebra Dimensioning Solution?

Zebra Dimensioning is a software/hardware solution by Zebra Technologies that allows users to capture accurate parcel dimensions (especially for shipping, logistics, warehouse, and related workflows) using a Zebra mobile computer with built-in sensors. The idea is to replace or supplement manual measurement and external measuring hardware with a more automated, accurate, mobile-capable instant calculation method.

There are two main variants:

• Certified Mobile Parcel — this Zebra dimensioning service is certified by weights & measures authorities (depending on geography), meaning the measurements can be used “legal-for-trade,” such as to calculate shipping charges or fulfil regulatory requirements.
• Mobile Parcel — this version has the same measurement accuracy but is not legally certified. It’s useful for internal operations: warehouse optimization, load planning, visibility of dimensions, etc.

Benefits of Zebra Dimensioning

• Speed & Efficiency: Manual measuring (using tape measures, etc.) is slow, error-prone, and difficult when working quickly in the field. This solution boosts workforce productivity by letting workers dimension parcels with a click.
• Accuracy: Especially with the certified version, good accuracy means less under-charging or disputed shipping charges; better load planning; better space utilization in warehouses/trucks etc.
• Regulatory / Legal Use: With legal-for-trade certification, you can use these dimensions to charge customers, meet weights & measures regulations.
• Cost Savings: Less manual labor, fewer errors, better shipping cost estimation, improved warehouse space usage, fewer returns/disputes.
• Convenience & Mobility: Since it’s built into mobile devices, jobs can be done where parcels are — on porch pickups, warehouse floor, parcel shops, etc. No fixed dimensioning station needed, no extra attachments.

How Does Zebra Dimensioning Compare Against Alternative Package Measurement Options?

Zebra’s dimensioning solutions dramatically improves accuracy and speed when compared with manual measuring. Compared with other technology-based dimensioning solutions, Zebra offers a lower implementation cost, much flexibility, and provides additional value from your Zebra mobile computer investment. The ROI for Zebra Dimensioning will come both from labor savings as well as a reduction in costly item measurement errors.

Feature / Factor	Zebra Dimensioning	Fixed Stations	Snap-On Sensors	Manual Measurement
Mobility	✅ Full mobility	❌ Fixed location	⚠️ Semi-mobile (bulky)	✅ Mobile, manual
Accuracy	✅ High, certified	✅ Very high, certified	⚠️ Varies, often unsure	❌ Error-prone
Parcel Size Range	⚠️ Up to ~1 m	✅ Small to very large	⚠️ Small/medium parcels	❌ Limited accuracy
Legal-for-Trade Option	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ Rarely	❌ No
Ease of Use	✅ Simple, built-in	⚠️ Training needed	⚠️ Adds complexity	⚠️ Simple, slow
Upfront Cost	⚠️ Moderate	❌ Very high	✅ Lower	✅ Lowest
Long-Term TCO	✅ Lower (fewer parts)	⚠️ High maintenance	⚠️ Medium (fragile)	❌ High labor cost

Applications for Zebra Mobile Parcel

There are many use cases where Zebra Dimensioning is particularly useful:

• Shipping / Courier / Postal Services — using a Zebra device to capture accurate parcel dimensions at pickup or dropoff to compute correct shipping fees, reduce disputes.
• eCommerce Fulfillment — optimizing packaging, reducing oversizing or underutilizing space, ensuring accurate dimensional weight calculations.
• Warehousing / Distribution — for load planning, determining how many parcels/boxes will fit in a pallet/truck, tracking spatial usage.
• Parcel Shops / Retail Outlets — when customers drop off parcels or return items, dimensioning on site.
• Field Service / Last-Mile Delivery — mobile dimension capture during pickups, reducing need to return to facility for measurement.

Learn More About Zebra Dimensioning & Mobile Parcel

In order to learn more about Zebra Dimensioning and how it can benefit your options, please contact the Zebra experts at CSSI Technologies . We can help you arrange a trial of the technology to confirm its effectiveness in your business environment.

What is an Industrial Browser?

An industrial browser (also referred to as an ‘enterprise browser’) is a specialized web browser designed for rugged mobile computers used by mobile workers in warehouses, manufacturing plants, logistics operations, and other enterprise environments. Why choose an industrial browser? Unlike consumer-grade browsers such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Microsoft Edge, industrial browsers are built to support business-critical workflows that involve barcode scanning, RFID data capture, ERP/WMS connectivity, and secure access to enterprise systems and web applications.

Industrial browsers are available from most major enterprise device manufacturers (such as Zebra, Honeywell, and Datalogic), as well as from 3rd party organizations such as Ivanti and Staylinked. CSSI can help you test and deploy solutions from all of these companies.

Why Can’t You Just Use the Standard Browser?

Traditional browsers are designed for general internet browsing and lack the specialized features required for industrial workflows. Some limitations of these mainstream browsers include:

• No native integration with data capture hardware (barcode scanners, RFID readers, industrial sensors). Users would need workarounds or middleware to feed captured data into web applications.
• Limited control for IT administrators —consumer browsers allow unrestricted browser activity such as web surfing, which poses security risks, opens you up to cyber threats, and can lead to productivity loss.
• Not optimized for rugged workflows —consumer browsers don’t handle custom key mappings, locked-down interfaces, or kiosk-like modes needed on the shop floor.
• Inconsistent compatibility with enterprise apps—especially legacy or customized ERP/WMS/MES systems that rely on session persistence, scripting, or unique security requirements.

Advantages of an Industrial Browser

‘Industrial’ or enterprise browsers are designed specifically for enterprise application deployment. In the current world of web based applications, enterprise browsers bring significant business benefits and user experience improvements for your mobile workers.

1. Seamless data capture
   • Direct integration with built-in barcode scanners, RFID readers, and cameras.
   • Scanned data can be automatically parsed and sent into specific fields of web based applications—reducing errors and speeding up workflows.
2. Browser security & control
   • Lockdown modes prevent workers from browsing outside approved business systems.
   • Centralized management allows IT to enforce policies, configure settings remotely, and push updates.
   • Support for enterprise authentication (e.g., Active Directory, SSO, certificates).
3. Workflow Optimization
   • Ability to remap keys, customize UI layouts, and automate repetitive tasks.
   • Optimized session handling to ensure workers don’t lose progress if devices disconnect or reboot.
4. Compatibility with Legacy and Modern Systems
   • Many industrial browsers support both modern HTML5-based apps and older terminal emulation or proprietary enterprise web portals.
   • Businesses can modernize workflows without needing to fully replace backend systems.
5. Reliability in Harsh Environments
   • Stable performance even on rugged mobile computers that may experience intermittent Wi-Fi or cellular connections.
   • Fast reconnection and session persistence help maintain productivity.

Contact CSSI for Industrial Browser Help

CSSI has expertise on the industrial browsers offered by device manufacturers such as Zebra, Honeywell, and Datalogic, as well as 3rd-party options from providers such as Staylinked and Ivanti. CSSI can help you select and test secure enterprise browser options to choose the best one for your Android devices. Contact us today for industrial browser support and help.

As CSSI’s technical team has provided support for enterprise mobility customers tackling the Android 14 update for their mobile devices, we have encountered a number of issues and ‘watch-outs’. If you are planning to update your Android device fleet (and we do recommend that you stay current with Android!), consider some of the following observations and issues to help ease your upgrade.

CSSI is always available to provide technical support to help you get through the upgrade process. Use of mobile device management tools and expertise will be very helpful to you in executing an upgrade in order to minimize hands-on time needed with each device.

Planning to Perform Your Android 14 Update?

Here are some tips on what Android users and IT managers can expect when performing an Android update on your fleet of enterprise devices.

1. This Android upgrade is a full OS installation.

The devices will reboot to a factory reset state during the installation process. You will need to back up your current configuration settings and user data and redeploy them after the update. If you are using a WMS server to manage the devices, you may need to re-enroll the devices into your WMS Server.

2. Large file alert!

The Full Update version of Android 14 operating system has firmware files which are around 2GB in size. If you have a large number of deployed devices, you will need to plan the best way to push these files without tying up your network for excessive amounts of time. There may need to be updates or changes, depending on your firmware upgrade deployment method. Once you are at Android 14, you can deploy smaller size incremental files to upgrade your devices.

3. Running an older version of Android? Multiple Hops May Be Required

Some manufactures will require you to do multiple OS upgrades to get to Android 14. For example, you will need to upgrade to a version of Android 11 to install some required files, before you can upgrade to Android 14. CSSI can help you sort out the necessary upgrade path based on your current devices.

Don’t forget to build in a plan for testing — you will want to make sure that your pre-Android 11 applications will run properly in 11 or higher. If you are still on Android 10, you may need to make changes to your current staging and application versions to meet Android’s Scoped Storage requirements and validate everything is working correctly before upgrading to Android 14. App permissions became more restricted from Android 11 onward.

4. Special Issues with Full-Screen Tablets/Vehicle Mounted Devices

On Full screen tablets and Vehicle mounts, Android 14 presents a Recent App bar that needs to be removed or hidden, as it will be displayed even if a lockdown screen is being used. We have encountered this issue with several customers using VMU’s and tablets. We have created successful workaround methods, so if you encounter this issue when testing, contact CSSI for technical support.

5. Staging Tool Upgrades Needed?

Note that you may have to upgrade your Staging Tool to generate new configuration files or barcodes for Android 14. This will be dependent upon the Android device you are using and the manufacturer’s handling of 14. CSSI can help.

Best Practice: Stay Current with Your Android Version!

There are changes with each Android operating system version release, sometimes significant changes which can impact your applications. Many of the changes are driven by new feature offerings, but also by security concerns and keeping your data and applications safe. It is essential you keep your devices as close as possible to the most current release of the latest annual Android OS version.

Staying at the same Android version too long only makes it harder to eventually get current or upgrade from an older device to a new model, and while you can delay, you may eventually run out of runway when purchasing new devices. Some of the newer enterprise handhelds and tablets do not have the ability to downgrade below Android 11 . You will need to keep this in mind when you are ready to do a device refresh, as you won’t be able to purchase and deploy new devices if you can’t run your applications in 14.

Ready To Discuss Your Plan for the Android 14 Update?

If you would like help or support with upgrading to Android 14, please contact CSSI for assistance . We can provide a range of services, from overall review of your environment and helping you craft a plan, to running the entire software update process for you.

Please note our new address!

Effective August of 2025, CSSI Technologies has moved to a new office in order to accommodate our growth.

Here is CSSI Technologies’ new address:

CSSI Technologies LLC
32 Whisper Creek Drive Suite 5
Lewisburg, PA 17837

Efficient, high-quality large-format card printing with the Zebra ZC10L

Need to print high quality oversized badges, id cards, passes, and placards? Zebra has launched the ZC10L card printer to enable you to generate these materials on-demand at 300 dpi! This Zebra card and badge printer offers capabilities not otherwise available for on-demand printing.

With Zebra’s CardStudio card design software, you can create visually captivating cards and badges on demand! Make changes right up to the event time, and print the exact quantity you need since you don’t commit to quantities and designs with pre printed cards. No more unusable leftover cards. Make card design changes right up to the last moment of with this Zebra id card printer. Take guest photos at point of entry to further personalize cards, or include sponsor logos and advertising.

Features of the ZC10L Card Printer

• Direct to card printing
• Full color or monochrome
• Photo-quality images
• Edge-to-edge printing
• High-res printing capability – 300 dpi print quality
• Accommodates large cards. Card size: 5.5″ x 3.46″

Learn More About the Zebra ZC10L Card Printer

To learn more and set up your own demo of the Zebra ZC10L large format card printer, please contact the print experts at CSSI. CSSI is an authorized dealer for Zebra Technologies Corp and can provide label printer, ID badge printer, barcode printer, and bardcode scanner technical support. 

Capture Barcodes and RFID Data Without a Mobile Computer

Datalogic has introduced the Powerscan 9600 RFID gun. This is a powerful hybrid worktool which enables you to capture both barcode and RFID data without the need for a handheld computer (making this a more cost-effective option).

The Powerscan 9600 scanner features a keypad and small screen, which enables you to both receive feedback on data scanned, but also to input data if you will be encoding data on RFID tags.

In the mobile RFID scanning realm, the typical alternatives have been a handheld computer equipped with RFID, or an attachable sled which combines with a touch screen computer. Datalogic’s approach provides you with visual feedback and a keypad, but allows you to avoid deploying a full mobile computer.

Great Applications for the Datalogic Powerscan 9600 RFID

Datalogic Powerscan 9600 RFID Features

• Cordless handheld with bluetooth connectivity
• Display and keypad provide visual feedback and means for data entry
• Reads RFID and barcode data – barcodes of all key formats as well as UHF RFID tags up to 3.2 ft
• Tough – tested to withstands 50 drops at 8 ft, and sealed for IP67/IP65
• Connectivity – USB and RS-232, multi-interface
• Inductive contactless charging – wireless charging eliminates future fail points and extends usable life

Datalogic Powerscan Barcode Reader Family

Datalogic scanners are renowned for their advanced scanning technology, and for good reason. The Powerscan family represents Datalogic’s top of the line in terms of performance and reliability. These scanners have been designed to withstand the toughest environmental situations.

The PowerScan 9600 scanner is available in both corded or cordless models. Discuss your scanning needs with CSSI and we can help you select the optimal handheld scanners for your business.

Powerscan Models include

• High performance – for high resolution codes and light DPM applications
• Auto range scanner – supports close to far distance barcode capture
• DPM (direct part mark) scanner
• Document capture – scan barcodes and capture color images
• Standard range – read standard barcodes

Contact CSSI to Learn More About Datalogic Powerscan

To learn more about Datalogic’s Powerscan 9600 RFID handhelds, please contact CSSI . We’d be glad to set up a hands-on demo of Datalogic scanners and handheld computers for you.

Tariffs are Driving Label Prices Up… CSSI Can Help

It’s no secret that tariffs and overall inflation have been impacting the prices of print supplies such as barcode labels, tags, and ribbons. Whether you use stock materials or customized labels, you have likely found prices creeping higher. Have you considered taking this as an opportunity to reconsider your choice in print supplies? We know that many companies are reluctant to ‘fix what ain’t broken’, but the print supplies team at CSSI often finds very real benefits when companies come to us for help.

Benefits of Re-evaluating Your Label Supplies:

1. Time flies! If it’s been a few years since you selected your labels, you may have been caught up in gradually creeping prices. Considering some alternatives may results in very real savings for your company.
2. Label quality matters – You want the best-value, and not necessarily the cheapest solution. Are your users frustrated with your current label solution’s reliability or availability? Torn labels, or out-of-stock supplies, can impact productivity. Is it time to consider some options which may perform better for you?
3. Innovation – Yes, there is innovation in labels. Materials, adhesive chemistry, and sometimes even form factor can bring positive benefits. Linerless labels reduce waste and clutter. There are even labels which provide thermal transfer quality from a direct thermal printer! We recommend taking a periodic look around to see if there are solutions which solve problems you may have become blind toward.

CSSI’s Print Media Experts Can Help

CSSI works with a range of leading print supplies providers. By working with our team of print experts, we can consider your needs & challenges and seek out new options for you. It’s easy to get started, just contact CSSI for help with labels and print supplies.