IT Leaders Need Support for Enterprise Mobility Management

IT directors, particularly those at small-to-midsized businesses, have found themselves increasingly overburdened due to a combination of resource constraints, complex IT environments, and increasing cybersecurity demands. Consider just a few of the factors:

• Small Teams, Big Responsibilities – Many small-to-midsized companies have lean IT departments, sometimes consisting of just one or two people. The IT director must juggle multiple roles—network administrator, help desk support, cybersecurity lead, and even software developer—all at once. Managed devices are increasing in number as the mobile workforce grows.
• Fragmented Technology – Information Technology leaders wear many hats! Manufacturing and warehousing firms often rely on legacy systems, such as outdated ERP software, on-premises servers, and older industrial equipment. Multiple operating systems may be in play: Windows, Android, IOS, and perhaps Linux.
• Cybersecurity Risks – Today’s always-online businesses are prime targets for hacks and cyberattacks like ransomware. IT directors may lose sleep at night trying to keep bad actors at bay with OS patches, security updates, and sufficient device security.

Mobile Devices are Multiplying… As are the Management Needs

Computing endpoints have multiplied dramatically in recent years, and this growth will continue into the future. Laptops, tablet computers, handheld computers, and vehicle mounted computers are all used in the modern enterprise. In managing these mobile computers, IT leaders must contend not only with larger quantities, but also with devices which are mobile and thus dispersed across the facility or even across many facilities.

This means that relying on getting hands-on to update and manage mobile technology is a bad plan, due to the time and hassle of simply tracking down all of the computers. Enter mobile device management (MDM) software as an enabling tool for efficiently handling these device fleets. When well-implemented and managed, MDM is a significant enabler for the IT team, creating an efficient way of managing and supporting large Android device fleets. (Read our past article: Is mobile device management a fit for you?)

The challenge for the IT team: enterprise mobility management software becomes yet another responsibility added to the IT plate, often without any increased resources to match. This is where CSSI’s mobile device support experts can step in to help.

CSSI Offers 3 Types of Mobile Device Support Options

The CSSI support team offers mobile device management services, particularly SOTI MobiControl . We offer flexible mobile support services with options for how we can help you manage your corporate devices and thereby reduce the burden on your IT team:

1. You Manage Your Devices

If your IT team is both knowledgeable about MDM and has sufficient bandwidth, you can use CSSI for sourcing your MDM software and providing services to support your initial MDM rollout. You take it from there and only contact us when needed.

2. You Manage Your Devices with Our Support

Your IT team may have a reasonable amount of MDM knowledge for day-to-day needs, but may lack the blocks of time needed for annual upgrades and major changes. In these cases, you may choose to use CSSI on an as-needed basis to provide you the necessary additional bandwidth, for example with device setup and device provisioning. There are no contracts or time commitments necessary, you would simply pay for the support time you need. Remote access tools are powerful aids in supporting your mobile workforce.

3. We Manage Your Devices

It’s possible that your IT team may either a) be unfamiliar with MDM software and Android mobile devices in particular, or b) may lack time to support mobile devices. To help our customers in these situations, CSSI created Device Lifecycle Management , a contracted support package. Under this program, CSSI can manage your mobile devices from initial new device enrollment and provisioning to annual patches and updates and can provide user technical support and trouble-shooting along the way. You can rest assured that your devices are patched and secured.

Contact Us To Discuss Mobile Device Support Services

Would you like to discuss mobile device management and mobile device support services for your rugged computers and tablets? Contact CSSI to discuss how we can help with MDM.

Handheld computers are valuable for more than inventory management and data capture

Many companies acquire rugged mobile computers to use in inventory management and warehouse/logistics applications. That makes sense, because integrated data capture / barcode scanning capabilities allow your team to use mobile computers to pick orders and receive shipments. With better inventory management, the company can track inventory levels in real time, reduce stock discrepancies and prevent overstock or shortages.

However, if that’s all your company uses handhelds for, you are missing out on high-value opportunities gained by exploring other mobile app options…

Additional Tasks for Your Handheld Computer Fleet

1. Communication and Collaboration

Mobile communication is a constant challenge in almost all organizations. In large facilities, workers can waste substantial amounts of time seeking one another out, or trying to find task-critical information which may be held by a teammate. For remote workers required to carry more than one mobile computing device (for example, a handheld scanner and a cell phone), the company must acquire and support more devices than necessary.

Did you know that the same mobile computing device used for data capture and inventory management is also capable of communications? Mobile computers can function as two-way radios or messaging devices, enabling instant communication between warehouse workers, drivers, and supervisors. This helps streamline coordination, reduce errors, and improve response times to issues.

Options are available for handhelds and rugged tablets which offer cellular, as well as messaging and video capabilities. Mobile application options such as Zebra Workforce Connect and Honeywell Smart Talk make it easy to add secure communications ability to both your in-house and remote devices.

2. Quality Control and Inspections

What happens when quality issues are discovered? Instead of relying on paper-based checklists, your team can report damaged goods and document findings with cameras. They can capture photos, log data, and integrate with quality management systems. This allows your team to get the right information to the right people to avoid customer impact.

3. Electronic Forms

Most organizations are riddle with paper forms and clipboards, to the extent that management may not even have a complete list of all in use. Paper forms are prone to error and incorrect use, and any data to be gleaned only comes after form data is manually transcribed into a spreadsheet. As opposed to paper forms, electronic forms allow you to capture data immediately, at the source, and immediately direct it to the correct place. The mobile computers which you already have in use for other tasks can easily become data capture stations. CSSI can help you by designing electronic forms and integrating with your systems.

4. GPS and Route Optimization

In logistics and fleet management, mobile computers with GPS capabilities help optimize delivery routes, track shipments in transit, and provide drivers with real-time navigation. This reduces fuel costs and improves on-time deliveries. There’s no need to pay for additional mobile devices or take the security risk of using your employees’ personal phones. The same device you are using to track deliveries and receipts can also be used for routing and directions.

5. For Management: Employee Visibility and Productivity

With device management tools, such as mobile device management (MDM) , or authentication software ( Zebra Identity Guardian), managers can gain visibility into the whereabouts and activities of both devices and team members. Reduce your device losses, ensure devices are charged and ready for service, and provide remote support to employees who require it.

Learn More About Mobile Applications for High Value Workflows Using Your Rugged Mobile Computers

The handheld computer can be much more than a data capture device. Contact CSSI to discuss the additional value you can get from your technology investment by using your mobile computing technology for additional tasks.

New Aegex 100M Intrinsically Safe Tablet PC

If you are searching for an intrinsically safe tablet solution rated for stringent hazardous environments , we have an attractive new option for you. The 100M rugged Windows tablet from Aegex Technologies is certified for C1D1 and ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 0. It’s loaded with useful features for users in a hazardous area / ATEX zone, including a capacitive touch screen, tough aluminum case, and Win11 OS.

Key Features of the Aegex 100M Tablet PC

The 100M Aegex tablet will accommodate your software and your working requirements:

• Certified ATEX/IECEx Zone 1, Zone 0, and Class I, Div 1
• Windows 11 operating system
• 8GB RAM
• Rated for operating temperatures -20C to 55C!
• Capacitive touch screen for gloves or pen
• Ergonomic design improves grip

Suitable for Your Hazardous Area

Aegex Technologies understands the needs of hazardous environments. Deploy the 100M ATEX tablet in:

• Oil and Gas
• Chemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Utilities
• Aerospace
• Public Safety

Contact CSSI to Discuss the Aegex 100M Tablet PC

If you are seeking rugged tablets for your hazardous environment or ATEX Zone, contact our hazardous area computing specialists to discuss your options.

Struggling with Management of Your Shared Enterprise Mobile Devices?

How do your users access their mobile computers and tablets? Is there a mobile device access and security solution in place which prevents unauthorized access? Is the security profile based upon the user’s role, or is it set by device? Do you utilize a multifactor login to enhance security? Many companies have found that typical device management practices leave the organization at risk for device loss, waste, and security challenges. In this environment, Zebra Technologies created Identity Guardian, an authentication solution which is specifically targeted for enterprise users using a mobile Zebra device such as the MC9400 or MC3400.

The Challenges with Shared Mobile Device Authentication

In most warehouse and industrial environments, devices are shared by users across different shifts. The same user will likely use a different mobile device each day. So how do your users sign into devices? The typical approaches each have shortcomings:

1. No device passcode – Complete lack of device control
2. Shared PINs – Loss of accountability for individual users
3. Complex PINs and passwords – Difficult for users to remember, encourages ‘workarounds’
4. Biometric authentication – Support single users, not shared users
5. Storing data in the cloud – Creates liability concerns around users’ personal information

How Identity Guardian Works and Adapts to Your Organization’s Device Strategy

Zebra Identity Guardian resides on your mobile devices. The authentication process is simple, and slightly different depending on whether you have shared or personally assigned devices. You have the option of utilizing a facial biometric to avoid shared PINs and passwords:

Shared Devices

If your organization uses a pool of devices, with users randomly picking a device for each shift, you will benefit from a solution which can authenticate individual users rather than using a shared password. This graphic shows the Identity Guardian process for shared device biometric authentication:

Individually-Assigned Devices

If your organization assigns specific devices to specific users, Identity Guardian can adapt to create a secure yet user-friendly authentication process, as shows below:

Identity Guardian Creates Visibility to Your Devices

From an IT management perspective, Identity Guardian provides a huge benefit of easy visibility into which devices are being used by which users. This will save time and effort in locating and trouble-shooting device issues and also creates accountability for your users if devices are lost, not returned, or damaged on their watch.

Sample screen from Identity Guardian management interface:

Primary Benefits of Identity Guardian Solution

• Accountability – Better understand user activity and track device sign-ins and sign-outs
• Data protection – Multiple layers of protection keep your user and company data secure
• Application support – Integrated with IdPs to simply authentication by leveraging single sign-on (SSO).
• Familiar user experience – A common login makes it quick to train users
• Increased visibility – Gain a clear view of all devices in or out of service and all user profiles
• Convenient and secure – Zebra Technologies seamlessly merges biometric authentication with multifactor login protocols

Learn More About Zebra Identity Guardian

To discuss device authentication and the benefits of Zebra Identity Guardian for your shared device environments, please contact the Zebra experts at CSSI Technologies.

Earn Cash Back When Upgrading to New Honeywell Mobile Computers & Printers

As you plan your 2025 purchases of handheld computers and printers, it’s good to know that, if you are upgrading from older equipment, you have the ability to reduce your overall purchase cost with trade-in rebates. We’re pleased to announce that Honeywell has implemented a trade-in program for 2025. You can receive cash back when purchasing new Honeywell equipment by trading in qualifying old devices. Your old equipment can be Honeywell or competitive brands.

Examples of 2025 Honeywell Trade-In Rebates

Rebates vary depending on the new device you are purchasing. Savings can be substantial. Here are a few examples:

• $250/unit when upgrading to the new CK67 mobile computer
• $200/unit when purchasing a Honeywell CW45 wearable mobile computer
• $350/unit when purchasing a Honeywell Industrial label printer

Please refer to the trade-in program data sheet below. If you’d like to discuss your options with Honeywell’s line of mobile computers and label printers, please contact the Honeywell experts at CSSI to get started!

Better Management of Mobile Device Fleets with Zebra’s Storage Solution

As businesses acquire growing fleets of mobile computers and tablet PCs, effective management of these devices presents challenges. Enterprises often struggle with ensuring devices are adequately charged, tracking who has last signed out devices, and maintaining security to keep the company assets safe.

These challenges can lead to increased operational costs: workers have downtime due to devices which aren’t adequately charged, and economic costs due to device loss or theft. Zebra Technologies addresses these issues with its Intelligent Cabinets product line, offering a comprehensive solution for storage, charging, and management of your Zebra mobile computers and tablets.

Challenges in Managing Mobile Computers

Companies deploying numerous mobile computers face several hurdles:

• Device Tracking: Without a centralized system, keeping tabs on each device’s location becomes cumbersome, increasing the risk of loss or misplacement.
• Charging Management: Ensuring all devices are charged and ready for use is critical. Inconsistent charging can lead to downtime, affecting productivity.
• Security Concerns: Unauthorized access or theft of devices can compromise sensitive data and lead to financial losses.

These challenges not only disrupt workflows but also escalate costs related to device replacement, repairs, and operational inefficiencies. That’s where the Intelligent Cabinets storage solution steps in:

Zebra’s Intelligent Cabinet Solution

Zebra Intelligent Cabinets provide an integrated approach to these challenges by offering:

• Secure Storage: Customized cabinets and Zebra intelligent racks ensure devices are stored safely, reducing the risk of loss or damage.
• Efficient Charging: Built-in charging capabilities guarantee that devices are powered and ready for deployment at the start of every shift.
• Automated Management: The system automates device tracking and access management, streamlining operations and enhancing security.

Zebra Intelligent Cabinets are ideal for use in logistics, manufacturing, the warehouse, and retail environments. By consolidating devices into a centralized system, Zebra’s solution enhances device readiness and operational efficiency.

Key Features of the Intelligent Cabinet Product Line

1. Configurability: The modular design of Zebra’s cabinets allows businesses to customize storage solutions to fit various device types and quantities, ensuring optimal space utilization.
2. Device Monitoring: Integrated software provides real-time insights into device status, including battery levels and usage patterns, facilitating proactive management.
3. Charging Options: The cabinets are equipped with power distribution units, ensuring that all stored devices are charged simultaneously, eliminating downtime due to uncharged equipment. You can utilize the correct charging cradles for your Zebra device models.
4. Security and user accountability: Enhanced security features, such as key barrel locks and the Zebra Access Management System (ZAMS), control and monitor device access, reducing unauthorized usage and potential theft.

Ensuring User Accountability with ZAMS

The Zebra Access Management System (ZAMS) is a pivotal component in promoting user accountability. This software solution automates device access management by:

• User Authentication: Requiring workers to authenticate before accessing devices, ensuring that only authorized users can retrieve equipment.
• Usage Tracking: Recording which user has taken which device and when, fostering a sense of responsibility and enabling quick issue resolution.
• Battery Status Monitoring: Providing visibility into device battery levels, allowing users to ensure devices are adequately charged before use.

By implementing ZAMS, organizations can significantly reduce device loss and damage, leading to a lower total cost of ownership.

Hardware Requirements for ZAMS

ZAMS can run on Zebra Tablet PCs such as the ET60 , or the Zebra CC6000 Kiosk computer. The device is mounted on the outside of the cabinet, and as seen in the screen graphic above, it provides at-a-glance visibility into quantities of devices which are available, in use, or missing, allowing managers to quickly remedy problems. Behind the scenes, ZAMS keeps track of device usage, enabling audits and accountability if devices go missing.

Learn More About the Intelligent Cabinet Mobile Device Storage Solution

Zebra Intelligent Cabinets, combined with the Access Management System, offer a robust solution to the challenges of managing large fleets of Zebra mobile computers. To learn more about Zebra Intelligent Cabinets and how this device storage solution can help your business, please contact CSSI.

New Ultra-Rugged Barcode Scanner from Honeywell

Honeywell has just announced the latest update to its Granit line of super-rugged industrial barcode scanners. The Granit Ultra 2100i is the new best-in-class for demanding environments. It boasts exceptional scan performance, ultra durability, and high-capacity battery performance to keep your team productive all day long.

Key Features of the Granit Ultra 2100i

The Granit Ultra 2100i is packed with valuable features:

• Reads a broad range of barcode types and sizes – both standard and low definition, 1D/2D
• Range of scanning distances – SR model for ‘standard range’ / close range, XLR for extra long range scanning – scan the top rack from the floor
• Option to read multiple barcodes simultaneously – helpful based on your task and workflows
• Intuitive use – Green LED aimer dot makes it easy to see where you are pointing the scanner
• Rugged – 10′ drop spec, and IP65/68 sealing
• High-capacity battery – Use scanner for multiple scan-intensive shifts on a single charge!

Download the data sheet below.

Contact CSSI to Test the Granit Ultra

Want to test this scanner? We’re ready with a demo unit for you to evaluate. Contact CSSI to discuss your barcode scanning application and schedule a test of this powerful new scanner!

New Wi-Fi & Cellular Mobile Computer from Datalogic: Memor 12 & 17

Are you seeking mobile yet rugged computing power at an attractive price? Good news: Datalogic just announced the Memor 12-17, an excellent device choice for your mobile work staff who need handhelds which can stand up to the bumps and drops of day-to-day use.

This newest member of the Memor family includes Datalogic’s famous scanning technology, along with computing power which will carry you all the way through Android 18. Datalogic has been making big strides with its recent product launches, so it’s well worth a look for your next mobile computing project. The team at CSSI are mobile computing experts and can guide you in your device selection.

Key Features of the Memor 12-17

In addition to excellent scanning capability and Datalogic’s patented ‘Green Spot’ aimer, the Memor has attractive features for its price point. A few highlights are:

• Display: 6″ Gorilla Glass 7 screen
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6e (Memor 12) and 5G or Wi-Fi 6e (Memor 17)
• Rugged ‘enough’: 6-foot drop spec
• Future-proof: Supports up to Android 18

Download the data sheet below for the full device specs.

Great Applications for the Memor 12-17

The Memor 12-17 shines in field/remote use applications where you need mobility and scanning capability along with reasonable durability, but don’t require the more extreme rugged construction of pricier models such as the Memor 30-35. Test it out for:

• Transportation & Logistics: Proof of delivery, last-mile delivery, field service
• Retail: Shelf replenishment, price checks, queue busting
• Healthcare: Admittance, bed care, electronic medical records

Contact CSSI to Set Up An Evaluation

The best way to evaluate the new Datalogic Memor 12-17 handheld is with an evaluation unit. Contact CSSI to discuss your application and schedule a test of this powerful new mobile computer!

Using Staylinked to Create Color Touch Screens from TE Interfaces

Do your warehouse mobile computers connect via telnet (TE)? We’re excited to tell you about an option to create a modern touch interface for your ‘green screens’ without breaking your budget or consuming your IT resources!  See how it works and looks in the side-by-side video below:

Why Modernize Mobile Device Screens?

Operations everywhere use mobile device interfaces which were designed in a pre-touch screen world. With modern color touch screens, there is massive potential to improve the GUI with immediate benefit:

• Reduce user errors and new user training time
• Eliminate keystrokes and improve workflows
• Improve user ergonomics

Telnet Screen Modernization… without software rewrites!

Updating legacy software can be expensive and complicated. The good news is that CSSI offers software which resides either on-device or on server, and acts as an intermediary between your mobile devices and back-end systems. You don’t need to touch your legacy software. This can get you up and running quickly and painlessly.

CSSI Can Help!

Would you like to explore your options for improving your telnet mobile device screens? Consult with the Android mobile experts at CSSI, we’d be glad to discuss your situation and propose options. Just contact CSSI to get started with telnet modernization.

Earn Cash Back with the Go Zebra 2025 Trade-In Program

As a certified Zebra Technologies partner, CSSI is excited to announce that Zebra has launched a cash-back rebate program for 2025! The Go Zebra trade in program enables you to trade in your old technology when upgrading to new and improved Zebra units.

The rebates vary by product and are covered in the brochure below, but the program is simple – you can send back your old device when buying a new Zebra device and receive cash. The device you are trading up from does not need to be a Zebra device, just an equivalent product.

A Few Examples of the Impressive Go Zebra Trade In Rebates

Your cash back reward for a Zebra trade in can be substantial:

• $250/unit when purchasing a Zebra MC9400 or MC9450
• $100/unit when purchasing a Zebra MC3400 or MC3450
• $100/unit when purchasing a Zebra tablet such as ET60 or ET80
• Trade in the old printer, Zebra tablet, Zebra device, Zebra printer, and even products from other manufacturers!

The supply chain solutions team at CSSI can help you determine the rebate for which you will qualify and can make sure you are equipped to take advantage of this offer. See the Zebra trade in data sheet below.

To learn more about the Go Zebra 2025 trade-in program, simply contact CSSI to discuss!