Why Now is a Crucial Time to Upgrade Your Mobile Computers

For many produce growers and warehouses that are using mobile computers to automate processes and track and trace inventory, your hardware is a big investment, and it’s one where you need to get years of reliable performance out of your devices.

However, there comes a time when continuing to use older hardware is no longer an option. This is particularly important if your operating system is no longer supported, security updates are no longer available, and your hardware is just too slow, limited and outdated to keep up with current and future business demands.

Fortunately, if you’re due or overdue to upgrade your mobile computing devices, right now is a perfect time to do it. There are now programs available to help you trade in your current hardware and get significant rebates on new technologies, and a good example is the GO Zebra Trade-In Program.

Through the GO Zebra program, you can trade in any qualifying device, including non-Zebra mobile computers, and get rebates of up to $250 per device toward the purchase of the latest Zebra technologies.

This is a timely opportunity, especially when concerns about rising business and labor costs might otherwise tempt you to keep using your legacy devices. But that is a risky proposition right now, especially for a few key reasons.

1. The End of Windows Mobile Support

If you’re running mobile computers with a Windows mobile operating system, chances are that your support and even extended support options have long expired. In recent years, Microsoft has ended support for most of its previous mobile operating systems, and they’re effectively dead. There are no more OS updates available, no security patches, and no more technical support.

Unless you were running one of Microsoft’s most recent OS options, there is no way to upgrade your devices to a new Windows mobile OS. It’s the end of the line for many thousands of old Windows mobile devices around the world, and now is the time to invest in new devices that are compatible with the latest operating systems.

 2. Major Security Risks from Non-Patched Devices

If you’re running an older and non-supported operating system, the biggest risk is with your device security. If your OS is no longer supported, that means there are no security patches to install, and that means your devices are vulnerable to all newer threats that your OS will never be patched to address.

To protect your devices and ultimately your networks and data, you need to make sure you’re running a current and supported OS with regular security updates. Otherwise, your workers might be handling a ticking timebomb on the job every day, with hackers looking to target those non-patched devices, their connections, or data transmissions to compromise your business.

3. Limited Upward Mobility of Early Android Devices

These days, most of the enterprise mobile computing industry has made the switch to Android, with all major hardware manufacturers choosing Android as their preferred OS. But despite Android’s many advantages in terms of OS support, security and usability, the earliest Android enterprise devices have limited upgradeability. In some cases, you could upgrade to newer versions of Android, but you could only go so far.

Fortunately, that has changed dramatically with more recent versions of Android, including Android 11, where you get truly future-proof upgradeability and can keep updating to new versions of Android moving forward. But if you already switched to Android years ago and you’re running one of the earliest versions of the OS, you may not have the option to upgrade.

If you don’t have a way forward and you want to make sure you’re still getting OS and security updates when you need them, then now is an ideal time to invest in new devices that come with Android 11 and future-forward compatibility. You’ll not only be able to update your OS in the future, but you’ll get monthly over-the-air security updates to ensure maximum protection for your devices, plus the latest mobile computing power with more memory, faster Wi-Fi 6, 5G and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, and more efficient overall performance.

4. Negative Impact on Your Business Processes and Workflows

Another big reason to consider upgrading your devices is to speed up and streamline your mobile workflows. Older legacy devices are typically much slower and more clunky than today’s next-generation hardware. They often lack the processing and connection speeds and the updated features and usability to keep up with today’s heightened labor demands. In the end, this means your devices might be slowing your workers down and hindering potential gains you could be making in your overall efficiency and productivity.

In contrast, recent mobile technology advancements have enabled huge increases in processing power, memory, connection speeds, communication protocols, and even built-in barcode scanning engines and algorithms. These can make a night-and-day difference in how efficiently your workers can get things done.

For example, Zebra has introduced a revolutionary device called the TC8300 Touch Mobile Computer, which combines barcode scanning and mobile computing in a unique design where the device’s display and scanning results are shown on top of the scanner handle. It creates a tilt-free and more efficient and ergonomic scanning process that results in a 14% boost in worker productivity, creating an extra hour of productivity per shift. Since it’s an Android touchscreen device where you can use a customizable virtual keyboard for data entry, it also enables 40% faster data entry with 60% fewer errors.

Improvements such as these can help you boost labor efficiency, accuracy and productivity when it’s needed most, and the money you invest in upgrading to new hardware will often generate multi-fold returns in labor and cost savings.

Find Out How Much You Can Save with GO Zebra Trade-Ins

To learn more about the GO Zebra Trade-In Program, how it works, and how much you can save, download our brochure now and contact our team at RedLine Solutions to find out whether your current devices are eligible for trade-ins.

Upgrading to Android Doesn’t Have to Break The Bank

Android the Path Forward

Migration to Android is the natural path of action after the extended support for Windows Embedded 6.5 Handheld ended in January 2020. Previously, support for CE 6.0 ended in 2018 and Embedded Handheld 8.1 mainstream support ended in 2019. However, the thought of migration can be challenging if you have a large install base or this activity was not budgeted for. 

Zebra’s Android portfolio is perfect for a warehouse environment, and best of all it doesn’t have to break the bank. Zebra's Android portfolio offers many cost-effective devices with the capability to allow a smooth transition from a Windows OS to Android.

The MC2200/MC2700 Mobile Computers provide an ergonomic design, battery power to last nearly two shifts and IP65 sealing, all at the right price. They are Zebra’s first key-based Wi-FI and cellular Android devices, allowing to increase productivity as workers can use them inside the warehouse or in the field. An optional trigger handle accessory allows more scan-intensive tasks to be performed with ease.

For a more handheld solution, Zebra offers the TC21 and TC26 Touch computers. They include a high-resolution 13-megapixel camera, large 5-inch HD touchscreen and removable/replaceable batteries. They can also withstand tough conditions including drops to concrete, snow, rain, heat, freezing cold, along with being waterproof (IP67) and dustproof. 

In addition, Zebra’s Go Zebra Trade-In program allows you to upgrade for less. By purchasing one of Zebra's eligible products and trading in an old unit, you can earn a rebate of $50 to $250. Contact us to learn more and see if you qualify for any promotions. RedLine is here to help you get the most bang for your buck!

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. All rights reserved. RedLine Solutions name and logo, referred to in this document, are trademarks of RedLine Solutions Inc.

RedLine Solutions Wins Ivanti Innovation Award 2020

"We are honored to have received the Innovation Award for Ivanti’s 2020 Supply Chain Partner of the Year," says RedLine Solutions CEO, Todd Baggett. He continued, "Over the past 24 years we have helped hundreds of companies acquire, implement, and manage thousands of mobile devices in the supply chain. The Wavelink products and our partnership with Ivanti have enabled us to bring value through both software and professional service that really impact our manufacturing, distribution, and logistics customers.

We use Ivanti to modernize our client’s telnet applications, provide a secure browsing environment and restrict access to specific approved applications, and manage devices across work groups and geography.  We even embed some of Ivanti’s products into our own Supply Chain Applications to allow rendering on multiple device sizes and screen configurations while simplifying our development efforts."

Joe Wilson, Vice President of Global Sales, Ivanti Supply Chain stated that recipients are "experts in mission-critical device management, wireless infrastructure management, terminal emulation, voice enabling, or mobile application development." Read more in their blog here.

Author: Todd Baggett - CEO of RedLine Solutions

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2021. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. All rights reserved. RedLine Solutions name and logo, referred to in this document, are trademarks of RedLine Solutions Inc.

Which RFID Flavor Is Right for You?

Today, the potential for consistent and reliable RFID is here and within reach.  RAIN RFID, a brand name for passive UHF solutions, has proven to be an extremely effective asset tracking technology. RAIN RFID offers a low total cost of ownership in environments where large numbers of items must be tracked over a wide area. 

Because of its proven business value, RFID has finally come into its own. Now a mature technology in the retail sector, RFID is quickly expanding into a wide variety of industries and applications:

• For the transportation and logistics industry, RFID improves asset visibility, data and quality for a extensive list of applications—including distribution, shipping and receiving, warehouse operation, asset tracking and baggage tracking. Delta Airlines, for example, is deploying RFID baggage tracking technology, a first for U.S. carriers, providing customers with improved real-time tracking of luggage throughout the travel experience.

• For manufacturing operations, RFID enables smarter decisions with real-time tracking for work-in-process, product identification, asset tracking and more. Its RAIN RFID solution is helping Volvo track vehicles through production for more efficient and accurate manufacturing.

• According to the RAIN RFID Alliance, more than 100 retailers worldwide use RAIN RFID, because it helps them boost sales, reduce out of stocks and improve productivity – by enhancing inventory visibility, improving asset tracking and order fulfillment, and more. Athletic apparel retailer Lululemon recently reported that RFID was a major factor in the company’s ability to remain flexible in responding to changing consumer demands.

• In healthcare, RFID is helping hospitals increase efficiency, reduce costs and elevate patient care — for everything from records management to asset tracking.  Mayo Clinic is using RFID to track equipment and staff to help them improve care delivery.

Zebra Technologies RFID Solutions

Zebra offers the industry’s broadest portfolio or RAIN RFID technology, including RFID handheld readers, printers and encoders, inlays and labels. Zebra’s wide range of handheld RFID readers includes solutions for virtually every use case, including :

• 2D presentation imagers that offer small read areas for limited spaces. These are ideal for retail point-of-sale (POS) applications, specimen tracking for laboratories, and item tracking for electronics assembly.

• RFID sleds that double as mobile computers for indoor asset tracking. This application is suited well for us by department stores, specialty apparel, and sporting goods retailers.

• Integrated RFID handhelds offering the highest level of performance for manufacturing, warehousing, retail, commercial services, and government use cases.

Unmatched Value

Zebra RFID printers can help you accurately print and encode RAIN RFID labels and tags when and where you need them. The Zebra portfolio includes a broad choice of hardware—including:

• Industrial printers that keep operations running 24/7 in the harshest environments and most demanding RFID applications.
• Easy-to-manage mobile printers built to withstand repeated drops, spills and splashes.
• Compact and easy-to-use desktop printers that deliver intelligence and advanced features.
• UHF card printers deliver exceptional image quality that is efficient and cost effective.

The Zebra UFH-RFID supplies portfolio includes inlays in 30 sizes that accommodate most common uses and labels for specialized applications. The newest generation of Zebra RFID inlays include general purpose labels for consistent, reliable performance—and advanced labels optimized to be read up to 60 feet from any angle and offering wideband performance when placed on or near challenging materials.

An Experienced Team

Let Redline help you leverage Zebra’s decades of expertise, design and software development to achieve maximum RAIN RFID efficiency, while minimizing the pains of multi-vendor solutions. We can help you choose the right solution from Zebra’s industry-leading RFID portfolio for unmatched accuracy and interoperability. Our solution experts stand ready to assist you in connecting it all and creating a platform that elevates every system, device, tag, and worker. Contact us today at 408-562-1700 or sales@redlinesolutions.com.

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© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. This blog was written and provided to RedLine Solutions by Zebra Technologies and any excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions, Zebra Technologies and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. All rights reserved. RedLine Solutions name and logo, referred to in this document, are trademarks of RedLine Solutions Inc.

Why Moving to the Cloud is a Smart Move with RedLine Cloud Solutions!

Moving to the Cloud is a Smart Move for Many Reasons

America’s mainstream business move to the Cloud has been growing steadily over the past four years, and with good reason. Early on there was a lot of fear surrounding the security of having your company information in the cloud, yet today’s reality is that cloud service providers have the expertise to ensure that not only your data is safe, that it backed-up and can be securely accessed from any locations. You can also operate with hybrid models (cloud and on-premise) are often used which can give you the best of both worlds.

The cloud is no longer just about that hard disk in the sky. In fact, many of the high value cloud services are less about storage and more about computing, communicating, and securing your business data.

From a computing standpoint some interesting stats bear this out:

• 83% of enterprise workloads will be in the cloud by the end of 2020
• 94% of enterprises already use a cloud service
• 30% of all IT budgets are allocated to cloud computing

Taking a Fresh look At Cloud Services

In-house computing can be expensive and small to mid-size businesses may be dependent on one or two individuals, without whom your business would grind to a halt. Furthermore, the team you have is often spread thin between implementing that new system, supporting for your users, and maintaining your infrastructure. One problem can have a cascading effect of delaying multiple projects, adding expense, and leading to employee burnout.

Buying an in-house phone system is already a thing of the past. Cloud-based telecom is the wave of the present and not going away any time soon. Employee desk phones are antiquated, with the rise of mobility, now the phone number follows the employee whether they are at their desk, in the facility or off-site. Products like Microsoft Teams integrate online meeting software and collaboration with people within your organization as well as partners, contractors, and customers as co-collaborators in a secure environment.

If you have fifty phone lines or more, either desk phones or mobile, there is a good chance you could cut your monthly bill by 25-30%. In fact, some of the companies we represent will perform an audit for free and take their payment as a percentage of the savings they identify for you.

Do you know someone in a company hacked by ransomware? Unknown assailants have infiltrated your organization via an unsecured public IP address or a Phishing email and now have your data encrypted, you’re locked out, and for a few hundred thousand dollars of Bit Coins they will maybe release it back to you. Cloud services can protect you from these scenarios, giving you access to military-grade software defense systems to not only protect you, but identify the vulnerable areas in your organization and address challenges before they occur.

The Cloud is here to stay, and you don’t have to get into an airplane to find it. RedLine Solutions has launched RedLine Cloud Solutions, a new group of cloud-savvy professionals representing the most successful cloud service providers in the industry.

We work with you to understand your business needs and introduce you to our cloud partners that specialize in these services. You work directly with the provider on the pricing, the support, and the implementation and we work with them to make sure you’re happy. The best news is that there are no up-front costs. These cloud services are offered as a monthly, ‘As-A-Service’ subscription fee. Contact your RedLine sales representative or sales@redlinecloudservices.com today for a free 30-minute consultation.

Author: Todd Baggett - CEO of RedLine Solutions

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. All rights reserved. RedLine Solutions name and logo, referred to in this document, are trademarks of RedLine Solutions Inc.

Caring Resources for Challenging Times

The Covid-19 virus pandemic has changed our lives in numerous ways.  Anyone following the daily news has been inundated with constant updates on the problems. So much so, I am limiting the amount of news I watch. Instead I’m turning my thoughts to solutions. I do this by spending time to stimulate my body with exercise, trying to eat in healthy ways, and turning my attention to counter-balancing all the negativity. I am also feeding my mind with daily positive content, uplifting messages, and things like music that bring me joy.

This has been helpful in keeping me focused on the fact that we are in a temporary situation- but nonetheless we all feel pressures. As I thought about the various needs of our families, co-workers, and community an idea came to me; by putting together a web page that aggregated resources we could serve our community. I assembled a team of employees and requested resources from them and my friends and family. We set our intention and shifted our focus from business to building a web page that would serve a higher purpose. The content includes links for supplemental resources for homeschooling, making face masks, online meeting resources, and various mental health links. We also included some religious, spiritual, art and inspirational resources.

Caring about people is part of who I am, it is an important part of the culture at RedLine Solutions. Today I am pleased to announce the launch of our Caring Resources web page.

I am clear that this page is not all encompassing, may not adequately represent our diversity, and is light in content. I am also clear that its purpose is to provide valuable resources on a variety of topics many of us can use now.  Perhaps more importantly, it might inspire you to search for resources to answer the questions you may be facing. I am partial to classic rock music and found many of the links here. If you love country, R&B, classical or other, I hope you will look for the music you enjoy. Our Care Team’s job is not over, in fact we are just getting started. If you have resources in any of these topic areas or would like to comment or make a suggestion, please email the topic and links to icare@redlinesolutions.com. We will be meeting weekly to review suggestions and screen content to ensure it follows our purpose, then prioritize for our web developer to add items to the page.

As we go through this difficult time we can focus on the challenges and disappointments of today or focus on using the resources available to us and do our best to focus on a better tomorrow.

Together we will get through this pandemic and hopefully come out on the other side with more empathy, kindness, and appreciation for all we have taken for granted.

We hope you find our Caring Resources page to be helpful and look forward to your comments and suggestions.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Todd Baggett

Author: Todd Baggett - CEO of RedLine Solutions

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. 

Coronavirus and Cleaning your Devices for Mobile Workers

With the US Government and the World Health Organization declaring a pandemic over the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we have all been told that washing our hands is key to our health. But what about the things we hold in our hands like cell phones and mobile computers used in our work?

They also should be cleaned, particularly when mobile devices are shared by multiple workers. This applies to printers, bar code scanners and any other devices touched by workers, they all should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. This is essential to be done:

1. When devices are in a pool shared by a group of workers
2. When a device is used by different individuals in single and multi-shift operations
3. A device is coming back from service by the vendor or has been services on-site

Cleaning/and disinfecting instructions can generally be found in the manufacture’s product manuals. Once you have located the manual, simply search the document for "clean" to locate cleaning instructions. The websites to download the user manuals commonly provided by RedLine Solutions can be found at:

• Zebra (Locate the product type, then the product page and scroll down to the Manuals section)
• Honeywell (Locate the product type, then the product page and it will be in the Documents tab)
• Omron (Locate the product and click the MAN button)

If your device is not made by one of these manufactures, go to their website and search for User or Product Manuals.

One good practice is to assign specific devices to be used by specific individuals. This way you limit the number of users touching the device and if there are any issues with the device you know which team members use it.

Zebra recently published a whitepaper “Best Practices for Infection Prevention” written by Darrel Hicks, a nationally recognized expert in infection control. While this paper was written for the healthcare industry, the recommendations here provide a solid foundation for companies in all industries when taking additional precautions to protect the health of staff and customers.

Additional Zebra Device Cleaning Instructions:

• Cleaning Guidelines for Zebra Vehicle Mount Computers
• Cleaning Vehicle Computers, Mobile Computers and Accessories in Food Processing Environments
• Guide to Cleaning and Disinfecting Zebra Healthcare Printers
• Cleaning Mobile Computers and Accessories in Healthcare Environments
• Cleaning and Disinfecting Guidelines for Zebra Healthcare Scanners

Author: Todd Baggett - CEO of RedLine Solutions

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. Images in this blog were provided courtesy of Zebra Technologies.

Bringing Telnet into the 21st Century on mobile devices

Bring your Telnet Client into the 21st Century

If you are familiar with Moore’s Law you will know that in 1965, Intel co-founder, Gordon Moore observed that the number of transistors per square inch doubled every two years. Today we think of Moore’s law referring to the doubling of human knowledge of technology every 18 months. We certainly see these advancements in the computer hardware, software, and the medical fields.

However, there is a piece of technology that has not changed in 47 years. Do you know what it is? 

The Latest Zebra Device Running Telnet

It’s hard to imagine, but this exists in Telnet – the interface between the host computer and its operational terminals. Today the dumb terminals are all but gone and in their place we find PC’s and mobile computing devices, but the way these operate under Telnet has remained unchanged.

The rugged mobile devices today have color graphics capability and touchscreens, but running Telnet on them does not use either of those features. In fact approximately 65% of applications run on these products are still using old green screen telnet interfaces. When I ask customers why they would continue to operate this way the answer is generally the same, …“because it works” and they are right. When implemented correctly telnet’s accuracy and security is undeniable. So unfortunately, even with today’s most advanced mobile devices, a Telnet interface performs like something built before the average user was born, until now.

My company, RedLine Solutions, sells rugged mobile computers used in many applications including manufacturing, warehousing, and inventory management. We also offer a system that can let companies work with their existing Telnet software on the latest mobile platforms, but upgrades the way that the graphic user interface (GUI) operates, bringing these systems into the 21^st Century.

We recently helped a long-term customer implement a new telnet client that allowed them to significantly upgrade the green screen interface, which they had been using for the last 17 years. The change enabled them to not only add intuitive graphics, and touch operation, but also update the operational flow of the screens, which enabled better productivity through a more user-friendly operator experience.

Our customer had recently purchased new Zebra’s TC8000 mobile computers. RedLine Solutions helped them get set up with a Smart Telnet Emulation client by our partner Staylinked Corporation. This system builds upon the speed, accuracy, and reliability of Telnet while leveraging the rugged mobile devices color touch screens. With only three days of on-site assistance, our customer redesigned many of their screens and understood how to use the tools, so they could be self-sufficient.

“Staylinked is very easy to learn, and now we can make the changes in-house without any programming,” stated the VP of IT at Louis Raphael. “You can convert your whole system over in a very short amount of time, and we had about 50 screens.” The Louis Raphael team found that the ability to customize the screens also gave them the possibility of controlling the operational flow of the tool, which previously would have required a programming change on the green screen. 

“Before we even rolled out the Staylinked solution, we had estimated that the change in the operational flow would save us about 10% based on an increase in productivity, with the auto response and elimination of obsolete processes. However, once we rolled out the Staylinked conversion we found that we actually save 25% in productivity, and the updates have also led to training times being cut in half.”  

The promise of a better way to do telnet has been out there for years. With the help of RedLine Solutions and StayLinked, we were able to fulfill that promise to this customer, and we can do the same for you!

We recently ran a webinar with Justin Griffiths the CTO of Staylinked on this topic. Watch this at our website.

Author: Todd Baggett - CEO of RedLine Solutions

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. Images in this blog were provided courtesy of Zebra Technologies and Staylinked. 

Act Now If You Use The Zebra MC9090 As The End of Serviceable Life Has Arrived!

Act Now If You Use The Zebra MC9090 As The End of Serviceable Life Has Arrived!

If you have a Zebra MC9090 mobile computer, as shown in the image on the right, you should look to update immediately, or at least have a contingency plan in place. Sales of the MC9090 unit stopped during 2012. The MC9090 was truly a work horse, but produce and functionality have moved on. The MC9090 was initially replaced by the MC9190, which in turn was itself replaced by the MC9200.

On the Zebra official customer website it states that the Service & Support Discontinuation Date of the MC9090 WM MOBILE COMPUTER SUPPORT (windows mobile version) is July 2017. The same site mentions that the Service & Support Discontinuation Date of the MC9090 CE MOBILE COMPUTER SUPPORT (the Windows CE version) is Dec the 28th of 2017. 

However, our team has been informed by many customers that repair services for the MC9090 are currently taking significantly longer than expected, and it is clear that if you are still using MC9090 units you will see more and more support challenges in the future. 


Of course, there are companies that purchase used units and break them down into parts so they can continue repairing units in the field, but how reliable and costly will this actually be? 
It comes down to: 

• How reliant is your organization on the MC9090s?
• How many MC9090s do you have?
• What is the cost of updating to newer models?
• How compatible are newer units to your existing software and its configurations? 

Zebra MC9200

Zebra TC8000

We would strongly suggest looking at options and at a minimum, and we would highly recommend having a plan in place. 

We suggest the best plan is to get hold of the latest units like the MC9200 or the TC8000 and test their compatibility with your applications. This will help assess potential changes, suitable configurations, and be able to accurately budget for updates. At least you will have a contingency plan in place, and even if you do not want to replace your complete fleet of units in one go, you can start to purchase new units, to replace old units as they fail. 

RedLine Solutions have been a partner of Zebra for 20 years and would happy to talk about what your options are to help you plan, with no obligations. Feel free to call us at 408-562-1700 or email sales@redlinesolutions.com.


© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. Images in this blog were provided courtesy of Zebra Technologies.

What is the difference between thermal direct and thermal transfer label printing?

What is the Difference Between Thermal Direct and Thermal Transfer Label Printing?

I had a few questions on this recently so thought it would be a good topic to cover here. The main differences between the two processes is the label material that is being used. Many label printers being sold will work with both direct and transfer materials, you just need to select and purchase the correct materials to best match your application and make sure you select the matching option in the printer driver setting when you print.

Thermal direct label stock has a chemical coating on its surface that changes its color when heated (normally to black, but colors are available at a premium). The heat is created by a row of very small resistors at the front of the printers print head. 

A thermal transfer label looks the same as a thermal direct label, but to put an image on it, you must use a special ribbon (these come in many colors including gold and silver).

The ribbon and the label material travel under the print head at the same time and are heated in the same way that the direct material was heated. However, in this process material from the ribbon is transferred to the surface of the label, which generates the image.

How to tell what label roll you have?

If you have a roll of labels and you are not sure if it is a thermal direct or thermal transfer label there is a simple way to test. Quickly scratch your nail over the surface of the label (put the label on a flat hard surface and run your nail over it quickly when applying pressure). If the label is a thermal direct, this action will heat the material enough to leave a black mark. If you do this and there is no mark, then it is more than likely to be a thermal transfer label.

Applications for thermal transfer and thermal direct labels

If your application requires that the label only needs to last a short time and it is not used in a very hot environment, then a thermal direct label is usually ideal. It is important to note that this type of label is susceptible to fading if left out in the sun, and will change color if heated. Both heat and the sun will leave the label unreadable. 

Thermal direct labels are often used for shipping labels or receipts. They are also used on products that have a short shelf life like sandwiches. Many retail application use thermal direct materials as they only require staff to replace one consumable, which is simpler.

If your application requires the label to be readable for a longer period of time (months or years), or will be left in the sun, or even in a hot environment then it is better to use thermal transfer. The best match for asset tracking, warehouse location, and UL labels would be thermal transfer.

It is also important to note that thermal transfer works with several types of ribbons – wax, wax resin, and resin. The ribbon used depends on the label material to be printed, and/or the environment that the label has to withstand. Wax is more a general purpose, cheaper material that makes a great image, but can be scratched off. If you need to print on a polymer material or the label has to withstand harsh environments, then a resin ribbon is the better way to go.'

Zebra ZD500 runs in direct thermal or thermal transfer mode.

Other things to remember when talking about labels

Zebra ZT410 runs in direct thermal
or thermal transfer mode.

• What is the ideal external diameter of the label roll for your printer? – each label printer is designed to hold a maximum label roll diameter and will not work with larger rolls
• What is the ideal external diameter of the label roll core? – most large printers are designed to handle a roll core of three inches, but smaller printers have different sized cores, so check what core diameter your printer needs
• How are your labels wound onto the core? – the labels can be wound inside (with the face of the label pointing into the center of the roll) or outside wound (the face of the label pointing away from the core). Again, it is important to know which wind your printer works with for optimum operation.
• What label roll width is supported by your printer? – Each printer will work well with labels of a certain size (min size and max size). If you try to operate the printer with wider or narrower labels will cause issues.
• Are you running the printer with the ideal ribbon width for your label? – though not every width of label is supported by ribbon widths, and it is also impractical to stock every width of ribbon, it is best to use a ribbon that matches your label width. Using a ribbon that is much wider than you label can cause print problems, like ribbon wrinkle and of course wastes ribbon that you are not using to print on. 

Zebra 110xi4 runs in direct thermal or thermal transfer mode.

This blog is written as a rough guide and we recommend researching the product you need in more detail before making a purchasing decision. We hope that it is helpful and if you have any questions on anything in the blog or want more information please feel free to call the RedLine Solutions team at 408-562-1700 or email us at sales@redlinesolutions.com.

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com. Printer images provided by Zebra Technologies.

RedLine Solutions Help GA Foods Better Serve Their Customers

RedLine Solutions Help GA Foods Better Serve Their Customers

RedLine Solutions have many customers throughout the USA and Canada. This is a story about one such customer, GA Foods. Read other customer stories at our main site.

GA Foods is a specialized maker of highly nutritious meals, serving the unique nutritional needs of healthcare patients, seniors, children, the military, and emergency responders to disasters. Their products are marketed under the SunMeadow® brand and are available in over 40 States.

Business Challenge 

GA Foods are always looking for ways to better serve their customers, and needed to provide their staff with technology that would increase efficiencies. Prior to installing the new system they were using a legacy AS400 based solution, stretching its functionality in order to achieve their operational goals. They wanted to streamline their processes, improve productivity and enable better inventory control. To complete the upgrade they needed reliable hardware that would compliment their software solution and function reliably within their freezer and warehouse environments. They looked to procure the hardware from a vendor that would be supportive and collaborative throughout the sale and beyond.

The New System 

GA Foods wanted a cutting edge system that provided more informative data in real time, and was fully integrated across their organization. The main objectives for their upgrade were:

• To operate with one fully integrated system
• To have access to timely, detailed and accurate information
• To enable greater visibility for management, higher efficiencies for their staff, and better service for their customers
• To provide their staff with a modern and efficient system.

RedLine Solutions were recommended to GA Foods, but the GA Foods team first looked at several alternative vendors, before concluding that RedLine was the most suitable candidate. SVP and CFO Beth Ann Valavanis said, “It was obvious quite quickly that RedLine had a lot of experience with this type of process, had worked with our software vendor before, and also knew which hardware configurations would get the best out of the system.

RedLine provided consistent communication, addressed questions and concerns, and continually updated and adjusted quotes as the project planning cycle progressed. RedLine also provided the GA Foods team with sample hardware so that they could carry out real-life operational and environmental tests. Ms. Valavanis went on to say “I didn’t have to worry about hardware through implementation, which I am very grateful for.”

System Benefits

The new system provides GA Foods with a more granular picture of their daily operations, enabling them to access more detailed answers to their business questions, and supporting more informed decision-making. Now GA Foods regularly compare employee productivity levels, cost per meal, cycle counts, and other important business metrics, that were previously unavailable.

Customer Comments

“Given this project to do again, we would absolutely go with RedLine! They were price competitive, they were great in communicating with our team throughout our long buying process, and they worked very closely with us on all our delivery requirements,” explained Ms. Valavanis.

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We hope that it is helpful and if you have any questions on anything in the blog or want more information please feel free to call the RedLine Solutions team at 408-562-1700 or email us at sales@redlinesolutions.com. Images are provided by courtesy of GA Foods. 

© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com

A simple guide to barcoding equipment (Part 2)

A simple guide to barcoding equipment (Part 2)

As mentioned in my last blog I will expand on various elements of barcoding equipment, their applications and how to use them as I write. Here we will talk a little more about barcodes, their scanning, and verification.

Talking 1D and 2D barcodes

1D barcodes

A 1D barcode is a set of black and white lines/bars and can be only be printed horizontally or vertically. There are many 1D barcodes e.g. UPC A, UPC E, Code 39, code 11, Codabar, Code 128, Interleaved 2-of-5 and many more. The most important thing to remember about 1D barcodes is they are just a reference or look up for data held somewhere else in the customer's system. So if you look at the human readable under the 1D barcode generally you don’t know much about that item unless you have access to the database that the number references.

2D barcode - 1D barcode

scanning with a laser - scanning with an imager

When it comes to scanning a 1D barcode, they can be scanned by a laser scan engine or an imager engine. If a laser scanner is used to scan a 1D barcode it is important to know that the laser line must fall perpendicular to the bars in order for the code to read. An imager can be used to scan a 1D in any rotation.

2D barcodes

A 2D barcode looks like a lot of small black and white boxes that make up a bigger box and you will see on your FedEx shipping label. These codes can hold a lot of information so though they may refer data stored elsewhere they may also hold a lot of information about the item they are on. You may also see the QR code and other 2D codes used in marketing pieces, which can be scanned by a phone app and will take the user to a landing page or offer for that product. 

scanning a 2D barcode

2D codes can also be etched onto the surface of a product so that it can be tracked, as with the UDI requirements for items like pacemakers.When it comes to scanning 2D barcodes cannot be scanned by lasers, but only by imagers. 

Laser vs Imagers

Laser scanners have been around for a long time and so have been much lower cost than imagers, though imager prices have reduced considerably recently. Laser scanner will only scan 1D codes and with the increased use of 2D codes in many applications this type of scanner can be limiting.  

Imagers will scan 1D and 2D codes and do not care about the rotation of the code being scanned, helping speed up the scan process. 

The latest imagers can scan large distances like the one offered in the Zebra TC8000, DS3600 or MC9200, which will scan up to 70ft and down to 3 inches. Imagers are also a lot more flexible than lasers, scanning through shrink wrap and off monitor screens. The addition of this technology has also enabled devices to take pictures of items e.g. shipping damage, or even scanning content on forms and signatures. Zebra offer Simulscan as a feature of some of their hardware, that will scan multiple text and barcode elements directly from a form simultaneously with one scan. 

Zebra Technologies Simulscan functionality

Scanners vs Verifiers

Just because you can scan a barcode, does not mean it is a good code. If you are a manufacturer you may be required to have barcodes that meet certain specifications by your customers. 1D codes might be checked against the GS1 or ISO/IEC standards and 2D codes may be checked against GS1 or ISO standards.

verifiers vs scanners

A scanner’s software is designed to get the data from the code in the worst condition, so it is not a good check for the code’s ability to meet any standards. A different piece of equipment should be used for verifying a barcode. For instance, the Microscan range of verifiers provides reliable verification to application standards such as GS1, HIBC, USPS, FDA UDI (Unique Device Identification) compliance for Medical Device Manufacturers and Labelers, as well as ISO/IEC 15415/15416. The system will also provide a report for codes checked so activity can be logged and recorded if needed later. These types of verifiers can be handheld for use with checking sample labels, or a unit can be connected directly to the front of a label printer, so checking the validity of every label and stopping the printer if an issue arises.

This blog is written as a rough guide and we recommend researching the product you need in more detail before making a purchasing decision. We hope that it is helpful and if you have any questions on anything in the blog or want more information please feel free to call the RedLine Solutions team at 408-562-1700 or email us at sales@redlinesolutions.com. Images are provided by courtesy of Zebra Technologies and Microscan. 


© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com

A simple guide to barcoding equipment (Part 1)

A simple guide to barcoding equipment (Part 1)

There is a lot of equipment out there and a lot of information about it, which can be quite confusing. I wanted to create a snapshot of the type of equipment grouped by the application that might simplify this topic for a reader. I have created this blog in multiple parts to discuss this topic, each getting more detailed. Part 1 will focus on a basic overview of the equipment.

Basic barcode overview

A barcode is a set of numbers (or letters) represented by a pattern of lines or boxes, that are printed either on a label, directly onto an item, or its packaging. There are a number of different types of codes for different applications. The barcode you might see the most is the one on any item in a retail store that is scanned when you checkout. This is called a UPC A or UPC B (depending on the number of numbers used / size) and is used to look up pricing when you buy an item. It is also used to update the stock or inventory record of the store, so they know how many of that item they have left. I will discuss barcodes in more detail in a later blog, but you need to know that there are 1D codes (they are the barcodes that look like a bunch of lines) and 2D codes (look like a lot of small black and white boxes that make up a bigger box and you will see on your FedEx shipping label).

2D barcode and 1D barcode

Handheld Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners are either hand held or built into a stationary device, like the scanner in a retail store. At a basic level, the handheld units act to read, decipher and input the number represented in the barcode into your software or system. When I say input the number this is very similar to you manually typing the code in, but to save time the scanner is used. I am sure you have seen in retail if the barcode is damaged, so cannot be read, the store cashier will manually type in the code as read from the barcode label or tag.

two different types of barcode scanner

When selecting a barcode scanner you might look at these main parameters including:

• Types of barcode it can scan (1D or 2D)
• Connects to computer via cable (normally USB)
• Operates on batteries and is connected via blue tooth (no cable)
• Operates on capacitive charge via blue tooth (no cable)
• How durable it must be
• The scan distance (how far away from the barcode you will be when you scan)
• Cost
• The manufacturer

Mobile computers with scanners

There is a range of mobile computers that are handheld and have an integrated scanner. Unlike the basic scanner which just enters the numbers in the barcode, a mobile computer holds applications just like your phone. The user follows the direction on the screen of the mobile computer and will scan a barcode when promoted. The mobile computer is connected to a larger software system via wifi or sometimes via a cell service (just like your phone). There are two basic versions of handheld mobile computers one that looks like a phone and is held in the palm of your hand and the other has a pistol grip (a bit like a gun) that is used to hold and point the scanner at the barcode to be scanned.

One big difference between a handheld barcode scanner and a mobile computer is that with the scanner you don’t need any special software to run it. With a mobile computer, you do need an application on the device to make it work effectively. 

3 different types of mobile computer

When selecting a mobile computer, you might look at these main parameters including:

• ·         Types of barcode it can scan (1D or 2D)
• ·         The scan distance (how far away from the barcode you will be when you scan)
• ·         The operating system that your application works on (Windows or Android)
• ·         Connects to computer via a wifi connection
• ·         Connects to computer via a cellular system connection (like your phone)
• ·         Battery life vs length of shift
• ·         Type of keyboard you need (or you may opt for no keyboard when the keyboard is on the screen just like on your phone)
• ·         How durable it must be (will it be dropped a lot)
• ·         The environment it will be used in (is this used in a freezer or very cold, humid room)
• ·         Cost
• ·         The manufacturer
• ·         The warranty and support life of the product

Wearable devices

A mobile computer or hand-held device both generally prevent their operator from using both of their hands at the same time. If this causes you challenges in your application e.g. your operator is picking items in a warehouse for shipment then they might work quicker if they had their hands free. Wearable devices are similar in operation to the mobile computers i.e. they have an application running on them and connect to the main system in your facility via a wifi system, but they strap to the arm of the operator. The scanner is attached to two of the operator’s fingers. This way the operator can interact with the device and then immediately use both their hands to pick up a box or product, without the need to put the device down somewhere. 

wearable devices

When selecting a mobile computer, you might look at these main parameters including:

• ·         Types of barcode it can scan (1D or 2D)
• ·         The scan distance (how far away from the barcode you will be when you scan)
• ·         The operating system that your application works on (windows or Android)
• ·         Battery life vs length of shift
• ·         How durable it must be (will it be dropped a lot)
• ·         The environment it will be used in (is this used in a freezer or very cold, humid room)
• ·         Cost
• ·         The manufacturer
• ·         The warranty and support life of the product

Tablets

Everyone knows the iPad TM, but when it comes to industrial applications you need something more rugged and that also has a scanner built in and strap to help the operator hold it. There are a number of different types of industrial tablet from general use in a ruggedized format for use in warehouse environments, to extremely rugged industrial ones used for the military, police and utility companies.

Tablets

When selecting a mobile computer, you might look at these main parameters including:

• ·         How ruggedized do you need (warehouse or military applications)
• ·         Types of barcode it can scan (1D or 2D)
• ·         The operating system that your application works on (windows or Android)
• ·         Battery life vs length of shift
• ·         Will this be held in the operators hand or strapped round their neck
• ·         The environment it will be used in (is this used in a freezer or very cold, humid room)
• ·         Cost
• ·         The manufacturer
• ·         The warranty and support life of the product

Other scanners

In retail environments there are multiple scanners for checkouts like in grocery stores or smaller ones that can be picked up or stationary like those found in clothing stores. I will not go into these here, but see below for the two types, as RedLine Solutions do not tend to focus on this type of equipment.

retail fixed position scanners

This blog is written as a rough guide and we recommend researching the product you need in more detail before making a purchasing decision. We hope that it is helpful and if you have any questions on anything in the blog or want more information please feel free to call the RedLine Solutions team at 408-562-1700 or email us at sales@redlinesolutions.com. Images are provided by courtesy of Zebra Technologies and Xplore.


© RedLine Solutions Inc. 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to RedLine Solutions and there is the inclusion of a link to www.barcodenerd.com