Automatic identification – part 3
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No one probably needs to be convinced that the use of automatic data entry using barcodes brings measurable benefits. In many places where barcodes are used, these benefits can be multiplied by using portable terminals. Portable terminals are devices that enable convenient data collection in almost any location. A portable terminal is equipped with a display, keyboard, barcode reader, and communication port. Portable terminals connected to a computer via a communication cradle can receive data from the computer system, barcode reader, and keyboard, process them, and send them to the computer system. Terminals are used in fixed asset inventory, receiving and issuing goods from the warehouse, order picking, delivering, and receiving shipments. Individual terminal models differ from each other, making them suitable for various applications and environmental conditions. Therefore, choosing the most appropriate model is not always easy. However, it is worth paying attention to a few selected terminal parameters, as the right choice significantly affects the functionality of the system. Physical working conditions of the terminal A very important feature of portable terminals is mechanical durability. Its measure is the resistance to repeated drops onto a concrete surface from a specified height, e.g., 1.5 m, as stated by the manufacturer. The casing of each terminal is characterized by an appropriate degree of protection against dust and water. The degree of protection is usually specified using the IP standard (e.g., IP 56 means protection ensuring “dust tightness” and protection against water jets flowing from any direction). There are special versions of terminals adapted for work in special conditions, e.g., at low temperatures (down to -20o<\/sup>C or even -30o<\/sup>C) or in explosive atmospheres (so-called “intrinsically safe” versions). Method of communication with the computer system Regarding the method of communication, portable terminals can be divided into two types: “batch” and radio. A “batch” terminal does not communicate with the computer system in real-time while collecting data. From time to time, it connects to the computer using a cable, communication cradle, or IrDA infrared port, and data exchange takes place then. A radio terminal communicates with the computer system online. This gives the terminal operator the ability to perform the same operations in the computer system that are performed on a computer operating on a network. <\/div>
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No one probably needs to be convinced that the use of automatic data entry using barcodes brings measurable benefits. In many places where barcodes are used, these benefits can be multiplied by using portable terminals. Portable terminals are devices that enable convenient data collection in almost any location. A portable terminal is equipped with a display, keyboard, barcode reader, and communication port. Portable terminals connected to a computer via a communication cradle can receive data from the computer system, barcode reader, and keyboard, process them, and send them to the computer system. Terminals are used in fixed asset inventory, receiving and issuing goods from the warehouse, order picking, delivering, and receiving shipments. Individual terminal models differ from each other, making them suitable for various applications and environmental conditions. Therefore, choosing the most appropriate model is not always easy. However, it is worth paying attention to a few selected terminal parameters, as the right choice significantly affects the functionality of the system. Physical working conditions of the terminal A very important feature of portable terminals is mechanical durability. Its measure is the resistance to repeated drops onto a concrete surface from a specified height, e.g., 1.5 m, as stated by the manufacturer. The casing of each terminal is characterized by an appropriate degree of protection against dust and water. The degree of protection is usually specified using the IP standard (e.g., IP 56 means protection ensuring “dust tightness” and protection against water jets flowing from any direction). There are special versions of terminals adapted for work in special conditions, e.g., at low temperatures (down to -20o<\/sup>C or even -30o<\/sup>C) or in explosive atmospheres (so-called “intrinsically safe” versions). Method of communication with the computer system Regarding the method of communication, portable terminals can be divided into two types: “batch” and radio. A “batch” terminal does not communicate with the computer system in real-time while collecting data. From time to time, it connects to the computer using a cable, communication cradle, or IrDA infrared port, and data exchange takes place then. A radio terminal communicates with the computer system online. This gives the terminal operator the ability to perform the same operations in the computer system that are performed on a computer operating on a network. <\/div>