Improving the accounting system, monitoring the movement of goods, transferring, storing and analyzing data is associated with the use of modern mobile devices, which can significantly increase the speed of work when performing standard warehouse and trade operations.
The electronic data collection terminal (EDT) makes it possible to quickly manage merchandise flow based on reading barcodes. The equipment is used not only for conducting inventories, but also for generating incoming and outgoing invoices, documents for the movement of goods, for checking the correctness of price tags, and drawing up revaluation acts.
What is TSD
TSD stands for data collection terminal. In most cases, this equipment is used for inventory in warehouses, trade, and distribution centers.
A standard data collection terminal is a mini-computer equipped with a built-in scanner, keyboard, and display. Its own operating system allows you to process and save the received information and then upload it to the central data bank.
Externally, the TSD terminal resembles a thickened one mobile phone with a lot of buttons on the panel. The device is distinguished by noticeable ergonomics - it “fits” in the hand and does not slip out.
How to use the data collection terminal
In order to record information, it is necessary to direct a laser beam at the barcode being scanned. Device in automatic mode will take all necessary further actions to save and transmit information. To make the necessary clarifications and corrections, you can use the keyboard buttons or the touchscreen.
The standard scheme for working with TSD in a warehouse is as follows: direct the scanner beam at the barcode. Everything else depends on your attentiveness and speed of action. To download information from storage-type devices, it is enough to place it in a special communication device.
To avoid possible errors and failures in the settings, as well as to fully become familiar with the functionality of the TSD, it is necessary to read the instructions for each before starting work specific model.
Why do you need a data collection terminal?
The use of a data collection terminal makes it possible to minimize the participation of the so-called human factor when carrying out inventories, acceptance and release of goods. Automatic processing and transmission of information contributes to a significant reduction in the number of errors, which ultimately leads to improved organization of work and reduction of time losses.
Electronic TSD is used:
- when conducting inventories;
- upon acceptance, release and internal movements of goods;
- to check price tags on the sales floor;
- to serve customers at the checkout in offline mode (to speed up service) with the issuance of a receipt.
The functionality allows you to upload data either when installing the terminal in a “socket” connected to the system, or directly at the time of scanning.
If it is necessary to expand the range of options, additional software is installed that allows you to analyze the product range, manage operator actions, and place pre-orders.
How does the data collection terminal work?
During the scanning process, data is accumulated in the terminal’s memory or immediately transmitted to the central port via a radio channel (depending on the model).
The TSD is connected to the computer using a special communication stand, which also serves as a charger for the terminal. It is also possible to transfer and exchange data with using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared or USB (depending on the features of the retail equipment).
Radio terminals are used in cases where continuous uploading of data to a central system is necessary. At the same time, the information is immediately processed and allows you to quickly eliminate any miscalculations and errors that have arisen. In fact, the radio terminal acts as a common part unified system. The devices are used in large warehouses, hypermarkets, distribution centers, and factories, making it possible to reduce time losses and have real information about the movement of items in real time.
How to choose a data collection terminal
The correct selection of electronic TSD for a warehouse guarantees uninterrupted work on collecting and transmitting information to the central system, thereby ensuring the stability of control and accounting processes.
When purchasing a terminal, you should consider the following parameters:
- Compatible with the operating system of the main commercial equipment. At using Windows C.E. Windows Mobile possible to work with touch screen, receiving colored and graphic images. The DOS system is installed on terminals with a monochrome display and provides information only in the form of text; such TSDs have a long operating life without recharging (up to one day).
- Software. Must be consistent with the ability to integrate TSD into a centralized system. The most functional and reliable software include SOTI MobilControl, Logistic Solution, 1C, CITYSOFT Warehouse.
- Data Collection Format– linear barcodes or PDF417, electronic signatures, radio frequency tags.
- Functionality and room size– sales area, warehouse, distribution center.
- Special working conditions. To use terminals in industrial conditions, additional protection from dust and moisture, the ability to operate at low temperatures (up to – 30°C), and an impact-resistant housing are required. Parameters such as distance from the scanned object, the presence of sunlight, glare from glass and plastics are also taken into account.
Specialists in working with commercial equipment recommend purchasing electronic TSDs produced under the brands of well-known brands - Motorola (Symbol), Casio, Datalogic, Opticon, Pidion, Honeywell, which allow you to quickly upload or transmit information online to a central system.
Types of TSD (brief overview)
The procedure for using the TSD depends on the specific model and its functionality. In total, experts identify six main types of terminals, based on the purpose and number of programmed options.
The most simple devices to collect data by scanning. Used to carry out inventories in stores, pharmacies, and small warehouses. Data correction is possible using the buttons on the panel. The data obtained as a result of scanning is saved on the device as a file, and the information is uploaded via a wired connection to a computer.
The devices do not support WAN or Wi-Fi.
Pocket PC
They are powerful, small devices (about the size of a mobile phone) that combine the functions of a personal computer, scanner and telephone. Provide guaranteed access to remote information located in the main database. Ideal for managers, inspectors, forwarders.
Support Wi-Fi, GPS, WAN (GPRS and 3G), Bluetooth.
Full-size TSDs are small units with a wireless connection to the database. Functionally similar to pocket computers, but at the same time have higher efficiency and a full-fledged keyboard.
The devices are actively used in large warehouses, in the trading floors of hypermarkets, on construction sites, and in freight transport - the equipment is reliably protected from atmospheric factors and is resistant to temperature changes. Some models are designed specifically for underwater use.
TSD with pistol grip
The equipment is designed to work in difficult conditions – Long-range scanners are capable of reading barcodes from a distance of up to 9 meters. In the absence of Wi-Fi, the terminal works as a storage device. It is particularly reliable even during intensive use.
The use of a pistol grip TSD in distribution centers, large warehouses, construction sites, and cargo terminals makes it possible not only to quickly and efficiently scan, but is also one of the factors ensuring the safety of employees when working at height.
Wearable TSD
The main advantage of the devices is that When working with them, your hands remain free. In fact, these are the same TSD with a pistol grip, but attached to the wrist. The scanner itself is made in the form of a ring and is put on your finger. Control format: voice. The equipment significantly increases work efficiency, but for some reason is not particularly in demand.
Transport TSD
They are distinguished by high levels of computing power and are used when accepting, shipping and assembling goods in conditions of increased vibration - on loading platforms and vehicles, in particular, sea vessels.
The scanner is connected to the device separately, There is no built-in laser in the terminals.
How much does TSD cost?
An important factor when choosing a TSD is its price. The cost of equipment depends on the set of options, type of connection, and brand. It is worth noting that even the simplest devices (from 10 thousand rubles) can significantly facilitate the collection of data in the process of inventory or goods acceptance.
The greatest demand is for mid-priced models (22-27 thousand rubles), making it possible to promptly resolve problems with errors and malfunctions during operation.
The most expensive data collection terminals cost about 80 thousand rubles; the devices are distinguished by an expanded set of options or are designed to perform work in specific conditions.
FAQ
How to configure TSD?
Connection and configuration of data collection terminals is carried out in accordance with the Procedure for connecting and setting up commercial equipment.
In most cases, TSDs go on sale with an installed operating system and several standard programs. There are no disks for installation. Independent attempts to connect equipment by non-specialists can lead to the “demolition” of factory programs and the need to reflash the terminal. The specific model is configured in accordance with the installed operating system, scanner type, and product range.
If you are not a professional, it makes sense to entrust the matter to the experts from the service company that services your commercial equipment.
How to reboot the TSD?
Two types of reboot are considered - hot and cold.
A warm boot is similar to a standard PC reboot and is performed by pressing one or more buttons (one of them is red) depending on the model. Cold boot means resetting everyone installed applications and restoring factory settings. Again, the combination of buttons depends on the specific model. Rebooting can be performed by employees of your enterprise.
How to pass a case-sensitive prefix to TSD?
What is unloading of goods in TSD?
Standard unloading means unloading documents that indicate goods with a barcode. TSD does not read products without barcodes. To account for such goods, modified unloading processing is required.
How to check the TSD - is it working or not?
To check the functionality of the TSD, just press the power button and scan any barcode. If the terminal issues sound signal, then the equipment is in order. If any problems arise with the terminal, you can contact the specialists of our company by calling 2000-215, 2000-214.
How to connect TSD to 1C?
To connect the terminal to 1C, you need to install a special driver included in the package, or download it from the manufacturer’s website. Then you need to configure the connection parameters to the TSD in 1C (port, exchange rate, exchange fields, etc.)
How to reset the password on TSD?
To reset your password, contact our company specialists.
How to find out imei TSD?
Information about IMEI is contained in the settings, in the "About the device" section
How to reflash the TSD?
Reflashing the TSD is exactly the case when you should contact specialists without hesitation.
How to accept weighted goods with TSD?
To accept weighted goods, special driver settings are required.
Data collection terminals (DCTs) are stand-alone devices that can be used to read barcodes and store information about them. This equipment is an indispensable tool in the work of shops, warehouses, logistics centers and other enterprises where automatic identification of goods is required.
You can buy a data collection terminal to solve problems such as:
- inventory;
- mobile commerce;
- accounting of fixed assets;
- transport logistics;
- assembly, reception and shipment of goods;
- mobile printing;
- revaluation and many others.
Why should you buy TSD?
Both affordable models and expensive data collection terminals allow you to:
- simplify administration in the company;
- increase staff productivity;
- increase the accuracy and reliability of operations;
- speed up procedures;
- reduce the number of mistakes made.
Which data collection terminal should I buy?
If you want to buy a data collection terminal cheaply, you should pay attention to the simplest models. But it is necessary to take into account that they only provide for the reading and accumulation of information without further processing.
Of course, the price of more functional TSDs will be higher. Mobile data collection terminals come with advanced capabilities, which allows them to be used almost like full-fledged pocket personal computers (PDAs). They can be easily integrated into any accounting system. The scope of application of such technology is very extensive.
A data collection terminal (DCT) is a popular and often irreplaceable device in a modern trading enterprise. Let's get acquainted with the specifics of its purpose and the features of choosing a TSD model suitable for specific tasks, taking into account a fairly large number of technical characteristics of this type equipment.
What is it and how to use TSD
Data collection terminal is the traditional name of a device that is used in managing a trade or warehouse, and is a relatively small (designed for manual use) gadget, adapted to:
- to reading various barcodes (in which information about products is encrypted);
- to transfer the read data to some external computing module (as a rule, to write data to the built-in memory, in many cases, to process this data using built-in computing modules).
It is possible for a long period of preliminary placement of the collected information inside the terminal, and then “batch” data transfer to the external module at a set frequency. But such transmission in real time is not excluded (and, moreover, it should be considered as one of the typical scenarios). Depending on the specific tasks of the trade or warehouse management process, a specific method (or combination thereof) of data processing is selected.
Thus, the main functionality of the device fully corresponds to its name: the terminal is designed to “collect” the required data in a certain way (in practice, scan a barcode in which this data is encrypted). This function is inextricably linked with another - the function of ensuring further processing of the “collected” data - internally or external modules.
Video - how to use the TSD CipherLab 8001L data collection terminal:
In practice, the terminal - for example, in a warehouse, can be used to compare the actual quantity of goods received with their quantity according to the invoice (or other accounting documents). For these purposes, the invoice file is registered in the terminal memory in the prescribed manner (or a connection is provided with this file, which is located on external media), with which the data received from the device scanner is then verified. As soon as all the goods actually accepted by the warehouse employee are scanned on the TSD, and information about them is compared with the file, the warehouse program will determine the degree of correspondence of the data between the file and the scanner. If there are discrepancies, the TSD user will be notified about this (and this notification will list missing items - or, conversely, extra ones for which there is no data in the invoice).
Thus, the data collection terminal is, in general, a control tool. There is a certain standard number of objects taken into account, and there is an actual number - based on the results of operations with these objects. Using TSD, data on both parameters are compared. Then, based on the information received, the company’s employees carry out the necessary actions (aimed at eliminating discrepancies or otherwise, as provided for in the instructions or orders of colleagues).
The main areas of use of data collection terminals are as follows:
- Carrying out operations related to:
- with the movement of goods throughout the warehouse, between the warehouse and the sales floor;
- with inventory of goods;
- with control of price compliance for goods.
- Documentation accounting, control over the correctness of the data reflected in them.
The functionality of the data collection terminal may include various options " feedback" - suggesting the display of information on the device screen in response to a particular reading operation. For example, a detailed display of data about a scanned product (its characteristics, quantity, location) - which can be used by a store or warehouse employee for various purposes.
Video - how to use the data collection terminal TSD Atol and 1C Retail:
Among others useful functions, which many modern data collection terminals are equipped with, can be attributed to their suitability for use as a cell phone or walkie-talkie, as a device for accessing the Internet - if the capabilities of the software allow, as a network messenger in an enterprise. In general, the functions of many modern TSDs are close to those that characterize modern mobile gadgets - in essence, terminals become their variety (which, at the same time, is used to solve highly specialized problems).
Video - how to use the Honeywell EDA50 TSD data collection terminal when drinking alcohol:
Thanks to the presence of a built-in scanner, the data collection terminal can be used in those areas of the store organization where scanners as such are used - for example:
- at the checkout - in order to speed up data entry into the cash register computer when generating a check;
- in the sales area - in order to obtain information about the price and other information about the product at the buyer’s request.
Due to the fact that the data collection terminal is usually built into a single information base enterprises - on program level no additional is required complex settings. The device quickly integrates into the current infrastructure at the checkout or on the sales floor.
Video - connecting the Scancode Cipherlab data collection terminal to 1C UT 10.3:
In some cases, TSD may find application outside the trade sphere. For example - when accounting for correspondence and parcels at the post office, cargo and vehicles at various sites transport infrastructure.
How data “collected” on TSD is processed
The TSD can connect to an external computing module - which processes the “collected” data different ways- wired and wireless. Data collection terminals with Wi-Fi and those adapted for data transmission via Mobile Internet. But at localized workplaces - for example, when receiving goods into a warehouse, a wired connection of the terminal to a warehouse computer is a completely workable option. There are terminals optimized for placement on cars and special equipment.
Information read on the TSD can be processed on an external module for different purposes and using different software. It is common to use popular 1C warehouse accounting modules and their competitors - that is, those solutions that are implemented to automate trade and warehouse management. And the TSDs themselves thus become part of the toolkit for such automation.
What are the advantages of using it
So, regardless of the specific method of using the terminal, its main purpose is the automation of one or another section of the production process. In the absence of a data collection terminal, a store or warehouse employee would have to perform the same accounting procedures - but only manually.
Thus, TSD is, first of all, a tool for saving staff time and labor. According to a number of experts, appropriate automation on average speeds up key warehouse and inventory operations up to 5 times - compared to the time required to carry out such operations manually. In addition, the need for a large number of employees in those areas where such operations are carried out is reduced.
Data collection terminals, unlike humans, operate error-free (provided, of course, that they are configured correctly in both software and hardware). Errors will be minimized when comparing different types of data, compiling registers, and checking various indicators with which people work in the sales and warehouse management areas.
Video - how to use the TSD data collection terminal: acceptance and placement of returns from forwarders:
The use of data collection terminals allows for more effective control over the work of employees in the relevant areas. The controlling person - the warehouse manager or his immediate supervisor - can implement programs at the enterprise that allow tracking of each operation carried out using TSD. This will avoid uncontrolled movements of goods - each of which will be taken into account in this program. The level of personal responsibility of warehouse workers increases: the likelihood of goods leaking to the outside, replacing it with low-quality goods, or causing a breakdown (with subsequent inaction in eliminating it) will be minimized.
Design and technical characteristics of TSD
Data collection terminal - usually small, about the size of average smartphone, the device is designed primarily for portable use (but there are also stationary TSD models). Many modern TSD models are adapted for use in difficult temperature conditions and have a durable casing that is resistant to external mechanical impact.
The terminal can be controlled using a built-in keyboard or touch display - more and more modern TSD models are equipped with it. It is, of course, possible to use a combination of different device management tools.
Video - mobile data collection terminal ATOL Smart.Lite:
From the point of view of hardware capabilities, the data collection terminal is a very productive computing solution. In some cases, its characteristics are comparable to computer ones or those characteristic of modern mobile gadgets. A typical combination of the following hardware components for an average-priced TSD is:
- processor with a frequency of 1-1.5 GHz;
- RAM of about 256 MB;
- built-in memory up to 32 GB (expandable using plug-in memory cards).
A typical display that terminals are equipped with has a vertical orientation, a diagonal of about 3-4 inches and a resolution of about 480 by 800 pixels.
Video - connecting the data collection terminal to 1C:
TSD can be equipped with various types of scanners. Most often this is:
- laser and LED scanners (installed mainly on budget models terminals);
- photo scanners or image scanners (installed on more expensive devices).
Laser scanners are usually cheap, however, they have the disadvantage of being limited in their ability to read erased barcodes. Photo scanners are generally very good at recognizing even low-quality, dull barcodes.
LED scanners represent a solution that can be considered a kind of “compromise” between laser and image scanners. On the one hand, an LED scanner is approximately the same price as a laser scanner. On the other hand, it has a number of technical advantages over it, especially in terms of:
- scanning barcodes on deformed (crumpled, scratched) paper;
- scanning barcodes on glossy surfaces;
- reading colored barcodes (for example, red).
Laser and LED scanners are approximately equal in their capabilities when reading data from barcodes:
- highly readable, printed on undamaged surfaces;
- small size (with narrow stripes).
In turn, laser scanners are certainly superior to LED scanners in scanning barcodes at considerable distances - more than 30 cm. Imaging devices are also adapted to reading codes at a similar distance.
Note that the rule “laser is a cheap TSD, image is an expensive TSD” has exceptions. There are high-tech laser scanners adapted for installation on premium models of data collection terminals. Their adaptability to reading low-quality barcodes may be quite high level.
There is a special subtype of scanners for TSD - RFID devices. They are designed to read data from long distance from the scanning module (sometimes up to tens of meters). This data is generated using special radio tags. As a rule, RFID scanners are in demand at large cargo terminals, ports, and industrial enterprises.
Video - how to use the TSD data collection terminal in 1C Trade Management:
A typical data collection terminal has a built-in battery that can provide autonomous operation for 8-16 hours (with recharging time from zero about 8 hours).
In terms of software, modern TSDs operate, as a rule, under special modifications of the Android and Windows OS, and sometimes DOS. Less often - factory firmware. Thus, you can install special applications on the terminal (or implement software algorithms based on existing applications), which adapt it to the solution various types production tasks.
How much does a data collection terminal cost depending on the type of TSD?
A common classification of data collection terminals is the following main types:
- Storage devices.
Their main feature is their ability to accumulate a large amount of data on operations that characterize the operation of the production site where the terminal is used. In many cases, this data can be edited in the prescribed manner, supplemented with others, and used as an object for analytics.
- Broadcasting devices.
Their main purpose is the rapid transfer of data to external computing modules - where, as in the case of devices of the first type, they can be accumulated and used in various ways.
At the same time, in the modern market of data collection terminals, more and more solutions are appearing that essentially combine the functions characteristic of the two indicated traditional types of TSD. Thus, the above classification of terminals should be considered very conditional - just like, for example, their traditional division:
- according to the degree of adaptability to movement (optionally, based on the capabilities of the battery) - into mobile and stationary;
- according to the method of exchanging data with external devices - wired and wireless.
The fact is that many of the modern terminal models, firstly, are extremely difficult to classify according to the above criteria (since they are essentially universal), and secondly, classifying a specific TSD model as one or another type may not yield anything from the point of view of determining the degree of its compliance with the tasks that are typical for the production site where the terminals are planned to be used.
The classification of modern TSDs according to the following basic criteria can be quite useful:
- Operating system level .
Here you can select terminals:
- single-tasking (with DOS, with factory firmware);
- multitasking (under Android control and Windows).
Indeed, data collection terminals with a single-task OS are designed to solve only the task that a warehouse worker faces immediately at the time of using the terminal. It cannot use any parallel functions of the device. In turn, these functions can be applied to multitasking TSDs. For example, along with scanning a product, a warehouse worker can view the current balances of such a product on the screen.
Despite single-tasking, terminals of this type are in demand because, in turn, they have many advantages over multi-tasking ones, for example:
- stability in operation (on a single-tasking OS the likelihood of freezes, crashes, and virus infections is minimized);
- speed of operation (carrying out a computing operation in a single-tasking OS requires adaptability to perform tasks using much less processor and memory resources - as a result, the device can be equipped with the most budget microcircuits, which reduces the overall cost of the terminal).
Thus, a single-task TSD is, in fact, a “TSD in its pure form”, performing all of its key functions- but at the same time cheaper in comparison with multitasking devices.
Among the popular single-tasking terminals on DOS is the Casio DT-970 device (cost - about 25,000 rubles). For comparison, its functional analogues from among the budget multitasking TSDs can usually be purchased for no less than 28-30 thousand rubles (Proton PMC-2160, PMC-2260 devices).
At the same time, multi-tasking terminals, for obvious reasons, have a higher adaptability to integration into the company’s existing commodity accounting infrastructure. At the level of a full-fledged OS - Android or Windows, it is almost always possible to implement required applications to integrate TSD with commodity accounting infrastructure.
Thus, in the PMC-2260 device, fast integration with EGAIS is implemented at the software level (while ensuring data transfer to it from single-task TSDs in many cases requires the development of separate software interfaces- which in most cases is not economically profitable).
- Supported Barcodes .
Based on this criterion, data collection terminals can be classified in the most general case:
- to devices that support scanning 2D codes;
- to devices that do not support such scanning.
A common type of 2D code is a QR code. Regular codes are with “stripes”, these are 1D codes.
Adaptability to reading 2D codes requires the terminal to be more technologically advanced - especially in terms of processor performance (since the information “encrypted” in a two-dimensional code is, as a rule, incomparably more complex than that written in a one-dimensional code). Therefore, the difference in the price of TSDs - those that support and those that do not support scanning complex codes, can be noticeable.
For comparison, one of the cheapest single-tasking terminals with support for scanning 2D codes, the CipherLab 8200 device, costs about 56,000 rubles, that is, more than twice as expensive as the Casio DT-970 device. At the same time, cheaper devices can be found in a number of multitasking TSDs. For example, a Datalogic Memor X3 device on Windows OS costs about 43,000 rubles.
- Adaptability to work in difficult conditions .
Thus, we can distinguish data collection terminals:
- adapted to difficult climatic conditions - for example, at low temperatures;
- having a shock-resistant body;
- resistant to moisture.
Among the most “frost-resistant” devices are the solutions from the CipherLab line - devices 9730L (71,000 rubles), 9700L (75,000 rubles), CP60L (84,000 rubles). All of them are capable of operating at temperatures from minus 30 degrees.
The most protected from falls are the Casio devices DT-X200-10E (66,000 rubles), DT-X200-11E (71,000 rubles), DT-X200-20E (85,000 rubles). All of them can withstand falls from a height of up to 3 meters.
The most waterproof devices have an IP67 index. There are quite a few of them, and one of them includes the well-known budget terminal Casio DT-970. According to the criterion of moisture resistance, therefore, there is no correlation with a high price - this is a universal TSD parameter.
- Type of scanner used in TSD .
This is the most important and at the same time very controversial criterion. We noted above that with the general rule - when a laser scanner, which is cheaper in comparison with a photo scanner, is inferior to the second in terms of adaptability to recognizing low-quality barcodes - there are exceptions in the form of technologically advanced laser devices that work very effectively in recognizing such codes.
For example, the premium RFID terminal Zebra MC3190-Z (its cost is 257,000 rubles), at the user’s choice, can be equipped with either a 1D laser scanner or a 2D photo scanner (despite the fact that all configurations cost the same). Thus, under certain technological conditions, a “cheaper” recognition technology may be more necessary than a “more expensive” one. But here we are talking about a very narrow scope of application - nevertheless, the specified scanner from Zebra is a typical industrial RFID solution, and the specifics of its use should be carefully transferred to other areas.
Regarding the “cheapness” of a laser (or LED) and the “expensiveness” of an image, not everything is clear either. Of course, the general price trend - according to which laser or LED TSDs, all other things being equal (taking into account exceptions - using the example of a device from Zebra) are cheaper than those on which a photo scanner is installed - is still relevant. But, firstly, the difference is still not astronomical. For comparison, one of the cheapest TSDs with a photo scanner, the Proton PMC-2260 device (32,000 rubles) costs a little more than the cheapest Casio laser terminal. There are others inexpensive models with a photo scanner - for example, Honeywell EDA50k (34,000 rubles).
Secondly, it cannot be stated that there is a direct relationship between the type of scanner that is installed on the TSD and the device’s ability to recognize a certain type of code. Of course, image scanners are the most versatile. They read any type of codes. At the same time, there are many terminals with a two-dimensional laser scanner - for example, Zebra MC2180 (45,000 rubles), Datalogic Skorpio X3 (76,000 rubles).
Thus, if the process of using the terminal involves reading two-dimensional codes, a device with a laser reader that supports the recognition of such codes may well be used for these purposes. If desired, in most cases you can find the closest analogue of such a TSD in price - but only with an image scanner, since in practice the difference in the cost of devices, as a rule, is not large with other comparable characteristics.
Note that LED TSDs adapted for reading two-dimensional codes are a very rare occurrence. In this sense, terminals of this type are much inferior to laser and image ones.
But if scanning 2D codes is not expected, then the LED terminal will an excellent alternative laser TSD. As we noted above, LED devices can be more effective when reading codes on deformed paper or glossy paper (but are inferior to a laser when reading codes at a distance). Examples of budget devices with an LED scanner are the single-tasking terminal CipherLab 8200C (25,000 rubles), the multi-tasking CipherLab RS30-C/R (43,000 rubles).
Many TSD models have two modules preinstalled at once - for example, a one-dimensional laser and a two-dimensional imager. Thus, the type of TSD scanner is a criterion for which it is very difficult to identify universal patterns in terms of application practice. Each time you need to look at the specific conditions of use of the data collection terminal, the characteristics of the scanner (or scanners) preinstalled in it, and its suitability for installing the necessary scanning modules one by one.
But if we still try to identify some patterns in the use of scanners, then very conditionally we can state that:
- for scanning barcodes that are regularly located at a large (more than 30 cm) distance from the TSD scanning module, laser and image scanners are best suited;
- to read barcodes, which due to the specifics of the production process can sometimes be damaged and become unclear - image scanners are best suited;
- For scanning barcodes on glossy, deformed surfaces, image scanners are optimal, and if budget is limited, LED scanners are optimal.
LED terminals are in most cases not suitable for reading 2D barcodes.
It should be noted that in many TSD models - and this rule characterizes both budget and more expensive solutions - the installation of a scanning module of a specific type at the user’s choice is provided. You can purchase two modules at once (as a rule, this is a pair consisting of a laser and an image scanner) - and then, if necessary, use the first or second.
- AvailabilityRFID-module .
The criterion under consideration has a low position only from the point of view of the likely narrowness of the scope of application of the device (which is due to the presence of an objective need for an RFID terminal in a small percentage of enterprises). However, in relation to the corresponding narrow area, the presence or absence of an RFID scanner as part of the TSD is undeniable the most important parameter, which will come first.
Video - bag inventory using RFID data collection terminal:
In practice, RFID modules are used, as we noted above, at large cargo terminals and in industry. These are very technologically advanced hardware components - and their installation in a TSD quite significantly increases their cost. But you can also find fairly inexpensive RFID solutions. For example, the Casio IT-G400 multitasking terminal on Android based(cost - 60,000 rubles).
- Availability of additional communication accessories .
For example - a microphone, a built-in camera. These accessories can be used for communication and exchange of information between warehouse employees who work at a distance, and, moreover, due to the work performed, feel the need to use such means of communication.
Examples of devices that have both a microphone and a camera are Casio DT-X30 (46,000 rubles), Honeywell Dolphin 60s (53,000 rubles), Proton PMC-1100 (63,000 rubles) terminals.
How to choose TSD for your needs
There are quite a lot of criteria for choosing the right data collection terminal (taking into account the variety of technical characteristics of the device discussed above). Which of them are considered the main ones can be determined according to the “industry” principle.
For example, a terminal used in a freight warehouse will most likely not be used for anything other than its core functionality - which is to scan barcodes (almost always 2D in such cases) and transfer the data to an external computer. module for post-processing. Therefore, in the case under consideration, the cheapest single-task terminal with a one-dimensional laser reader will be optimal.
However, if the warehouse is open and located in a cold region - as an option, in one of the ports of the Northern Sea Route, where minus 30 is almost a resort temperature, then, most likely, TSD, at least in winter, will be be regularly used in extreme climatic conditions. In this case, attention will have to be paid to a frost-resistant terminal.
Video - webinar on how to choose a data collection terminal:
In turn, in industrial production and construction there is an obvious need for TSD that is resistant to mechanical stress. When working with cargo on an industrial scale, it is obvious that you will need a high-tech RFID device.
If the terminal is intended to be used in a sales area, then, most likely, the matter will be limited to the use of its most basic functions - reading data from barcodes (probably one-dimensional) and simultaneously transmitting them to the goods accounting system. This task, again, can be handled by the most budget-friendly, not necessarily frost-resistant and protected, single-task terminals with a simple laser scanner.
The leading brands producing TSD include the following companies:
- Casio;
- Datalogic;
- Honeywell;
- Proton;
- Zebra.
Excellent terminals are produced by the Russian brand ATOL. Among them is one of the most affordable multitasking 2D terminal ATOL Smart.Lite (costs 19,000 rubles), a MobileBase DS5 device with two scanners - laser and image (71,000 rubles), secure terminal ATOL Smart.Droid 1D / 2D (29,000 rubles).
An argument for choosing a terminal from a Russian supplier may be the ease of upgrading the scanning module (if a specific TSD model provides such an option), repair, or reflashing - due to the availability of spare parts and, possibly, a wider geographical coverage of the service center area.
How to choose software for it
Selecting a data collection terminal as a hardware solution is half the battle. Its practical application, as we already know, involves the transfer of “collected” data for subsequent processing to an external computing module - on which the special program.
Such decisions on Russian market presented in an exceptionally wide range. An example of an inexpensive, universal, and at the same time functional option is the ATOL Mobile Logistics program (LINK). It allows for the integration of data collection terminals and popular commodity accounting platforms based on 1C line products.
This program involves the use of the terminal as an element of the commodity accounting infrastructure, which operates on the basis of an algorithm that is developed using the configurator. This algorithm is created in the program in question and then loaded into the terminal. At the same time, the TSD must have the required hardware and software characteristics- for compatibility with the program (a list of compatible data collection terminals is given).
Within the framework of the general scheme practical application The terminal is supposed to be pre-loaded into it with information on goods that are subject to accounting - in a warehouse or on the sales floor. Shipment orders are generated at the warehouse, and the program ensures that the corresponding orders are reflected in the TSD. The order includes the established list of information on the goods being shipped. Using a data collection terminal allows you to track the actual volume of shipped items - each of which is read by barcode, the volume shown in this list.
Video - working with the data collection terminal:
An employee who uses the terminal promptly receives data on detected discrepancies between the stated indicators and the actual ones, as well as instructions on the need to correct the discrepancies. Also, using the data collection terminal, an employee can make notes in a special register about detected damage to goods, defects, and indicate other relevant facts about the items being shipped.
Upon completion of shipment and upon collection of all necessary data on it using TSD, all information is loaded into the goods accounting system. With its help, various commodity accounting documents can subsequently be generated.
The procedure for using terminals on other types of TSD software is, in general, very similar to that which characterizes the use of the ATOL solution. Actually, this is due to the uniformity of tasks that characterize the use of TSD within the framework of typical accounting operations in a warehouse and in areas where goods are sold.
Thus, the main criteria for choosing software for data collection terminals will be - given the likely comparability of their basic functionality (which, one way or another, is aimed at integrating TSD and a commodity accounting interface - based on 1C or an alternative solution):
- compatibility of software and a specific TSD model (you need to request lists of such compatibility from a specific supplier - as an option, referring to an example of such a list from ATOL);
- compatibility of the algorithm for processing “collected” data, which is proposed by software developers for TSD, with those production operations in which the terminal is used.
And if such compatibility is not implemented by default in the selected (and suitable according to other criteria) software, then it is necessary to establish in advance the possible costs for the necessary modernization of the existing data “collection” infrastructure or commodity accounting infrastructure - it is possible that they will be lower than the additional costs for installation of alternative software.
Summary
From the point of view of basic functionality, a data collection terminal is essentially a very simple device. Its main purpose is to collect information on objects in respect of which certain production operations are carried out (for example, acceptance or shipment) and to ensure the necessary processing of this information (for example, in order to compare the actual volume of goods received or shipped with the data reflected in work order and other accounting documents).
In general, such data is collected by reading a barcode located on the accounting object. Thus, the main criterion for the quality of TSD operation can be called adaptability to reading such codes:
- accurately;
- promptly.
For these purposes, it is necessary to introduce terminals equipped with the required type of barcode scanners into production. In addition, the data collection terminal itself must meet the conditions of use in a particular environment(at least taking into account climatic conditions).
The data collected by the terminal must be transferred to an external computing module. For these purposes, the optimal wired or wireless interfaces for specific application conditions are used - with which the device must be equipped.
TSD can only be used to solve basic problems - and be single-task (both in essence and in terms of its technical capabilities). And it can be used as a multitasking device with an expanded set of functions - for example, as a communication tool in the interaction of enterprise employees.
The selection of a data collection terminal with certain characteristics can be made taking into account the software factor with which the TSD is supposed to be integrated. Compatibility is required between the “collected” data management algorithms provided by such software and the hardware-software interfaces on a specific terminal model.
Video webinar on warehouse automation using data collection terminals:
The use of a data collection terminal makes it possible to minimize the participation of the so-called human factor when carrying out inventories, acceptance and release of goods. Automatic processing and transmission of information contributes to a significant reduction in the number of errors, which ultimately leads to improved organization of work and reduction of time losses.
Electronic TSD is used:
- when conducting inventories;
- upon acceptance, release and internal movements of goods;
- to check price tags on the sales floor;
- to serve customers at the checkout in offline mode (to speed up service) with the issuance of a receipt.
The functionality allows you to upload data either when installing the terminal in a “socket” connected to the system, or directly at the time of scanning.
If it is necessary to expand the range of options, additional software is installed that allows you to analyze the product range, manage operator actions, and place pre-orders.
How does the data collection terminal work?
During the scanning process, data is accumulated in the terminal’s memory or immediately transmitted to the central port via a radio channel (depending on the model).
The TSD is connected to the computer using a special communication stand, which also serves as a charger for the terminal. It is also possible to transfer and exchange data using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared or USB (depending on the characteristics of the retail equipment).
Radio terminals are used in cases where continuous uploading of data to a central system is necessary. At the same time, the information is immediately processed and allows you to quickly eliminate any miscalculations and errors that have arisen. In fact, the radio terminal acts as a common part of a single system. The devices are used in large warehouses, hypermarkets, distribution centers, and factories, making it possible to reduce time losses and have real information about the movement of items in real time.
How to choose a data collection terminal
The correct selection of electronic TSD for a warehouse guarantees uninterrupted work on collecting and transmitting information to the central system, thereby ensuring the stability of control and accounting processes.
When purchasing a terminal, you should consider the following parameters:
- Compatible with the operating system of the main commercial equipment. When using Windows CE, Windows Mobile, it is possible to work with a touch screen and obtain color and graphic images. The DOS system is installed on terminals with a monochrome display and provides information only in the form of text; such TSDs have a long operating life without recharging (up to one day).
- Software. Must be consistent with the ability to integrate TSD into a centralized system. The most functional and reliable software include SOTI MobilControl, Logistic Solution, 1C, CITYSOFT Warehouse.
- Data Collection Format– linear barcodes or PDF417, electronic signatures, radio frequency tags.
- Functionality and room size– sales area, warehouse, distribution center.
- Special working conditions. To use terminals in industrial conditions, additional protection from dust and moisture, the ability to operate at low temperatures (up to – 30°C), and an impact-resistant housing are required. Parameters such as distance from the scanned object, the presence of sunlight, glare from glass and plastics are also taken into account.
Specialists in working with commercial equipment recommend purchasing electronic TSDs produced under the brands of well-known brands - Motorola (Symbol), Casio, Datalogic, Opticon, Pidion, Honeywell, which allow you to quickly upload or transmit information online to a central system.
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