Jun 13, 2023

Supply chains tackle persistent challenges such as product shortages and sudden spikes in demand. Whether predictable or not, fulfillment obstacles have fueled a need for automated solutions. Unlike manual and paper-based systems, automated data capture and computing empower teams with real-time visibility into stock levels, product location, and order status. However, while most businesses can greatly benefit from these standard results, unique use cases may require more from an automation solution.

As a result, optimization developers can draw from either mobile computers or rugged enterprise tablets. At a glance, it’s not hard to distinguish similarities between both form factors. While OEMs might differ slightly in added features, most tablets and mobile computers include:

• Durable touchscreens
• Rugged exterior for enterprise use
• Compatibility with different connectivity options
• Embedded scanners
• Long-lasting battery power

With these similarities in mind, let’s dive into the differences.

Understanding the Need for Mobile Computers

Engineered to replace cumbersome manual tasks, mobile computers streamline the tools your teams may need for everyday tasks such as push-to-talk communication, data scanning, and access to your inventory management software. While tablets may contain similar features, mobile computers can be more advantageous for use cases requiring:

• Lighter, ergonomic devices – Handheld devices may sport different form factors, resembling smartphones or leveraging pistol grips. Adaptable to your preference, mobile computers offer higher ergonomics and mobility for teams traveling throughout facilities while tablets may not always be suitable for single-hand use.
• Hands-free picking – Modern mobile computers can connect to your ring scanner and headset to develop a completely hands-free, voice-based system. Not only are hands-free systems typically safer for employees, but they also deliver higher productivity and order throughput rates compared to traditional picking.
• Long-range scanning – Ultra-rugged handheld computers can capture barcodes as far as 70ft, ensuring more successful first-time scans and less downtime.
  
  

Understanding the Need for Enterprise Tablets

Expanding viewpoints onto a bigger screen, enterprise tablets are built to simplify complex workflows while retaining durable mobility for when work takes you to challenging environments. Moreover, newer models now feature detachable keyboards to create a 2-in-1 form factor that simplifies complex data entry and reporting. In sum, enterprise tablets offer:

• A suitable replacement for vehicle-mounted computers – Due to their large screen and additional keyboard, tablets can easily replace aging vehicle-mounted computers, allowing workers to update inventory from a forklift and on foot, thus minimizing extra operational costs from multiple devices.
• Crisp video conferencing and displays for remote assistance – Clear communication is foundational for reliable tech support. Tablets are able to provide a more detailed view of technical instructions and real-time assistance with front cameras and flexible connectivity.
• Longer battery lifespans – Rugged tablets leveraging hot-swappable batteries can last up to 24 hours, delivering unbroken performance for longer shifts.

Fortunately, businesses do not need to procure and deploy mobile devices alone. A careful evaluation of your workflows and past patterns in demand can help establish what kind of mobile device you need. Schedule a workflow evaluation with our automation team to see which device best fits your facility.