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A Brief discussion about the Intermec PDA

*This topic was extensively discussed in our PDA Webinar series.

KiSP Inc. has been using Intermec technology including PDAs for over 20 years, and these devices have remained our technology of choice. Currently, we use two models of the Intermec PDA the CN70 and CK71.

The PDA is a self-sufficient mobile computer with a Windows based operating system; it does not require regular uploads of data or software to be installed in order for the device to function properly. Below is a quick overview of the PDA and its functionality.

We are often asked what the difference is between the two models of PDA (CN70 vs. CK71). In short the primary difference between the devices is the CN70 has a built in cellular component. This additional feature is not available with the CK71. It is also important to note that while the feature exists within the CN70 it is not utilized or necessary for asset management. Both devices perform equally well and fall within the same price point. From an asset management stand point choosing the CN70 vs CK71 is a matter of personal preference.

The Intermec CK71 and CN70 are both designed for rugged manufacturing use. Some of the key features are:

  • Drop Survival of 8ft to concrete
  • Operation in extreme temperature conditions (-4° F to +140° F)
  • Resistance to rain and dust
  • High-Durability touch screen
  • Internal power supply (prevents data loss if battery runs out)

Both models use (Microsoft Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5) as there operating software. We also use a 1G Micro SD card for storage; we found the 1G to be more than sufficient for asset management. In order to use the PDA it is necessary to install a version of SnapTracker designed specifically for the PDA. The software is used to complete the various transactions for asset management. In essence the primary purpose of the PDA is to collect information from the different transactions which will occur in the warehouse. For instance during the course of a day the warehouse crew will receive product, transfer product and deliver product to and from the warehouse. These transactions are completed using the PDA and the data is stored in the unit until all tasks are complete.

Once all tasks are done the user needs to upload the data into SnapTracker. Our recommended best practice is to bring the PDA unit to the dock which is connected to a computer with internet access; the user simply uploads the file directly to the SnapTracker site.

The performance of the PDA to complete this task has been excellent, because of the relatively straight forward process by which this is done. Scanning is fast, efficient and helps to eliminate manual data entry errors. The SnapTracker application has all the necessary routines and connection information necessary to capture the relevant information and upload the data to a client’s specific database site. The user simply needs to specify the type of transaction being completed. Once all scanning is done the user simply docks the unit with their computer and uploads.

There are two known challenges with the PDA.

Tthe first involves downloading and installing the Windows Mobile Device Center 6.1 on each computer running Windows Vista, 7, or 8 which will dock with the PDA. Windows 10 does not require the download as the software is already built in. The software is necessary for the PDA to establish an internet connection. The issue revolves around downloading and installing the software because some clients are running very complex networks, enhanced firewalls, and anti-virus solutions which make it difficult to install new software. As long as the software can be successfully installed there are no other issues with this process. As for the software itself it is free and can be downloaded directly from the Microsoft website

The second issue deals with losing an internet connection during upload. While internet connectivity is not a direct issue with the PDA a signal drop during upload could result in data being potentially lost. KiSP has taken steps to insure that we can provide our dealer-partners a solution when this situation occurs. There is an established process by which we can potentially restore the lost data. It is also for this reason our recommended best practice is to dock the unit with a computer and upload through a cable connection rather than use the PDAs Wi-Fi capabilities.

Overall, the PDA’s durability and ease of use have continued to make them a very efficient tool for asset management. While it takes time to build the necessary operational procedures for successful asset management the PDA and barcode technology once mastered will provide a level of performance you will be pleased with.