Today, many warehouse operators still rely on legacy handheld scanning and paper-based processes to track inventory, manage shipments, and ensure order accuracy. However, as these organizations grow, operations become more complex, requiring more powerful systems and solutions to keep pace.  Not to mention the fact that errors can be quite costly; this may take the form of downtime, non-compliance fees, lost materials, etc.

Why Mobile Computers Are Essential for Streamlining Warehouse Operations

Many warehouses still rely on traditional handheld scanners and manual processes to track inventory, manage shipments, and ensure order accuracy. While handheld scanners remain an essential part of warehouse operations—offering quick, reliable barcode scanning, today’s supply chain demands often require more advanced functionality.

That’s where rugged mobile computers come in. These devices combine barcode scanning, real-time data entry, and wireless communication in a single device. These all-in-one solutions eliminate unnecessary steps, enhance efficiency, and significantly reduce human error. With a full suite of operational tools, mobile computers help warehouses streamline workflows, reduce errors, and improve efficiency. While handheld scanners are great for basic scanning tasks, mobile computers provide a more comprehensive solution for businesses looking to optimize productivity and integrate with modern warehouse management systems (WMS).

The Evolution of Mobile Computers: Then vs. Now

The technology of mobile solutions for industrial applications has advanced rapidly, bringing major improvements to today’s devices:

• Increased processing power – Newer, more modern mobile computers operate faster, allowing workers to access warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software in real time.
• Superior scanning capabilities – Devices now feature multi-range scanning, meaning they can accurately read barcodes both up close and from greater distances.
• Longer battery life – Today’s mobile computers can last longer than an entire shift without requiring a recharge.
• Enhanced durability – Built for industrial environments, modern rugged mobile computers can withstand drops, extreme temperatures, and dust and water sprays like never before.
  
  

The Shift to Android: A Necessary Migration

Another critical factor in modernizing warehouse technology is the migration from Windows Handheld and Windows CE devices to Android-based mobile computers. As Microsoft has phased out support for its legacy mobile operating systems, businesses must transition to Android to maintain security, compatibility, and ongoing support.

The benefits of moving to Android include:

• Ongoing Security Updates – Unlike outdated Windows mobile platforms, Android devices continue to receive regular security patches, protecting warehouse systems from cyber threats.
• User-Friendly Interface – With a familiar and intuitive design, Android devices reduce training time for workers, helping them become more productive faster.
• Greater Application Support – Many modern warehouse management systems and enterprise applications are designed for Android, offering broader software compatibility.
• Enhanced Customization – Android allows for more flexible software development, meaning businesses can tailor their applications to meet specific operational needs.
• Upgrading to Android-based rugged mobile computers not only ensures long-term viability but also improves efficiency and functionality across warehouse operations.
  
  

Case in Point: Honeywell’s CK67 Rugged Mobile Computer

One of the best examples of the latest advancements in warehouse technology is the Honeywell CK67 rugged mobile computer. Designed specifically for warehouse and logistics operations, this device takes efficiency and durability to the next level.

Here’s how the CK67 stands out:

• Faster Performance – Equipped with a high-speed processor and advanced memory, it runs applications smoothly, minimizing lag time.
• Versatile Scanning – The CK67 can read barcodes from inches away to over 50 feet, making it ideal for warehouses with high shelves and deep storage racks.
• Ultra-Rugged Build – Engineered to survive drops, vibrations, and harsh environmental conditions, it far outperforms consumer-grade devices.
• Extended Battery Life – With up to 28 hours of battery life, workers can rely on uninterrupted performance for multiple shifts.
• Ergonomic Design – Its lightweight build and user-friendly interface reduce strain on workers, improving overall productivity.
• Android-Powered – Built on Android, the CK67 ensures long-term software compatibility and access to the latest warehouse applications.
  
  

Rugged Mobile Computers vs. Consumer Devices: The Value-Add

Some warehouses try to cut costs by using consumer-grade smartphones or tablets instead of rugged mobile computers. While these devices may work in the short term, they lack the durability and functionality required for industrial settings.
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Here’s why rugged mobile computers are the superior choice:

Investing in rugged mobile computers ensures long-term cost savings, fewer device failures, and higher productivity.

The Bottom Line: A Smart Upgrade for a Smarter Warehouse

Modernizing warehouse technology is no longer optional—it’s essential for staying competitive. By leveraging both handheld scanners and powerful, rugged mobile computers like the Honeywell CK67, manufacturers can achieve higher efficiency, fewer errors, and improved worker productivity.

Can your warehouse afford to keep using outdated technology, or is it time to make a smarter investment in the future?
 

​Ever spent hours setting up mobile devices for your warehouse or manufacturing floor, only to find out that something isn’t working just right? Maybe one scanner won’t connect to the network, or a mobile computer is stuck on an outdated firmware version.

Frustrating, right?  Well, what if there was a way to get all your devices set up quickly, correctly, and without the usual headaches? That’s exactly what Honeywell's Enterprise Provisioner can do.

What is Honeywell's Enterprise Provisioner?

Think of Enterprise Provisioner as your IT team’s best friend. It’s a tool designed to take the stress out of configuring and deploying mobile devices. Instead of manually adjusting settings on each individual unit (which, let’s be honest, is a nightmare when you have dozens or hundreds of devices), this software automates the process. One setup, one configuration, and all your devices are ready to roll.
Better yet, when paired with Android as the operating system, this tool allows us to generate a copy of settings for an entire fleet of devices. These settings—essentially a set of files—can then be converted into a series of barcodes. That means we can take a brand-new device and, in under 60 seconds, go from factory reset to fully deployable for your devices.

The Struggle is Real: Why System Integration is a Headache

Let’s say you’ve just rolled out a batch of new barcode scanners for your warehouse team. You turn them on, but wait—some aren’t connecting to Wi-Fi, others are missing an essential app, and a few have totally different settings than the rest. Now, you’re stuck troubleshooting instead of focusing on more important tasks.
Sound familiar? If you’ve ever dealt with system integration, you know how quickly things can go south. And when your devices aren’t working properly, neither is your operation. That’s where Honeywell’s Enterprise Provisioner comes in to save the day.

How Enterprise Provisioner Makes Life Easier

Here’s how this game-changing tool simplifies your device management:

1. It’s User Friendly

No one has time to click through a million menus or read a novel-sized instruction manual. Honeywell gets that. Enterprise Provisioner is designed for quick, hassle-free setup.

• One-touch provisioning – Set up multiple devices in one go. No more one-at-a-time headaches.
• Pre-configured templates – Standardize your settings so every device works the same way.
• Barcode-based deployment – Scan a series of barcodes and instantly configure devices in under a minute.
  
  

2. It Speeds Up System Integration

Adding new devices to your workflow shouldn’t be a week-long project. Enterprise Provisioner makes sure your mobile computers, scanners, and printers all work together seamlessly. It:

• Ensures compatibility with Honeywell and third-party devices.
• Automates software and firmware updates so you don’t have to babysit each device.
• Maintains consistent security settings across your fleet, so no device is left vulnerable.
  
  

3. It Saves You Time and Money

Let’s talk about the bottom line. Every hour your IT team spends troubleshooting is an hour lost. Every misconfigured device slows down operations. With Enterprise Provisioner we can help ensure:

• Your IT team spends less time fixing setup issues.
• Devices stay up and running instead of causing downtime.
• Fewer errors mean smoother day-to-day operations.
  
  

Plus, troubleshooting just got easier. If a device starts acting up, you can factory reset it with a barcode, instantly reconfigure it, and see if the issue persists. This quick process reduces unnecessary RMA requests, meaning fewer devices shipped out for repair and less downtime for your business.
  
4.  It's More than just settings

Enterprise Provisioner also provides an impressive stack of tools to help manipulate one or all devices beyond simply changing a setting:

1. It can be used to update software (including versions of Android). 
2. It can be used to manage or deploy certificates and software licenses. 
3. It can be used to script out a set of steps to be followed on a device when it starts. 
   
   

Pretty much anything management or deployment workflow can be delivered using Enterprise Provisioner and executed by scanning a single bar code.

5. It Keeps Your Data Safe

Security isn’t optional—it’s a must. With Enterprise Provisioner, you don’t have to worry about unsecured devices floating around. It:

• Locks down access to prevent unauthorized use.
• Enforces encryption and authentication settings.
• Provides detailed logs so you know exactly what’s going on with your fleet.
  
  

Bottom Line: Why You Need This

Honeywell’s Enterprise Provisioner simplifies setup, streamlines integration, and keeps everything running smoothly with minimal effort.  It is the foundation of the hardware integration strategy delivered by IMS.
As part of our overall value-add integration process, we use Enterprise Provisioner to automate each step of the delivery process.  The software and settings used are always a project deliverable.  That way, with minimal interruption, a customer can completely rework a new or just repaired unit from factory default to an operational state in a couple of minutes.  The tool saves time and guarantees consist results for all of your mobile computing equipment.
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And did we mention that it is free?  Contact us to see if Enterprise Provisioner is right for you.