1. How to select the right Mobile Computer ?

1. How to select the right Mobile Computer ?

1. What type of environment will the scanner be used in ?
   - This is to decide on the durability of the mobile unit. Warehouse & Outdoor environments would normal require a higher level of durability.
   - Basic environments are :
   

   Retail	: Entry level to mid range is common used.
   Warehouse / Manufacturing	: Mid range to rugged mobile computer.
   Outdoor Sales	: Rugged mobile computer

   - Durability can be measured on 2 standards :
   
   • a) Drop test – Most common is 4 feet (1.2 Meters) on concrete. This means, the unit can withstand multiple drops within the specific height. Come drop test can go as high as 6 feet (1.8 Meters).
   • b) IP rating – Most common is IP54. This means, the unit can be protected by limited dust ingress & from water spray from any direction.
     For more info on IP, you can refer to www.dsmt.com/pdf/resources/iprating.pdf
    
    
2. Type of data transfer – Batch or Wireless (RF-Radio Frequency) ?
   
   • Batch Terminal – Also known as Off-line operation. After collecting data, the data needs to be connected to a communication cradle or cable to transfer the data to PC. Somewhat like synchronizing data from a mobile phone to the PC.
     • The cost involved is much lower than a wireless set up. Just need a cradle.
     • Suitable for low data transfer frequency.
     • Has less flexibility like getting real time information.
   • Wireless – Also known as On-line operation. Data can be communicating to the PC anytime as long there is a wireless communication normal through Access Points with the protocol of IEEE 802.11b.
     • The set up cost is much higher as it requires access points (AP) and cabling infrastructure.
     • Suitable for high transaction data transfer frequency as the user does not need to run up & down wasting time. This saves time.
     • Much higher efficiency as data can be obtained immediately.
   
    
    
3. What is the Operating System (OS) ?
   There are 2 types of OS, Proprietary OS & Open System OS.
   

   	Proprietary OS	Open System OS
   Type	- Text / DOS	- Windows / Android
   Flexibility on programming	- Bad & Limited	- Good
   Battery Life	- Lasting & Cheap	- Short & Expensive
   Rugged	- More rugged	- Less rugged
   Pricing	- Cheaper	- More Expensive
   Product Feature	- Limited	- Flexible

   
    
    
4. Scan Engine - Do I need to support 1D or 2D or both symbols, what is the scan distance ?
   There are basically 3 types of scanner engines :
   
   1. Laser (1D) – Can only scan 1D Barcodes
   2. Area Imager (2D) – Can scan both 1D & 2D Barcodes
   3. Extended Range – Able to scan barcodes as far as 10 feet away. Normally if require to scan barcodes situated high on the racking structure,