Mobile Computers
By: KC - 3/14/2014

We get a lot of questions about <a href="https://posguys.com/mobile-computers_6/">mobile computers</a>: what are they, how do they differ from consumer smartphones, and why would you want to use them? Here’s the rundown on mobile computers to give you a better idea of what is best for your business.

Benefits of Mobile Computers

The best way to think about mobile computers is they are essentially like mobile phones without a phone plan, specifically designed for POS applications. How much they resemble modern mobile phones depends on the kind you get, and we’ll go into the different kinds a bit later, but overall they tend to operate fairly similarly.

So why would you want to get a mobile computer instead of a smartphone? Mobile computers are made with POS needs in mind. They have an integrated barcode scanner, and are made to be much more durable than a smartphone. They generally have a drop spec of at least 4 feet (meaning they can survive multiple 4-foot drops to concrete) and at least an IP54 seal (meaning they are dust-proof and can withstand water spray). They have all kinds of accessories like cradles, removable batteries, hand straps that aren’t available for many smartphones. The majority communicate via Bluetooth or WiFi. Generally they don’t have a data plan option or SMS capability, so they aren’t able to be used like a smartphone in terms of calls or texting, but some are now available with SIM card and data plan options, so you can use it as an outside the four walls solution.

When would you choose a mobile computer over a PC or tablet? Mobile computers are excellent for warehouses, especially for doing things like inventory, and for trade shows or other locations without dedicated checkout lanes. The built in barcode scanner makes checking things easy, and their small size makes mobile computers extra portable.

Types of Mobile Computers

Enterprise - The enterprise mobile computers most resemble modern smartphones; they are slimmer and lighter weight than other mobile computers. Their form factor is like a smartphone, they don’t have a keypad, and have full touchscreen. These tend to primarily run Android operating systems, although some are available with Windows mobile OS. They are best for retail inventory or customer-facing applications, since they are sleeker and lighter weight. They can be used in a warehouse environment, but you may want to consider a different type if you’re going to be using it in more aggressive warehouse conditions.

Ruggedized - The ruggedized mobile computers are more durable than enterprise ones. They tend to be bigger and heavier, and the majority have some form of physical keypad in addition to a smaller touchscreen. They primarily run Windows Mobile OS, but some are available with Android. Ruggedized mobile computers are best for manufacturing and transportation, in addition to warehouses and other industrial environments.

Heavy industrial - The heavy industrial mobile computers are the most durable mobile computers. They are much larger, and tend to have the biggest keypads. Many are protected against extreme temperatures, have 5 or 6 foot drop specs, and some can be submerged in water. They are best for industrial environments, manufacturing, and places where they will get a lot of abuse.

Software and Programs

Mobile computers are best suited for running <a href="https://posguys.com/inventory-software_2/">inventory software</a>. There are a wide variety of inventory software programs with support for mobile devices. These kinds of programs take advantage of the data capture ability of mobile computers, and make taking inventory simple. They work with the majority of mobile computers. 
There are also a few kinds of <a href="https://posguys.com/point-of-sale-software_35/">POS software</a> for mobile computers. Some can integrate with your POS software on your computer. Generally these programs require Windows OS on the mobile computer. 
Credit card processing software is also available for mobile computers. Programs such as Square or Shopkeep work with mobile computers running Android. These credit card processors are probably best on the enterprise-type mobile computers, anything that is customer-facing.

More questions about mobile computers? Unsure which mobile computer is best for your business? Give us a call!

Mobile Computers By: KC - 3/14/2014

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Mobile Computers
By: KC - 3/14/2014