Solutions for smarter, mobile supply chains
Here are some of the data collection and identification solutions that will be on display this month at Frontline Solutions at Chicago's Navy Pier.
By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 9/1/2004
Full-screen, vehicle-mount computer
The VX5 vehicle-mount computer features a display that goes to the edge for
over 12 inches of viewing. It operates on Windows 2000 Professional and XP
Professional and uses a Pentium III processor. With an impact-resistant aluminum
casting and tight water seal, the computer withstands harsh industrial
environments. Users can run legacy terminal emulation applications as well as
easily migrate to a Windows-based GUI or browser-based design without additional
hardware.
LXE Inc.
770-729-6643
www.lxe.com
Read various matrix codes
Two handheld readers and a fixed-mount reader are
designed to offer parts traceability. The DataMan 6400 handheld device reads
codes produced by laser and ink jet marking while the DataMan 6500 unit also
reads low contrast codes formed by electrochemical etching and dot peen marking.
Offered as a fixed-mount unit, the In-Sight 5110 provides real-time one- and
two-dimensional code reading.
Cognex
508-650-3000
www.cognex.com
Transition from RFID pilot to full deployment
Easing the transition from a radio frequency
identification (RFID) pilot into a fully implemented program, the iMotion
Edgeware platform provides the software infrastructure for connecting core
enterprise systems with real-time information via RFID devices. It extends
enterprise systems to take advantage of RFID and other sensor-based
technologies. Its control devices enable systems to work with a variety of
wireless systems within one application. iMotion allows users to configure a
network of devices graphically, monitor network capabilities and manage
connectivity to the electronic product code (EPC) network. Other functionality
includes transforming data into actionable events and optimizing processes
through user-defined business rules.
GlobeRanger Corp.
469-330-5508
www.globeranger.com
Reader is tethered to mobile computers
Available in both read and read/write modes, a radio
frequency identification (RFID) tag reader can be tethered to rugged mobile
computing devices. The 900 MHz unit features a read range of more than 6 feet.
The device is designed for pallets, totes and large piece picking applications.
Psion Teklogix Inc.
800-322-3437
www.psionteklogix.com
Durable cordless scanner
The SF51 cordless scanner combines the form of a flashlight with a
quick attach/release mechanism and extremely durable scanning in one device.
With a compact design, it's easily handheld or clipped to a user's waist. The
durable scanner features a wireless personal area network (PAN) radio-based on
Bluetooth that cordlessly connects to various terminals without a base station.
It delivers 200 scans per second, easily reading poor quality and damaged bar
codes from up to 20 inches away.
Intermec Technologies Corp.
800-347-2636
www.intermec.com
View inventory for fast replenishment
The AeroScape software solution is a replenishment
management system that delivers unparalleled visibility for replenishing
materials and parts quickly. Using WebSphere technology, the system integrates
easily with all major enterprise resource planning tools. Benefits include
real-time usage-based data, dramatic reduction of excess inventory and safety
stocks and functionality for kitting, multiple starting points and dynamic bag
sizing.
Waer Systems Inc.
773-315-1148
www.waersystems.com
Printer with installable RFID module
A printer is available with a field-installable radio
frequency identification (RFID) module to print bar code labels as well as smart
labels. Easy to install, the RFID component simply plugs into the printer's
chassis. Modules are offered in high- and ultra-high frequency modules
supporting EPCglobal standards. The RFID I-Class printer writes data to RFID
tags, queries a tag's identification number, and automatically detects a tag to
ensure that no smart labels are wasted.
Datamax Corp.
800-816-9649
www.datamaxcorp.com
Track parts to reduce product recalls
TWLot is a part and lot traceability system designed to
help manufacturers minimize the liability of product recall. The system collects
and links component, work-in-process and finished goods data to provide a
complete part lineage by part, container and pallet identification. With
error-proofing and validation processes, the system ensures correct components
are used in manufacturing. Included are bar code scanners, radio frequency
identification tags and programmable logic controller data for root cause
analysis. A reporting module enables drill-down and "where-used" analysis.
ToolWorx Information Products Inc.
810-220-5115
www.toolworx.com
Minimize inventory using Kanban
A radio frequency identification (RFID) control system
uses Kanban to control and minimize inventory by repeatedly using and rotating
the same skids or component-boxes between the parts vendor and the assembly
points. The RFID KANBAN control system uses rewritable plastic Kanban plates
with an embedded RFID chip. This enables the system to print bar codes and human
readable data as well as read/write to the RFID chip. Plates can be reused and
the chip reprogrammed multiple times.
Kanematsu USA Inc.
732-271-7376
www.kanematsuusa.com
Connect material and data flow
An automatic identification and mobility middleware platform provides
a rapid process development environment for radio frequency identification
(RFID), mobile and traditional bar code applications. The platform marries
material flow with data flow in real time, connects users and equipment to
business processes as well as data to business applications.
IDVelocity
336-217-6200
www.idvelocity.com
Scanner withstands harsh environment
Heavy-duty for use in harsh conditions, the PowerScan
family of handheld bar code scanners is constructed with high-impact-resistant
material to withstand multiple 6.5-foot drops onto concrete. It incorporates
protective rubber cushioning at every point of impact and a shatterproof scan
window. The scanner reads linear bar codes, stacked two-dimensional (2-D)
symbologies and matrix 2-D codes. It also captures images such as signatures,
photographs and other objects.
PSC Inc.
800-695-5700
www.psc.com
Create bar code and RFID labels simply
Added to the line of Easylabel thermal transfer label
printers is a system featuring the radio frequency identification (RFID) Wizard.
This tool lets users easily create and print smart labels with extensive support
of electronic product code specifications. Also offered is the EAN/UCC-128
Wizard for creating bar code labels in a simple four-step process. The tool
prompts users for required information and then builds the bar code
automatically. Other features include support for USB printing with its fast
bi-directional data transfer as well as multi-lingual phrases for hazardous
chemical labeling regulations.
Tharo Systems Inc.
330-273-4408
www.tharo.com
Monitor manufacturing performance in real time
Consisting of three modules, the P3 Collaborative
Manufacturing Execution suite provides real-time visibility of materials, labor
and process data for production. The time and labor module tracks employee time
for payroll, and monitors labor hours performed by customer order, work order,
lot and serial numbers. A materials management system allows users to manage
just-in-time supply flows and production replenishment, enabling quick responses
to demand pull signals on the manufacturing floor. The extended shop floor
execution module tracks production rates, measures cell and line performance and
monitors throughput against daily targets.
Epic
Data
604-207-7703
www.epicdata.com
Touchscreen handheld computer features RFID reader
Designed for one-handed operation, the JETT-RFID
handheld computer features a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader,
touchscreen technology and a variety of interface capabilities. It operates with
Windows CE .NET 4.2 system and an Intel XScale technology processor. Suitable
for a wide range of applications, the computer features a color display that is
sunlight-readable with an LED backlight for easy viewing in high and low light
conditions. Using its touchscreen capabilities, users can create GUI-based
applications.
Two Technologies
215-441-5305
www.twotech.com
Read up to 800 RFID tags per second
The Zuma radio frequency identification (RFID) system is
an Electronic Product Code (EPC) compliant, field-rewritable Class 0 chip
capable of read rates up to 800 tags per second. The system's memory design
enables a write range equivalent to its read range. For security, the tag
features a kill switch with a secure 24-bit password protection. The unit is
available in 8-inch wafer form, inlays and tags. Suitable applications include
supply chain management, logistics, warehousing and airline luggage tracking.
Impinj Inc.
866-467-4650
www.impinj.com
Rugged computer features 10-inch screen
With an ultra-small compact form factor, the GX series
rugged computer features a screen measuring only 10.1 inches wide and 8 inches
tall. The GX-1000 houses a low-heat 800 Mgz Via processor with a bright 10-inch
LCD display. It is designed for applications requiring PC-compatible computing
power but within limited space. All operating systems are supported including
DOS, Windows 2000 and XP and simple terminal emulation.
Glacier
Computer
603-882-1560
www.glaciercomputer.com
Powerful RFID circuitry
Powering RFID applications, the XRA00 is a full-featured
integrated circuit for use in radio frequency identification (RFID) tags
operating in an ultra-high frequency range. It provides fast and flexible
protocol that is robust in noisy RF environments. When connected to an antenna,
the system's operating power is derived from RF energy produced by the RFID
reader. Its memory enables users to program tags at the point of application.
The XRA00 responds only after first receiving a valid command from the reader.
STMicroelectronics
781-861-2650
www.st.com
Retractable device keeps terminals handy
Available in various configurations and weight ratings, a locking
device keeps heavy bar code scanners and other instruments attached to users.
The Locking Gear Keeper Instrument Tether consists of a compact canister with a
spring-loaded, self-retracting nylon line. Its quick-connect system is easily
attached and detached to and from heavy wireless devices. Units are offered in
strength forces ranging from 12 to 36 ounces to match an instrument with its
appropriate lanyard. The device's cable holds up to 80 pounds yet the entire
unit weighs only 3.1 ounces.
Hammerhead Industries Inc.
888-588-9981
www.gearkeeper.com
Touchscreen computer displays up to 18 inches
The VISTA XL series of touchscreen computers is
available with display sizes ranging from 10 to 18 inches (diagonal). Designed
for fixed and mobile applications, the computers are fully compatible with Linux
and Windows operating systems. Sealed configurations for low-temperature and
wash-down environments are also available.
Citadel Computer Corp.
603-672-5500
www.citadelcomputer.com
Compact RFID readers
Compact yet powerful, a series of small readers features
the radio frequency, analog and digital circuitry required to read and program
Class 1 Electronic Product Code tags. Designed for a variety of applications
including printers, handheld computers and materials handling devices, the
readers are microprocessor-controlled and weigh only 3 ounces. The systems
integrate with an external power supply and antenna to create a complete reader.
WJ
Communications Inc.
408-577-6200
www.wj.com
Printer for metal bar code tags
The LabeLase 1000 tag printer is a fully automatic,
continuous-feed desktop printer for metal bar code tags. Offered with the
LabeLase producer software, the device functions like a PC printer and plugs
directly into the back of a computer. It accepts standard 300-foot rolls of
continuous tag stock, which are perforated for easy break-off after printing.
Single die-cut tags can also be inserted into the front slot and printed.
InfoSight
Corp.
888-642-3600
www.infosight.com
Maintain wireless terminal sessions
Connected to a host computer, Stay-Linked ensures that
radio frequency and other wireless terminal sessions are never lost. The
terminal emulation solution preserves active wireless sessions through a wide
variety of computing platforms including Linux and Windows/NT. It provides
host-based 5250/3270 and VT100/220 connectivity support. All wireless devices
can be managed from one location, enabling users to view all connections, reboot
remote devices and troubleshoot problems with remote systems in real time.
eBusiness Solutions Pros Inc.
714-918-7700
www.stay-linked.com





















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