-
Know the requirement and specifications you are looking for
The warehouse tablets, classified as rugged mobile devices, have been specifically designed and built for logistic and storage applications, including water-tight seals, bumper cases, fanless designs, and reduced power consumption. Unlike a consumer tablet, its high-definition screen may also be operable accurately while wearing gloves.
In addition to a wide range of connectivity options, the warehouse tablet may also feature various accessories selections, including desk docking, vehicle cradle, straps, and integrated 1D/2D barcode readers. In short, rugged warehouse tablets are specifically designed to meet the needs of supply chain workers.
In addition to the design and manufacture, a rugged tablet must also pass performance tests. These simulate the conditions that the tablet may be subjected to. Typically, tests include Ingress Protection (IP) testing, the US defence standard MIL-STD testing of devices' durability and toughness, and an extensive range of in-house testing.
-
Test the warehouse tablets in your actual work environment
The majority of purchasing process started by reviewing the specification sheet. Of course, this can tell you a rugged device capability, but it will not tell you how it will perform in a real-world situation. Testing allows you to check a tablet's functionality and dependability in your work environment.
Consider testing as an investment. It is better to put the effort in early than later when you might run with costly complications. Consider it a way to protect your capital investment in the devices.
You would never buy a car without taking it for a test drive. The same goes for rugged PCs. You should test the devices in as close to real-world settings as feasible, whether it is a cold or standard warehouse, at a port, in a vehicle, in the woods, or elsewhere.
-
Let your team members use it
Getting as many end-users as possible to use the device would be helpful. They can assess how user-friendly the device is, whether it completes work operations as expected and whether it becomes too hot or heavy to carry about all day. Getting your workers on board offers you a head start on user acceptance.
End users aren't the only ones that need to test. The IT team should double-check the data specifications and ensure the devices are compatible with the operating system or software. This way, you can future-proof your investment for years to come.
-
Test as extensively as possible
It is recommended to test your warehouse tablet as thoroughly as possible, such as going over all the operations the devices will perform once they are fully deployed. Such as testing across multiple sites if you're deploying devices at several locations. Each area will have its unique set of challenges and peculiarities. Such as various wireless network infrastructure and access point connectivity challenges, temperature variations, vehicle architecture, compatibility with additional equipment and peripherals, software application requirements, and mounting placement may vary from site to site.
-
Look for the critical issues
Testing across sites and with as many users as possible can provide you with much information and allow you to spot flaws before they become significant difficulties. Pay special attention to features and functions that are crucial to your organization and any previous issues you have faced, such as communication coverage, screen viewability under direct sunlight, or the water protection rating.
When testing your new warehouse tablet, remember that you are not just putting a new robust solution to the test. You are also putting your supplier's capacity to provide to the test, including procurement and management. They could be able to provide insight into the supplier's financial stability, partnership opportunities, and additional services. Finding a supplier with the skills to understand your business and the ability to meet your needs can result in a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.
For over 25 years, Winmate Inc. has been the global leader in developing advanced rugged, mobile technologies for warehousing industries. From R&D to manufacturing to in-house testing, Winmate Inc. manages the entire product development process with ready-made products for quick deployment and customization service to meet our partners' specific needs. Winmate's innovative approach has helped countless enterprises at every level with equipment automation and seamless Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) integration.
With service and support centers throughout the globe, we are able to respond quickly and efficiently to ensure uninterrupted productivity for our customers. We are committed to speedy turnaround times on repairs and service needs.
