What Is a Handheld Terminal?
A handheld terminal is a portable terminal that can easily collect data recorded in barcodes and 2D codes.
Some models can use a character recognition function to read characters in addition to barcodes and 2D codes. Functions other than data collection include data transmission/reception, data storage, key input, and screen display.
There are also a variety of types available, such as medical types that can be disinfected with chemicals, explosion-proof types specialized for explosion-proof areas, and refrigeration types for frozen warehouses, depending on the environment of the site where they will be used.
Uses of Handheld Terminals
Handheld terminals are used in a variety of business applications as portable terminals that can easily collect data, such as:
- Pickup and package management in the transportation industry: A single android-equipped handheld terminal can send and receive delivery information, communicate with customers, and perform navigation and dynamics management.
- Receiving and shipping management for the logistics industry: Product shelf information can be displayed on a large screen and linked to a warehouse management system to improve operational efficiency. Raw material and process management in the manufacturing and pharmaceutical fields, etc. Real-time process management can be realized through efficient and accurate input.
- Order management and material management in the retail and restaurant industries: Orders can be shared with the kitchen and back office in real time to improve efficiency and reduce time.
- Water, electricity, and gas meter reading: Improves work efficiency and ensures the management of personal information.
Principle of Handheld Terminals
The functions and specifications required for handheld terminals vary greatly depending on the application and scene of use, but they are mainly composed of data reading, screen display and operation, and communication functions, and the following principles are utilized.
1. Data Reading Function
The data reading function uses lasers or LEDs to read barcodes, QR codes, and other two-dimensional codes attached to products, as well as characters, and converts them into numbers, letters, and symbols according to certain rules.
2. Screen Display
LCDs are mainly used for screen displays, which display characters, graphs, images, etc. under the control of the CPU.
3. Operation Function
Operation functions are performed via a keyboard or numeric keypad for inputting quantities, etc., or via a touch panel integrated with the screen. Input information is decoded by the CPU and recognized as letters, numbers, and symbols.
4. Communication Function
Communication functions are mainly performed via wireless LAN or Bluetooth. The terminal is connected to a host computer or other terminals via the Internet or an internal network, and the date, time, and product data read are stored in the terminal before being sent and received in real time to the host computer or other terminals.
How to Select a Handheld Terminal
Handheld terminals are available in a variety of models. In order to select an appropriate product from among the many models available, choose one based on the nature of your business, the environment in which it will be used, and the cost.
1. Business Contents
The applications required will differ depending on the nature of the business. Many handheld terminals are equipped with an Android OS, but the applications that can be used vary depending on the OS version. Check to see if the necessary apps are provided.
We also consider special requirements, such as the need for a PTT button specialized for RFID readers and intercoms.
2. Environment of Use
Depending on the environment of the site where the product will be used, a model that satisfies special environmental conditions such as medical type, explosion-proof type, or refrigeration type may be required.
3. Cost
Cost, calculated based on budget and cost effectiveness, is another important consideration. Not only the purchase cost of handheld terminal but also the maintenance cost should be taken into account.
Other Information on Handheld Terminals
Difference Between a Handheld Terminal and a Handy Scanner
Handheld terminals are more sophisticated than handy scanners. Handheld terminals are more versatile and have a wide range of applications, while handheld scanners are used for reading merchandise POS data, reading library checkout data, etc., due to their single function but lower price.