Definition of the data collector

The data collector is also called an inventory machine or a handheld data terminal. It integrates a barcode scanning device and a handheld computer. It is a terminal computer device with a battery that can be operated offline. It has integration, mobility, small size, lightweight, High performance, and suitable for handheld features. It has functions such as real-time acquisition, real-time display, real-time feedback, automatic processing, automatic storage, and automatic transmission. Ensure the authenticity, validity, real-time, and availability of field data.

The composition of the data collector

The data collector generally includes the central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), read-write memory (RAM), keyboard, screen display, computer interface, barcode scanning module, power supply, and other configurations, which can be configured through the supporting data line It is connected with a wireless network and a computer for receiving or uploading data. The operating program of the data collector is compiled by the computer and downloaded to the data collector, and the corresponding functions can be completed according to the requirements of use.

Data collector features

1. Operating System

The data collector is equipped with an embedded operating system, usually similar to the DOS system, Windows CE, Windows Mobile system (some systems are independently developed by various manufacturers and are not compatible with each other), and application programs need to be independently developed on the operating system.

2. CPU processor:

With the development of digital circuit technology, most data acquisition terminals use 16-bit or better 32-bit CPU (central microprocessor). The improvement of CPU’s digits, main frequency, and other indicators makes the data acquisition and processing capability and processing speed of the data collector increasingly higher. Improve the user’s on-site work efficiency.

3. Handheld terminal memory:

Most products currently use FLASH-ROM + RAM memory. Important files such as operating system, application programs, and font files are stored in FLASH-ROM, which can be maintained even if the power supply is not provided for a long time. The collected data is stored in RAM, and the data is maintained by batteries and backup batteries. Due to the fast read and write speed of RAM, the speed of operation can be guaranteed. The size of the memory capacity of the handheld terminal determines the data capacity that can be processed at one time.

4. Power consumption:

Including the power consumption of the barcode scanning device, the power consumption of the display screen, and the power consumption of the CPU. It works with battery support.

5. Input device:

Including barcode scanning input and keyboard input.

6. Display output:

Most current data collectors have large LCD screens. Able to display various user information in Chinese, English, graphics, etc. At the same time, there are strict requirements on display accuracy and industrial performance of the screen.

7. Communication method:

As an extension of the computer network system, the data and processing results of the data collector must exchange information with the computer system. According to the communication method, it is divided into batch processing and wireless method: batch processing method is that after the data collector collects the bar code, the collected bar code information is transmitted to the computer as a file using the communication socket or data line connected to the computer; the wireless method is The data collector uses 802.11b and GPRS to exchange data with the PC in real-time wirelessly.

8. Peripheral device drive capability:

Use the serial port and infrared port of the data collector to connect various standard serial devices, or connect to various parallel devices through serial-to-parallel conversion. Including serial and parallel port printers, modems, etc., to achieve various functions of the computer.

Data collectors are widely used in product warehousing, logistics express management, fixed asset management, meter reading systems, and library management systems.

Classification of data collectors

1. Batch data collector

Work offline, after the batch data collector, communicates with the computer via USB cable or serial data cable or communication base.

2. Wireless data collector (online data collector)

The wireless data collector is equipped with a WINCE or windows mobile operating system, a built-in wireless communication module (WIFI, GPRS or Bluetooth), and connects to the local application software database in real-time through the wireless network (WIFI, GPRS or Bluetooth), and the data is updated in real-time.

Principles for purchasing data collectors:

1. Scope of application

Users should choose different portable data collectors according to their different situations. If the user uses a portable data collector in a relatively large, three-dimensional warehouse, because some items are stored in a higher location and far away from the operator, we should choose the one with large scanning depth, long reading distance, and high first reading rate Collector. For users in small and medium-sized warehouses, the requirements in this regard are not very high, and some collectors with complete functions and easy operation can be selected. For users to purchase a portable data collector, the most important point when choosing is “enough”, that is, to buy what is suitable for their needs, instead of blindly buying an expensive and powerful acquisition system.

2. Decoding range

The decoding range is an important indicator for choosing a portable data collector. Each user has its own barcode symbology range, and most portable data collectors can recognize several or even dozens of different symbologies such as EAN codes and UPC codes, but there are big differences. In the application of logistics enterprises, the EAN128 code, 39 code, Coudba code, QR code, etc. should also be considered. Therefore, the user must fully consider the coding range in his actual application when purchasing, to select a suitable collector.

3. Interface requirements

The interface capability of a collector is another important indicator for evaluating its function, and it is also a key consideration when selecting a collector. When purchasing, users must first clarify the operating environment and interface mode of their original system and then choose a portable data collector that adapts to the operating environment and interface mode.

4. Requirements for reading rate

The reading rate is a comprehensive index of the data collector, which has a certain relationship with the printing quality of bar code symbols, the design of the decoder, and the performance of the scanner. The higher the reading rate, the more saving working time, but correspondingly, its price must be higher than other portable data collectors. In the process of inventory (counting) of items, the barcode symbols can be manually controlled to repeatedly scan with a portable data collector. Therefore, the requirements for the reading rate are not strict, it is only a measure of work efficiency. But in the automatic sorting system, the requirement for the reading rate is very high.

5. Price

When choosing a portable data collector, its price is also a concern. The price of portable data collectors varies greatly due to their different configurations and functions. Therefore, pay attention to the performance-price ratio of the product when purchasing the collector, so that the one that meets the requirements of the application system and the lower price is the object of purchase, truly “good quality and low price”.