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What is a Mobile Computer?

Customers often have questions about mobile computing such as, “What is a mobile computer? Is it a wireless barcode scanner, tablet, or smart phone? Or is it any mobile device used for scanning?” The answers may surprise you.

Like wireless scanners, mobile computers read barcodes and capture data, and they come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles.

But that’s where the similarities end.

A mobile computer (which is also known as a portable data collector or portable data terminal) combines PC and scanning functions into a single device that can be outfitted with off-the-shelf or custom software applications that perform everyday tasks, such as monitoring deliveries, tracking assets, and managing inventory.

And because mobile computers run on familiar operating systems such as Windows and Android, they offer similar functionality as a desktop computer or laptop. This enables your mobile workforce to improve productivity from most any location.

 

Buying Tip

Mobile computers combine the PC and scanning functions into one device and run on familiar operating systems.

How does it work?

These powerful processors are equipped with a barcode scan engine and can store captured data on their hard drives. This means you may update and edit information without having to first send it to a host computer. You can also:

  • Securely access programs or databases stored in the cloud or office using the latest wireless technologies
  • Take advantage of high-speed WWAN networks, such as the 4G HSPA+ worldwide network or the 3.5G EVDO/CDMA network
  • Add additional memory using expandable card slots
  • Accurately pinpoint the locations of employees, assets, and businesses with optional GPS capabilities
  • Easily sync with modems, printers, and headsets using optional Bluetooth wireless connectivity
  • Always stay connected via phone using integrated cellular radios (optional)

Cordless Scanners vs. Mobile Computers

Many people think a mobile computer is a cordless scanner, which is partially true.

You can wirelessly capture and transfer data using both a wireless scanner and a mobile computer, but that’s where the similarities end.

  • A cordless barcode scanner only provides the ability to scan, while a mobile computer combines a computer and a scanner into one device, which also has its own hard drive.
  • A mobile computer comes with an operating system (OS) that allows you to upload software applications. A wireless barcode scanner does not.
  • A mobile computer stores data on its hard drive after capturing it, which enables you to edit and share information on the spot. A cordless scanner may store information in memory, but it must link to a host computer-either by a cord or wirelessly-to pass along captured data.

Buying Tip

If you need a wireless device that does more than scan, you’ll want to purchase a mobile computer instead of a cordless barcode scanner.

What’s the bottom line?

If you need a powerful processor that is completely mobile and enables you to access and edit information in real time, then you’ll want to purchase a mobile computer.

Compare cordless barcode scanners and mobile computers

The table on the following page compares cordless 1D barcode scanners with mobile computers so you can see at a glance the major differences between each.

The table on the following page compares cordless 1D barcode scanners with mobile computers so you can see at a glance the major differences between each.

Note: This comparison is based on a 1D cordless barcode scanner with a laser scan engine.

FEATURE1D SCANNER 2D SCANNER
Reads barcodes YesYes
Comes in several styles and types YesYes
Only provides the ability to scan Yes✕
Only uses Bluetooth technology to wirelessly transmit data Yes✕
Must transfer captured data to a host computer Yes✕
Combines a scanner and a computer into one device ✕Yes
Transfers captured data using multiple wireless technologies ✕Yes
Has a hard drive, which can store captured data for immediate manipulation ✕Yes
Uses operating systems like Windows and Android ✕Yes
Runs software applications ✕Yes
Is highly customizable ✕Yes
Captures digital images (pictures) of signatures, graphics, and other text ✕Yes
Enables users to work from any location ✕Yes
Offers cellular radios on certain models ✕Yes

Types of Mobile Computers

There are several types of mobile computers that benefit businesses in industries across the globe. Each type comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles with features unique to certain environments.

For example, there are vehicle-mount mobile computers that attach to trucks and forklifts and handheld devices for environments where the potential for explosions exists. There are even wearable computers that expedite processing in warehouses and protective sleds that turn consumer tablets and smartphones into enterprise-ready devices.

As with barcode scanners, all types of mobile computers incorporate barcode scan engines to read linear (1D) or 2D barcodes.

Buying Tip

Determine which scan engine you need before deciding on a scanner type. Imagers are best for reading damaged or poorly printed barcodes.

Handheld

Handheld mobile computers are small, yet durable, devices that extend organizational knowledge into the field by combining scanning and processing functions into a single device.

Wearable

Wearable devices can be equipped with the latest voice technology for streamlined picking, packing, and shipping.

Vehicle-Mounted

Rugged mobile workstations attach to industrial vehicles such as trucks, forklifts, and carts.

Rugged Tablets

Due to their size and weight, most tablet-type computers are not handheld. Instead they are designed to be mounted onto vehicles. However, there are some mobile computers that are actually a handheld tablet. These rugged tablets securely transmit data over high-speed networks using the familiar design and functionality of consumer devices while enjoying the durability of enterprise scanners.

Specialized - Hazardous, Healthcare, Cold Storage

Specialized devices for hazardous environments, healthcare, and cold storage include features specific to their environments for easy use, reliable scans, and risk-free reading.

RFID

RFID handheld readers transmit and receive radio waves to communicate with RFID tags. Add-ons such as vehicle mounts, sleds, and handles convert existing devices into RFID readers to extend your technology investment. Learn more about RFID.

Enterprise Sleds

Enterprise sleds protect consumer devices (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad) used in some retail establishments and BYOD (bring your own device) environments.

Compare mobile computers

The following table compares the features and benefits of each type of mobile computer.

A presentation scanner is also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter for hands-free operations. Users simply scan items in front of it for easy reading. Presentation scanners are the only ones that can be 1D and omnidirectional.

In-Counter

A type of presentation scanner, an in-counter scanner sits inside a counter to facilitate easy scanning.

Fixed-Mount

Fixed-mount scanners read barcodes using sensors that are triggered when items pass in front of them. These scanners integrate with large automated systems and are usually found on conveyors in assembly lines and on vehicles such as forklifts.

Wearable

Wearable scanners are typically worn on the arm, hand, or finger to expedite processing of barcodes. They are particularly useful in environments where hands-free processing is required and voice picking technology is implemented.

Pocket-Sized

Also referred to as mini scanners, these cordless devices fit inside a pocket to facilitate quick scans and easy pairing with Bluetooth-enabled devices such as tablets and smartphones.

RFID

Fixed (stationary) RFID readers and handheld RFID-enabled scanners communicate with RFID tags using antennas and radio waves that send and receive signals from microchips stored in their tags.

Compare barcode scanner types

The table on the following page compares the barcode scanner types.

MOBILE COMPUTER TYPES
TypeCordedCordless
Handheld
  • Combines functionality of a PC and a scanner into a single device
  • Some models-such as hybrid devices that resemble smart phones-are small and light, yet rugged and durable
  • Variety of sizes, shapes, and styles with many features and accessories
  • Designed to protect against environmental factors
  • Light, medium, and heavy duty handling
  • Operating systems such as Windows and Android
  • Preloaded applications software or custom programs
  • Wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth
  • Advanced Wi-Fi radios
  • Extends organizational knowledge into the field
  • Withstands the rigors of mobile computing better than laptops or consumer devices
  • Enhances mobile workforce performance across a wide range of environments and industries
  • Expands the life of your hardware investment
  • Ensures a perfect match for your requirements
  • Offers same functionality as desktop computer or laptop for optimal productivity
  • Increases efficiency of everyday tasks
  • Syncs devices such as printers, modems, and headsets for improved productivity
  • Facilitates fast data transfer
Wearable
  • Hands-free operations
  • Sophisticated voice-directed applications
  • Easy to use
  • Maximizes workers' productivity by keeping their eyes and hands on the task at hand
  • Improves performance and accuracy by streamlining the picking process
  • Requires minimal training time for quicker results
Vehicle-Mounted
  • Full PC functionality
  • Rugged construction, yet compact and lightweight
  • Fits tight-spaced vehicles
  • Ensures compliance and improves safety
  • Makes it easier for employees to work under extreme conditions
  • Improves productivity with instant access to needed information
Rugged Tablets
  • Handheld enterprise tablet similar to consumer devices, though currently not widely produced
  • High-speed wireless connections that supports the latest WLAN or WWAN networks
  • Highly customizable
  • Encrypted data security
  • Minimizes training time due to similar interface of consumer tablets
  • Promises superior performance with the ability to work from virtually any location
  • Reduces application and support costs
  • Secures sensitive information to help comply with industry and governmental regulations
Specialized - Hazardous
  • Combines global certifications with cutting-edge technologies
  • Intrinsically safe mobile computers meet or exceed stringent requirements for gases, vapors, liquids, dusts, and fibers
  • Non-incendive configurations with same benefits as other handheld mobile computers
  • Supports high performance in environments where the risk for explosion exists
  • Ensures compliance with industry and governmental regulations in the most volatile environments
  • Complies with requirements up to Class 1, Division 1 safe operations in harsh environments
Specialized - Healthcare
  • Disinfectant-ready housings for environments where the device must be frequently cleaned
  • Lightweight, compact design
  • Extended power management for continuous service throughout full shifts
  • Versatile, high-performance data collection technology
  • Enables proper cleaning of the device in accordance with regulatory guidelines
  • Reduces user fatigue
  • Enhances productivity
  • Easily reads linear and 2D barcodes
Specialized - Cold Storage
  • Large keys for gloved hands
  • Available as handheld or vehicle-mounted with backlit keypad
  • Withstands multiple 6' drops to concrete
  • Versatile, high-performance data collection technology and reliable, fast wireless connectivity
  • Improves the user experience
  • Adapts to end user's needs in low temperatures
  • Reduces downtime and lowers the total cost of ownership
  • Easily reads linear and 2D barcodes and captures electronic signatures with real-time access to data
Enterprise Sleds
  • Transforms consumer devices-such as iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad-into enterprise-ready ones
  • Protective housing adds durability and increased safety to consumer devices used in the enterprise
  • Integrated scanning technology
  • Optional encryption-ready magnetic stripe reader
  • Improves the customer experience by arming sales associates with the same information that customers have and more
  • Results in smaller spare pools, less time wasted, and reductions in lost revenue
  • Delivers fast, accurate reading of linear and 2D barcodes
  • Allows quick and easy processing and protecting of credit card transactions at the point of decision
RFID
  • Integrated
    • Integrates the reader and antenna into one rugged handheld device
    • Equipped with a scan engine, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
    • Runs on batteries with exceptional battery life
    • Compact, ergonomic design
  • Add-On
    • Mounts
    • Adds RFID functionality to specific vehicle-mount mobile computers
    • Enables bolt-in attachment to forklifts and other vehicles
  • Handles
      Adds mobile RFID read/write capability to certain mobile computers Snaps on
  • Sleds
    • Transforms certain mobile computers into UHF RFID readers
  • Integrated
    • Doesn't require add-ons to scan RFID tags
    • Enables mobile scanning in hard-to-reach locations
    • Allows complete mobility and minimizes downtime
    • Easy to use
  • Add-On
    • Mounts
    • Enables "read where you need" mobility
    • Costs less than portal reader systems when the number of dock doors is larger than the number of fork lifts
  • Handles
    • Saves money by adding functionality to existing hardware
    • Easy to convert, use
  • Sleds
    • Extends the value of your mobile computer investment
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