Warehouses, construction sites, and factory floors have become increasingly digital spaces as businesses take advantage of modern information technology. Even forklifts, a ubiquitous part of almost any worksite, can be improved by adding computers to their operations. Implementing forklift computers enhances asset tracking, inventory control, and general work management.
However, working on a forklift or any industrial site has particular challenges and requires unique solutions. In today's article, we'll discuss how forklift computers are used, the hurdles they face, and the design features that help them overcome them.
Forklift Computer Applications
Like in other industrial applications, forklift computers' greatest strength is their ability to connect to a broader data network. By doing so, they enable benefits such as:
- Data Collection: As workers use the forklift to load or unload pallets of goods, they can track what is being moved or used by entering that information on the computer. If Internet of Things technology is used at the warehouse or worksite, the computer can do so automatically. Whatever the method, collecting this kind of data gives companies greater insights into what's currently in stock, what's being used up or sold, and how quickly the resource is consumed. In turn, this makes planning future operations easier.
- Asset Tracking: In a massive warehouse with shelves stacked to the ceiling, keeping track of tools like forklifts can be the difference between a productive workday and an exercise in frustration. Forklift computers with wireless connectivity can mark where the forklift is located, making it easier for workers to find what they need.
- Workshift Management: Most businesses use some form of digital time sheet that lets workers clock in and out of their shifts. Adding a computer to a forklift lets employees do so immediately from their workstations, saving them time in the long run.
Challenges for Forklift Computers
It shouldn't be surprising that industrial worksites and warehouses are a challenging environment for computers. Some of the issues forklift computers have to overcome include:
- Shock and Vibration: A forklift can be a bumpy ride, especially when carrying a heavy load. Any computer mounted to the forklift must be able to handle these vibrations. Not relying on moving parts (such as cooling fans and hard disk drives) and meeting standards such as MIL-STD 810G are ideal solutions for handling this issue.
- Dust and Grime: Industrial worksites aren't exactly known for their cleanliness. Dust, grime, soot, and other particles can get kicked up in the air at a construction site or warehouse, get inside a computer, and cause all kinds of havoc. A fanless cooling system and an IP65-rated front bezel are excellent ways to prevent dust from infiltrating the case.
- Legacy Device Compatibility: Warehouses and manufacturing plants often use legacy equipment that the original manufacturer no longer supports. A forklift computer with legacy ports and more modern formats such as USB allows users to still support these older devices.
Other Qualities for Forklift Computers
Along with the design features previously mentioned, there are other qualities that forklift computers should possess, such as:
- General Durability: Besides shock and vibration, the threat of being mishandled or dropped is a constant threat for industrial computers. Therefore, an impact-resistant casing and chemically hardened glass screens are critical. Once again, MIL-STD 810G is a critical standard to follow.
- Touch Screen Controls: A forklift simply doesn't have the space for a mouse and keyboard. Therefore, rugged industrial tablets with responsive touch screens are ideal, as they offer a small footprint while still delivering computer performance.
- Wireless Connectivity: Forklift computers obviously can't rely on a wired Internet connection. This means internal Wi-Fi transmitters are critical to ensure a constant connection.
- Accessories: Add-ons like RFID readers and barcode scanners are a great way to expand a forklift computer's functionality. Workers can use scanners to add or remove packages from the warehouse's inventory or automatically sign in and out using the forklift.
- Hot-Swappable Batteries: With hot-swappable batteries, workers can switch out the batteries in their forklift's computer as needed without unplugging the entire computer and leaving it on a rack for charging.
- Universal VESA Mount: A universally compatible VESA mount ensures your chosen computer can attach to forklifts as needed.
Closing Thoughts
Forklift computers can dramatically improve a warehouse's operations as long as they have the qualifications and design features to endure such a work environment. Fortunately, a well-designed industrial tablet will endure and thrive in this role.
Are you looking for reliable industrial panel PCs or tablets to expand your warehouse's operations? Contact the team at Cybernet Manufacturing. We'd be happy to explain further how our products can accelerate your workflow, simplify logistics, and survive the worst your worksite can throw at them.
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