Socket Talk

What's the Best Type of Wireless LAN for your Enterprise Handheld?

By Vince Coli, Senior Product Manager, Handheld Computer Products

Multiple Choice: Is 802.11 a, b or g the best Wireless LAN for your Enterprise Handheld?

(Or is it n, for none of the above?)

We believe the answer is n, as in 802.11n – let me explain.

Wireless LANs are everywhere – at the office, at home, at school, at the ball park, in restaurants, at the airport and now even on the airplane. The wireless networks that we take for granted today have their roots in the early 90’s, when wireless connections were designed for single peripheral devices to send and receive computer data. They're a far cry from today’s wireless networks, which facilitate web surfing on handheld devices at Starbucks. Over time, the IEEE 802.11 standard has evolved with advancements in Wi-Fi technology and changing market requirements.

802.11n is the next evolution of Wi-Fi technology. IEEE has defined this standard to deliver an exponential improvement in both performance and reliability for mobile devices. For these reasons, Socket has decided to implement 802.11n in our new enterprise handheld, the SoMo 655.

Benefits of 802.11n

The signature performance metric of 802.11n is data transmission speed of up to 600 Mbps, which is more than 10 times faster than 802.11a or g and about 55 times faster than 802.11b. Many users cannot achieve this performance due to legacy equipment, but having 802.11n devices is good to ensure you're not impeding network performance due to technology. So even if performance is not an explicit requirement for your Mobile Enterprise Handheld, upgrading to 802.11n will help prevent routine data collection and order taking transactions from slowing down your network.

Besides performance, 802.11n also delivers better reliability and predictability to Wi-Fi networks. Multiple antennas and advanced signal processing capabilities (all part of the 801.11n standard) provide longer operational range and more predictable Wi-Fi coverage. So just substituting 802.11n Access Points for b or g will improve wireless coverage without pulling new wire.

Although 802.11n has primarily been designed to increase performance, it also provides technical benefits for wireless networking such as backwards compatibility (including a, b, and g support) and longer battery life, which is on the top of the list for most Mobile Enterprise users.

Preliminary Test Results

Our early testing of the new SoMo 655 (with 802.11b/g/n) shows the following improvements when compared with the SoMo 650 (with 802.11b/g):

• 35% better throughput
• 23% greater range
• 15% lower power consumption

Helpful Resources

• Tips on how to set up an 802.11n network: http://wirelesslanprofessionals.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Quick-Dirty-802.11n-Design.pdf
• Chart showing the evolution of the 802.11 standard: http://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lx89cx1YvS1qg8x9go1_500.jpg
• White Paper: Enhanced Wi-Fi Companion software for the SoMo 650: http://www.socketmobile.com/pdf/techbrief/e-WFC_white-paper.pdf

Aspin - Recommending the Socket SoMo 650 with Confidence

By Anna Meens, EMEA Distribution and Market Development Manager

Having worked with Socket for over 10 years, and building a solid client base of customers who have purchased hundreds of CF barcode scanners as part of their MiniSell field sales solution, Aspin are now also pleased to recommend with confidence the Socket SoMo 650 as a durable, lightweight handheld computer that is an ideal replacement for the now end of life HP iPAQ.

For over twenty years, Aspin have been creating and providing complete business software solutions to fulfill the needs of importers, distributors, and wholesalers in Europe, North America, and Australia. With particular success in the garden, gift and greeting card retail market, Socket have been proud to partner with Aspin over the years.

MiniSell is a Sales Force Automation (SFA) application used to capture on-the-spot product orders while sales representatives are working in the Direct To Retail (DTR) environments or at Trade Shows and Exhibitions.

• Watch video of Aspin MiniSell featuring Socket CF barcode scanner & HP iPAQ.

MiniSell allows sales orders to be processed rapidly and efficiently using handheld/PDA technology. Internet connectivity allows the orders to be sent back to the existing head office processing application, thus providing quick order fulfillment. The reps also have detailed access to call history, customer details and order information. In addition to this, they are able to view product stock availability, eliminating back orders and customer disappointment.

As an established user and promoter of the Socket CF and Bluetooth barcode scanners, Aspin are confident in the hardware quality, reliability and ease of use of Socket's products.  With HP exiting the handheld market Aspin had no concerns in putting forward the SoMo 650 as a trustworthy replacement.  

“The SoMo is an ideal fit for our consumer facing customers who wish to streamline their sales and order taking processes," said Nathan Aspin, sales director of Aspin. "They require a lightweight, yet durable handheld computer which has a good battery life and is at a reasonable price. The SoMo ticks those boxes”

Aspin maintains Socket Mobiles strengths’ are not limited to supplying quality hardware. “Socket Mobile continues to impress us with their high level of service. The team at Socket is really responsive, and that is exactly what we were looking for in a provider,” he said.

• See SoMo 650 featured on Aspin website.

Important Updates for Developers Using SocketScan 10 SDK

By Eric Glaenzer, Director of Software, Data Collection

There have been some exciting updates recently for SocketScan 10 SDK customers involving the new CHS 7Ci Apple certified 1D barcode scanner, Apple iOS 5.1, the new iPad, Android 4 "Ice Cream Sandwich," and more.

 

SPECIAL NOTES FOR ALL DEVELOPERS:

Register your SDK using the Serial Number on the CD 
Don't just register your CHS barcode scanner, make sure you also register your SDK with the serial number on the CD itself! We've noticed many developers only register the CHS, but this does NOT activate the 10 hours of developer support included with the SDK! Registered SDK customers also receive notifications on free updates and fixes. Register online at: http://support.socketmobile.com.

Interested in SocketScan 10 SDK? Request our Documentation!
Thinking about getting SocketScan 10 SDK but not sure if it will fit your needs? Email us, and we'll send you the SDK documentation to look at.

You can currently purchase SocketScan 10 SDK with or without a CHS barcode scanner. Both SKUs include 10 hours of developer support.

• SKU# SW1244-1321 — CD only
• SKU# SW1245-1322 — CD, CHS 7XiRx barcode scanner, charging cradle

 

SPECIAL NOTES FOR APPLE IOS:

Adding Support for the CHS 7Ci
If you already used SocketScan 10 SDK to develop an Apple iOS app for the CHS 7Xi or 7XiRx, update your SDK to version 10.0.8 or later to add support for the new CHS 7Ci.

1. On the Socket Mobile support site, register your SDK then log in to request an SDK update to ensure you have the latest release.
2. Notify Socket Mobile when your updated app is ready to resubmit for MFi approval. We will update your existing application submission to request MFi support for the CHS 7Ci.
3. After 7-10 days, Socket Mobile will notify you when the application has been approved by Apple.
4. Submit your application to Apple for final approval.

Compatibility Verified with Apple iOS 5.1 Devices, including the New iPad
We've tested the CHS 7Ci, 7Xi and 7XiRx in iOS mode with Apple iOS 5.1, including on the new, third-generation iPad, and everything works great. We're also in the process of getting official MFi certification from Apple for the new iPad (the barcode scanners have already been certified for the iPhone, iPod touch, and previous iPad versions).

There is a minor issue when pairing the current revision of the CHS 7Xi or 7XiRx — iOS 5.1 will report, "Connection Unsuccessful," even though the scanner is correctly connected and will work correctly with your application. Just ignore the error message and resume normal operation. We've already modified the CHS 7Ci so it won't have this issue and are updating the firmware for the 7Xi and 7XiRx.

ScannerSettings Updated for CHS 7Ci
Download the latest version of our CHS configuration utility from the Apple App Store.

Video on SocketScan 10 SDK for iOS
If you haven't seen our latest SDK video, it gives a quick overview of how to customize iOS apps for the CHS.

 

SPECIAL NOTES FOR ANDROID OS:

SocketScan 10 SDK Updates for Android OS
There have been some general updates to the SDK for Android OS, including reconnection bug fixes for newer devices. Log into our  support site to request an SDK update.

Compatibility Verified for Android 4 "Ice Cream Sandwich"
We've tested the CHS on Android 4 devices including the Samsung Galaxy Nexus. 

 

Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5: What's in it for SoMo users?

By Vince Coli, senior product manager, handheld computer products

Ever since Microsoft began targeting the mobile device space more than two decades ago, its mobile operating systems have gone through many different versions and rebrandings. Sorting through the different OS versions and names can get pretty confusing, so here is a blog to help you better understand Microsoft's latest mobile operating systems for handhelds from the last few years.

In May 2009, Microsoft released Windows Mobile 6.5. Like previous versions of Windows Mobile, it was available in multiple flavors: "Professional" for devices with phone capability and "Classic" for non-phone devices.

In January this year, Microsoft rebranded Windows Mobile 6.5 Classic as Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5. According to Microsoft, Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 is designed to deliver "application compatibility with Windows Mobile 6.5, device management and security capabilities, and integration with existing back-end systems needed for the enterprise.” So it sounds like the Microsoft embedded roadmap will benefit SoMo users with a focus on mobility and connectivity. In their literature, they address three critical IT needs:

1. Application compatibility
2. Device management requirements
3. Extended support lifecyle

Last month, when Socket Mobile announced the SoMo 655 handheld, we used the more familiar term, “Windows Mobile 6.5,” as the name for the operating system. However, we will use the official “Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5” going forward. Because the name “Windows Mobile” and “Windows Mobile Classic” are so pervasive, we want to emphasize that this is only a name change at this point.

Regardless of what you call the OS, the Windows (Fill in the blank) 6.5 has many capabilities which will benefit SoMo 655 users.

New Features of Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5

• Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 introduces an all-new Today screen with a fresh look. However, if you're a fan of the "classic" Today screen, it's still available.

Today screen of SoMo 655

• Stylus-only menus and scroll bars have been replaced by finger-friendly menus (with the occasional fingernail). Also, finger-friendly inertial scrolling is available almost everywhere. So there is less reliance on the stylus, although a stylus can still do all the work if you work in a hygiene-sensitive environment, for example, and want to minimize the spread of germs.
• Help has been redesigned to be context-sensitive.
• Pressing the Windows Flag in the lower left of the screen (or dedicated function key) displays updated icons arranged in a "Honeycomb" (staggered) pattern, which provides easier finger access in a mobile display.
• Pressing Start in the upper left of the screen pulls down a Windows Toolbar,which allows you to scroll horizontally through the operating functions.
• A lock screen gives you multiple points of entry depending on the current status; if you've got a new text message, for example, you get a separate unlock slider that can take you straight to it. This is useful to eliminate Pocket app launching.
• Internet Explorer has been revamped to facilitate web navigation through a few swipes of a finger and digests modern web pages using up-to-date standards and technologies. The UI experience approaches that of a desktop adapted for a mobile screen with a zoom slider, better support for full HTML, and a new JavaScript engine. So it does a good job to load sites that are designed for desktop devices.

For more information on these or other changes, please contact the Socket Mobile sales team.

VIDEO: HP iPAQ vs. SoMo 650 Comparison

Is your organization using a HP iPAQ 210 series Pocket PC and searching for a comparable device now that the iPAQ has been discontinued? The Socket Mobile SoMo 650 is a Windows Mobile based handheld computer that integrates easily in HP iPAQ deployments, with most of the key features either the same or better than the iPAQ's.

Check out our new video on YouTube where Senior Product Manager Vince Coli explains the similarities and differences between the SoMo 650 and HP iPAQ 210 series devices.

Socket Mobile distributor Ingram Micro Europe is also currently highlighting the SoMo 650 as an HP iPAQ replacement. See the promotion.

Enter Sales Orders on the Apple iPad with nVision Mobile and the Socket CHS!

Whether you're on the road visiting a customer or peddling products at a tradeshow, nSales has a neat solution for you based on the Apple iPad and Socket CHS 7Xi barcode scanner. It's called nVision Mobile, and you can use it to enter orders, look up account information, update contacts, check stock levels and more — with or without an Internet connection. It's great for scanning shelves and restocking inventory. By replacing paper forms, you save time and eliminate typing errors. Read our partnership press release.

nVision Mobile has already been deployed by several companies in Europe. They include manufacturers or suppliers of clothing/textiles, jewelry, gifts and kitchen accessories. Some of them need to scan hundreds of barcodes per order, so having a fast, reliable barcode scanner like the CHS 7Xi is indispensible. One company, which supplies coffee machines to a world-famous specialty coffee chain, was able to triple its lead generation and sales rates using nVision Mobile.

Developers at nSales used the SocketScan 10 SDK to integrate customized support for the CHS 7Xi barcode scanner into their iOS application. We're glad to hear that nSales found the SDK well-written and well-documented; it took them only a few days to add barcode scanning support including special audio features to their nVision Mobile app. See it for yourself — you can download nVision Mobile free from the Apple App Store. 

nSales also told us that they liked our ScannerSettings app for Apple iOS, which lets you enable / disable symbology support, add a suffix or prefix or configure other settings for the CHS 7Xi. It's also free on the Apple App Store, so you if you haven't tried it yet, you should give it a whirl!

Are you an iOS developer interested in SocketScan 10 SDK? Check out our video that shows step-by-step how to create a barcode scanning app for the CHS. Maybe soon we'll be blogging about your app!

New SoMo 655 Handheld Off to a Great Start!

By Vince Coli, Senior Product Manager, Handheld Computers

Today we announced our new SoMo 655 handheld computer.  This new SoMo adds several key features to expand the capabilities of our business handhelds, including 802.11b/g/n WLAN, 4GB memory, the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system, improved charging, and more. We are very excited to launch this new addition to the SoMo family!

If you are already a dedicated SoMo customer, you might be wondering how the new SoMo 655 will affect the SoMo 650.

First of all, the SoMo 655 shows our commitment to both the Windows Mobile platform and the handheld device space. When Socket Mobile launched the SoMo 650 in 2007, we made a 3-5 year commitment.  This five year period with be up in September 2012, and we expect to phase out the SoMo 650 by then as customers convert to the SoMo 655.  Socket will continue to support the SoMo 650 via our service centers through January 2015.

Secondly, the SoMo 655 will be easy to integrate into existing SoMo 650 deployments, while also offering an improved feature set. We've gotten positive feedback during phase 1 of beta testing, in which several customers in the U.S. and Europe successfully tested compatibility of their existing SoMo 650 applications (ranging from restaurant POS to hospital EMR to ticket scanning) on the new SoMo 655. 

If you would like to test the new SoMo 655, we welcome more participants to our beta program. To apply, please complete this online form.

Oodles of CompactFlash Options for the SoMo

Back in 1997, Socket Mobile co-invented the CompactFlash (CF) I/O standard. Fast forward to 2012, and the CompactFlash I/O slot is one of the key competitive advantages of our SoMo handheld computer versus other mobile devices on the market.

Many of you may be familiar with Socket Mobile's various CF devices that can be used with the SoMo, but did you know about the plethora of 3rd party CF options that have also been successfully deployed with our handheld computer?

Just as a refresher, here is a list of CF options from Socket Mobile:

• CF Mag Stripe Reader Card Series 4 - credit card swipe
• CF Scan Card Series 5 - 1D & 2D barcode scanners
• CF RFID Reader Series 6 - HF RFID reader
• Rugged CF 10/100 Card - adds an Ethernet port

Third-party CF devices have been deployed with the SoMo in diverse verticals, including healthcare, hospitality, forestry, public health research, and more. (Note: Not all of the devices listed below have been tested by Socket Mobile.)

1. GlobalSat: BC-337 GPS receiver
2. ARANZ Medical: SilhouetteMobile 3D wound imaging and documentation device
3. Dytrex: Endire Pro blood glucose monitor
4. Hewi: eLOCK electronic locking system (see page 80)
5. Pro Active: SpringCard contact and contactless RFID readers/writers
6. UIC: UIC683 contactless payment 
7. GAO: LF RFID reader
8. Skoot: contactless payment
9. Smart-Reg: Smart-Alec name badge reader (see page 36)
10. Scirocco: R60 IR Reader "Libeccio"
11. iDTRONIC: Smart RFID
12. Kenetics: Volare UHF CF2
13. BrightCard: CF Reader UHF
14. Quatech: SocketSerial RS-232  serial I/O cards

 

Top Five Mobile Retail Applications

As barcodes were originally invented for the retail industry, it should come at no surprise that Socket Mobile products have been deployed to retail environments ever since we began offering portable barcode scanning products 15 years ago. However, it's not just our barcode scanners that have made their way into retail operations — our SoMo handheld computers are also used in grocery stores and other retail shops as well.

Photo: Haruyama Trading Company

Here is a list of the top 5 retail applications involving Socket Mobile products:

1. Point of Sale / Linebusting: Yup, you guessed it — mobile POS is one of our top retail applications. Recently, we've seen a lot of our CHS Bluetooth barcode scanners being deployed with the Apple iPad for retail POS, linebusting and reading customer loyalty cards.
   - Examples: Haruyama Trading Company, Zoom Room and LightSpeed for iPad



2. Retail Merchandising: There's a lot of work involved in making sure products are in stock, displayed attractively and offered with the latest promotions at your local shop. Retail merchandising agencies in the U.S. and Europe deploy Socket handheld computers and barcode scanners to their local reps who travel from store to store.
   - Examples: Zync Solutions and Eastern Sales and Marketing
   (4th image in animation shows SoMo)



3. Bookscouting: This is the primary e-tailing application for Socket products. Online booksellers use the SoMo or CHS to quickly determine if a book is worth purchasing for resale.
   - Examples: Neatoscan, MediaScouter, ScoutPal and ASellerTool 



4. Order Tracking / Inventory Management: Retail shops use Socket barcode scanners to manage orders and inventory.
   - Example: ScanControl for Dry Cleaners 



5. Price Audits: Mystery shoppers use Socket CHS barcode scanners with Android smartphones to verify that products are priced accurately on store shelves.

ORM London Debuts First App on Apple App Store Developed with SocketScan 10 SDK

Would you like to scan barcoded information into an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch? Thanks to developers like ORM London, end users can now download applications from the Apple App Store to use with the Apple certified CHS 7Xi or 7XiRx Bluetooth barcode scanners. Third-party applications like ORM Event Check-in enable end users to utilize advanced features of the CHS 7Xi or 7XiRx without having to hire a developer and buy the SocketScan 10 SDK. 

ORM Event Check-in for the Apple iPad is a next-generation guest check-in system for professional event organizers. It has already been successfully deployed at several large-scale corporate events in the United Kingdom. Watch a video of Event Check-in (the CHS appears at 2:07).

Up until now, there have only been two ways to utilize the popular Socket Mobile CHS Series 7 barcode scanners with iOS devices:

1. Perform basic data entry with any CHS model in Bluetooth HID mode
2. Use SocketScan 10 SDK to customize an iOS application to work in iOS mode (equivalent to Bluetooth SPP mode) with the CHS 7Xi or 7XiRx.

Because Apple App Store now offers third-party applications that were developed with SocketScan 10 SDK, end users who don't have development resources can also benefit from advanced features of the CHS 7Xi and 7XiRx.

Besides ORM Event Check-in, other third-party applications customized for the CHS 7Xi and 7XiRx barcode scanners on Apple App Store include:

• TOSHO Web Platform - an application platform for pharmacists for medication picking, inventory management and medication verification
• Eagle iRFExpress for QAD and iRFExpress for QADSSH - provide real-time automated data collection for manufacturers using QAD software for ERP

Other developers have submitted applications to Apple App Store and should be approved soon. To view the latest list of applications, please visit the new Socket Mobile Application Store.