Earlier, we discussed barcode scanning on the iPad via the CueCat. Now, it seems as though more and more people are becoming interested in barcode scanning capabilities on the iPad and solutions are continuously being developed. One solution used the LXE 8650 Ring Scanner in combination with the List-In-Hand app , and another involves the Socket Mobile Bluetooth Cordless Scanner 7X, but almost any bluetooth barcode scanner can be used.
The iPad is a revolutionary device that consumers can easily carry around both in and outdoors, so when a bluetooth barcode scanner or RFID is added to the mix, the possibilities are endless. In fact, I came across one article that dubbs the iPad as the, “missing link between Internet-connected items in your home, for example the Internet fridge, and the Web.” The article goes on to say, “In the not too distant future, household appliances and other real-world objects such as cars will be connected to the Internet. The iPad may well become the connector to all of those things.”
I can’t agree more. Bluetooth barcode scanning, in addition to RFID, with the iPad will truly revolutionize the way we live, work and play. While there are already systems in place such as StickyBits, which allows users to barcode everyday objects and connect them to the internet, I think iPad based solutions will prevail because of their convenience.
Check out the video below to see the Socket Mobile solution, and get more information on bluetooth barcode scanners and RFID solutions.
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internet fridge, ipad, ipad barcode scanner, ipad bluetooth barcode scanner, ipad rfid, ipod touch bluetooth barcode scanner
The iPad or even the iPhone offer potentially terrific footprint options. however, there are four areas of development needed to make these types of devices really viable.
(1) Data collection app needed that can easily integrate with other programs real-time. This can be via an ODBC interface or by calling an API. This app needs to be easy to configure and to connect. I can envision pre-programmed product movement apps that can be used in tendem for a variety of track and trace functions (item receipt, item movement, item location, item pick, etc).
(2) Power. To make these devices really work in MFG or distribution environments, external power options need to be readily available – such as external 12 or 24 vt options from fork trucks, or from power inverters for cart-based batteries, or similar. Since there are no batteries to swap (a la Intermec or Motorola type wireless devices) multiple shifts will require continuous powered devices that don’t have time to recharge.
(3) RFID. We need a bluetooth RFID reader. Or we need a single reader that does both AIDC and/or RFID.
(4) RTLS. The built-in GPS capabilities of these devices need to be strengthened and fine-tuned to allow for RTLS within a warehouse or MFG facility. Tie this GPS information into 3-d inventory location software and you have the beginnings of an inexpensive RTLS solution that any sized business could afford.
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Take a look at the iPhone Bluetooth Barcode Scanner. Works as an iPad and iPod Touch bluetooth barcode scanner as well. The 200i and 300i both use an SDK for software developers but you can scan barcodes into a file to download to your PC later. This is the only barcode scanner available where you can leave the iPhone (iPad, iPod Touch) in your pocket or on your desk and display prompts on the barcode scanner screen. It’s the size of a Zippo lighter and can be programmed easily with operator prompts.
I think in the long run Android devices will succeed better in the commercial market. Although folks will get IOS devices to work, apple has the architecture so locked down that unless they are interested in industrial apps (highly unlikely) they aren’t going to what it takes to make this seemless.
With Android, companies can design and ideal hardware/software workflow that makes more sense and is without limitation.
The comment “almost any bluetooth barcode scanner can be used” is misleading. Only scanners that provide Bluetooth HID profile can be used directly with iPad. To use Bluetooth SPP (Serial Port Profile) barcode scanners (the majority of Bluetooth scanners produced before 2010 – and even in 2010) support only SPP.
A device like the WiSnap WiFi-Bluetooth-Bridge from Serialio can be used to connect Bluetooth SPP scanners to iPad.
Thanks for the info, Dave!
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