In the past, it was difficult to look after vehicle-mounted computers in industrial settings. This led to a lot of wear and tear, and often, significant downtime from devices that hadn’t been updated or managed.
Luckily, new solutions have been developed to circumvent this problem. There’s an opportunity for warehouse and supply chain operators to have their entire fleet of business technology all on the same platform, including vehicle-mount computers. Because of this, IT can make decisions and carry them out across the board for all business tech. This is especially important when it comes to navigating OS migration and Windows end-of-life.
Windows-based vehicle mount computers are nearing end-of-life support. What does that mean for you?
How are you planning to handle OS migration? If you don’t yet have a plan in place, you’re either putting your security at risk, or you’re cutting it too close for comfort. If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to start determining the best course of action for your business so you aren’t caught without support. All of your devices will need to be upgraded. We’ve talked at length about upgrading your handheld computers, but you’ll also need to make the switch with any vehicle-mount computers.
Current Windows End of Life schedule:
- Windows Embedded CE 6.0: June 10, 2018
- Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheld: June 9, 2019
- Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5: January 14, 2020
It’s well past time to evaluate your options. The longer you are without support for your devices, the more at risk you are.
Learn more about Zebra's OS migration support.
Look for solutions with flexible OS migration options.
While Windows OS used to be the dominant platform for enterprise operations, that is no longer the case. Android has been edging it out, and has risen as a top choice for enterprises. It’s flexible, customizable, and backed by tons of developer resources.
OS migration can be difficult, however, and there is a learning curve for employees as well. You’ll want to look for a device and a solution provider that can help you transition from legacy platforms to Android—one that will allow you to migrate your existing apps over to the new platform.
Choose a solution with solid security and enterprise mobility management features.
Choose an Android device, like Zebra’s VC8300 that is backed by Zebra’s enterprise mobility management platform, Visibility IQ™. This gives you access not just to an OS switch, but to features like entire fleet visibility, remote support, security options, and more. The VC8300 is also ruggedized to withstand harsh conditions and vibrations that are all too common in forklift operations.
These features will help you maximize uptime, decrease downtime, and save money. With Android devices built on Visibility IQ™ like the VC8300, you can easily navigate the ins and outs of Windows end-of-life and OS migration.
Download: Navigating the Mobility Maze: 10 Reasons to Choose Zebra for Android
Making the Switch
Enterprise operations have been depending on Windows devices for years, but with Windows end-of-life already underway, it’s time to transition to more reliable technology. Zebra has made it easy with its enterprise mobility management platform, with devices like the VC8300, which is built with the ruggedness needed to withstand the harsh conditions of forklift operations, on a future-proof platform that will withstand the test of time. Imprint Enterprises offers a wide range of reliable, future-proof devices for warehouses, distributors, and supply chain operators that make it easy to navigate OS migration.
For more information on our products, and what we can do to help your operation reach maximum productivity, contact Imprint today.
