What type of portable devices can be used with the Physical Inventory module to record counts?

The Physical Inventory module included with RMS is designed to quickly process inventories for all or selected products. To utilize this feature to your best advantage you should take spot inventories year round.

While the Physical Inventory module includes the option to print worksheets for counting or enter counts onscreen, it is far easier and faster to use a portable reader to scan and record counts then import the data from the handheld into RMS.

Your options include smartphone/tablet, a PDT (portable data terminal), PDA (personal digital assistant), and wireless options (RF and Wi-Fi). Prices range from less than $200 to over $3000 depending on features and whether you need industrial versions or wireless options.

For a low cost smartphone/tablet solution visit:  http://www.stevenscreek.com/onhand.htm
Please note we do not support this solution other than to assist with importing the files created and downloaded to your desktop. You'll want to configure the On Hand app to create a flat text file consisting of your scan (Item Lookup Code or UPC/GTIN), count quantity, and optionally a date/time stamp. Example:  
ABC1234,14 
or
ABC1234,14 12:43 11-23-2013
with a separate line for each item counted.
This file can then be imported into the Physical Inventory worksheet created in RMS.

If you only require a handheld for occasional inventories or cycle counts, the lowest cost will be the On Hand app above paired with your smartphone or tablet. For faster scans consider an optional bluetooth scanner (search Amazon or eBay). Next step up is a single-use industrial PDT. At the top end are wireless units with a software required interface to RMS to perform multiple functions (not just physical inventories).

Single use PDT:  http://store.digitalretailer.com/Handheld-Data-Collector-788/

Another low cost option is to deploy a wireless laptop or tablet running Windows 7/8. In this case you simply run Physical Inventory directly in RMS on the wireless device with a USB or bluetooth scanner. You'll scan items directly into the PI worksheet.

Industrial versions of PDT/PDAs have to survive drop tests to concrete floors (warehouse use) and other abuse. The lighter versions are designed more for light duty or occasional use. PDAs include an operating system such as Windows CE, Windows Mobile, or Pocket PC. Additional software is required. PDTs include built-in programming on memory chips for their particular functions.