Knowing how to set up a mobile computer workstation to streamline your daily operations is critical to effective productivity. In this article, we’ll outline the basics of these innovative, time-saving solutions, along with the best mobile computers and workstations currently on the market.
- Top Mobile Computer Workstations
- Essential Gadgets
- Best Mobile Computers
- Compact Workstation
- Workstation Tips
What Is a Mobile Computer Workstation?
When we refer to mobile computer workstations, we’re talking about a portable data processing and handling area that complements a mobile computer. Employees use their handheld devices to collect and process various data, while the workstations compile and store these data from multiple mobile computers.
The advantage of having portable mobile computer workstations is that it eliminates the unnecessary step of going to a stationary computer for each task. Employees who need something printed or backed up can do so right where they’re working.
Anyone searching for mobile computer workstations on the internet may have come across several similar terms. To avoid confusion, let’s differentiate between them.
A mobile computer is a handheld PC, resembling a mobile device, but with more industrial-related applications. A mobile workstation, on the other hand, is similar to a notebook computer, but with more powerful processors in order to run CAD, 3D rendering software, or video editing.
Although the terms have similarities, these devices have different uses and are adapted for different work environments. Mobile computers are best suited for data processing and collection on the go, while mobile workstations are for work-from-home or telecommuting scenarios.
Top 5 Mobile Computer Workstations for 2024
Below are some of the top producers of mobile computer workstations in 2024. Although individual products aren’t named as the needs of each business can vary greatly, these manufacturers offer products for an array of industries.
Newcastle Systems
A leader in the powered cart market, Newcastle Systems offers several product lines of multipurpose powered carts to address various industry needs. Newcastle prides itself as an innovator regarding mobile workstations. With 20 years of experience, they have built a reputation in their field.
Featuring designs that range from the basic workstation to high-end carts with portable batteries, there’s surely a mobile workstation to fit your business. Browse their product list to find which product suits you best.
Definitive Technology
Another company that concentrates mainly on computer workstations, the Definitive Technology Group philosophy centers on improving efficiency. Their industry solutions give point-of-task tool availability or a variety of job applications.
Their product listings provide specialty carts for warehousing, medical applications, point-of-sale retail, food service, training, and manufacturing. Each of their various workstations has been designed to adapt to the needs of their particular industry.
Whether you’re a small to medium enterprise looking for a way to increase efficiency or a large-scale company with multiple warehouses, there’s a Definitive Technology solution to meet your needs.
Ergotron
As the name suggests, Ergotron centers upon ergonomics in the design and development of its workstations. Their offerings promote productivity by providing workers with comfortable ways to go about their jobs.
Ergotron’s product lists include several medical carts and computer carts that can be adapted for use in other applications.
Global Industrial
A company focused on making industrial management solutions, rather than being workstation-centric, Global Industrial still offers an interesting line of products. They have a large catalog of workstation-related furniture and peripherals for a wide range of business operations.
Global Industrial workstations go from low to mid-tier, usually offering basic amenities without the portable power solutions of other companies. Purchasing various accessories to complement their workstations can readily address this problem, however.
Customers who wish to build their mobile computer workstations from the ground up will be pleasantly surprised to see their various product offerings.
Techni Mobili
Based on ergonomic home, office, and entertainment products, Techni Mobili provides great choices for small to medium businesses looking for mobile computer workstations. Their product listing is rather limited in comparison to the previous companies on this list, but may still be worth consideration.
The Essential Gadgets for Your Mobile Computer Workstation
When setting up your mobile computer workstation, there are several gadgets that you may want to include as essential peripherals. Here’s a quick overview of what you might wish to install as accessories.
Battery Chargers and Extra Batteries
The point of creating a mobile computer workstation is to keep operations on site and to reduce downtime between scanning and storing data. The handheld nature of mobile computers means that they operate using batteries. As a result, running out of power in the middle of a task is quite common.
Having a battery charger or extra batteries at your mobile computer workstation eliminates the need to rummage around whenever the need arises.
Printers
Especially useful for warehousing tasks, being able to print labels or inventory lists on-site increases your efficiency considerably. The development of wireless printers has made it possible to set up printing devices on a mobile computer workstation without having to fiddle with power cords and cable connections.
Mounting Solutions
The sign of an efficient employee is the ability to multi-task. Mounting solutions like brackets and braces help users keep an eye on their mobile computers or monitors while keeping their hands free for other tasks.
An efficient mounting bracket allows an employee to quickly pick up their handheld computer when needed, but keep it secured whenever it isn’t being currently used.
Storage
Mobile workstation storage not only refers to places where your devices can be kept securely but also to drawers where documents can be stored. The mobile nature of this workstation increases the susceptibility of files and papers getting scattered or misplaced. Proper storage is the best way to prevent such accidents from happening.
Adjustable Lighting
Proper lighting helps when viewing documents and files in badly lit environments. Warehouse workers in particular may experience this more often than not. Most mobile computers feature backlights and bright screens, but their other documents don’t. Adjustable lighting solutions built into the mobile computer workstation are always a welcome addition.
The Best 3 Mobile Computers in the Industry
Ultimately, the efficiency of your mobile computer workstation will rely on the mobile computers that you use with them. Here’s a list of the best mobile computers currently available.
1. Honeywell RT10A
The Honeywell RT10A is one of the undisputed leaders in mobile computing. It runs on the Android OS, is extremely rugged, and showcases a 10-inch display.
2. Zebra ET60 and ET65
The Zebra ET60 and Zebra ET65 are the latest released devices from Zebra. They are both incredible devices. They feature a 10-inch display, Android OS, and a top rating for ruggedability.
3. Datalogic Memor 30 and Memor 35
The Memor 30 and Memor 35 are the latest devices on this list. They are from Datalogic, and they are solid mobile computers.
They feature the latest enterprise-grade Octa-Core Qualcomm chipset, Wi-Fi 6/6E, and 10cm to 10m scanning.
How to Make a Compact Mobile Computer Workstation
- Anticipate the needs of employees
The purpose of creating a mobile computer workstation is to give employees the ability to perform all the tasks they need on-site. This is accomplished by providing all the tools they might require.
That being said, not all work assignments involve every gadget available. If an employee only needs to take inventory, having them bring a printer along is unnecessary. The same goes for battery packs for tasks that only require short periods of time. Learn to anticipate the needs of your employees and adjust the peripherals of your workstation appropriately.
- Keep the workplace in mind
The size of your workstations should be adapted to the workplace. If your warehouse has narrow corridors, then the workstation should not only be able to fit, it should be able to easily maneuver along them. Many workstations are modular and allow the user to place various peripherals in different configurations.
- Workstations can be used by multiple employees
A mobile computer workstation set up with a central data storage device like a PC or laptop can accommodate multiple mobile computers. This is especially handy when taking inventory, with several workers assigned to a particular area of the warehouse. You can adjust the number of gadgets you need depending on the number of workers that will use the workstation.
Warehouse Mobile Computer Workstation Tips
- Keep operating temperatures in mind
Most mobile computers have been built to withstand a wide range of temperatures, but your peripherals and accessories may not. Batteries and battery packs could run out quickly during the cold. In addition, printers may stop functioning when it gets too hot or humid. Take note of the proper operating temperatures of all the items in your workstation to ensure maximum efficiency.
- Ensure adequate Wi-Fi coverage
If your mobile workstation PC or laptop needs to be logged onto a local network, make sure that there’s adequate Wi-Fi coverage in your workplace. Having to move your workstation to somewhere with a proper signal in order to operate negates the point of having a mobile workstation.
- Battery packs will need recharging during off-time
Make sure that batteries and battery packs are properly charged during off-time, whether they’ve been recently used or not. Replacing a used battery with another empty one is an inconvenience that can easily be avoided by keeping your batteries topped off.
Talk to a Mobile Computer Expert
Setting up a mobile computer workstation can be a daunting investment, especially with the number of options available. Finding the proper gadgets, accessories, and peripherals tailor-made to your particular business is a very important task.
Here at Energy Electronics, our team of experts with years of experience in mobile computing is always ready to provide you with valuable recommendations. If you need personal solutions to any of your business problems, then our staff is qualified to help.
In addition, we offer bulk rates for our mobile computer workstation products and gadgets, giving you the best devices at affordable prices,
For a free quote on any device for your mobile workstation within one business hour, fill out the form below:
