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Distributors and Customers Team Up on Inventory Management
2010-07-01
By Brian Albright, Integrated Solutions For Retailers magazine

Keeping convenience stores properly stocked with grocery and snack items can be a challenge for distributors. Field sales representatives and delivery drivers often manage customer inventories, and customer orders can be riddled with errors.

Many distributors have tackled this problem by deploying mobile computing solutions. Glidewell Distributing Company, Inc. has taken this further and put mobile bar code scanning technology in the hands of its convenience store customers.

Click here to download Case Study: Distributors And Customers Team Up On Inventory Management
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CipherLab and ACS Software Streamline Agricultural Field Pick Weights and Pay with Mobile Data Solution
2010-05-25
PLANO, TX - May 25, 2010 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that it has bundled its CipherLab 8300 and 8400 Handheld Mobile Computers with ACS Software. Together, the companies offer a solution to a pressing agricultural industry problem: how to accurately capture pick data that can then be used to calculate, report and print payroll information in the field. This combined product is now being used in numerous Oregon farming environments including Blue Heron Farm and by Jorge Vasquez Labor Contractors.

"Since field workers are generally paid by how much they pick, agricultural companies needed a way to accurately and cost-effectively weigh produce in the field and integrate that information into a pay calculating system," said Steve Watts, ACS Software founder. "By partnering with CipherLab, we've been able to deliver an affordable and easy-to-use solution. Now customers get the ruggedness, power and scalability of CipherLab's handhelds coupled with ACS's custom applications."

At Willamette Valley-based Blue Heron Farm, picked berries are weighed at a mechanical scale in the field. That data is entered via barcode scan into a CipherLab 8300 handheld integrated with ACS Scan2QuickBooks, instantly calculating worker pay based on berry weight. Supervisors then print this information from the CipherLab unit with a belt-clip printer, processing payroll immediately for the field workers.

"With CipherLab's handheld and ACS Software, we save time and money as we do not have to manually enter information to calculate pay in the field," said Amber van Heel at Blue Heron Farm. "Furthermore, by being able to keep track of how many berries workers are picking in real-time, a field supervisor can ensure each worker is being as productive as possible."

At Silverton, Oregon-based Jorge Vasquez Labor Contractors, CipherLab 8300s are again being used in coordination with mobile printers and mechanical scales to speed the berry weigh-in process and more accurately pay for fruit picked in the field. And at one of Oregon's largest producers and processors of raspberries and strawberries, the CipherLab 8400 Mobile Computers are being used to capture and instantly disseminate information from its digital scales. Data from the scale is relayed wirelessly to a nearby 8400 Mobile Computer.


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Supply & Demand Chain Executive Announces Its 2010 Supply & Demand Chain Executive 100
2010-05-17
New York - May 17, 2010 - Supply & Demand Chain Executive Magazine, the executive's user manual for successful supply and demand chain transformation, this week announced its ninth-annual listing of the Supply & Demand Chain Executive 100.

Nine years ago, Supply & Demand Chain Executive announced its first "100" list of supply chain solution providers, consultants and other organizations that were helping lead the way in transforming companies' supply and demand chains. This year the magazine focused the criteria for its "100" feature on supply chain excellence and preparing the supply chain for the post-recessionary return to growth.

"As the economy makes tentative steps toward recovery and growth, our readers are turning to Supply & Demand Chain Executive to learn about solutions and best practices for enabling business expansion through supply chain excellence," said Andrew K. Reese, editor of Supply & Demand Chain Executive. "With this year's Supply & Demand Chain Executive 100, we highlight a broad range of supply chain solution and service providers that are helping to position their customers for the 'New Normal' economic environment."

Supply & Demand Chain Executive has identified leading providers of supply chain services and technologies who are customers/clients achieve supply chain excellence and prepare their supply chains for the post-recessionary return to growth. Based on submissions to the "100" from end users and solution providers, the editorial staff of the magazine has compiled a list of leading supply and demand chain innovators.

"Our goal with this year's '100,' as in the past, is to highlight a broad range of solutions and services targeted at a variety of industries, addressing the needs of companies of varying sizes, and assisting in the transformation of a diverse mix of the functions that make up the supply chain," added Reese.

After receiving nomination forms, the Supply & Demand Chain Executive editorial staff identified applicants that best fit the stated criteria for the "100." Final recipients are featured in the cover story of the May/June 2010 issue of Supply & Demand Chain Executive, as well as online at www.SDCExec.com/SDCE100



About Supply & Demand Chain Executive Supply & Demand Chain Executive is the executive's user manual for successful supply and demand chain transformation, utilizing hard-hitting analysis, viewpoints and unbiased case studies to steer executives and supply management professionals through the complicated, yet critical, world of supply and demand chain enablement to gain competitive advantage. On the Web at www.SDCExec.com.


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Network Products Guide Selects 9600 as a winner in the mobile solutions category
2010-03-04
Plano, TX - March 4, 2010 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that its 9600 Series Industrial Mobile Computer has won a 2010 Product Innovation Award. This annual competition by Network Products Guide, a Silicon Valley technology research and advisory guide, recognizes groundbreaking products by some of the world's largest companies that set the bar higher in all areas of information technology.

The CipherLab 9600 Series Industrial Mobile Computer was chosen as a winner in the mobile solution category because it enables retailers and field sales, service and logistics employees to go to where the work takes place. The 9600 helps employees easily and reliably scan and update inventory, take orders, capture signatures or photographs, and send replenishment data across the room or around the world. Since it comes with integrated GPS, WWAN, WPAN and WLAN access, it's usable in the field, on the retail floor or at the warehouse - keeping employees constantly connected and productive.

"Innovation is not just about new products alone, it's about companies putting greater focus on customer needs," said Rake Narang, editor-in-chief at Network Products Guide. "CipherLab's 9600 improves mobile access and data entry methods, making workers more efficient so they can achieve more in less time."

"Network Products Guide's recognition of the 9600 is further evidence that it is by far the most advanced mobile computer, setting industry standards for mobile access and data entry methods, usability and ruggedness," said CipherLab's Steve Pergantis. "Product innovation is key to our continued commitment to meeting our customers' needs and providing them with better solutions." To see why CipherLab's 9600 received the Network Products Guide Product Innovation Award, go to http://www.networkproductsguide.com/innovations/2010/CipherLab-USA.html.

About Network Products Guide Awards
As industry's leading technology research and advisory guide, Network Products Guide from Silicon Valley plays a vital role in keeping decision makers and end-users informed of the choices they can make in all areas of information technology. You will discover a wealth of information and tools in this guide including the best products and services, roadmaps, industry directions, technology advancements and independent product evaluations that facilitate in making the most pertinent technology decisions impacting business and personal goals. The guide follows conscientious research methodologies developed and enhanced by industry experts. To learn more, visit www.networkproductsguide.com.
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Sierra Marine Switches To CipherLab Wireless Handheld Scanners
2010-02-02
PLANO, TX - February 2, 2010 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that Sierra Marine is replacing its old scanners with CipherLab's 1166 wireless BT scanners to automate inventory management in its Chicago area warehouse. Sierra Marine is a manufacturing division of Teleflex Marine and supplies OEM engine manufacturers and boat builders with hundreds of boat parts every day. Reseller eComputer, Inc. helped integrate the scanners at Sierra Marine with CipherLab distributor BlueStar, Inc.

"After conducting extensive research for Sierra Marine, I was impressed by the CipherLab 1166's reliability, features and specs when compared to Intermec and Metrologic handhelds," said Jön P. Badie, senior sales manager at eComputer Inc. "The most notable differentiators were the scanner's ability to upload data within hundreds of feet of a wireless terminal and its large memory in batch mode - enabling work to get done more accurately and in less time."

When paired with Sierra Marine's in-house software, employees scan orders going out of the warehouse and new equipment coming in to manage inventory wirelessly instantaneously. This real-time inventory management helps minimize over or under-stocking, and manual errors while freeing employees to get other work done. The large batch mode memory of the CipherLab 1166 enables Sierra Marine employees to capture product information at the far reaches of a warehouse and upload it automatically when back in range.

The CipherLab 1166 is a BT linear imaging reader that can connect anywhere within its wireless range of up to 328 feet. It can capture up to 256 scans while out of range and automatically transmit them to a host device when back, or work in batch mode and store up to 8192 scans. More details on the CipherLab 1166 BT scanner can be found at here.

For more information, visit the VSR website.
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Food Logistics Magazine picks CipherLab handheld mobile computers, BT and tethered scanners and fixed data terminals for its top 100 list
2009-12-16
PLANO, TX - December 16, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, announced today that it was named to the sixth annual FL 100, a list of the top 100 technology and solution providers servicing grocery and foodservice distributors and manufacturers. The editors of Food Logistics, the only publication exclusively dedicated to the grocery and foodservice distribution supply chain, focused on how providers were helping customers manage change through technology in tough economic times. They selected CipherLab for the list based on its successful deployments of handheld mobile computers, BT and tethered scanners, and fixed data terminals within the industry.

CipherLab products help grocery, C-store, retail, food and logistics companies attain economical efficiencies that will save them time and money. The company's award-winning mobile computers, scanners and fixed data terminals automate inventory management processes, and eliminate the costs associated with manual data entry, stock overage and empty shelf space. CipherLab products' "anywhere mobility" gives employees the tools they need to speed transfers, pricing, ordering, returns and replenishment.

"The FL100 listing provides a guide for decision-making grocery and foodservice distribution and manufacturing executives," explained Katherine Doherty, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics magazine. "These companies rely on technology to better manage their supply chains and help weather the financial storm. The FL100 recipients have demonstrated that they can meet our readers' specific needs."



After receiving nomination forms from end users and solution providers, the editorial staff sifted through more than 140 submissions to compile this year's listing. Final recipients are featured in the November/December 2009 issue of Food Logistics, as well as online at www.foodlogistics.com.
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CipherLab 1660 Pocket-size Scanner Wins 2009 Mobile Star Award
2009-12-14
PLANO, TX - December 14, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, announced today that its 1660 Pocket-size scanner has been named a winner in the eighth annual Mobile Star Awards™ hosted by mobile technology news portal MobileVillage®. The CipherLab 1660 won the Rising Star award in the Portable Productivity Peripheral Hardware category. This is the third consecutive year that CipherLab has been named a winner in the Mobile Star Awards competition.

The recently launched CipherLab 1660 Pocket-size Scanner is one of the smallest and lightest wireless barcode readers on the market, freeing employees to be as productive regardless of location. When paired with a handheld mobile computer, smartphone or PDA, it provides remote workers with anywhere mobility and boosts the efficiency of data collection applications used in settings where logistics systems are most crucial, such as healthcare, public utilities and field service environments.

The Rising Star Award is of particular interest because it was bestowed by product users who are also subscribers to MobileVillage's "Go Mobile™" newsletter.

"The 1660 is another in a long-line of quality products from CipherLab that delivers 'anywhere mobility' to workers spanning numerous industries from retail to logistics to groceries - saving them valuable time and money," said Jon Covington, MobileVillage founder and president. "Because our readers are the industry's most savvy mobile business users, Mobile Star Award winners can claim they are the users' choice. Winners are chosen by real users based on real results, not hype." This year's Mobile Star Awards winners are posted online at http://www.mobilevillage.com/awards.htm.



About MobileVillage / PDA Inc.
Founded in 1993, MobileVillage is a market and solution development company dedicated to advancing mobile and wireless technology in a wide range of industries. MobileVillage accomplishes this by fostering education and alliances through "Best of Breed" solution identification, event partnerships, an online industry directory, industry job postings, daily online news, its widely respected Go Mobile newsletter, a Mobile Mentors™ program, and popular annual Mobile Star Awards program. Visit MobileVillage online at www.MobileVillage.com.
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Joint Solutions to Save Retailers and Resellers Time and Money
2009-12-03
PLANO, TX - December 3, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, announced today that it will demonstrate new hardware and software solutions aimed at resolving retail challenges at the National Retail Federation's (NRF) 99th Annual Convention & Expo to be held January 10-13 at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Center (booth #339).

A new bundled solution designed to make asset tracking easier and more efficient combines CipherLab's software with printers manufactured by Brother International Corporation, Zebra Technologies and O'Neil. A second solution aimed at the Point of Service (POS) market is being introduced by CipherLab distributor BlueStar and utilizes CipherLab handheld mobile computers paired with pcCashdrawer ® hardware and Intuit QuickBooks. Both of these offerings help end-users and resellers implement automated solutions in the fastest and most cost-effective way possible.

CipherLab will also demonstrate its newest handheld mobile computers, the CipherLab 9300 and 9600. These devices make it more efficient than ever to manage and track products on the go.

"Our new handheld mobile computers provide an increased level of productivity by enabling mobile retail workers to automate data collection on the smallest of labels where vast amounts of information is stored," said CipherLab vice president of technology Al Crawford. "Furthermore, these bundled solutions will give retailers and resellers powerful tools to streamline business activities while improving customer's experiences. All of these solutions are essential for retailers in this economic climate because they save companies cash while providing customers the best service possible."

These CipherLab solutions will be in general availability in Q4 2009. More information on all of these products can be obtained from CipherLab and its resellers, including distributor BlueStar.
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Schools Worldwide Adopt CipherLab Wireless Scanners with COMPanion Software
2009-10-27
PLANO, TX - October 27, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that Salt Lake City-based COMPanion Corporation is utilizing CipherLab 1166 wireless BT scanners to automate library book inventory management in schools across the world. COMPanion's library automation and textbook management software systems, Alexandria and Textbook Tracker, have been paired with the CipherLab 1166 to manage book inventory and circulation within school libraries in the United States and other countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, Chile and Mexico to name a few.

"Overall the 1166 has proven to be extremely durable, easy to use and flexible, resulting in increased productivity for school employees," said Randy Everill, Hardware Selection Team Manager at COMPanion. "Since the 1166 requires minimal training and is not overly complex, our customers say they can be up and running in a matter of minutes. Furthermore, its wireless range enables employees to update information in real-time from anywhere in the library; when librarians need to go to remote book storage locations, they can safely utilize the 1166's large memory mode to store information until they return within communications range."

The CipherLab 1166 is a safe, linear imaging reader that can connect anywhere within its wireless range of up to 328 feet. It can capture up to 256 scans while out of range, or work in batch mode and store up to 8195 scans. When paired with COMPanion's textbook management system, Textbook Tracker, or its automated library management system, Alexandria, the joint solution helps schools cut their textbook losses by half or more through better book management -- an important cost savings.

"Automating gives you a complete picture of the resources in your school," said Randi Hermans, Teacher Librarian in Chilliwack, British Columbia. "Not only do you know what you have in your collection, you can track items easily and inform the administration about the value of each part of the collection. I believe that all schools, regardless of size, should be automated."

"With school budgets being squeezed to the extreme, it's more important than ever to find an efficient, simple and fast way to manage library book inventory," said CipherLab's vice president of technology, Al Crawford. "By pairing the 1166 with COMPanion's innovative software, schools get a cost-effective solution that keeps libraries and their students moving forward without missing a beat."
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CipherLab boosts efficiency of California power plant through improved data capture
2009-09-08
PLANO, TX - September 9, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced the Agua Mansa Power Plant in Colton, California is using CipherLab 9400 mobile computers coupled with Instamation System's (www.instamation.com) Roundskeeper software to automate data collection of the power plant's equipment. The joint solution, bundled by global distributor BlueStar, allows workers to instantly report equipment performance and project its maintenance.

"Because we are required to regularly record many visual readings and observations of power plant equipment, finding a mobile solution to automate this process and communicate it back to our database was essential," said Mike Kolkebeck, lead service technician at Agua Mansa. "By automating data capture with BlueStar's bundled Instamation-CipherLab solution, we are able to gain enhanced insight into the performance of the power plant equipment. This saves us time and money because we are able to use all of the collected data to quickly and efficiently predict maintenance needs. Before we adopted this data collection system, we attempted to do this manually, which proved to be extremely inefficient and sometimes inaccurate."

Steve Wagner, president of Instamation Systems, commented, "We evaluated many other products and ended up deciding to pair our software with the CipherLab 9400 due to its ease of use, compactness, embedded Microsoft Windows® CE 5.0 operating system, large bright screen, good construction and low cost of ownership."

The 9400 Series supports Microsoft Windows CE 5.0, is compliant with all popular wireless communications platforms and is designed to simplify tasks with industry-leading features like multi-form data input (touch screen or keyboard) and the ability to read and write RFID tags. When bundled with Roundskeeper, a software system that automates data collection, a user can directly transmit data to a database where it can be trended, reported or archived.

The Agua Mansa Power Plant provides power to the city of Colton and also to the California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO) grid. The ISO grid provides power to other municipalities if called upon in an emergency situation.

"Energy is a precious commodity, especially in California where the state grid has to juggle energy for millions of people," said CipherLab's vice president of technology, Al Crawford. "By streamlining the daily maintenance of the Agua Mansa equipment, we're able to minimize the plant's downtime, thus reducing the stress on the California power grid."
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Edgar Lopez joins CipherLab's sales team to deliver more focused customer service in Latin America
2008-08-25
PLANO, TX - August 25, 2008 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, has added Edgar Lopez to its sales team as a regional manager focused on the Latin American market. Lopez will operate out of the company's Americas headquarters in Texas, but will concentrate on meeting the Latin American market's growing need for experienced manufacturers and suppliers of industrial mobile computers and logistics supplies and systems.

"CipherLab plans to leverage Edgar's considerable experience to better serve our present and future customers in Latin America," noted Robert Hossary, vice president of sales for CipherLab. "CipherLab's growing product line, with the newly introduced 9400 and 9500 industrial mobile computers and the 1500 handheld scanner, now offers global companies the most comprehensive, affordable easy-to-use data capture products available."

CipherLab has a number of existing customers in Mexico and South America, including Grupo Embotelladoras Unidas S.A. de C.V. (GEUSA), a $400M (US) manufacturer and distributor of Pepsi brand products and other bottled water and soft drinks throughout Mexico; Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telegrafos (Brazilian Post and Telegraph Corporation), operated by the Brazilian Ministry of Communications, and Nielsen Chile, an 80-year old company dedicated to helping companies with commercialized products to better understand their consumers.


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CipherLab 8000 series helps automate clothing collection and recycling in 19 states
2009-07-29
PLANO, TX - July 29, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that international relief agency Planet Aid (www.planetaid.org) is using the CipherLab 8000 series mobile computer to streamline its clothing collection and recycling program across the United States. By incorporating the ruggedized handheld scanners into its clothing donation process, Planet Aid is able to more quickly and easily establish an efficient collection and recycling system for the items.

When a Planet Aid employee collects clothing from a drop-off spot, a barcode on the bin is scanned with the CipherLab 8000. The driver then estimates the amount of clothing in the bin and records it in the CipherLab 8000 series mobile computer. That data is uploaded to Planet Aid's main database from the CipherLab scanner where site production and performance metrics can be analyzed instantly - helping Planet Aid create more efficient collection schedules based on the amount of clothing bins receive.

"Before we adopted CipherLab's handheld scanners, it could take hours for the drivers' data to be entered and then more time to finally analyze it," said Jerry Maday, operations manager at Planet Aid headquarters. "With the CipherLab 8000 series mobile computers and our custom business applications, we are able to significantly reduce the amount of paperwork for our drivers and operations staff, dramatically streamlining our core operation at Planet Aid."

Planet Aid is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people in developing countries. Items donated to Planet Aid are resold and proceeds are used to support education, community development and HIV/AIDS programs in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

"The deployment at Planet Aid is of special interest to CipherLab, because the money we are saving the organization is going directly to a good cause," said Al Crawford, CipherLab vice president of technology. "In this case, the 8000 series truly lives up to its goal of delivering anywhere mobility, because it is enabling the most mobile worker of all: the driver."

The CipherLab 8000 mobile computer delivers anywhere mobility in a ruggedized, ergonomic design, offering speedy barcode scanning and data entry via multiple wireless communication options. With a pocket-size form factor that exceeds industry drop standards, the CipherLab 8000 offers more than 100 continuous hours of battery life, long range radio communication of up to 1148 feet, and an easy-to-read backlit LCD screen for low light areas and the lowest possible power consumption. Its easy-to-use interface minimizes training requirements and supports a variety of software solutions. All of these industry-leading features boost the efficiency of workers on the go in retail, healthcare and logistics settings.
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CipherLab 8000 Series Mobile Computer Wins Network Products Guide 2009 Best Products and Services Award
2009-05-19
PLANO, TX - May 19, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that Networks Products Guide, an industry leading publication in information technologies and solutions, has selected the CipherLab 8000 Series Pocket-size Mobile Computer for the 2009 Best Products and Services Award in the Mobile Solutions category. This annual award recognizes products and services that represent the rapidly changing needs and interests of the end-users of technology worldwide, and consistently honors some of the world's most successful high-tech companies.

The CipherLab 8000 Mobile Computer delivers anywhere mobility in a ruggedized, ergonomic design, offering speedy barcode scanning and data entry via multiple wireless communication options. With a pocket-size form factor that exceeds industry drop standards, the CipherLab 8000 offers 100 continuous hours of battery life, long range radio communication of up to 1148 feet, and an easy-to-read backlit LCD screen for low light areas and the lowest possible power consumption. Its easy-to-use interface minimizes training requirements and supports a variety of software solutions. All these industry-leading features boost the efficiency of workers on the go in retail, healthcare and logistics settings.

"Increased end-user awareness and ongoing advances in technology are helping shape better products and services," says Rake Narang, editor in chief, Network Products Guide. "The CipherLab 8000 Series brings impressive improvements in the mobile solutions market by unteathering workers with its long-range communications, extended battery life and durability."

"We are honored to receive this award because it recognizes the value the CipherLab 8000 Series delivers with its anywhere mobility solutions," said CipherLab vice president of technology Al Crawford. "CipherLab is committed to meeting its customers' needs by providing them with the best products and services."

About Network Products Guide Awards
Network Products Guide is a media sponsor of Interop Las Vegas and New York and Technosium Executive Forums engaging Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). As industry's leading technology research and advisory publication, it plays a vital role in keeping decision makers and end-users informed of the choices they can make in all areas of information technology. You will discover a wealth of information and tools in this guide including the best products and services, roadmaps, industry directions, technology advancements and independent product evaluations that facilitate in making the most pertinent technology decisions impacting business and personal goals. The guide follows conscientious research methodologies developed and enhanced by industry experts. To learn more, visit www.networkproductsguide.com
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CipherLab Products Achieve BizTracker Certification; Bundled Point Of Sale Solutions Now Distributed by BlueStar
2009-04-07
PLANO, TX - April 7, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, has been certified as a preferred vendor by BizTracker, a point of sale software provider. The CipherLab 1266, 1500, 1660, 8001 and 9471 handheld scanners and mobile computers, preloaded with BizTracker Infinity Point of Sale software, are now available to retailers through BlueStar, a leader in solutions-based distribution for Auto ID, Point-of-Sale, Mobility and RFID products. This bundled solution eases point of sale, logistics and ordering for retailers by conducting critical operations such as scanning data, inventory cycle counts, re-ordering, receiving goods, price checking and bar code printing.

BizTracker specifically selected CipherLab as a partner because of the versatility, affordability and reliability of the CipherLab 9471 Industrial Mobile Computer.

"Our retailers stressed how important it was to make sure they didn't lose a customer due to long lines," said BizTracker president Jim Eldred. "Now, as an example, our queue-busting technology enabled by the CipherLab 9471 brings transactions to customers, enabling them to bypass a line to complete purchases. This enhances a customer's experience and hopefully ensures that the customer won't choose another retailer in the future."

Eldred cites recent research by M/A/R/C Research that found customers are not willing to wait in line longer than four minutes at most stores. Forty-three percent of shoppers indicated that long lines will affect their decision to shop at a particular store in the future, and 10 percent of shoppers would become frustrated enough to leave a check-out line if the wait time was more than four minutes.

"The partnership between CipherLab and BizTracker, coupled with the strong distribution network within the BlueStar family, exemplifies how to best develop and deliver the most creative products aimed specifically at solving difficult problems within the retail market," said CipherLab vice president of technology Al Crawford.

CipherLab products are now available through BlueStar. For more information, go to http://www.cipherlab.com/catalog.asp.
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CipherLab and NutSoftware Create Niche Inventory and Logistics Solutions
2009-02-17
PLANO, TX - February 17, 2009 - CipherLab (www.cipherlab.com), a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, has been selected by NutSoftware, a niche software development company, as its partner in the creation of an integrated data capture solution aimed at solving the unique problems of the American nut industry. Known as NutWare, the solution pairs NutSoftware's software with the CipherLab 8500 Industrial Mobile Computer, an economical, award-winning ruggedized handheld that delivers up to 160 percent more work per battery charge than similar products on the market.

The Merced, California-based NutSoftware initially designed NutWare as an inventory system that could also calculate grower payments, traditionally an operational problem within the industry. But when one of its customers wanted to add more functionality between the software and the processing plant, NutSoftware selected CipherLab as its hardware provider for hand scanner integration.

"We needed a product that was affordable and that could withstand the harsh conditions of a processing plant or warehouse," said Frank Ramos, senior developer, NutSoftware. "But most importantly, we needed a reliable solution that could keep it simple. We liked the CipherLab 8500's sturdy pistol grip and the fact that it is so user-friendly. And because it is extremely durable, there are very few maintenance problems in the field."

The NutSoftware/CipherLab product is already in use by some of the largest nut handlers in the U.S.

NutWare demonstrations can be seen at the 101st Annual Meeting and Conference of the American Council for Food Safety & Quality or the 84th Annual Meeting of the Specialty Crop Trade Council of the California Dried Fruit Export Association, events being held concurrently at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa in Monterey, California February 24-26, 2009. Additional information on NutWare is also available at www.nutsoftware.com.
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CipherLab Helps Associated Grocers of Florida Deploy Unique Ordering Infrastructure
2008-12-15
Originally founded in 1945 by a handful of small stores, Associated Grocers of Florida (AGFLA) is a cooperative of independent retailers in the southeastern U.S. that is rapidly expanding throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America. Initially organized to increase the buying power of independent retailers, AGFLA has grown impressively to become one of the largest full line suppliers in the region. AGFLA headquarters now occupy more than 800,000 square feet of office and warehouse space in Pompano Beach, Florida; in addition, AGFLA acquired a 700,000 square foot warehouse in Ocala, Florida, and recently opened the first phase of a 1.5 million square foot shipping facility in Freeport, Grand Bahamas to service its growing membership. Today, AGFLA handles over 23,000 SKUs, and services more than 350 independent grocery stores in a total of 42 countries. Read full case study
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CipherLab 9400 Industrial Mobile Computer Named Best Rugged Wireless Handheld in Mobile Star Awards
2008-11-05
PLANO, TX - November 5, 2008 - CipherLab, a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that the CipherLab 9400 Industrial Mobile Computer for Microsoft® Windows® CE 5.0 captured a Gold Mobile Star Award™ from MobileVillage®, the 15-year leader in market development and news services about mobile technology. The CipherLab 9400 won in the rugged handheld hardware category against a competitive product from Motorola.

Designed to provide "wireless anywhere" mobility through compliance with all popular wireless communications platforms (including Bluetooth®, WiFi and Quad-band EDGE RF), the CipherLab 9400 simplifies the tasks of those working in the retail, logistics, warehouse, transportation and field sales/services industries. It offers industry-leading features such as a built-in digital camera, multi-form data input (touch screen or keyboard), multi-scanning options, up to eight hours of battery life in WLAN mode and the ability to read and write RFID tags.

"Despite the economic slowdown, recent studies have predicted minimal impact on the mobile and wireless industry," said MobileVillage editor Gary Thayer. "People have fallen in love with mobile productivity and entertainment products, and there's a real desire to discover and share the latest and greatest."

The seventh annual Mobile Star Awards program honors the best companies, products, deployments and leaders in mobile and wireless technology. Winners are chosen by subscribers to Go Mobile®, MobileVillage's free email newsletter for technology executives, mobile professionals, IT managers, developers and top tech journalists.

This year's Mobile Star Awards winners are posted online at http://www.mobilevillage.com/awards.htm.

About MobileVillage®
Founded in 1993, MobileVillage is a market and solution development company dedicated to advancing mobile and wireless productivity in a wide range of industries. MobileVillage accomplishes this by fostering education and alliances through its Mobile "Best of Breed" solution identification, event partnerships, an online industry directory, industry job postings, daily online news, its widely respected Go Mobile® newsletter, a Mobile Mentors™ program, and popular annual Mobile Star Awards™ program. Visit MobileVillage online at www.mobilevillage.com.

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Streamline Inventory Tracking Procedures
2008-11-01
Integrated Solutions for Retailers

When done manually, keeping track of inventory can be a painstaking task. Dave Schoengart, VP of store operations at Shoe Sensation, knows this issue firsthand. Shoe Sensation is an independently owned regional shoe and apparel chain. Headquartered in Jeffersonville, IN, the retailer has 75 locations and 650 employees. In order to monitor merchandise status and pricing, store-level managers received an 8-to-12-page spreadsheet from headquarters every other week. Read full article

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CipherLab's Intelligent Order Entry Software Solves Retail and Grocery Shipping Problems
2008-10-06
PLANO, TX - October 6, 2008 - CipherLab, a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced the availability of automatic container space calculation software for use on its industrial mobile computers. CipherLab's Intelligent Order Entry (IOE), designed specifically for use by grocery and C-stores, ensures that shipping container space is maximized to resolve packing problems and reduce overall freight costs. When used in conjunction with CipherLab's handheld scanners, Intelligent Order Entry enables users to calculate the cubic footage and weight of bulk goods, thereby reducing wasted space in shipping containers. The IOE program also alerts users to discontinued items, the availability of substitute items, converts UPC codes to warehouse codes and displays backroom inventory during the order process.

CipherLab's Intelligent Order Entry is currently being used by Associated Grocers of Florida, a cooperative of independent retailers in the southeastern U.S. that is rapidly expanding throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America. AG Florida recently opened the first phase of a 1.5 million square foot shipping facility in Freeport, Grand Bahamas to service its growing membership.

"It's imperative that we have a streamlined and efficient logistics system that takes into account the unique needs of maritime transportation," noted Noel Bostick, IT operations manager, Associated Grocers of Florida. "In this business, weight is not necessarily the biggest cost factor - it's space. By working with CipherLab, AG Florida put ordering control into its customers' hands. Now, customers know exactly how much container space will be required for each order. This enables us to proactively suggest adding or removing items to properly and completely fill a container, helping our members minimize their shipping costs."

According to Al Crawford, vice president of technology at CipherLab, the new Intelligent Order Entry can also assist grocers and retailers to more efficiently deliver goods by air, sea and rail. "Although we initially developed Intelligent Order Entry for use in port facilities, the concept of 'cubing,' or automatically calculating the cubic feet of container space, is the same for other forms of transportation. The bottom line is that Intelligent Order Entry, when coupled with CipherLab handheld mobile computers, creates one of the most efficient systems of its type - and one that gives an almost immediate return on investment to our customers," he said.

Visitors to the 2008 National Association of Convenience Stores Show, being held October 4-7 at McCormick Place in Chicago, can see the full range of CipherLab products in Booth 7160.


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CipherLab's 9400 Industrial Mobile Computer Wins in the Mobile/Wireless Category
2008-05-19
PLANO, TX - May 19, 2008 - CipherLab, a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, today announced that Silicon Valley Communications publication Network Products Guide has selected its 9400 Industrial Mobile Computer for a 2008 Product Innovation Award. This annual competition recognizes vendors with groundbreaking products that set the bar higher for others in all areas of information technology.

The CipherLab 9400 was the only hardware selected as a winner in the mobile/wireless category. Introduced in late 2007, the handheld industrial mobile computer features:
-Support for Microsoft® Windows® CE 5.0
-Compliance with all popular wireless platforms, including Bluetooth®, WiFi and Quad-band EDGE WAN
-Built-in 2 Megapixel digital camera

"The goal of any product innovation must be to effect a positive change," said Rake Narang, editor-in-chief, Network Products Guide. "The CipherLab 9400 Industrial Mobile Computer brings improvements in multi-platform connectivity, design and affordability to the retail, warehouse and distribution markets."

About Network Products Guide Awards
Network Products Guide published from Silicon Valley is a leading provider of products, technologies and vendor related research and analysis. You will discover a wealth of information in this guide including product innovations, roadmaps, industry directions, technology advancements and independent product evaluations that facilitate in making the most pertinent technology decisions impacting business and personal goals. The guide follows conscientious research methodologies developed and enhanced by industry experts. To learn more, visit www.networkproductsguide.com
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CipherLab and BlueStar Partner to Deliver New AIDC Solutions to the Canadian Marketplace
2007-08-19
Plano, TX and Montreal, Canada - August 13, 2007 - CipherLab, a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) for the retail, warehouse and distribution markets, and BlueStar Canada, a leading innovator in solutions-based distribution for auto ID, point-of-sale, mobility and RFID products, today announced a strategic partnership for the Canadian market. Through this alliance, BlueStar Canada will expand its catalog of innovative IT solutions by offering CipherLab's popular scanners, mobile computers and portable terminals, which operate on all predominant connectivity platforms, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, RFID and acoustic. This agreement boosts CipherLab's visibility within the promising Canadian market and gives BlueStar's systems integrators a partner with global expertise in developing tailored applications and tools for data capture deployments.

"The AIDC industry is experiencing rapid growth in Canada, and we're excited to establish a partnership with CipherLab that will result in new offerings for our customers," noted Jacques Lapierre, president of BlueStar Canada. "By including CipherLab products in our catalog and offering related technical and after sales support, we continue to deliver to our resellers the best possible solutions at the best possible prices."

CipherLab was a participant in this year's BlueStar-sponsored BlueWAVE 2007, Canada's largest reseller event for POS, barcoding and mobility products.

"BlueStar's dominance in the Canadian market will help increase CipherLab's reach in North America," said Robert Hossary, vice president-Americas for CipherLab. "In turn, BlueStar Canada can now leverage our international expertise, particularly within the retail, grocery and warehouse/logistics sectors, and assist its system integrators in delivering tailored solutions to suit their customers' unique data capture needs."

About BlueStar Canada
BlueStar Canada is the leading solutions-based distributor of point-of-sale, bar coding, data collection and wireless mobility products in Canada. The company offers its VAR partners detailed information on the best selection of products in the industry, all at competitive prices. BlueStar Canada makes life easier for its VAR partners by offering local inventory and a Canadian warranty on all products distributed. In addition, BlueStar Canada has unmatched technical support and is an authorized service center for an increasing number of manufacturers.
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