Shamrock Foods
| CASE STUDY |
Case Study
A privately held, family-owned and -operated Forbes 500 company, Shamrock is an innovator in the food industry and has been since its founding in Arizona in 1922.
Shamrock specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of quality food and food-related products through a family of companies, including Shamrock Foods foodservice distribution and Shamrock Farms dairy manufacturing, among others.
Working With Conker
“We trialed the rugged wearables BG2 and WC4 as a solution to help improve our warehouse efficiency"
“We trialed the rugged wearables BG2 and WC4 as a solution to help improve our warehouse efficiency"
It was not surprising that Shamrock led an innovative move by trialling products to help improve their business challenges. Working with Conker, “ We trialled the rugged wearables BG2 and WC4 as a solution to help improve our warehouse efficiency.” according to Miguel Sanchez-rios.
The WC4 is a wrist-worn wearable Android PDA/Computer. It allows users to free up both hands while allowing easy product access.
Whilst the Conker BG2 makes barcode scanning easy. This rugged scanner is lightweight and sits on top of a breathable glove. Operation can be triggered with a single button, and information can be transmitted with ease to the Conker WC4 or any other device.
Conker’s rugged wearable barcode scanner and Android companion is tough enough to withstand water, dust, humidity, drops, and temperatures that range from freezing to extreme heat.
“The Conker WC4 and BG2 combination proved to be the perfect solution” Miguel continues “helping solve our problems with expensive warehouse devices and a lockdown version of Android that didn’t allow for much in-house development.”
“We are extremely happy with the CONKER wearables devices and would highly recommend CONKER to any company who asks.” he finishes.
Bespoke solutions from Conker
At Conker we see ourselves as an extension to what you do. Our aim is to build a partnership and really get to understand the challenges you face and how our technology can help you. We offer bespoke solutions, individually tailored to fit a very specific set of conditions – your workplace.
Tees River Rescue
| CASE STUDY |
Case Study
Customer: Robert Lynas
Company: Tee’s River Rescue
Industry: Charity
Author: JoJo Bayvel
Publish Date: 17 April 2023
Tees River Rescue is a charity organisation that operates independently, and it is based on the River Tees in the North East of England. The primary function of the charity is to provide search and rescue services, which involve patrolling the river during peak times throughout the year. The organisation also provides education, support and reassurance for river users.
The charity is run by a group of volunteers who carry out various activities to ensure the safety of those using the river. In 2021, the charity searched the river and its banks for missing people, injured animals, damaged or sinking boats, and missing paddle boarders.
The Challenge
Tees River Rescue needed a reliable and robust communication device that could support long-range communication and provide consistent updates on search efforts. When deploying a rescue boat on a long stretch of the river, rescuers are often out of radio range and unable to receive updates on any changes to the search plans. In the past, phones were used, but due to the nature of the rescue, it became apparent that a better device was needed, according to Robert Lynas, the volunteer lead at Tees River Rescue.
Robert Lynas further explained that the rescue team required a rugged tablet with a large screen, which would enable rescuers to easily send messages, read maps, and communicate effectively. The device also needed to work through difficult terrain, protect against water ingress, and have a good battery life to support the team’s efforts during a rescue operation.
“The team needed a rugged tablet with a big screen where rescuers could easily send messages, read maps, and communicate. We also needed a device that would work through difficult terrain, protect from water ingress, and have a good battery life.”
Evaluation
Following a comprehensive assessment of Tees River Rescue’s needs, Conker proposed the SX82 2D rugged 8-inch Windows tablet. The device features an 8-inch screen with a Toughened Glass 3 Capacitive Touch Screen, making it easy for volunteers to capture and view images in areas where a water-resistant device is essential. It also has a robust 9,800mAh, 3.8V battery that can last for up to 29 hours, which is crucial for extended periods spent on the boat.
Solution
- The Conker SX82 is a rugged 8-inch Windows tablet that offers a durable design, long battery life, and powerful performance for use in demanding environments.
- The powerful 9800 mAh battery was invaluable, lasting for long hours of use.Given that volunteers often spend extended periods on the boat, the device’s impressive battery life of 29 hours was ideal.
- The device has an IP65 rating, which means that its water resistance allowed users to utilise the device in wet or exposed areas. This enabled the device to function without any breakdown or failure even when exposed to water.
The 8-inch display was the perfect size for capturing images.
“The SX82 provided the team all the support that was needed for taking videos, images, reporting incidents, tracking tides, communications and much more.” continues Lynas manager at Tees River Rescue.
Conclusion
Finally, the SX82 met all the requirements of Tees River Rescue.
“It is going to be difficult to not have Conker SX82 now.” he added “this device has opened up a world of options for us.” he concludes.
“The Conker SX82 proved to be the best solution for us at Tees River Rescue. This device offers a 9800 mAh battery, powerful enough to last long hours of use on the boat. It also comes with an 8-inch screen and IP65 rating which means it is waterproof and drop-proof.”
Community Foods
| CASE STUDY |
Case Study
Customer: John Nichols, IT Manager
Company: Community Foods
Industry: Wholesale
Author: JoJo Bayvel
Publish Date: 17 April 2023
Community Foods is a UK-based company that specialises in providing high-quality, ethically sourced food products for retail, wholesale and food service customers. They have been operating for over 40 years and have established themselves as a leading supplier of organic, vegan, and gluten-free foods. They operate a BRC A** accredited 80,000 sq ft production / warehousing facility built to meet clients’ demands that is rigorously managed 24/7.
The Challenge
Community Foods operates a massive warehouseCommunity Foods operates a large warehouse, across separate storage and production areas, in which it is a struggle ensuring that all devices and equipment remain connected and communicating effectively.
“Our ageing hardware was performing poorly resulting in lost or misdirected inventory, delays in order fulfilment, and reduced productivity.” – John, IT Manager
The critical outcome for Community Foods was to provide continuous and reliable connectivity across the entire warehouse space.
Additionally for Community Foods the warehouse environment exposes devices to challenging conditions, therefore it was essential that devices were rugged and durable to eliminate downtime from device failure or breakage. One of the key requirements of the mobile devices was that they needed to be capable of scanning pallets and immediately transmitting this information to customers via the cloud. This was critical for efficient inventory management and streamlining the ordering process.
“By having the ability to scan pallets in real time, Community Foods could quickly and easily track our inventory, identify any issues or discrepancies, and make adjustments as necessary.” – John, IT Manager
Evaluation
Following a comprehensive evaluation of Community Foods’ requirements, Conker proposed the NS82 2D rugged 8-inch Windows tablet. This met their requirement for a device running a full Windows 10 Pro OS to support the applications used across their entire operation. Importantly, user-testing confirmed that it was also small enough and light enough to satisfy staff that would be carrying the device to perform their work. Testing also validated that the NS82 Wi-Fi resolved connectivity issues, enabling seamless communication with other devices and the cloud.
“Conker showed a deep understanding of our specific requirements. The evaluation process was smooth and straightforward, with excellent communication from the Conker team throughout” – John, IT Manager
Solution
The NS82 2D rugged 8-inch Windows Tablet combines the full capability of Windows 10 with a powerful 2D barcode scanner and a substantive battery, running for 16 hours in our lab testing.
Together these features met Community Foods’ requirements:
- The integrated 2D barcode scanner met inventory management requirements empowering staff to easily scan pallets and transmit information to customers via the cloud, ensuring timely and accurate inventory management.
- The excellent battery life ensured that staff members could use the devices throughout the day without the need to recharge. Given the 24/7 nature of the warehouse this was critical.
- Windows 10 ensured seamless integration with existing software and systems.
- The 8-inch display provided the right balance of portability and visibility.
”The device was exactly what we needed to enhance our operations. The reliable connectivity of the NS82 2D rugged tablet has helped to mitigate the previous connectivity issues we faced our warehouse operations.” – John, IT Manager
Conclusion
Overall the NS82 2D addressed Community Foods’ connectivity issues and supported their operational and environment requirements. With the fit for purpose rugged windows tablet Community Foods were able to improve their overall operations, increase productivity, and provide their customers with high-quality, ethically sourced food products in a timely and efficient manner.
“Even beyond our initial expectations, Community Foods has seen a remarkable improvement in our inventory management. The device has provided a user-friendly experience for Community Foods’ staff helping to improve productivity and efficiency, allowing for seamless scanning and transmission of inventory information to customers via the cloud.”
“The tablet has been able to withstand any kind of rigours in the warehouse environment, and Conker’s support team has been very helpful in making sure that we have a seamless experience by quickly resolving any issues which may arise.”
“The Conker team remains in constant communication to ensure that the devices continue to perform their intended function effectively, and any issues that arise are quickly addressed. This level of support has been critical to the success of the NS82 2D implementation at Community Foods.”
Rice Fruit Company
| CASE STUDY |
Case Study
Arthur Rice established the family-run Rice Fruit Company in 1913 as a fruit packing company.
The Rice Family began commercial fruit growing and packaging in the early 1900s, and they erected the current packing building in 1955. Currently, Rice Fruit grows, packs, and markets fruit for about 40 farm families within the Adams County area.
Working With Conker
“One of the challenges that we faced at Ricefruit was finding a device to help improve overall processes"
“One of the challenges that we faced at Ricefruit was finding a device to help improve overall processes"
“We needed a device that supported Windows 10 as we run a specific device on this operating system. CONKER provided the solution with the NS6 and its accessories” according to Scott Hughey IT manager at Ricefruit. “The CONKER NS6 has provided the perfect solution. Processing 2 million bushels of fruit in the last year,” he says.
The Conker NS6 is a 6-inch rugged Windows handheld device and comes with a powerful Honeywell industrial barcode scanner, as well as, a Windows 10 operating system. The NS6 is considered the smallest full Windows 10 enterprise tablet in the market today making it a great solution for companies who require mobility just like Rice Fruit.
“Rice Fruit could not be more pleased with our experience, and we wish that all suppliers were as competent, life would be far easier.” shares Hughey. ”The Conker NS6 has played a critical role in making scanning easier for Ricefuit and the pistol grip accessory proved invaluable”.
All dealings with CONKER have more than exceeded expectations. This working across oceans was a wonderful surprise.“ Hughey continues, “Kyle remained in touch at all times to ensure a seamless experience, providing fast and competent assistance. As a result, we will recommend CONKER to all and sundry.”
Bespoke solutions from Conker
At Conker we see ourselves as an extension to what you do. Our aim is to build a partnership and really get to understand the challenges you face and how our technology can help you. We offer bespoke solutions, individually tailored to fit a very specific set of conditions – your workplace.
Belven
| CASE STUDY |
Case Study
Belven specialises in the production and sale of quarter-turn shut-off valves.
The company aims to put its name on the world map by geographical expansion. Belven is constantly on the lookout for active partnerships that will help ensure the success of its clients and suppliers through communication and application of innovative technology.
Working With Conker
“We were looking for a scanning device that will be used daily within our warehousing operations”
“We were looking for a scanning device that will be used daily within our warehousing operations”
This is from Joeri Van Dueren IT Manager of Belven.” The company spent time looking for the perfect solution that would meet their needs. “We decided on the Conker SX50, a 5-inch rugged Android. Which has proved the perfect solution.” Van Dueren continues.
The Conker SX50 is the smallest rugged handheld in Conker’s wide range of devices. This is an extra powerful Android 10 device, with a 5-inch IPS LCD, and Zebra SE4710 2D Barcode Scanner. Powerful inside and out, the SX50 is the best-rugged device to be used on a daily basis thanks to its IP67 Rating. Having a 4,000 mAh battery capacity, one charge goes a long way when used in warehousing operations.
According to Joeri, “working with Conker was really positive experience, we are very likely to recommend Conker. The follow-up and support have been fantastic. Someone is always available.” he finishes.
Bespoke solutions from Conker
At Conker we see ourselves as an extension to what you do. Our aim is to build a partnership and really get to understand the challenges you face and how our technology can help you. We offer bespoke solutions, individually tailored to fit a very specific set of conditions – your workplace.