Windows CE gets a New life with the Rugged Conkers NS6 Windows Handheld

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Windows CE

What Does The End of Windows CE Mean For Warehousing?

With Microsoft’s recent announcement regarding the discontinuation of its Windows operating systems for mobile devices such as Windows CE and Windows Mobile, the future of warehousing and manufacturing industries remains uncertain. For years, these industries have relied heavily on these operating systems to manage their day-to-day operations. Now, with the end of the Windows Embedded CE operating system, businesses are faced with the challenge of finding new and efficient ways to manage their operations.

Transition To Newer Systems

Transitioning to new systems and services will likely be a complex and time-consuming process for many companies. It may require significant investments in new hardware and software, as well as training for employees on how to use these new tools effectively. The costs of this transition could be substantial, especially for smaller businesses that may not have the same level of financial resources as larger enterprises.

Moreover, the end of the Windows CE operating system may also have implications for other aspects of the supply chain. For example, it could impact the compatibility of barcode scanners and other hardware devices that are used in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. This may necessitate further investments in new operating systems, and equipment or require businesses to switch to different technologies altogether.

End-Of-Life Date for Windows CE

The end-of-life date for Windows CE 6.0 and Windows Mobile 6.5 was July 11th, 2020, while Windows CE 7.0 reached its end of life on November 10th, 2021. This leaves those using rugged mobile devices running these operating systems vulnerable to security risks without updates and support from Microsoft. Businesses that still need to use these devices may want to consider upgrading as soon as possible. Other solutions, such as changing to a different operating system or migrating to an entirely different device should be explored to minimize any potential disruptions and ensure the highest levels of security and reliability.

End-Of-Life Date for Windows CE

Despite the potential challenges and costs associated with this transition, there are also opportunities for businesses to embrace new technologies and systems that could ultimately improve their operations. For instance, the shift towards cloud-based services and the Internet of Things (IoT) could offer greater flexibility and scalability for businesses. Additionally, newer operating systems may offer improved security features and better support for mobile devices, which could help to enhance the efficiency and safety of warehouse operations.

Overall, the transition from traditional warehouse systems to more modern technologies or to other Microsoft Operating Systems is an important step for businesses seeking increased efficiency, accuracy, and reliability. By investing in up-to-date technology, companies can be well-positioned to take advantage of the many benefits digital transformation can offer.

The implementation of new technologies in Windows CE doesn’t necessarily mean an end to efficient warehousing and manufacturing operations.

The good news is that the end of Windows CE doesn’t necessarily mean an end to efficient warehousing and manufacturing operations.

The Conker rugged NS6 Windows Handheld is one of the solutions that many companies are turning to, to fill the void just as rugged devices are used to solve other common business challenges. The NS6 is a powerful, resilient, and robust platform designed to serve the needs of the most demanding industrial applications. It offers several advantages over the Windows CE operating system, including better system stability and reliability, support for multiple simultaneous users in a secured environment, improved data capture capabilities, and additional features such as integrated barcoding and printing. This handheld device has been specifically designed with warehousing and manufacturing needs in mind.

What Does Windows CE End Of Life Mean?

End of life means that Microsoft will no longer provide updates and support after that date for this version of windows. With no more updates or extended support being available, using these devices beyond their support dates poses a security risk to your organization from malicious attacks and other threats. This is why now is the time to plan by looking at alternatives that are available before these support dates come up.

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The Conker NS6: The Solution

The use of rugged tablets and barcode scanners in warehouse operations has revolutionized the way these facilities are managed.

Rugged devices notably handhelds previously operated with the Windows CE operating system, Conker’s flagship 6-inch NS6 device combined with the updated Windows Pro operating system known for its stability, reliability, and ease of use, has filled the void previously occupied by the now discontinued Microsoft Windows CE rugged devices.

The Rugged Windows handheld provides an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solution for managing inventory, tracking shipments, and improving productivity by working seamlessly with most WMS/TMS software solutions, SAP, and many more embedded systems.

One of the most significant benefits of using rugged tablets and barcode scanners in warehouse operations is the ability to automate inventory management. With the Rugged Conker NS6, warehouse workers can quickly and easily scan barcodes on products to track their location, update inventory levels, and track shipments. This real-time information can then be accessed by all stakeholders including management, shipping and receiving departments, and customer service, allowing for more accurate and efficient operations.

An important factor in their success is the fact that these handhelds and scanners are as ergonomic as they are rugged. Warehouse environments can be harsh with the exposure of windows and mobile devices to dust, moisture, and rough handling. Rugged Windows barcode scanners like the NS6 are designed to withstand these conditions ensuring they continue to function properly even in challenging environments. This means fewer devices need to be replaced, reducing downtime and saving money in the long run. We at Conker focus on uptime, and with the incredibly low failure rate of our devices, you will quickly see the net impact on your bottom line with a positive ROI in a relatively short space of time.

Benefits Of The Conker NS6

Instead of using the Windows Embedded Compact operating system which the majority of rugged handheld devices operate on, the 6-inch NS6 operates with the Windows Pro operating system. Windows CE compared pales in comparison to the NS6 with features that will meet all of your warehousing needs. More than just a Windows phone, the Conker NS6 provides solutions unlike any other. This device allows warehouse workers the ability to quickly and easily access the information they require without having to deal with complicated software or hardware. Additionally, the user-friendly interface makes it simple to train new employees, reducing the amount of time it takes to get them up and running.

Another advantage of rugged tablets and barcode scanners in warehouse operations is their ability to improve productivity. The Conker NS6, allows workers to complete tasks faster and more accurately, reducing mispicks, and speeding up the time it takes to complete shipments and manage inventory. This increased efficiency leads to more streamlined operations and reduced costs. The real-time information provided by the Windows Handheld allows managers to make informed decisions and adjust operations as needed, further improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Conker NS6 for Warehousing Operations

The Conker NS6 part of the Conker range of Rugged Windows devices is a powerful replacement device that offers a range of benefits, including improved efficiency, reduced downtime, enhanced security, better user experience, and no software changes. By embracing this powerful new handheld device, you can stay one step ahead of the competition while creating an efficient workspace where staff can work smarter, not harder.

The Conker NS6 has built-in analytics features that enable businesses to track and analyze key performance metrics in real time. With the use of barcode scanning, inventory updates can be quickly recorded, eliminating the need for manual tracking processes. Additionally, NFC technology allows for secure contactless transactions and authentication between devices. These streamlines operations by providing fast access to critical information as well as reducing the time needed for data entry.

For a complete breakdown of our first NS6 2/16GB version written by by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer read the article in Rugged PC Review here.

The updated NS6 version today is a far more powerful 4/64GB device.

In conclusion, the use of rugged tablets and barcode scanners in warehouse operations provides a solution that is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. The Conker 6-inch which runs on the Windows Pro operating system can automate inventory management, improve productivity and provide real-time information that can be used to make informed decisions. With its advanced features and capabilities, the Conker 6-inch Windows Pro is an ideal choice for warehouse operations managers who are worried about the end of devices that operate on windows CE.

by James

Is Windows CE Still Supported in 2023

Windows CE systems have dominated the mobility market for decades. Companies across different industries rely on this operating system to improve their operations. Recently, however, Microsoft stopped developing more updates for this system.

Discover how Conker customers are easing migration by retaining Windows in their ecosystem.

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Windows Embedded Compact (previously known as Windows CE) is a real-time operating system developed by Microsoft for small, resource-constrained devices such as handheld computers, industrial controllers, and embedded systems. It is a modular, component-based operating system designed to be customizable, allowing developers to create tailored solutions for specific hardware configurations and use cases.

Windows Embedded Compact provides a variety of features, including a small footprint, support for various processor architectures, real-time capabilities, and a range of connectivity options. It also includes development tools and APIs to simplify the creation of custom applications and services.

According to Microsoft windows developers, it will cease all platforms that support Windows CE. As a result, Windows CE 6.0 end of life happened in 2018, and on January 14, 2020, Windows Mobile 6.5 end-of-life occurred. This means companies who are still using Windows CE will see an end to security updates and patches.

A Quick Review On Windows CE

Windows CE is a core operating system developed by Microsoft that is designed for minimalistic devices such as smartphones, handheld computers, and other embedded systems. The first version, Windows CE 1.0, was released in 1996. Microsoft licenses Windows CE to hardware manufacturers who can then develop devices that meet the minimum hardware specifications required to run the operating system. Developers can use Windows Phone Developer Tools and a Windows CE Software Development Kit to create Windows CE apps that can run on devices. Windows CE allows developers to create their own user interfaces and tailor the user experience to their needs.

Why Migrate from Microsoft Windows CE OS To Another Operating System?

Migrating your Windows CE OS to a completely different OS which will ensure that your business gets the support that it needs. However, if you are using legacy software with native applications, you may be forced to try other operating systems that work with Rugged Tablets and PDAs. You may also want to consider migrating to an open-source operating system such as Android, Linux, or even iOS that offers greater flexibility, scalability, and potential for customizations.

The Business Risk of Sticking With Windows CE Kernel

Sticking with Windows CE can pose a significant risk to businesses that rely on the operating system for their mobility needs. With Microsoft ending support for Windows CE, companies that continue to use the operating system will no longer receive security updates and patches, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats.

This is especially concerning for businesses that operate in industries that require high levels of security, such as healthcare and finance. Hackers can easily exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software, exposing sensitive data and putting patients and customers at risk.

Another risk will be for businesses that require high productivity and efficiency. Without access to the latest features and updates and only following minimum hardware specifications, businesses may experience slower performance, increased downtime, and difficulty integrating with new technologies.

What Are The Benefits Of Upgrading To Another Operating System?

Upgrading from Windows CE to another operating system can provide a wide range of benefits. Upgrading to a higher version of Windows can help increase the performance, security, and stability of your system. It can also offer new features that weren’t available on the old OS. Additionally, upgrading to an open-source OS may provide access to more apps and greater flexibility in terms of customizations and scalability.

End of Life of Windows CE

An End-of-Life status indicates that a mobile device will no longer receive security and software patch updates. It does not mean that the device will stop working it simply means users will have to use legacy software to continue running. As mentioned above, companies that will continue to use legacy operating systems will be vulnerable to bugs and defenseless against viruses.

Windows CE Migration Hurdles

Migrating from Windows CE to a newer operating system can be a challenging process for businesses, particularly those that rely on legacy software and hardware designed to support the WinCE system. One of the biggest challenges faced by businesses is compatibility. Many companies are still using older Windows Mobile devices that only support Windows CE, making it difficult to migrate to a newer operating system without replacing the entire device.

Another hurdle is data migration, which can involve data conversion, restructuring, or cleansing to ensure that all data is properly transferred to the new operating system without any loss. Additionally, some businesses may need to physically install a Windows CE port on their device to enable it to support other Microsoft operating systems.

Businesses must also consider the cost of migrating to a newer operating system, which can include purchasing new hardware and software licenses, investing in employee training and education, and upgrading existing systems. While migrating to a newer operating system can provide benefits such as improved security, performance, and compatibility, the cost must be carefully weighed against the benefits.

It’s worth noting that Windows CE conforms to a different set of standards compared to other operating systems by Microsoft, so it may require some modifications to ensure compatibility with newer systems. Nonetheless, upgrading from Windows CE to a newer operating system can provide significant benefits for businesses, including improved performance and access to a wider range of software applications.

One potential solution for businesses looking to upgrade from Windows CE is to consider rugged devices such as the Conker NS6, which runs on Windows Pro and provides a stable, reliable, and easy-to-use alternative to Windows CE. Regardless of the solution chosen, businesses must develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the unique challenges of migrating from Windows CE and provides the necessary support for a successful transition.

The end of life for Windows CE has become a serious worry for different industries. For example, in healthcare services – medical devices are widely used and rely on Windows CE. These medical devices run on software that is designed for collecting, storing, and transmitting data from one device to another. As these devices play a major role in patient care, it is crucial to find the right upgrade from Windows CE.

But why should EOL for Windows CE be a constant source of problems for your business when you have the option to upgrade your OS or device?

What are your options – The CONKER NS6

Rugged devices notably handhelds previously operated with the Windows CE operating system, Conker’s flagship 6-inch NS6 device combined with the updated Windows Pro operating system known for its stability, reliability, and ease of use, has filled the void previously occupied by now discontinued Windows CE rugged devices. Read more about how Windows CE gets a new life with the Rugged Conkers NS6 Windows Handheld.

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Download Your Guide To Modernizing Your Windows CE Systems With Rugged Devices

Choosing the right rugged device is crucial, especially if you’re planning to improve business efficiency. After all, you want a device that can handle business demands and will ultimately help in improving productivity.

Our guide will help you choose the right rugged device to cut costs for your teams and the industry you work in.