Intermec EX Near-Far Imaging Technology Saves Time And Increases Read-Rates For Tough Scanning Locations At Innophos, Inc.

Everett, WA - Innophos, Inc., a leading worldwide phosphate producer of high grade chemical products, has installed near-far EX imaging technology from Intermec to save time and increase scanning read-rate accuracy at their warehouse in Chicago Heights, Illinois.

Innophos phosphates, used in a multitude of products and markets including foods, pharmaceuticals, electronics, petroleum, textiles and metal treatment, are often stored in a warehouse facility where product can be on shelves 30 feet in the air and where 90% of the product is shrink-wrapped. To address the data capture challenges this environment can bring, Innophos turned to Intermec and its partner Quality Data Source (QDS). The solution includes RF system components from QDS and Intermec CK31ex rugged mobile computers, which allow for accurate readings from many different lengths, at a variety of angles and through heavy shrink-wrap.

"Having both long and short range scanning capabilities in one device is critical for read-rate success in our warehouse," said Innophos IT Officer, Mike Malone. "Intermec EX near-far imaging technology has made it so our warehouse workers can accurately scan from very close or from quite a distance, saving valuable time that they would have otherwise had to use getting off their forklifts for a proper scan at varying distances."

The transition to the Intermec CK31ex mobile computers was an easy one. Innophos, Inc. had formerly been using Intermec 2435 handheld computers, and switched to the CK31ex mobile computers with virtually no training for the warehouse staff. With the use of terminal emulation and a common interface on both models, the upgrade was simple, saving Innophos significant time.

The CK31ex rugged mobile computer integrates breakthrough auto-focus area imaging technology and enables users to quickly scan any type of bar code, in any orientation, from six inches to 50 feet away, opening up new efficiencies and application opportunities across the warehouse. With the CK31ex, users can scan 1D, 2D, composite and postal codes; capture images, signatures and documents; read at near and far distances; and successfully cope with damaged, poorly printed or partially obscured codes in variable lighting conditions.

SOURCE: Innophos, Inc.