By now, you have probably heard that Microsoft is phasing out support on Windows-embedded devices. The first stages of the process are well underway, and come January 14th, 2020, all devices will be End of Life (EoL).
These are the dates to be aware of:
- June 10th, 2018 – Windows Embedded CE 6.0 will be EoL
- June 9th, 2019 – Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheld will be EoL
- January 14th, 2020 – Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 will be EoL
It’s time to start planning to migrate over to another operating system (OS). You will need to have an OS migration strategy in place for your mobile computers, as Windows-embedded devices will no longer receive updates or security patches, leaving devices vulnerable to attack from viruses and malware. You’ll also be unable to add any new applications to mobile computers, meaning your operation’s growth could be stifled.
Here’s how you can get started:
Choose a Provider
Choosing a mobile computer means investing into your operation, and that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re in the process of OS migration, the right provider will be instrumental in successfully navigating the switch.
Your provider should:
Provide more than hardware
When you choose a provider, you aren’t just selecting which source you want to use for your devices, you are selecting valuable resource you can use for advice, maintenance, and support.
Understand the technology and industry
To really know which solutions would provide the most benefit to you, your provider must understand your industry, your operation, and your needs. A good provider will know how to best apply each solution, and which solutions would be optimal in addressing the challenges you face.
Recommend a long-term solution
You can tell if a provider is invested in your business by whether or not they recommend solutions that will provide you with the biggest return. Technology can become obsolete quickly as innovation moves forward, so any mobile computer should be future-proof.
Choose an Operating System
Your provider should assess the state of your operation and how ready it is for OS migration. They can help you decide on a high-performance operating system that will provide you with the most longevity for your mobile computers.
With Windows support ending, other operating systems have risen up to become the top choice for industrial applications. Android, in particular, has been popular. As an open-source platform, it empowers developers to respond quickly as new needs arise, and because it’s already so widely used on personal and commercial devices, your workforce is likely already familiar with it, which cuts down on training time.
Choose a Device
You will also want to assess your devices to determine your readiness for OS migration. Your provider can let you know whether you will need to purchase new devices, and if so, how many need to be upgraded. They can also recommend the best devices, like the ones built on Honeywell’s Mobility Edge platform. Mobility Edge is a unified hardware and software platform that extends device lifecycles and helps make OS migration easier.
Rugged devices manufacturers like Honeywell offer:
CT60 Mobile Computer
This is a rugged touchscreen device for transportation, logistics, and delivery workers that offers a long-lasting battery, high-performance scanning, and protection against dust and moisture.
Dolphin CN80 Mobile Computer
The CN80 is an ultra-rugged device for distribution centers and logistics providers that features both a traditional keypad and a large touchscreen interface to offer quick, efficient data entry options.
Successful OS Migration
The transition from the familiar operating systems of Windows to a new OS like Android can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. The right provider can help you determine which OS and mobile computer devices are best suited for your operation.
Informs, Inc. is one of the largest Honeywell resellers in the US, and can provide support, advice, service, and assistance when it comes to your OS migration strategy. If you are looking to transition to a new OS, contact Informs today.
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