Inform WMS relies on wireless networking optimally configured for warehouse environments. Outlined below are the best practices and hardware options to ensure the best connection possible for your Zebra mobile scanners.
Access Points with Wireless Controller (WLC)
A strong wireless signal must cover the entire warehouse. Look for access points designed for commercial or warehouse environments (not residential wifi routers). All access points should be of the same make, model, and firmware. A wireless controller manages the access points. It plays a crucial role in optimizing the network to handle the heavy amount of roaming that occurs with the mobile scanners. It is highly recommended that a controller is implemented into your wireless infrastructure. The wireless controller can be software or hardware based depending on the access points you choose.
Range
The 2.4GHz spectrum is better suited for WMS as it provides a wider signal range, reduced latency, and improved connectivity. This is recommended over the 5GHz spectrum (which offers faster data transfer speeds, not necessary for WMS). If your wireless controller supports band steering it can determine the best spectrum based on the device. If that feature is unavailable, then the 2.4GHz is the best option.
802.11 Standard (a/b/g/n/ac/6/6e)
Data transfer size to and from the WMS is minimal and therefore any of these standards are acceptable. Check which standards your scanner devices support and adjust the network accordingly.
Channels
By default, most access points automatically select a channel. This may cause signal interference when multiple access points take on the same channel. It’s best to allow the wireless controller to set the optimal channel.
VLAN Tagging (Virtual LAN)
This allows for the network to be split up into separate virtual networks, allowing for a dedicated interconnect used exclusively by the mobile scanners. This may improve throughput for mobile scanners if QoS is used.
QoS Tagging (Quality of Service)
QoS allows for the prioritization of network traffic. If the mobile scanners have been added to their own VLAN, then this VLAN should be placed as the highest priority in your network environment.
Note: If you are utilizing a VOIP phone system on its own VLAN, then that should be the highest priority, with the mobile scanners being second highest.
Ports
The mobile scanners connect to the database via Telnet. This communicates over TCP Port 23. Ensure that the mobile scanners can communicate with the server over this port.
Roaming
Roaming allows for the mobile scanner to seamlessly move between access points, greatly reducing the chances of random disconnects.
Note: Some newer devices may support Fast Roaming. This should only be enabled when utilizing WPA-Enterprise security; otherwise it may cause connectivity issues.
Heat Map & Signal Strength
After your network is configured, software tools can create a heat map that identifies weak points and measure signal quality. Some wireless controllers may offer this feature out of the box. For signal strength, the acceptable minimum is -60db.
Security & Upgrades
Inform WMS is upgraded on the server level as part of the standard Inform software upgrade. If you configured a VLAN for the mobile scanners and it allows for internet access, it is recommended to stay up to date with Android OS and app updates on the device (for security purposes). Alternatively, you may consider blocking the VLAN from internet access entirely.