Industrial-grade PDAs are also known as code scanners or inventory counters. Data collectors or handheld PDA collection terminals designed for mobile data acquisition and commodity circulation in work are characterized by integration, mobility, small size, light weight, high performance, and suitability for handheld use. They are terminal computer devices that integrate a barcode scanner with a data terminal, equipped with a battery for offline operation. Compared with traditional manual collection equipment, barcode handheld terminals are more advanced, enabling real-time data communication directly with PCs and servers via wireless networks. Also referred to as handheld devices or industrial PDAs, they offer excellent real-time data transmission and high efficiency. They include two core functions: wireless data transmission and data collection. The collected content typically includes common output signals from sensors, such as ±10V voltage signals, 4-20mA current signals, or common conditioning circuits (e.g., PT100, thermocouple, and bridge conditioning circuits). Working Principle of Industrial PDA Handheld Terminals Wireless data transmission networks usually include Wifi, GPRS, 3G, and 4G, which generally feature low comprehensive costs and stable performance. User equipment data is transmitted to online hosts via GPRS wireless networks, enabling remote transparent data transmission. Embedded with a GPRS unit and integrated with the CPAP protocol, they support transparent transmission, permanent online status, and automatic reconnection. They can be directly connected via serial ports to various user devices requiring remote wireless communication, such as smart instruments, meters, PLCs, DCS, data terminals, touchscreens, and industrial computers. Meanwhile, they can be configured with industrial control products like configuration software, human-machine interfaces, touchscreens, and measurement and control terminals using free protocols or MODBUS protocols. Applications include power monitoring, oilfield monitoring, remote meter reading, street lamp monitoring, environmental monitoring, meteorological monitoring, water conservancy monitoring, and heat network monitoring, among other fields. Industrial PDA handheld terminals are equipped with a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), readable and writable memory (RAM), a keyboard, a screen display, an interface with computers, a barcode scanner, and a power supply. Handheld terminals can be connected to computers via communication docks to receive or upload data. The operating programs of handheld terminals are compiled by computers and downloaded to the terminals, which can then perform corresponding functions as required. PDA handheld terminals can be used for supplementary ordering, order receiving, sales, warehousing and outbound operations, inventory counting, stock management, and logistics management. They effectively solve the problem of identifying data and confirming quantities during commodity circulation, ensuring fast and accurate processing of system information. However, due to relatively high equipment prices and the fact that not all commodities have been universally barcoded, the popularity of PDA handheld terminals remains low and requires further promotion. Classification of Industrial-grade PDAs Industrial-grade PDAs are classified by their functional types, with common categories including RFID handheld terminals, barcode handheld terminals, industrial-grade tablets, and all-in-one printing PDAs. 1. RFID Handheld Terminals (Handheld Scanning Guns) This type of PDA is widely used in logistics and warehousing for tasks such as cargo inventory and registration, significantly improving work efficiency. RFID handheld terminals can read barcode information from a long distance, even for items placed on high shelves. For example, the Lanchang S70 UHF industrial-grade handheld terminal features high-performance overclocked reading and writing, with a readable and writable distance of up to 13 meters. 2. Barcode Handheld Terminals Barcode handheld terminals can quickly identify and read 1D and 2D barcodes, accurately scanning even stained or damaged barcodes. They play an important role in express scanning, supermarket inventory, and clothing stock inquiries. For instance, the Lanchang S80 supports the industry-leading Honeywell N3603, offering strong scanning capability. 3. Industrial-grade Tablets Industrial-grade tablets focus on safety and stability in diverse environments, enabling information exchange between humans and machines. They are mainly used in industries requiring intuitive data, such as ETC processing, libraries, vehicle management, and telecommunications. The Lanchang P80 industrial-grade tablet, for example, delivers powerful performance and smooth operation. 4. All-in-one Printing PDAs These are mostly used in retail and parking fee collection industries, allowing on-demand printing of order data anytime, anywhere. The Lanchang S60, for example, supports thermal adhesive/non-adhesive printing at a speed of 70mm/s, fully meeting daily work and life needs. Article sources: Lanchang Technology, Suzhou Yuanjingda