Considerations Cold Temperature Computers

The supply chain faces many types of challenges. Temperature is one of those issues. Consider the strain that is put on mobile computers when they are brought back and forth between a 100 degree loading dock and a freezer that is -20 degrees or less.

Battery Issue with Cold Temperature Computers:

Many lithium ion batteries cannot handle the severe temperatures needed to operate cold temperature computers. This is the same reason that many all electric cars are not suitable for some states in the northern U.S. Mobile workers in warehouse situations will have a hard time depending on standard lithium ion batteries. There is an alternative with low impedance lithium ion batteries, or even lead acid batteries.

Avoid Detaching Connectors:

Connectors are typically clip in. This works for a majority of uses when connecting a peripheral device to computer. However, a variable to help ensure maximum up time, you will want to consider having screw in connections. These connections are stronger, more reliable and can act as a seal against letting in moister. Moister can damage the connection.

Seek Durable Materials

Like how connections can allow for condensation to enter, so too can the house. When picking a unit, make sure the housing is strong enough to resist the temperature swings the warehouse versus the loading dock. Also make sure that while in the warehouse is can sustain a person dropping it on the floor.

A worker in a cold storage warehouse. In these working conditions additional equipment considerations must be given for reliability and productivity.

I'll keep writing about this for future entries

Author: Kyle Sarasin

Video of Warehouse Operations Tour

Here's a good video of warehouse operations in action. The video is from Dirt Cheap Lawn & Garden from their 180,000 square foot Indiana warehouse. This warehouse features merchandise from a variety of premier manufacturers. The company offers retailers to purchase large and small quantities and is open throughout the year.

This company is a good illustration of what a modern warehouse looks like. I would suspect that many operations managers would like to have some of the abilities and technology from this warehouse.

Check out the YouTube video. The video walks you through the process of what happens once an order has been received and processed.

Video: Dirt Cheap Lawn & Garden

Author: Kyle Sarasin

Is Your Warehouse Functioning Well?

In this blog I'll be writing alot about warehouse operations and the challengers that can be had. There is significant pressure today financially to ensure that your warehouse is not the weak point in the supply chain. Large customers demand annual improvements to satisfy their internal requirements. All suppliers and vendors throughout the supply chain understand this and strive to meet the demands of these customers.

Be flexible. Be creative. As you look to your operations, try to have an open mind. Be flexible. There are always going to be internal politics within your company. Revisit ideas from the past. Look at what was previously tabled and see if implementing is more realistic today.

Ask the employees: If you're looking for additional low hanging fruit, consider talking to the workers themselves. Often there are a few great examples of those that can bring some common sense thoughts that would both make their job easier and make it more efficient.  People like to be part of projects, don't miss opportunities with this group.

If you're looking for other options and ideas, consider contacting a consultant. This is a good option to consider, especially if the warehouse goals are higher than you feel you can achieve with internal resources alone.

Is your warehouse functioning the way you want it too? What improvements are you considering to meet the demands of the supply chain?

Have a question? Contact me or follow me on Twitter.

Author: Kyle Sarasin