QC in motion

Well Pict European Ltd has recently implemented wireless QC application. The difference from the old system is that we do not need to synchronise the data to keep it up to date; the data is actually live with a permanent connection to the PR2 system from Blass plc. Aurel Voiculescu says, “You do not need a computer to carry out your job. Your laptop is portable but it can’t go everywhere with you and you cannot easily boot up your laptop when you are
in the loading bay or cold store. Handheld devices and especially wireless devices are perfect for these situations providing quick, convenient and up-to-date information”.

Currently the wireless Local Area Network (LAN) is not a replacement for the wired  infrastructure,  but it significantly complements what currently exists. The system has enabled us to provide network coverage in the areas difficult to reach with cables. It has also reduced the clutter associated with cabled networks.

QC manager Paul Newman says “the handhelds have helped speed up the reporting process with its quick and easy to use layout. The QC reports can be completed on the spot and sent to the growers immediately”.

IT manager Peter Brooks says, “by using the Psion Netbook Pro portable handheld units on a wireless network, QC personnel can inspect and generate reports on incoming arrivals in real time. Adopting this method produces a more accurate QC result and it has the major benefit of dramatically reducing the time it takes for the fruit to enter our cold storage facility.”

The development of a secure wireless network is driven by the need to provide real-time information to our customers and suppliers.

Spring 2005