Proscan automates mobile device management

ProScan Systems recently launched Wavelink's Avalanche Mobility Center device management software, which manages the large roll-out and deployment of mobile computers and data collection equipment.

Avalanche Mobility Center (MC) provides comprehensive management, provisioning and maintenance of each element in the wireless system, and for all major brands of handheld mobile computers, wireless infrastructure devices and peripheral items such as printers and bar code scanners.

Andrew Fosbrook, Managing Director of ProScan, distributors for Wavelink and leaders in supply chain, automated data collection and mobile computing solutions in SA, comments: "Companies are fast waking up to the fact that wireless mobile applications can drastically enhance operational efficiency, levels previously unattainable through batch or static systems.

"However, it's the ongoing manual maintenance of upgrades, security and diagnostics that is time-consuming and a logistical nightmare that often thwarts productivity. Traditionally, users need to bring all their equipment and devices to a central location to load software and upgrades."

Avalanche MC applies seamless configuration, synchronises software files, and automatically updates firmware and system files across a wired network, local wireless network, or a wide area wireless network.

Fosbrook adds: "Avalanche MC takes away the hassle. Updates can be scheduled and distributed over the air, or serially to targeted network infrastructure and mobile devices. Users can even define global updates for network and security configurations, firmware, applications, utilities and drivers.

"In addition, Avalanche MC increases the network flexibility by managing the hardware from multiple vendors, automatically discovering new hardware and applying initial configurations and profiles. Through continually enforcing all network and security configurations, Avalanche MC protects company networks from unauthorised equipment and malicious intrusions."

Another key feature is that Avalanche MC lets users create packages for distribution to large numbers of mobile devices, across multiple sites and regions. Devices can be targeted based on key criteria such as device model, make and location.

By setting specific performance thresholds that trigger alert notices whenever they are exceeded, Avalanche MC will proactively diagnose, troubleshoot and repair many error conditions without administrator intervention.

"When assistance is needed," says Fosbrook, "you can get it remotely via the optional remote control plug-in. Help-desk operators can now guide an end-user through any application or provide technical remedies."

Because the software and enablers are pre-loaded on new products like the Intermec 700 series, CK31 handheld terminals and CV60 vehicle-mount terminals, ProScan customers need only purchase a software licence to activate the powerful device management system.

Fosbrook concludes: "The real-time visibility and device control Avalanche MC affords customers enables them to take immediate action when unexpected changes occur, without worrying about updating the software applications.

"Aside from simplifying the entire process, the automation saves time, money and morale, as it considerably reduces the burdens on IT resources and eliminates the labour-intensive management of the mobile equipment. It also potentially eliminates duplication of effort and ensures all locations and sites are adhering to set standards and processes."