Choosing the Right Mobile Device for Manufacturing: The Benefits of Zebra ET40/ET45 Rugged Tablets & MC9400 Mobile Computers

In today’s competitive manufacturing environment, the right mobile device can make a significant difference in how operations flow, tasks are completed, and issues are resolved. Zebra offers two powerful options tailored for manufacturing: the ET40/ET45 rugged tablets and the MC9400 handheld mobile computer. SK&T can help you understand the unique advantages of each device to determine which makes the most sense for your business—and when they can complement each other to optimize workplace productivity.

Zebra ET40/ET45 Rugged Tablets: Portable Flexibility & Power

The Zebra ET40 and ET45 rugged tablets are designed to handle tough environments while providing the flexibility of a tablet interface. Built with the durability needed for manufacturing, they resist drops, dust, and spills and offer diverse applications across the manufacturing floor. Key advantages include:

Large Display for Detailed Data Viewing
With larger screens compared to handheld mobile computers, Zebra ET40 and ET45 tablets offer easier viewing of detailed data, diagrams, and dashboards. This is particularly useful for quality control, technical maintenance, and inventory management, where users benefit from seeing more information at once.

Android-Based Interface
Running on Android, these tablets offer a familiar interface that reduces training time, which is particularly valuable for environments with high turnover or diverse workforce needs. Android also supports a wide range of applications, making it adaptable for various operational functions in manufacturing.

Enhanced Connectivity Options
The ET45 model offers 5G connectivity, ensuring that data access is seamless and fast, even in remote areas of your facility. This makes it an ideal choice for large manufacturing environments where constant Wi-Fi connectivity may be unreliable or where mobile workers need to move between sites.

Accessory Ecosystem for Versatile Use
Zebra’s range of accessories, like mounts, cases, and external keyboards, allows the ET40/ET45 to be adapted for different tasks, whether mounted on a forklift or carried by a floor manager. This flexibility is particularly useful in manufacturing environments where workflows vary.

Ideal for Field & Floor Managers
For supervisors and field managers, the ET40/ET45 is an excellent choice, providing visibility into operations and real-time data access across departments. Managers can quickly address issues, check inventory levels, and oversee tasks with the convenience of a tablet that offers both portability and a comprehensive view of operations.

The MC9400 Mobile Computer: Built for Precision & Longevity in Heavy-duty Tasks

The Zebra MC9400 mobile computer is purpose-built for high-volume, intensive tasks in rugged manufacturing environments. Known for its durability, ergonomic design, and powerful scanning capabilities, it is an asset in fast-paced environments where workers are primarily focused on scanning, data entry, and high-frequency Work in Progress (WIP) task completion. Key advantages include:

Exceptional Durability
The MC9400 is built to withstand extreme conditions, including exposure to dust, water, and even sub-zero temperatures. It can handle drops onto concrete from significant heights, making it perfect for the most demanding areas of the manufacturing floor.

Industry-Leading Scanning Capabilities
Equipped with the SE58 Extended Range Scan Engine, the MC9400 can capture 1D and 2D barcodes with ease, even if they are damaged or poorly printed. This capability is vital for manufacturing, where accurate tracking of parts, products, and inventory is essential for maintaining workflow efficiency and accuracy.

Extended Battery Life for Long Shifts
The MC9400’s long battery life supports continuous operation through multiple shifts, eliminating downtime for recharging and boosting productivity. In manufacturing, where shift work is common, the reliability of a long-lasting battery can significantly enhance throughput.

Optimized for High-Speed Data Entry
With an ergonomic design and physical keyboard, the MC9400 is built for speed and efficiency in data entry. Workers can quickly input data or make adjustments without having to switch between touchscreen input and physical keys, reducing task time and minimizing errors.

Ideal for Line Workers & High-Volume Scanning Tasks
For workers on the production line who are scanning large numbers of items throughout the day, the MC9400 is ideal. Its rugged build, intuitive interface, and ease of handling make it a reliable tool for demanding tasks that require high-speed, accurate barcode scanning. It’s also backward compatible with the MC9300 accessories, making it easy and affordable to upgrade to the latest technology.

When To Use a Rugged Tablet vs. Mobile Computer

Understanding when to use a rugged tablet like the ET40/ET45 versus a mobile computer like the MC9400 can optimize workflows and productivity.

Use rugged tablets when:

• Supervisors, floor managers, or maintenance staff need a larger screen to view dashboards, equipment diagrams, or process instructions.
• Connectivity is essential across various areas of a manufacturing site, and mobile data access (like 5G) is required for continuous operation.
• Workers need the flexibility to handle different tasks, from inventory checks to process monitoring, where the tablet’s larger display and adaptability are advantageous.

Use mobile computers when:

• High-frequency barcode scanning and data entry are required, especially in environments where precision and speed are critical.
• Devices are exposed to extreme conditions, like high dust, vibration, or temperature, where the MC9400’s rugged design provides unmatched durability.
• Tasks that involve intensive and continuous use over long shifts, where the extended battery life of the MC9400 can prevent interruptions. 

Complementary Use of Tablets & Mobile Computers

In many cases, rugged tablets and mobile computers can complement each other within a manufacturing facility. For instance, a floor manager can use an ET40/ET45 tablet to monitor operations and make data-driven decisions, while line workers use MC9400 mobile computers for rapid barcode scanning and data entry. Together, they form a cohesive system where each device is used in its optimal role, creating a highly efficient workflow. Here are a few other examples of how rugged tablets and mobile computers can work powerfully together.

• Inventory Management: The ET40/ET45 tablet can be used to access inventory databases and visualize stock levels, while the MC9400 is ideal for physically scanning items as they move in and out of storage areas.
• Production Monitoring: Supervisors can use the ET40/ET45 to monitor real-time production metrics and oversee quality control, while workers on the line can use the MC9400 to scan parts and update production statuses.
• Maintenance & Repairs: The ET40/ET45 tablet, with its larger screen, can be used by maintenance staff to access technical manuals, equipment diagrams, and maintenance schedules, while the MC9400 can assist in logging parts used or tracking repair tasks with quick barcode scans.

Optimize Your Manufacturing Operations with SK&T & Zebra

By strategically deploying Zebra’s ET40/ET45 rugged tablets and MC9400 mobile computers in your manufacturing operations, you can create a highly efficient, complementary system that maximizes productivity, reduces downtime, and supports both frontline workers and management. SK&T can help you choose the right devices to enhance your operational flow and enable a smarter, faster, and more resilient manufacturing environment.

Ready to enhance your manufacturing operations with the right rugged mobile devices from Zebra? Contact SK&T today at (720) 851-9108 or send us a message to learn how we can help you choose the best device for your business needs.