Jones Bootmaker substantially reduces cost of ownership with the ultra-rugged Casio DT-X8

Jones Bootmaker has been established since 1857 and has over 80 branches throughout the UK. The footwear retailer expanded into most of the key retail outlets as well as high profile units within London. Based in Eastbourne, the head office and distribution centre has over 60 employees

The challenge

As the current handheld unit was reaching the end of its product lifecycle, Jones Bootmaker required a rugged unit for all warehouse activities such as pick/packing, receipting of stock and stock put away applications. Andy Capon, Warehouse manager at Jones Bootmakers explained further: "We wanted to improve reliability and wanted a product that was robust, as the previous units we had were proving to be unreliable". Casio introduced the DT-X8; a unit that knew would match their requirements.

The requirements

The previous PDA installed was proving to be unreliable and repair costs were significantly increasing. Andy commented: "Previous units we tested were slow and had a lot of reception issues. On occasion, it made it difficult as we didn't have enough handhelds to meet staffing requirements. Other issues were that the repair builds were extremely high and maintenance contracts were costly." The user tested a number of alternatives against their existing devices. Durability, reliability, speed price and after sales service were all key requirements.

The solution

Working alongside Syntechnologies, the DT-X8 was trialled in September 2011, and has now been installed. Andy commented: "We've worked with Syntech in the past and always found them very good to work with. The product itself was very robust and easy to use. What really swayed it for us was that the back-up service was great and enabled us to thoroughly test the units. In the past it has taken up to a month to configure the units properly. We constantly had that challenge of going back to the manufacturer where as the back-up service from Casio meant that we didn't have that problem."

Key features of the DT-X8

• IP67 compliant
• Drop-tested to 3 metres
• Integrated WLAN and Bluetooth
• microSD slot
• Windows Mobile Embedded CE 6.0
• 2.7" Blanview colour LCD display
• Up to 25 hour battery life
• Available with NFC/RFID
• Available with laser or C-MOS imager
• 280g light

Andy feels that the DT-X8 has proven to be reliable and comments: "The reliability and cost control have been the major benefits. We've purchased the product and haven't had to spend lots of money on repair bills. We also purchased warranty plans which put our mind at ease. Remarkably, there have been no reliability issues with the Casio units. The users like them which is a plus. Staff like the units, the clarity of the screen has been excellent, training has been straight forward and the functionality is very easy. The screen is clear and the product suits our application very well."

The benefits

Jones Bootmakers have substantially reduced costs of ownership due to the ruggedness of the DT-X8.

Versatile and robust

• Compact and weighing only 280g
• Stylish and ergonomically designed

An ultra-tough device for tough environments

• 3m drop tested
• Dust and splash-proof in accordance with IP67

Andy comments: "Any questions we had, we had that direct contact with Casio that enabled us to properly test the product in its field day to day which gave us greater confidence in the product."

The future

Andy concludes that the DT-X8 has been reliable and has significantly reduced the cost of ownership. "Due to the success of the DT-X8, we are hoping to swop out some of the other units as they are reaching the end of their product life," he said.