Memory

ROM (often called Flash ROM) stores the operating system, like the hard drive of a PC. This is the program memory. The mobile computer 'boots up' from this memory. The larger the program memory, the more complex an operating system the device can store. Windows requires much more program memory than a non-Windows^® operating system, like CipherLab's proprietary operating system.

RAM (or SRAM) stores temporary information, like application programs you load onto the device, item lists, and any scanned information. The operating system also uses a small portion of RAM. RAM is also specified as data memory.

Data memory is often a critical specification. It determines how long a user can work in batch mode without uploading data. (When working in real-time, using a wireless LAN network, data is not stored in the device, but sent directly to the server.) There are two considerations with data memory. One is for Bluetooth scanners when they are working offline; that is, they cannot communicate with their cradle to send scans to the cash register or PC. In this mode, they collect scans and store them in data memory. CipherLab BT scanners can save up to 8,192 scans when offline. The other consideration is batch scanning with a mobile computer. Our non-Windows^® mobile computers (8000, 8300, and 8500 series) come standard with 2 MB of data memory. This can hold about 150,000 UPC barcodes, which is often adequate for a full shift of work. However, some models can be expanded by adding more memory. The 8300 and 8500 series can be expanded with up to 10 MB of data memory.

Data is saved in memory while the device is on, and also saved when the unit is off using a small backup battery. The backup battery ensures retained data for several days, and saves the data while you change the main battery. 8000/8300 can even retain data for a month. If the main battery power is completely consumed and not recharged, and the backup battery completely drains, any scanned data and loaded applications will be lost.

The program memory (Flash ROM) is part of the device's design. It always has enough to hold the operating system.

How much SRAM data memory you need depends on what type of codes you will scan, whether or not the device will be used in batch or real-time, and how many scans you will make in a shift if working in batch mode. 2 MB of data memory holds about 150,000 UPC scans. For a more accurate assessment of how much memory you will need, contact your local CipherLab representative, who will work closely with you and consider your exact needs.

Up to 4 GB. SD memory in Windows^®-based devices is limited to 4 GB by the operating system.

The CipherLab 9400 and CipherLab 9500 include SD card slots.

The CipherLab 9400 uses a mini-SD card. The CipherLab 9500 can take SD memory cards and CF type 2 cards.

Windows^®-based mobile computers in general have a more powerful CPU (processor) than non-Windows^® devices. Windows^® requires more computing power. The amount of program memory (ROM) depends on the operating system it runs. Windows^® requires much more memory to store the operating system and all associated programs that come with it. Program memory is designed into the device; it is typically not expandable. Data memory (SRAM) can be scaled from the standard 2 MB to 10 MB or more in our non-Windows^® mobile computers. Our Windows^®-based devices can expand to as much as 4 GB of data memory. Your needs will dictate how much data memory you will need.