PC FREE PODS enables companies to design templates in any format with data matrix codes, barcodes, images, symbols and other graphical elements, all exactly as they will be printed using our Print On Demand (PODs) software.

Stencil content can be sourced at print time from database records, keyboard input and other sources. Serial numbers, data matrix codes, date/time codes etc can all be added to the template design using UMS’s PODs software. Stencil templates can be transferred to the standalone keyboard at any point to transfer the selected templates along with all related files, data and settings.

This system is highly secure as the template format cannot be changed and there is no access to the network or internet. It has a small footprint and no mouse or monitor is required. It has a robust construction designed for industrial use.

A leading aerospace manufacturer has adopted PC Free PODs which means they can create the stencil template for the data matrix code to meet the appropriate aerospace standard which can be done by UMS or via the software provided. The PC Free PODs keyboard can then be taken to the workstation and simply plugged in for the stencil to be produced. There is a USB Memory Module available which can be connected to a remote PC to download the templates. This can then be connected to each PC Free PODs keyboard and templates can then be embedded into the PC Free PODs keyboard On Demand stencil or label system. You can salso embed macro scripts for things such as automatic date encryption from the keyboard’s onboard clock.

A typical template would on system power up prompt the user to select a geographical template, then prompt the user to enter data into pre determined fields. These fields can contain variable and fixed data such as Prefixes or Text Element Identifiers (MFR,PNR,SER,1P,1V) to eliminate the need to have to enter them each time. Things such as ASSY or company logos can be fixed or embedded into the templates.

In summary the system is almost as flexible as having a windows based system on the shop floor but without the need for IT support and any of the problems associated with PC security. To edit or create a template takes only minutes and seconds to download. Almost no training at operator/user level is required as it is all self explanatory with user prompts for data entry. Coupled to a barcode scanner with barcoded data entry it makes it probably the most cost effective simplest to use On Demand stencil/label creation package available.