PDAs for the Beef Feedlot Industry

Dale A. Blasi, Extension Beef Specialist, Kansas State University

As the beef industry moves further into the domain of value-based marketing, the adoption rate of dependable technologies from the computing and wireless data communications area will likely increase. This is a necessary prerequisite which needs to occur in order to keep pace with the consumers' increasing demand for achieving quality assurance through process-verified procedures and product trace back if necessary. Hand-held computers are an example of a relatively new computing technology that is currently being assessed for use in the beef industry by Kansas State University. Comparable industries that routinely manage large inventories with rapid turnover have already successfully applied this technology.

A hand-held computer is a relatively small electronic device that may contain applications designed specifically for a mobile professional's particular job needs. There are two major categories of PDAs: hand-held and palm-sized computers. The primary differences between the two are size, display and mode of data entry. These types of computers are referred to by various names: for example, PDAs' (personal data assistant), PIMs' (personal information managers) or even PALMs.

The basic premise behind the hand-held computer concept is that they are regarded as peripheral devices for use by mobile professionals while away from the "home" desktop or laptop computer. A question which normally surfaces when the subject of hand-held computers arises is "Will they ever replace a laptop computer?" In the short term the answer is a definite no. However, as the form factor, memory/speed capabilities and the software applications for these units evolve and improve, perhaps so.

There are several logical reasons that support this rationale. First, relative to the cost of a laptop computer, hand held computers are significantly lower. Depending upon the unit under consideration, a PDA may range in price from $150 to $1,500. Also, all information and programs contained in a PDA can be instantly accessed in contrast to the time it takes for a lap top to "boot up". Furthermore, handheld computers are fairly intuitive (i.e. easy to learn and use), convenient to carry and for the most part, dependable. Obviously, typical feed yard conditions are not friendly to any electronic device and hand-held computers are no exception. Ruggedized units are available but command a higher price. However, there is a large selection of various accessories and cases that can improve the durability of a hand-held in challenging work environments.

To the non-acquainted observer, the various units available today are reminiscent of the devices of old that accomplished little more than keeping track of one's calendar and business contacts. However, if used to their fullest potential, today's devices have the capability in a feedlot setting to successfully capture useful data at logical collection points. Obviously, this approach can reduce labor needs and avoid costly errors associated with the transposition of handwritten records into a digital format. Moreover, the ability to access information almost "real time" may save precious time and help prevent a manageable problem from turning into a full scale wreck.

For example, a feedlot manager's PDA may contain a portable web browser that "collects" various information such as updated market movement from the Internet in addition to a database that automatically streamlines each feed yard pen's daily feed intake and projected days out. Meanwhile, the feed mill foreman's PDA may contain spreadsheets and conversion calculators designed specifically for calculating and optimizing mill energy consumption and throughput. Finally, the consulting nutritionist and veterinarian would be able to sift through the information collected by feed truck drivers and the cattle treatment crews to ascertain if particular recommendation such as subtle ration changes or health treatment protocols are truly effective. The simple point is: these units are not toys or gadgets, but productivity tools.

A handheld device communicates with a home computer via a serial or USB cable or via an infra-red port. To initiate communication between the two devices, the handheld is placed onto a cradle and a process known as "hotsyncing" is initiated between the two devices. In essence, each device shares its unique and most up to date information with the other. Thus, when the process is completed, the information contained on both are identical.

PDA's differ in how you input data and commands. Hand-held computers use a miniature keyboard in combination with a touch screen while Palm-sized computers use a stylus and touch screen exclusively in combination with a handwriting recognition program called Graffiti (Table 1). Handheld computers rely on one of two primary operating systems known either as PALM or Pocket PC. There are dramatic differences in software architecture between either one. In short, the PALM OS system is based upon a very quick, very simple user interface that closely couples the hardware and software. Microsoft's approach was fundamentally different. Instead of focusing only on hand-held computers, MS developed an embedded operating system that would be useful not only for hand-held computers of various sizes and capabilities, but in applications such as television set-top boxes and car radios.