Frequently Asked Questions
What level of tracking is included within XenBee?
- You can operate at whichever level you choose; Site, Hive, Queen or Super. Just remember the level and quality of information you are able to report on depends on the level of information you enter. If you record at Site level only, then you can track at Site level only.
Who can access my data?
- Only those people you have given authorization to do so.
Do I have to use a mobile device in order to operate XenBee while out in the field?
- No, you can use our specially designed data sheets to enter your information whilst in the field; this information can then be entered into the system through the desktop application.
Do I have to insert all beekeeping related data myself?
- No, much of the generic or static data will be supplied when you purchase the application. You enter details about your sites, events, hives and personnel etc.
How do I identify my hives within XenBee?
- This is achieved by attaching a code and/or barcode to the hive and recording it in XenBee. The barcode is then scanned (by the barcode reader attached to the mobile device), which makes the hive information immediately available to you. If you are not using a mobile device with a barcode scanner, you can locate the hive from a list on the desktop form.
What sort of mobile device should I purchase for use with XenBee?
- Xenacom can recommend, provide, and support a variety of mobile devices. We can also where applicable provide various purchase options such as rental or lease which can include a comprehensive no damage or loss cover.
Can I destroy a hive and then use the same number again?
- In New Zealand if the hive is destroyed due to disease then the boxes are generally burnt and the barcode number becomes unusable due to the history of that barcode which is stored in the database. If the hive simply dies for any other reason, the barcode can be re-used.
Does XenBee produce a report showing historical hive movement during a given time period – displaying dates and sites for a specific hive?
- Yes, it records full history in both cases; reports can be created using any data stored, so we can customize any report you need. We never delete data, so your history is available pretty much forever.
Can you provide an extraction module within XenBee used for tracking honey?
- Yes we can, it’s called the production module and is for tracking the honey from the hive to the pot. It allows Beekeepers who have hives on multiple locations to generate reports which detail what honey came from what location and by batch as well. This way if you ever need to recall product you can do so by batch as opposed to by the whole pallet.
Do you recommend a specific barcode for my hives? If so, where can I buy them?
- Yes we do recommend a particular barcode for your hives. Our supplier specially designed them for outdoor use, and they are very durable. If you use your own barcodes, please ensure the barcode is at least eight digits long.
For more information, please contact us by clicking here.
“Managing staff and data in the field is made easier with MobileFrame technology and Xenacom’s ability to deliver support and the product has assisted us in meeting our obligations to our clients and improved overall productivity”,
- Candice Lawson , Business Process Analyst, Industrial Solutions, Transpacific Industries Group Ltd
