Understanding TCDs

Time and Labor's time collection process enables you to control how the system collects and sends time-related information to and from third-party, time-collection devices.

You can collect both punched and elapsed time data from any TCD for processing through Time and Labor. You can send setup data to these devices for improved performance and flexibility. Setup data, such as time reporter and supervisor information, task detail, and restriction rules, are synchronized with the clock system. After time is reported using a TCD, Time and Labor can apply rules to the clock data and process it for the purposes of scheduling, reporting, and time management.

Many TCD time reporters perform the same tasks, and their cost allocation data remains static. Using the TCD interface, time reporters can swipe their badges when they start and stop working without setting up task data. The time reporter's default task profiles, defined in Time and Labor, can then be used to allocate these costs.

Time and Labor uses schedules and restriction profiles to determine when a time reporter is scheduled to punch in and out for work, meals, and breaks, and to determine when to allow or disallow punches.

You can group TCD information by TCD taskgroup to use when enrolling time reporters into Time and Labor. Doing so allows time reporters assigned to a TCD taskgroup to enter time using any TCD configured to accommodate their taskgroup. For example, a time reporter can punch clock A when performing shipping tasks, and later, punch clock B found in another section of the warehouse when performing inventory tasks if both clocks were set up for that TCD taskgroup.

Time and Labor uses the information defined on the TCD pages to control the data going to the TCDs. It does not send data the TCD cannot handle, thus reducing traffic on the network.