Setting Up Your Zebra DS2200 Barcode Scanner for Android Devices

The Zebra DS2200 series barcode scanners are known for their versatility and ease of use, making them a popular choice for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re using an Android tablet or smartphone for your point of sale or inventory management, setting up your Zebra DS2200 scanner to work with your Android device is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps for both corded and cordless models, ensuring seamless barcode scanning on your Android system.

Understanding Android Barcode Scanning

Android devices can interface with barcode scanners in a few ways. For corded scanners like the Zebra DS2208, connection is typically achieved via a USB OTG (On-The-Go) adapter, allowing your Android device to recognize the scanner as an input device. Cordless scanners, such as the Zebra DS2278, offer even greater flexibility by connecting wirelessly via Bluetooth. This eliminates cable clutter and provides freedom of movement within your workspace. To utilize your barcode scanner, you will generally need a dedicated application on your Android device that is designed to receive and process scanned barcode data. Many inventory management, POS, and data collection apps readily support external barcode scanners.

Setting up the Zebra DS2208 Barcode Scanner (Corded Model) with Android

To set up your corded Zebra DS2208 barcode scanner with an Android device, you will need the following:

• Zebra DS2208 Barcode Scanner
• USB Cable (included)
• USB OTG Adapter (if your Android device requires it – typically for devices with USB-C or Micro-USB ports)

Here’s how to connect it:

1. Connect the USB cable to the base of your Zebra DS2208 barcode scanner.

2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to your Android device. If your Android device has a standard USB-A port, you can connect directly. For devices with USB-C or Micro-USB ports, use a USB OTG adapter to connect the USB cable to your Android device’s charging port.

3. Enable automatic carriage return. For most Android applications, you’ll want the scanner to automatically add a “enter” or “return” after each scan. Scan the barcode below to enable this feature. This barcode can also be found in the Quick Start Guide that came with your scanner.

4. Open your barcode scanning application on your Android device.

5. Test the scanner. In your application, navigate to a field where you can input data using the barcode scanner. Scan a barcode. The scanned data should appear in the application field.

If the scanned barcode data appears in your Android application, your Zebra DS2208 corded scanner is successfully set up and ready for use.

Setting up the Zebra DS2278 Barcode Scanner (Cordless Model with Cradle) for Android

The cordless Zebra DS2278 scanner uses a cradle for both charging and communication. The cradle connects to your Android device, and the scanner communicates wirelessly with the cradle via Bluetooth.

Before you begin, ensure your Zebra DS2278 scanner is charged by placing it in the cradle until the charging LED turns solid green.

To set up the cordless DS2278 with the cradle for Android:

1. Connect the cradle cable to the port on the underside of the cradle.

2. Connect the cradle to your Android device. Use a USB OTG adapter if needed, similar to the corded setup, to connect the cradle’s USB cable to your Android device’s port.

3. Enable automatic carriage return by scanning the configuration barcode provided below. This ensures each scan is followed by an automatic “enter” in your Android application.

4. Pair the scanner with the cradle. Usually, the scanner is pre-paired with the cradle. If pairing is needed, consult the Zebra DS2278 manual for specific Bluetooth pairing barcodes or procedures.

5. Open your barcode scanning application on your Android device.

6. Test the scanner. Scan a barcode to verify that the data is correctly transmitted to your Android application.

Once the scanned item information appears in your application, your Zebra DS2278 cordless scanner with cradle is configured for Android use.

Setting up the Zebra DS2278 Barcode Scanner (Cordless Model) Directly via Bluetooth (No Cradle) for Android

You can also connect your Zebra DS2278 cordless scanner directly to your Android device via Bluetooth, without using the cradle for communication. This is ideal for mobile use cases.

1. Charge your scanner. Connect the micro USB cable directly to the scanner and to a USB power source (like a wall adapter or your Android device if it supports reverse charging). Ensure it is sufficiently charged before proceeding. The LED on the scanner will flash green while charging.

2. Scan the “General Discoverable Mode” barcode. After charging, unplug the USB cable and scan the barcode below. This puts the scanner in discoverable mode, allowing your Android device to find it via Bluetooth.

3. Pair via Android Bluetooth settings. On your Android device, go to Settings > Bluetooth and enable Bluetooth. Look for “Zebra DS2278” or a similar name in the list of available devices. Tap on it to initiate pairing. Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process.

4. Open your barcode scanning application on your Android device.

5. Test the scanner. Scan a barcode to confirm that the data is transmitted wirelessly to your application via Bluetooth.

If the barcode data is successfully received by your Android application, your Zebra DS2278 is now set up for direct Bluetooth connection.

Configuring 2D Barcode Scanning for Android

The Zebra DS2200 series supports both 1D and 2D barcodes. To ensure your scanner is properly configured for 2D barcodes when using with Android, follow these steps:

1. Scan the “Set Factory Defaults” barcode. This resets the scanner to its default settings, providing a clean configuration base.

2. Scan the “Disable Keypad Emulation” barcode (barcode image not provided in the original article, refer to Zebra documentation if necessary). This step is generally recommended for optimal data transmission to applications.

3. Enable automatic carriage return. Scan the barcode below to ensure an “enter” command is sent after each scan, which is often needed for proper data entry in Android applications.

4. Test with a 2D barcode. Use a 2D barcode and your Android scanning application to verify that the scanner reads and transmits 2D barcode data correctly.

By following these steps, your Zebra DS2200 series barcode scanner will be fully configured to scan both 1D and 2D barcodes seamlessly with your Android devices, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in your operations. Whether you choose a corded USB connection or the wireless freedom of Bluetooth, the Zebra DS2200 series offers reliable barcode scanning for your Android needs.