The Zebra DS2200 series barcode scanners are popular for their versatility and ease of use, supporting both 1D and 2D barcodes. Whether you have the corded DS2208 or the cordless DS2278 model, setting them up for your business operations is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the setup for each model, ensuring you can quickly start scanning items and improve your workflow. These scanners are designed for plug-and-play functionality, minimizing assembly and focusing on simple USB connectivity to your computer.
Setting Up the Corded Zebra DS2208 Barcode Scanner
The corded Zebra DS2208 is a reliable option for stationary workstations. Here’s how to get it up and running:
What you’ll need:
- Zebra DS2208 Barcode Scanner
- USB Cable
- Cradle (optional, for scanner placement when not in use)
Steps:
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Connect the USB Cable to the Scanner Base: Locate the USB port at the base of your Zebra DS2208 scanner and firmly plug in the USB cable.
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Connect the Scanner to Your Computer: Plug the other end of the USB cable into an available USB port on your computer. Note for Mac Users: If a “Keyboard Setup Assistant” window appears, simply close it by clicking the red “x” in the corner. This pop-up is not needed for barcode scanner setup and can be safely ignored.
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Enable Automatic Carriage Return (Optional but Recommended): For most applications, you’ll want the scanner to automatically add a carriage return after each scan, which is like pressing “Enter” after scanning a barcode. To enable this, scan the barcode provided in your scanner’s Quick Start Guide or the example barcode typically found in the documentation. Important for Elo Desktop Bundle Users: If you are using the Elo desktop bundle, this step is already done for you as the scanner comes pre-configured.
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Test Your Scanner: Open a program where you can input text, such as a text editor or a point-of-sale (POS) system like Retail POS. Navigate to the item search or inventory section.
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Scan an Item Barcode: Scan a product barcode. If the item information appears in your system, your Zebra DS2208 scanner is successfully set up and ready to use.
Your corded scanner is now configured and will function whenever it’s connected to a powered-on computer. Using a cradle (if included or purchased separately) can help keep your workspace organized and provide a convenient place to store the scanner when not actively scanning.
Setting Up the Cordless Zebra DS2278 Barcode Scanner with Cradle
The cordless Zebra DS2278 offers greater flexibility thanks to its Bluetooth communication via a cradle. The cradle also serves as a charging station.
Before you begin: It’s recommended to charge the DS2278 scanner in its cradle until it is fully charged before initial use. While charging, the cradle’s LED indicator will blink amber. A solid green light indicates a full charge.
What you’ll need:
- Zebra DS2278 Cordless Barcode Scanner
- Cradle
- Cradle USB Cable
Steps:
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Connect the Cradle Cable: Plug the cradle cable into the port located on the underside of the Zebra DS2278 cradle.
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Connect the Cradle to Your Computer: Connect the other end of the cradle cable to a USB port on your computer. Mac Users Note: As with the corded model, dismiss the “Keyboard Setup Assistant” pop-up if it appears.
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Enable Automatic Carriage Return (Optional but Recommended): Scan the automatic carriage return barcode from your Quick Start Guide to enable this feature, similar to the DS2208 setup.
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Test Your Scanner: Open your POS system or a text application and navigate to the item search or inventory section.
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Scan an Item Barcode: Scan a product barcode. If the item details are displayed, your cordless DS2278 scanner is successfully set up and communicating with your computer through the cradle.
Setting Up the Cordless Zebra DS2278 Barcode Scanner without Cradle (Direct USB Charging & Bluetooth Pairing)
If you are using the cordless DS2278 without its cradle, you can still set it up by directly charging it via USB and pairing it via Bluetooth.
Steps:
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Charge the Scanner via USB: Connect the micro USB connector to the port on your Zebra DS2278 scanner and the standard USB end to your computer or a USB wall adapter for charging. The LED indicator on the scanner will flash green while charging.
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Pair via Bluetooth (General Discoverable Mode): Once sufficiently charged, disconnect the USB cable. Scan the “general discoverable mode” barcode (usually found in the scanner’s documentation). This barcode puts the scanner in pairing mode, allowing it to be discovered by your computer’s Bluetooth.
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Pair with Your Computer via Bluetooth Settings: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your computer. Access your computer’s Bluetooth settings, locate the “Zebra DS2278” model in the list of available devices, and select it to pair. Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process.
Configuring 2D Barcode Scanning for Zebra DS2200 Series
The Zebra DS2200 series is capable of scanning 2D barcodes, but you might need to configure it specifically to ensure optimal performance for 2D codes.
Steps:
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Scan the “Set Factory Defaults” Barcode: To start with a clean configuration, scan the “Set factory default” barcode. This barcode resets the scanner to its original factory settings, ensuring no previous configurations interfere with the 2D setup.
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Scan the “Disable Keypad Emulation” Barcode: Scan the “Disable keypad emulation” barcode. This step is often necessary to ensure proper data interpretation when scanning 2D barcodes, preventing potential issues with data entry. (Barcode image usually available in the scanner’s setup guide).
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Enable Automatic Carriage Return (If not already enabled): As before, ensure automatic carriage return is enabled by scanning the appropriate barcode. This is important for seamless data entry after scanning 2D barcodes as well.
By following these steps, you can effectively set up your Zebra DS2200 series barcode scanner, whether it’s the corded DS2208 or the cordless DS2278, and configure it for both 1D and 2D barcode scanning. This setup process is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to quickly integrate these scanners into your business operations and streamline your inventory management or sales processes.
