Mobile Computers: Zebra & Honeywell Rugged Device FAQ
Device Selection
What is the difference between a mobile computer and a barcode scanner?
A barcode scanner is a dedicated single-function device that reads barcodes and sends the data to a host computer. A mobile computer (also called a handheld computer or rugged PDA) combines an integrated barcode scanner with a full Android or Windows operating system, cellular/WiFi radio, and touchscreen — allowing workers to run apps, access databases, and communicate without returning to a fixed workstation. Examples include the Zebra MC9400 and Honeywell CT60.
Shop Mobile Computers →What operating system do Zebra and Honeywell mobile computers run?
Current-generation Zebra and Honeywell mobile computers run Android Enterprise. The Zebra MC9400 and TC72 run Android 13 with Zebra's Mobility DNA software suite, while the Honeywell CT60 XP runs Android 11 with Honeywell Mobility Edge. Both manufacturers commit to multi-year Android OS upgrade support — Zebra guarantees a minimum of eight years of OS and security updates for Mobility Edge platform devices.
Shop Mobile Computers →Ruggedness
What does IP65 or IP67 rating mean on a mobile computer?
IP (Ingress Protection) ratings describe a device's resistance to solids and liquids. IP65 means the device is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction — suitable for light outdoor and warehouse use. IP67 adds immersion protection up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it safe for wet environments and accidental drops in shallow water. The Zebra MC9300 is rated IP64 and MIL-STD-810G, while the Zebra TC72 is rated IP67.
Shop Zebra Mobile Computers →Battery & Performance
How long does the battery last on a Zebra MC9400 or MC9300?
The Zebra MC9400 uses a 7,000 mAh PowerPrecision+ smart battery rated for a full 10-hour shift of continuous use under typical warehouse scanning loads. The MC9300 uses a 5,200 mAh battery with similar shift-ready runtime. Both support hot-swap battery replacement — the device stays on while you swap the battery using a two-minute bridge power window — eliminating downtime for shift changes.
Shop Zebra Mobile Computers →Scanning Performance
Can a mobile computer scan barcodes from long distances?
Yes — enterprise mobile computers offer selectable scan engines for different read ranges. The Zebra MC9400 can be configured with a standard-range, medium-range, or extended-range 2D imager capable of reading 1D and 2D barcodes from a few inches up to 70+ feet. The Honeywell CT60 XP supports similar long-range imager options. Always specify your maximum read distance when ordering to ensure you receive the correct scan engine configuration.
Shop Mobile Computers →Enterprise Management
How do I manage a fleet of mobile computers across a warehouse?
Enterprise mobile computers are designed for centralized management via an EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management) platform such as VMware Workspace ONE, Microsoft Intune, or SOTI MobiControl. Zebra's StageNow tool enables bulk configuration provisioning via QR code or NFC, while Zebra's Visibility Services (ZVS) provides real-time device health telemetry. Most platforms support zero-touch enrollment, OTA updates, remote wipe, and application management at scale.
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