Zebra Barcode Scanners FAQ: DS2208, DS3678, LI3678 & More
Model Selection
What is the difference between the Zebra DS2208 and DS2278 barcode scanners?
The DS2208 is a wired USB/RS232 1D/2D area imager designed for light-duty retail and office use, offering a standard 17-inch read range at standard density. The DS2278 is the Bluetooth cordless version of the same scanner, adding wireless freedom while maintaining the same compact form factor and omnidirectional 2D scanning. Both decode virtually all 1D, 2D, and PDF417 barcodes, and both are programmed using Zebra's 123Scan utility or programming barcodes.
Shop Zebra Scanners →When should I choose the Zebra DS3678 over the DS2208?
Choose the DS3678 when you need industrial-grade ruggedness and extended read range beyond the DS2208's capabilities. The DS3678 is rated IP67 (fully dust-tight, submersible to 1 meter) and MIL-STD-810G, drops-rated to 6 feet onto concrete, and delivers Bluetooth Class 1 range up to 330 feet. Its PRZM Intelligent Imaging technology reads damaged, dirty, or poorly printed barcodes that an entry-level scanner would miss — making it the preferred choice for receiving docks, warehouses, and manufacturing floors.
Shop Zebra Scanners →Programming & Configuration
How do I program a Zebra barcode scanner using 123Scan?
Download 123Scan2 free from zebra.com and connect your scanner via USB. The wizard-based interface allows you to configure interface type, prefix/suffix characters, symbology enable/disable, scan mode, and beeper settings without needing to know ZPL or scan programming barcodes manually. Once configured, you can save the settings as a profile and deploy it to other scanners via USB, or generate a programming barcode sheet to scan-configure scanners without a PC.
Shop Zebra Scanners →Can I add a prefix or suffix to every barcode a Zebra scanner reads?
Yes — Zebra scanners support configurable prefix and suffix characters on every scan output. In 123Scan, navigate to the 'Data Formatting' section and enter your desired prefix (e.g., a field separator or application command character) and suffix (typically a carriage return, tab, or newline). You can also add a prefix/suffix by scanning programming barcodes from the Zebra product reference guide. This is commonly used to add Enter key presses after each scan for automatic form submission.
Shop Zebra Scanners →Warranty & Support
What warranty does a Zebra barcode scanner come with?
Standard Zebra barcode scanners include a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Zebra's OneCare Essential and Select service contracts extend coverage to 3 or 5 years and add comprehensive damage coverage (spills, drops) plus next-business-day advance unit replacement. Always purchase Zebra scanners through authorized partners like BarcodesInc to ensure valid manufacturer warranty registration and access to Zebra's global service network.
Shop Zebra Scanners →Compatibility
Are Zebra barcode scanners compatible with Mac computers?
Yes — Zebra USB HID barcode scanners work natively on macOS without any driver installation, as the Mac recognizes them as USB keyboards. Bluetooth Zebra scanners pair via macOS Bluetooth settings using HID profile. The 123Scan configuration utility is Windows-only, but you can still program Mac-compatible settings by scanning the relevant programming barcodes from the printed reference guide that ships with the scanner.
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