Using Zebra barcode scanners with Exact Online
Zebra Technologies is the global market leader in industrial barcode scanners and mobile computers. For businesses using Exact Online, Zebra scanners offer the ideal combination of ruggedness, scanning speed and reliability. The Barcode Scan App is fully optimized for Zebra scanners, allowing you to take your Exact Online warehouse processes to a professional level. In this article, we discuss which Zebra models are suitable, how to set them up and why an industrial scanner is the best choice for Exact Online.
Why Zebra scanners for Exact Online?
A smartphone can serve as a barcode scanner, but in a professional warehouse a Zebra scanner has clear advantages for working with Exact Online:
- Rugged design: Zebra scanners are built for intensive use. They are drop-resistant up to 1.8 meters, dust and waterproof (IP67/IP68) and withstand extreme temperatures. In a busy warehouse where you continuously work with Exact Online, this is essential.
- Superior scan performance: The built-in SE4710 or SE55 scan engine reads barcodes faster and more accurately than a smartphone camera, even with damaged, dirty or poorly printed barcodes. This significantly speeds up your goods receipt and order picking in Exact Online.
- Longer battery life: Zebra scanners have swappable batteries that last a full working day. With a spare battery, you work uninterrupted with your Exact Online transactions.
- Ergonomic design: The pistol grip design of models like the TC53 and TC73 is comfortable during prolonged use, increasing productivity when processing Exact Online orders.
- DataWedge integration: Zebra’s DataWedge software ensures seamless integration with the Barcode Scan App. Scanned barcodes are processed directly in Exact Online without additional configuration.
Supported Zebra models for Exact Online
The Barcode Scan App for Exact Online is tested and optimized for the following Zebra scanners:
- Zebra TC21/TC22: The entry-level model for warehouse use with Exact Online. Compact, lightweight and affordable. Ideal for smaller warehouses and businesses starting with barcode scanning in Exact Online. The 5-inch touchscreen is easily readable and the scanner is fast and reliable.
- Zebra TC26/TC27: Similar to the TC21/TC22 but with WWAN connectivity (4G/5G). Suitable when you need to work with Exact Online outside Wi-Fi range, for example at outdoor storage or at customer locations.
- Zebra TC53/TC58: The mid-range model with a more powerful processor and larger battery. Excellent for busy warehouses where many transactions are processed in Exact Online. The optional pistol grip makes prolonged scanning comfortable.
- Zebra TC73/TC78: The top model for the most demanding environments. Extra rugged, with the most powerful scan engine and longest battery life. The choice for large warehouses and distribution centers that work intensively with Exact Online.
- Zebra MC series (MC2200, MC3300, MC9300): Classic handheld scanners with built-in keyboard. Popular in environments where, in addition to scanning, a lot of data entry is needed for Exact Online.
Installation and configuration
Setting up a Zebra scanner for use with Exact Online via the Barcode Scan App is straightforward:
- Install the Barcode Scan App: Download the Barcode Scan App from the Google Play Store on your Zebra scanner. All Zebra scanners run Android and have access to the Play Store.
- Log in with Exact Online: Open the app and log in with your Exact Online account. The app automatically synchronizes your items, warehouses, storage locations and open orders.
- Configure DataWedge: The app automatically configures Zebra DataWedge for optimal scan performance. The built-in scanner is recognized immediately and scanned barcodes are processed in Exact Online without delay.
- Start scanning: After configuration, you can immediately begin with goods receipt, order picking, warehouse transfers and stock counts — all connected to Exact Online in real-time.
Applications with Exact Online
Zebra scanners are used in combination with the Barcode Scan App and Exact Online for various warehouse processes:
- Goods receipt: Scan incoming goods and book them directly to the correct purchase order in Exact Online. The powerful Zebra scanner reads even damaged barcodes on shipping packaging.
- Order picking: Use the Zebra scanner to efficiently pick sales orders from Exact Online. The large screen clearly shows which items still need to be picked.
- Warehouse transfers: Register transfers between storage locations by scanning the location barcode and the item barcode. Everything is updated in Exact Online in real-time.
- Stock counts: Perform inventory counts with the Zebra scanner. The fast scan engine makes it possible to count large quantities of items quickly and compare them with the stock in Exact Online.
- Manufacturing: In production environments using Exact Online Manufacturing, you can use the Zebra scanner to issue materials and report finished products on shop orders.
Accessories and extensions
Zebra offers an extensive ecosystem of accessories that make working with Exact Online even more efficient:
- Pistol grip: For ergonomic scanning at high volumes in the Exact Online warehouse.
- Charging cradle: Charge multiple scanners simultaneously, ensuring a charged scanner is always available.
- Swappable batteries: Swap batteries in seconds to work uninterrupted with Exact Online.
- Holster and carrying straps: Keep your scanner within reach while working in the warehouse.
Choosing the right Zebra scanner for Exact Online
The choice of the right Zebra model depends on your specific situation. For smaller warehouses and limited budgets, the TC21/TC22 is an excellent choice. Larger warehouses with intensive use benefit from the TC53 or TC73. Contact us for personal advice on which Zebra scanner best fits your Exact Online environment.