Wearable barcode technology has been around since around 2010. Wearable barcode technology was originally created to provide a hands-free option for heavy and bulky lifting. The concept helped to improve work efficiencies while lowering the repetitive motions of picking up and putting down handheld scanners.
A laser-based ring scanner was tethered to a terminal due to the inability to power such a small device for a workable duration. Scanning was the sole purpose of the ring scanner, so if other information had to be reviewed or data needed input on the spot, everything had to pause to do so.
As technology has improved, so has the capabilities of wearable barcode device technology. Gone are the days of being tethered to a terminal. Wearable devices have also improved from being bulky and incapable of holding power to being ergonomic, Wi-Fi capable, and battery powered.
Moving into the Future of Wearable Technology
As technology has improved, so has the weight and bulk of barcode devices. Employees are more productive when wearable devices are light and ergonomic, yet accessible. Improved ruggedness means the devices can withstand typical wear and tear for scanning and picking in many industries, including manufacturing and warehouses.
Ergonomic comfort, improved ruggedness, and advancements of software make wearable technology a more efficient alternate to standard handheld devices. Match a ring scanner with a wearable host/terminal. The wearable WT6300 host computer even has the option for a tactile snap on keypad for easy data entry at your employees’ fingertips.
Zebra RS5100 Ring Scanner
Lightweight and dependable, the RS5100 was built with rugged use in mind. It is built to withstand high levels of electrostatic discharge, drops, bumps, dust, and water exposure. PRZM intelligent imaging and advanced imaging algorithms help efficiently scan poorly printed or damaged barcodes. Other features include:
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IP65 Sealing
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Operating temperatures 32°F to 122°F (1°C to 50°C) with standard battery
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Withstand multiple 6 ft. (1.8 m) drops to concrete
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Tap for instant pairing with NFC
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Battery swap for back-to-back shifts
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High performance SE4710 scanning with red illumination and an orange LED aiming spot
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Visual LED lights and/or audible beeper for scanning verification
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Trigger is rated for millions of trigger presses
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Zebra RS6100 Ring Scanner
Zebra’s most powerful and versatile wearable scanner, the RS6100 is practically weightless at 2.47 ounces with the standard battery. The advanced multi-focus scan engine and E55 imager can capture 1D and 2D barcodes near/far regardless of barcode condition, from 5-inches to 50-feet. Other features include:
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- IP65 Sealing
- Operating temperatures 32°F to 122°F (1°C to 50°C) with standard battery
- Withstand multiple 6 ft. (1.8 m) drops to concrete
- Instant tap pairing with NFC to host mobile computer
- No Wi-Fi interference with Wi-Fi Friendly Mode
- Minimize downtime with removable and swappable battery and trigger assemblies
- 5 interchangeable wearing styles
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Zebra WT6300 Wearable Host Computer
The redesigned WT6300 has improved ergonomics and comfort for the user. This wearable host computer now uses up to 50% less muscle effort, weighing just over 9 ounces. It has a low center of gravity and a micro-adjustable mounting system for total user comfort. The display is now glove-optimized, meaning it automatically detects and adjusts the touch sensitivity as needed. Other features include:
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IP65 Sealing
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Corning® Gorilla® Glass
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Operating temperatures -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C)
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Withstand multiple 4 ft. (1.2 m) drops to concrete
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Snap on tactile keypad option
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Hot-swap battery mode
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5 interchangeable wearing styles
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Operating system upgradeable to Android 14
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Integrated speaker and mic
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Handheld Terminals that Convert to Wearable
Sometimes the best option is a multi-use terminal that can be used in conjunction with the wearable workflow but needs to be flexible enough for different workflow options. Zebra has that covered. Two options include the TC26 and TC5x series mobile computers.
Zebra TC26 Mobile Computer
The TC26 mobile computer is a lightweight mobile option with an easy-to-see, 5-inch, high definition advanced touchscreen fortified with Corning® Gorilla® Glass. It has options to scan 1D/2D barcodes with the SE4710 or SE4100, depending upon requirements. Other specifications include:
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- IP67 Sealing
- Withstand multiple 4 ft. (1.2 m) drops to concrete
- Operating temperatures 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C)
- Android operating system
- Optional protective boot
- 13MP rear camera
- Removable single or multi-shift battery
- NFC tap to pair with RS5100 ring scanner
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Zebra TC5x Series Mobile Computers
The TC5x series rugged mobile computers are built for ultimate performance while being easy to use. With 10 models to choose from, this series are equipped with the latest mobile technological advancements for work inside or outside the four walls. Specifications include:
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- IP68 (IP65 with battery)
- Corning® Gorilla® Glass
- Withstand up to 6 ft (1.8 m) drops to concrete depending upon model
- Operating temperature of -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
- 1D/2D scan engine
- Optional 1D/2D advanced range scan engine with IntelliFocus technology
- Front and rear camera options
- Optional rugged protective boot
- Multi-mode or dual-mode capacitive touch with bare or gloved fingertip or optional conductive stylus; fingerprint resistant anti-smudge coating
- Android operating system
- NFC options for tap to pair with ring scanners
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Why Use Wearable Barcode Technology?
Wearable technology is optimal for many industries and can decrease unnecessary errors by up to 39%. Having been around for about 12-15 years, wearable tech started out tethered to help employees manage items that are bulky and heavy without having to pick up and put down barcode scanning devices.
As ecommerce picked up, speed and efficiency became more important to keep up with tasks. Wearable scanners have proven how they increased efficiency in picking when both hands are needed for heavy and bulky items. Why stop there? Micro-efficiencies that were previously dismissed can save time from the extra motions of picking up and putting down a mobile computer, or having to search for where it was last placed.
Imprint is the Leading Expert to Help You Move Forward
With over 30 years of experience and product knowledge, Imprint Enterprises is an industry-leading provider of barcode equipment, software, repair, maintenance solutions, and more. Imprint Enterprises supports multiple industries and is a Premiere Solution Partner with Zebra Technologies, a leader in the barcoding technologies industry.
With the advancements in technology, wearable tech is smaller and lighter with greater scanning accuracy, reducing costly errors and enhancing employee ease and comfort. Ring scanners are even pairable with other mobile computers and tablets for greater standardization of multiple workflows.
Zebra Technologies has the products you need to create a total wearable scanning solution to save time and money by increasing productivity. Imprint is the expert that can help you determine the best solutions for your business, moving your business into the future. Set-up and management are no longer a complex and time-consuming ordeal when the specialists can do it for you.
Our friendly team of knowledgeable professionals can talk with you to help you determine the best wearable solution for your company. Contact Imprint Enterprises today!
