DS2208-HCBU2100AZR | Zebra DS2208 Healthcare Barcode Scanner
The Zebra DS2208-HCBU2100AZR is a corded handheld area imager designed to capture common 1D and 2D barcodes from printed labels and electronic displays. It gives retailers, hospitality operations, transportation providers, government agencies, and light manufacturers an accessible way to add 2D scanning without introducing cordless-device management.
PRZM Intelligent Imaging, omnidirectional scanning, a 640 × 480-pixel image sensor, and a familiar linear aiming pattern support fast point-and-shoot operation. The DS2208 arrives with default settings optimized for many scanning applications and connects through auto-host-detect cables to simplify deployment at point-of-sale and business workstations.
Key Features and Benefits of the Zebra DS2208
- 1D and 2D barcode capture: Reads widely used symbologies such as UPC/EAN, Code 39, Code 128, PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, Aztec, MaxiCode, postal codes, and GS1 DataBar, allowing one scanner to process traditional product codes and newer 2D barcodes.
- PRZM Intelligent Imaging: Zebra’s decoding algorithms improve performance on poor-quality barcodes, helping reduce manual entry and repeated scan attempts.
- Omnidirectional operation: Users do not need to align a barcode with a single scan line, which can shorten training time and make checkout or identification tasks more intuitive.
- Useful working range: The scanner reads 100% 13 mil UPC barcodes from approximately 0.5 to 14.5 inches, giving workers flexibility when scanning items of different sizes.
- Corded reliability: The USB-powered design eliminates batteries, charging schedules, and wireless pairing from routine operation.
- Automatic interface detection: Compatible auto-host-detect cables identify the connected interface, reducing setup steps during installation or replacement.
- Handheld and hands-free scanning: Placing the DS2208 in its presentation stand automatically changes it to hands-free operation without requiring a manual setting change.
- Durable everyday construction: The DS2208 is designed for multiple 5-foot drops to concrete, 250 tumbles in a 1.5-foot tumbler, and carries an IP52 sealing rating.
Product Capabilities
The Zebra DS2208 combines a 640 × 480-pixel area imager with two super-red illumination LEDs and a 624 nm amber linear aiming pattern. The aiming line creates a familiar experience for employees accustomed to traditional 1D scanners while helping them find an effective scanning distance for wide barcodes.
The scanner supports handheld motion tolerance up to 5 inches per second for 13 mil UPC barcodes. In hands-free mode, its published swipe speed reaches 30 inches per second for the same barcode type. These capabilities help maintain workflow speed when items are moved past the scanner rather than held completely still.
A direct decode indicator flashes illumination on the barcode after a successful read. Good-decode LEDs, rear-facing LEDs, and an adjustable beeper provide additional confirmation in both quiet and noisy environments.
For centralized setup and support, Zebra 123Scan can program scanner parameters, upgrade firmware, display scanned data, and generate reports. Zebra Scanner Management Service supports remote management and asset-information queries, while Zebra Scanner SDK resources assist with custom application development.
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Zebra Technologies
- Product family: DS2200 Series
- Model: DS2208
- Product type: Corded handheld 1D/2D area imager
- SKU: DS2208-HCBU2100AZR
- Scanning design: Handheld with automatic hands-free operation when placed in a compatible presentation stand
- Image sensor: 640 × 480 pixels
- Field of view: 32.8° horizontal × 24.8° vertical, nominal
- Aiming pattern: Linear 624 nm amber LED
- Illumination: Two 645 nm super-red LEDs
- Minimum print contrast: 25% minimum reflective difference
- Skew tolerance: ±65°
- Pitch tolerance: ±65°
- Roll tolerance: 0–360°
- Minimum Code 39 resolution: 4.0 mil
- Minimum Code 128 resolution: 4.0 mil
- Minimum Data Matrix resolution: 6.0 mil
- Minimum QR Code resolution: 6.7 mil
- Handheld motion tolerance: Up to 5 in./13 cm per second for 13 mil UPC
- Hands-free swipe speed: Up to 30 in./76.2 cm per second for 13 mil UPC
- Typical 13 mil UPC decode range: 0.5–14.5 in./1.3–36.8 cm
- Supported host interfaces: USB, RS-232, keyboard wedge, and TGCS (IBM) 46XX over RS-485
- Keyboard support: More than 90 international keyboards
- User indicators: Direct Decode Indicator, good-decode LEDs, rear-facing LEDs, and adjustable-tone/volume beeper
- Dimensions: 6.5 in. H × 2.6 in. W × 3.9 in. D/16.5 cm H × 6.6 cm W × 9.9 cm D
- Weight: 5.7 oz./161.6 g
- Available colors: Nova White and Twilight Black
- Input voltage: 4.5–5.5 VDC, host powered or external power supply
- Typical operating current: 250 mA at 5.0V with auto-aim and illumination active while acquiring an image
- Typical standby current: 150 mA at 5.0V with auto-aim on
- Operating temperature: 32° to 122°F/0° to 50°C
- Storage temperature: -40° to 158°F/-40° to 70°C
- Humidity: 5%–95% RH, non-condensing
- Drop specification: Designed for multiple 5 ft./1.5 m drops to concrete
- Tumble specification: Designed for 250 tumbles in a 1.5 ft./0.5 m tumbler
- Environmental sealing: IP52
- Ambient-light immunity: 0–10,000 foot-candles/0–107,600 lux
- Configuration software: Zebra 123Scan
- Remote-management utility: Zebra Scanner Management Service
- Development resources: Zebra Scanner SDK
Supported Barcode Types
The Zebra DS2208 supports the following published barcode families. Refer to Zebra’s current Product Reference Guide when a particular symbology or variation must be confirmed.
- 1D barcodes: Code 39, Code 128, Code 93, Codabar/NW7, Code 11, MSI Plessey, UPC/EAN, Interleaved 2 of 5, Korean 3 of 5, GS1 DataBar, and Base 32/Italian Pharma
- 2D barcodes: PDF417, Composite Codes, TLC-39, Aztec, Data Matrix, MaxiCode, QR Code, Micro QR, Han Xin, and postal codes
Compatibility, Configurations, and Ordering Information
The DS2208 is the corded member of the Zebra DS2200 Series. Buyers who require Bluetooth mobility should evaluate the cordless DS2278 rather than assuming wireless connectivity is included with the DS2208.
Select the appropriate host interface, cable, color, presentation stand, and power arrangement for the workstation. The DS2208 supports USB, RS-232, keyboard wedge, and TGCS 46XX over RS-485, but the exact contents and interface cable can vary by ordered configuration.
Zebra states that the DS2200 Series is backward compatible with universal cables used by Zebra LS2208 scanners. Confirm the cable part number, host interface, connector, and power requirements before reusing an existing cable or ordering a replacement.
Battery capacity, Bluetooth specifications, CR2278 cradle compatibility, and charging times published for the DS2200 Series apply to the cordless DS2278 configuration—not the corded DS2208.
Related Products, Supplies, and Services
Complete the scanning workstation with compatible Zebra scanner cables → barcode scanner accessories
For extended warranty coverage and support, consider → Zebra OneCare Service
Operations planning a broader equipment refresh can compare the DS2208 with other corded and cordless 1D/2D imagers → Zebra barcode scanners]
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Zebra DS2208 read both 1D and 2D barcodes?
Yes. The DS2208 reads common 1D symbologies as well as PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code, Aztec, MaxiCode, postal codes, and other supported 2D formats.
Can the DS2208 scan barcodes displayed on a phone?
The DS2200 Series is designed to capture printed and electronic barcodes, making the DS2208 suitable for mobile coupons, loyalty credentials, and similar screen-based applications.
Is the Zebra DS2208 wireless?
No. The DS2208 is the corded model in the DS2200 Series. The Zebra DS2278 is the cordless Bluetooth configuration.
Can the DS2208 operate hands-free?
Yes. Placing the scanner in a compatible presentation stand automatically changes it from handheld to hands-free operation without requiring a settings change.
What interfaces does the DS2208 support?
Published host interfaces include USB, RS-232, keyboard wedge, and TGCS (IBM) 46XX over RS-485. Order the correct interface cable for the host system.
Can the DS2208 replace a Zebra LS2208?
The DS2208 adds 2D imaging and is backward compatible with Zebra LS2208 universal cables. Buyers should still verify the existing cable, host interface, and required configuration before ordering.
How is the DS2208 configured and managed?
Zebra 123Scan supports parameter programming, firmware upgrades, barcode-data viewing, and reporting. Zebra Scanner Management Service provides remote scanner management and asset queries.
Product Family
DS2208
MFG Part Number
DS2208-HCBU2100AZR
Product Type
Barcode Scanner
Sold By
Kit
Connectivity
USB
Code Type
1D / 2D
Scanner Range
Short Range
Scanner Type
Imager
Battery
No Battery Required
Form Factor
Corded
Durability
Healthcare
Geographical Availability
Rest of World
Features/Includes
7' Shielded Straight USB Cable
Zebra DS2200 Barcode Scanner Data Sheet.pdf
https://www.advanced-automationinc.com/content/product_downloads/zebra/Zebra DS2200 Barcode Scanner Data Sheet.pdf
Zebra DS2208 DS2278 Scanner Accessory Guide.pdf
https://www.advanced-automationinc.com/content/product_downloads/zebra/Zebra DS2208 DS2278 Scanner Accessory Guide.pdf
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