Handheld RFID readers from Zebra have had sort of a checkered past. The MC9090-Z was the first unit that we were selling, but that was almost 20 years ago, and it ran Window Mobile. That device was replaced with a bit of a downgrade with the MC3390R, the lower end model of the gun style device with a smaller screen and smaller keys.
From there, you ended up with a series of RFID sleds. Nice because you could take a standard TC device and add RFID capabilities, by attaching it to a sled. But it is messy because you needed a device, a sled, an adapter, multiple battery chargers, challenges setting up the connection between the two devices, etc.
So, we were happy when Zebra announced a dedicated touch computer with the RFID all built into one device. Even happier when we started pricing the device out for customers and realized that it was very cost effective. Plus, the accessory count plummeted to just a cradle. It even has a USB C port so you can just charge it with a consumer charger.
It is not based on Zebra’s most rugged devices, but we suspect that it is the next shoe to drop. A green colored TC5X or TC7X based, ultra rugged all in one RFID mobile computer. But in the meantime, 5’ drop spec, 14F to 122F operating temp range, IP65 rated, is all you need for most applications.
And, as we keep raving about, you get Zebra’s incredible version of Android to help manage your RFID applications and the reading of both barcodes and RFID tags from the same device. If you are looking for a technology partner who is always keeping you up to date on new products to make your operations better, the EMP Tech Group is here for you, www.emptechgroup.com is always the best place to find us.