Zebra TC8000 Handheld Rugged Computer Gets Ergonomic Redesign

Zebra Technologies has redesigned its latest rugged handheld mobile computer to make it easier to use, while reducing wrist strain for workers.

The new TC8000 includes a dual-core 1.7GHz processor and 1GB of memory. The standard model features 4GB of flash memory, while the premium version includes 8GB of flash memory. Also included is an SDXC microSD card slot for expanded storage. The machine runs on Android 4.4.3 KitKat, including Android enterprise-class mobility extensions. Also featured are voice capabilities, dual audio speakers and support for Bluetooth wireless headsets.

The device includes a front-mounted, 4-inch-diagonal multitouch LCD display that can be operated using bare fingers or gloved hands. The redesigned location of the display, which is covered with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass, means that users can view the screen and its virtual keyboard with fewer wrist motions, which can increase productivity.

The TC8000 automatically updates legacy Terminal Emulation “green screens” into graphics-based, all-touch Terminal Emulation screens without the involvement of a company’s IT department. The device’s SimulScan capabilities simplify the capturing of labels and forms on boxes and pallets that contain many bar codes.

The TC8000 includes a hands-free proximity scanner that allows users to scan items without having to actually hold the device. Instead, the TC8000 can be attached to a hip holster, a presentation holster or a cart mount for accurate scanning. The device also includes 802.11r, Bluetooth 4.0 and USB 2.0 connectivity.

The Zebra TC8000 includes a Lithium-ion 6,700mAh battery that can be hot-swapped and is suitable to power the device for up to three work shifts without being recharged. The handheld is 9.17 inches long, 2.99 inches wide and 2.52 inches deep. The standard device weighs 17.2 ounces, while the premium model weighs 17.6 ounces.

The TC8000 offers a choice of multiple scanning engines for different uses in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and other enterprise operations. Other device options include an 8-megapixel auto-focus camera and near-field communications (NFC) capabilities.

The latest Zebra handheld is built tough to MIL-STD 810G standards and can survive multiple 8-foot drops on concrete, sustained tumbling, and a wide range of temperature, humidity and vibration extremes. It is built with a sealed body to resist water, dust and other harsh workplace hazards.