Zebra TC21 Touch Computer Quick Start Guide
This document provides instructions for the initial setup and operation of the Zebra TC21 Touch Computer.
Copyright and Terms of Use
ZEBRA and the stylized Zebra head are trademarks of Zebra Technologies Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2020 Zebra Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved.
For complete copyright and trademark information, visit www.zebra.com/copyright.
For complete warranty information, visit www.zebra.com/warranty.
For complete EULA information, visit www.zebra.com/eula.
Terms of Use
- Proprietary Statement: This manual contains proprietary information intended for parties operating and maintaining the equipment. Reproduction or disclosure to others requires written permission from Zebra Technologies.
- Product Improvements: Zebra Technologies continuously improves its products; specifications and designs are subject to change without notice.
- Liability Disclaimer: While Zebra Technologies strives for accuracy, errors may occur. Zebra Technologies reserves the right to correct errors and disclaims liability for resulting issues.
- Limitation of Liability: Zebra Technologies is not liable for damages arising from the use or inability to use the product, including consequential damages, even if advised of the possibility. Some jurisdictions may not allow these limitations.
Unpacking
1. Carefully remove all protective material from the device and save the shipping container for later storage and shipping.
2. Verify that the following were received:
- Touch computer
- PowerPrecision Lithium-ion battery
- Regulatory Guide
3. Inspect the equipment for damage. If any equipment is missing or damaged, contact the Global Customer Support center immediately.
4. Prior to using the device for the first time, remove the protective shipping film that covers the scan window, display, and camera window.
Features
The TC21 Touch Computer has various components on its front and rear.
Front View
The front of the device includes:
| Number | Item | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Front Camera | Takes photos and videos (available on some models). |
| 2 | Receiver | Use for audio playback in Handset mode. |
| 3 | Proximity/Light Sensor | Determines proximity for turning off display when in handset mode. Determines ambient light for controlling display backlight intensity. |
| 4 | Data Capture LED | Indicates data capture status. |
| 5 | Charging/Notification LED | Indicates battery charging status while charging and application generated notifications. |
| 6 | Touch Screen | Displays all information needed to operate the device. |
| 7 | Speaker | Provides audio output for video and music playback. Provides audio in speakerphone mode. |
| 8 | USB-C Connector | Provides USB host and client communications, and device charging via cables and accessories. |
| 9 | Microphone | Use for communications in Handset mode. |
| 10 | PTT Button | Initiates push-to-talk communications (programmable). |
| 11 | Scan Button | Initiates data capture (programmable). |
Rear View
The rear of the device includes:
| Number | Item | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | NFC Antenna | Provides communication with other NFC-enabled devices. |
| 13 | Basic Hand Strap Mount | Provides mounting point for Basic Hand Strap accessory. |
| 14 | Battery Release Latches | Press to remove the battery. |
| 15 | Battery | Standard - 3,300 mAh (typical) / 3,100 mAh (minimum) PowerPrecision Lithium-ion Battery. Extended - 5,400 mAh (typical) / 5,400 mAh (minimum), PowerPrecision Lithium-ion Battery. |
| 16 | Volume Up/Down Button | Increase and decrease audio volume (programmable). |
| 17 | Scan Button | Initiates data capture (programmable). |
| 18 | Camera Flash | Provides illumination for the camera. |
| 19 | Rear Camera | Takes photos and videos. |
| 20 | Power Button | Turns the display on and off. Press and hold to reset the device or power off. |
| 21 | Exit Window | Provides data capture using the imager. |
| 22 | Microphone | Use for communications in Speakerphone mode. |
Setting Up the Device
To start using the device for the first time:
- Install a micro secure digital (SD) card (optional).
- Install hand strap (optional).
- Install the battery.
- Charge the device.
- Power on the device.
Installing a microSD Card
The microSD card slot provides secondary non-volatile storage and is located under the battery pack. Refer to the documentation provided with the card for more information and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
⚠ CAUTION: Follow proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions to avoid damaging the microSD card. Proper ESD precautions include, but are not limited to, working on an ESD mat and ensuring that the operator is properly grounded.
The process involves:
- Lifting the access door.
- Sliding the microSD card holder to the unlock position.
- Lifting the microSD card holder.
- Inserting the microSD card into the card holder door, ensuring it slides into the holding tabs.
- Closing the microSD card holder and sliding it to the lock position.
- Re-installing the access door.
⚠ CAUTION: The access door must be replaced and securely seated to ensure proper device sealing.
Installing the Battery
1. Insert the battery, bottom first, into the battery compartment in the back of the device.
2. Press the battery down into the battery compartment until the battery release latches snap into place.
NOTE: User modification of the device, particularly in the battery well (e.g., adding labels, asset tags, engravings, stickers), may compromise the intended performance or sealing (Ingress Protection (IP)), impact performance (drop and tumble), functionality, or temperature resistance of the device or accessories.
Charging the Device
⚠ CAUTION: Follow the guidelines for battery safety described in the device Product Reference Guide.
Use one of the following accessories to charge the device and/or spare battery.
Accessories
| Accessory | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Slot Charge Only Cradle | CRD-TC2Y-BS1CO-01 | Provides device charging only. Requires USB-C cable (CBL-TC5X-USBC2A-01) and power supply (PWR-WUA5V12W0xx). |
| 1-Slot USB/Ethernet Cradle | CRD-TC2Y-SE1ET-01 | Provides device charging and communication, and charging for Extended Power Pack. Requires power supply (PWR-BGA12V50W0WW), DC line cord (CBL-DC-388A1-01), and country-specific AC line cord. |
| 4-Slot Charge Only Cradle with Battery Charger Kit | CRD-TC2Y-BS54B-01 | Charges up to four devices and four spare batteries. Requires power supply (PWR-BGA12V108W0WW), DC line cord (CBL-DC-381A1-01), and country-specific AC line cord. |
| 5-Slot Charge Only Cradle | CRD-TC2Y-BS5CO-01 | Charges up to five devices. Charges up to four devices and four spare batteries. Requires power supply (PWR-BGA12V108W0WW), DC line cord (CBL-DC-381A1-01), and country-specific AC line cord. |
| 5-Slot Ethernet Cradle | CRD-TC2Y-SE5ET-01 | Provides device charging and provides Ethernet communication for up to five devices. Requires power supply (PWR-BGA12V108W0WW), DC line cord (CBL-DC-381A1-01), and country-specific AC line cord. |
| 4-Slot Battery Charger | SAC-TC2Y-4SCHG-01 | Charges up to four battery packs. Requires power supply (PWR-BGA12V50W0WW), DC line cord (CBL-DC-388A1-01), and country-specific AC line cord. |
| Cigarette Light Adapter Auto Charge Cable | CHG-AUTO-USB1-01 | Provides power to the device from a cigarette lighter socket. Requires USB-C cable (CBL-TC5X-USBC2A-01). |
| USB-C Communication and Charge Cable | CBL-TC5X-USBC2A-01 | Provides USB-A to USB-C communication and power to the device. |
| Micro USB Communication Cable | 25-124330-01R | Provides USB communication for the 1-Slot USB/Ethernet Cradle and the USB/Ethernet Module. |
Main Battery Charging
To charge a device:
- Insert the device into a slot to begin charging.
- Ensure the device is seated properly.
The device's Charging/Notification LED indicates the status of the battery charging. The 3,220 mAh (typical) standard battery charges from fully depleted to 90% in approximately 2.5 hours and to 100% in approximately three hours. The 5,260 mAh (typical) extended battery charges from fully depleted to 90% in approximately four hours and to 100% in approximately five hours.
NOTE: In many cases, the 90% charge provides plenty of charge for daily use.
To achieve the best fast charging results, use only Zebra charging accessories and batteries. Charge batteries at room temperature with the device in sleep mode.
Charging/Notification LED Charging Indicators
| State | Indication |
|---|---|
| Off | Device is not charging. Device is not inserted correctly in the cradle or connected to a power source. Charger/cradle is not powered. |
| Slow Blinking Amber (1 blink every 4 seconds) | Device is charging. |
| Slow Blinking Red (1 blink every 4 seconds) | Device is charging but the battery is at end of useful life. |
| Solid Green | Charging complete. |
| Solid Red | Charging complete but the battery is at end of useful life. |
| Fast Blinking Amber (2 blinks/second) | Charging error, for example:
|
| Fast Blinking Red (2 blinks/second) | Charging error but the battery is at end of useful life., for example:
|
Spare Battery Charging
To charge a spare battery:
- Insert the battery into a battery charging well.
- Gently press down on the battery to ensure proper contact.
The Spare Battery Charging LED indicates the status of the spare battery charging. The 3,220 mAh (typical) standard battery charges from fully depleted to 90% in approximately 2.5 hours and to 100% in approximately three hours. The 5,260 mAh (typical) extended battery charges from fully depleted to 90% in approximately four hours and to 100% in approximately five hours.
NOTE: In many cases, the 90% charge provides plenty of charge for daily use.
To achieve the best fast charging results, use only Zebra charging accessories and batteries.
Spare Battery LED Charging Indicators
| LED | Indication |
|---|---|
| Solid Amber | Spare battery is charging. |
| Solid Green | Spare battery charging is complete. |
| Solid Red | Spare battery is charging and battery is at the end of useful life. Charging complete and battery is at the end of useful life. |
| Fast Blinking Red (2 blinks/second) | Error in charging; check placement of spare battery and battery is at the end of useful life. |
| Off | No spare battery in slot. Spare battery not placed in slot correctly. Cradle is not powered. |
Charging Temperature
Charge batteries in temperatures from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F). The device or cradle performs battery charging safely. At higher temperatures (e.g., +37°C / +98°F), the device or cradle may alternately enable and disable battery charging to keep the battery at acceptable temperatures. The device and cradle indicate when charging is disabled due to abnormal temperatures via its LED.
Charging Cradles and Accessories
1-Slot Charge Only Cradle: Provides device charging only. Requires a USB-C cable and power supply.
1-Slot USB/Ethernet Cradle: Provides device charging and communication, and charging for an Extended Power Pack. Requires a power supply, DC line cord, and country-specific AC line cord.
4-Slot Charge Only Cradle with Battery Charger Kit: Charges up to four devices and four spare batteries. Requires a power supply, DC line cord, and country-specific AC line cord.
5-Slot Charge Only Cradle: Charges up to five devices or four devices and four spare batteries. Requires a power supply, DC line cord, and country-specific AC line cord.
5-Slot Ethernet Cradle: Provides device charging and Ethernet communication for up to five devices. Requires a power supply, DC line cord, and country-specific AC line cord.
4-Slot Battery Charger: Charges up to four battery packs. Requires a power supply, DC line cord, and country-specific AC line cord.
Cigarette Light Adapter Auto Charge Cable: Provides power from a cigarette lighter socket. Requires a USB-C cable.
USB-C Communication and Charge Cable: Provides USB-A to USB-C communication and power.
Micro USB Communication Cable: Provides USB communication for specific cradles and modules.
Scanning with Internal Imager
To read a barcode, a scan-enabled app is required. The device includes the DataWedge app, which allows users to enable the imager, decode barcode data, and display the content.
To scan with the internal imager:
- Ensure that an app is open on the device and a text field is in focus (text cursor visible).
- Point the exit window on the top of the device at a barcode.
- Press and hold the scan button. The red laser aiming pattern turns on to assist in aiming.
NOTE: When the device is in Picklist mode, the imager does not decode the barcode until the crosshair or aiming dot touches the barcode.
4. Ensure the barcode is within the area formed by the crosshairs in the aiming pattern. The aiming dot increases visibility in bright lighting conditions.
5. The Data Capture LED lights green and a beep sounds (by default) to indicate the barcode was decoded successfully.
6. Release the scan button.
NOTE: Imager decoding is usually instantaneous. The device repeats the steps required to take a digital picture (image) of a poor or difficult barcode as long as the scan button remains pressed.
7. The barcode content data displays in the text field.
Ergonomic Considerations
⚠ CAUTION: Avoid extreme wrist angles when holding and operating the device.
Illustrations show proper hand positioning to maintain neutral wrist angles during use.
Zebra Technologies | Visible. Connected. Optimized. | Zebra
