Zebra DS8178-SR | 2D Cordless Scanner | Bluetooth 4.0 | PowerPrecision+ Battery | (USB Kit — Scanner + Cradle + Cable Incl.)
The Zebra DS8178-SR is a cordless Bluetooth 4.0 barcode scanner built for high-volume 1D/2D scanning in retail, warehouse, and distribution environments. This is the PowerPrecision+ battery version — a 2500 mAh Li-ion battery delivering up to 65,000 scans per charge, making it the right choice when the scanner is carried for extended periods away from the cradle. With Zebra's PRZM Intelligent Imaging engine, IP52 sealing, 6 ft drop resistance, and a full USB presentation cradle kit, it is a complete cordless scanning solution out of the box.
PowerPrecision+ Battery — 65,000 Scans Per Charge
The 2500 mAh PowerPrecision+ Li-ion battery is the key differentiator of this variant. At 65,000 scans per charge, it provides full-shift coverage — and well beyond — without a mid-day battery swap. Critically, the battery reports its own charge state and health metrics to Zebra's device management tools, allowing IT teams to identify and replace ageing batteries before they cause field failures rather than after.
PRZM Intelligent Imaging — Reliable 1D/2D
The PRZM engine with 1,280 × 960 pixel sensor and 800 MHz processor reads all major 1D and 2D symbologies — QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec, GS1, mobile screen barcodes — in a single scan. True Green LED aiming replaces red laser, providing accurate targeting without the eye-safety concerns of laser aimers. Bluetooth 4.0 with BLE provides wireless range up to 100 m (330 ft) to the cradle.
IP52 — Rated for Daily Handling
IP52 sealing protects against dust ingress and water splashes. Survives 6 ft (1.8 m) drops to concrete and 2,000 tumble cycles at 0.5 m. Suitable for the full range of typical retail and light warehouse handling conditions. Operating temperature 0°C to 50°C.
Complete USB Presentation Kit
This kit includes the DS8178-SR scanner with PowerPrecision+ battery, CR8178 presentation cradle, and CBA-U21-S07ZBR 2.1m shielded USB cable. The cradle mounts on a desk or counter, holds the scanner in a presentation position between scans, charges the battery, and connects to the host PC via USB — a complete deployment-ready package.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | DS8178-SR7U2100PFW |
| Scan Engine | PRZM Intelligent Imaging — 1,280 × 960 px |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 with BLE — up to 100 m range |
| Battery | PowerPrecision+ 2500 mAh — 65,000 scans/charge |
| IP Rating | IP52 |
| Drop Spec | 6.0 ft (1.8 m) to concrete |
| Tumble Spec | 2,000 × 0.5 m tumbles |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to 50°C |
| Weight | 235 g |
| Aimer | True Green LED 528 nm |
| USB Cable | 2.1m shielded USB (CBA-U21-S07ZBR) |
| Kit Contents | Scanner (PowerPrecision+) + presentation cradle + USB cable |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between this and the PowerCap version?
This version has a 2500 mAh PowerPrecision+ Li-ion battery (65,000 scans/charge). The PowerCap version uses a capacitor — 2,000 scans/full charge but 100 scans available after just 35 seconds in the cradle. Choose this (battery) version for extended use away from the cradle; choose PowerCap for cradle-frequent workflows where instant recovery matters more than capacity.
Can the battery health be monitored remotely?
Yes — PowerPrecision+ batteries report charge state and health metrics to Zebra's device management platform, enabling proactive battery replacement before field failures occur.
Does the DS8178-SR read barcodes from a mobile phone screen?
Yes — the PRZM imager reads barcodes displayed on mobile screens reliably, making it suitable for mobile loyalty cards, digital coupons, and e-ticket workflows.
Is a presentation cradle different from a standard charging cradle?
A presentation cradle holds the scanner in a fixed angle so it can scan in hands-free presentation mode — useful at checkout counters. It also charges the battery and connects to the host via USB.