Zebra DS4608 / DS4678

Zebra DS4608 and DS4678 are handheld 1D and 2D barcode scanners from the DS4600 series for workstations: goods receipt and issue in the warehouse, packing, offices, checkouts and production stations. The DS4608 is corded, while the DS4678 connects over Bluetooth and charges in a cradle, so the operator can walk up to a pallet or machine with the scanner. Both share the same sensor and read codes from labels, including damaged and poorly printed ones, and from phone screens. The DPE versions also read DPM codes, marked directly on parts. The DS4608 is the successor to the DS4308.

Key features

• 1280 × 800 pixel sensor and PRZM technology: the scanner handles dense, damaged and low-contrast barcodes. A good read is confirmed by illuminating the barcode, by LEDs and by a beep.
• SR and HD optics: SR reads an EAN code from up to about 71 cm and HD from up to about 46 cm, but HD reads smaller codes, for example 4 mil Data Matrix instead of 5 mil. Range depends on print quality, contrast and ambient light.
• DPE version for DPM codes: white illumination with a diffuser and a green aimer read small laser-marked codes on plastic and metal, including shiny surfaces, as well as ink-printed and chemically etched codes. A read is also confirmed by vibration, useful in a noisy hall.
• 1.8 m drops to concrete and IP52 sealing: the scanner survives everyday drops from the workstation and dust. The manufacturer also specifies 2000 tumbles from 0.5 m.
• Handheld and presentation mode: placed on a stand or in the presentation cradle, the scanner scans automatically, leaving both hands free for receiving goods or packing.
• DS4678: 2500 mAh battery and Bluetooth 5.2: according to the manufacturer one charge covers 50,000 scans, more than 13 hours at one scan per second. Radio range reaches up to 100 m, and Virtual Tether alerts when the scanner goes out of range or is not returned to the cradle.
• USB, RS-232, keyboard wedge and IBM 46XX (RS-485): auto-host-detect cables set the scanner up for a PC, mobile computer or POS without manual configuration. Settings are loaded with the 123Scan tool.
• Multiple codes in one scan: the scanner captures several codes from a label at once and passes only the required ones to the system, in a set order. Label Parse+ splits GS1 label data into fields.

How to choose a variant

• Corded or Bluetooth. The DS4608 is enough for a fixed workstation where goods come to the scanner. Choose the DS4678 when the operator walks up to pallets, large cartons or machines.
• SR, HD or DPE. SR is enough for logistics and product labels and on-screen codes. Choose HD for very small, dense codes; this optics version is corded only. DPE is for codes marked directly on parts, for example laser marks on circuit boards and electronic components. The manufacturer positions it for electronics and light manufacturing, including clean rooms; the same scanner also reads regular carton labels.
• Kit. Some variants are the scanner only, without a cable or cradle, and some are kits: the DS4608 with a USB cable and optionally a stand, the DS4678 with a USB cable and a standard or presentation cradle. For a first workstation a kit is more convenient.
• Interface. USB is enough with a PC or mobile computer. RS-232 and IBM 46XX help with POS terminals and older devices without USB. For the DPE versions the manufacturer lists USB, RS-232 and IBM 46XX, without keyboard wedge.
• EAS. Variants with EAS work with checkout EAS deactivation systems and matter only in a store.
• When to choose another device. When the worker scans on the move across the warehouse and needs a screen, a mobile computer with a built-in scanner is a better choice.