Charging Docks & Cradles for Mobile Computers & Scanners

Plan Your Deployment

Match cradle model to specific mobile computer or scanner model
Select single-slot for individual desks or multi-slot for shared fleet charging
Evaluate Ethernet communication cradles for data sync during charging
Plan dock placement for shift-change efficiency

Showing Results for Charging Docks and Cradles

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-01

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-01 Vehicle Dock

3-slot vehicle dock for Zebra ET6X with dual USB charging
- Charge 3 ET6X devices simultaneously in vehicle cabins or fleet ops
- Wired USB connectivity for charging and data sync on mobile routes
- Vehicle power compatible for continuous readiness during field work
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$895.99 $856.99 Save $39.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-02

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-02 Vehicle Dock Charging Cradle

Vehicle dock cradle for Zebra ET6x tablets with dual USB ports
- Mounts ET6x tablet in fleet vehicles with wired dual USB connectivity
- Integrates with vehicle power systems for continuous charging during routes
- Purpose-built for logistics, delivery, and field service mobile workflows
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$895.99 $856.99 Save $39.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-01

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-01 Vehicle Dock

Vehicle dock for ET6X tablets with dual USB charging in fleet ops
- Mounts in vehicles for on-the-go charging during field service runs
- Dual USB ports enable simultaneous charging and peripheral connectivity
- Purpose-built for Zebra ET6X rugged tablets in logistics workflows
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$996.99 $952.99 Save $44.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-02

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-02 Vehicle Dock Charging Cradle

Vehicle dock for ET6X with dual USB charging and peripheral port
- Wired connection charges and syncs reliably in high-vibration fleet environments
- Dual USB ports support simultaneous charging and one peripheral device
- Integrates into vehicle electrical system (12V or 24V) with separate mounting brackets
In stock · Ships same business day

$996.99 $952.99 Save $44.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-ET8X-M-KBBKW1-01

Zebra CRD-ET8X-M-KBBKW1-01 ET8x Dock Keyboard Support Bracket

Keyboard support bracket for Zebra ET8x docking stations
- Mounts ET8x tablet to keyboard dock for stable fixed-position setup
- Integrates with standard Zebra cradle and dock configurations
- Purpose-built for warehouse, logistics, and field service workflows
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$268.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-HC2L5L-2S1D1B

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-2S1D1B Single-Slot Charging Cradle

Single-slot cradle for HC20/HC50 healthcare mobile computers
- Charges one device and one battery simultaneously in compact form
- Clinical-grade white finish designed for point-of-care environments
- Compatible with Zebra HC20 and HC50 handheld mobile computers
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$422.99 $403.99 Save $19.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-HC2L5L-BS1CO

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-BS1CO Single-Slot Charging Cradle

Single-slot charging cradle for Zebra HC20 and HC50 healthcare devices
- Dedicated docking solution for HC20 and HC50 mobile computers
- One-device-at-a-time design ideal for point-of-care nurse stations
- Charging-only cradle built for distributed healthcare facility deployments
In stock · Ships same business day

$270.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-HC2L5L-BS5CO

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-BS5CO 5-Slot Charging Cradle

5-slot charging cradle for HC20 and HC50 healthcare devices
- Charges up to 5 HC20 or HC50 mobile computers simultaneously
- White finish housing designed for clinical, warehouse, and logistics
- Integrates with Zebra device management workflows for fleet operations
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,167.20 $759.99 Save $407.21

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC18-3SLOTH-01

Zebra CRD-MC18-3SLOTH-01 MC18/PS20 3-Slot Cradle

3-slot cradle for MC18 computers and PS20 printers, wired charging and sync
- Charges three Zebra MC18 or PS20 devices simultaneously in compact footprint
- Non-locking design enables quick device swap for shift rotations and task zones
- Wired connectivity syncs data while charging for warehouse and retail operations
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$994.99 $951.99 Save $43.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC2X-1SCU-01

Zebra CRD-MC2X-1SCU-01 Single Slot Charging Cradle

Single-slot cradle for MC22/MC27 with USB-C charging and sync
- USB Type-C connection for fast charging and data synchronization
- Supports Zebra MC22 and MC27 mobile computers in one cradle
- Compact single-slot design for warehouse and field service use
In stock · Ships same business day

$222.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC2X-2SUCHG-01

Zebra CRD-MC2X-2SUCHG-01 MC22/MC27 Single Slot Cradle

Single-slot cradle for MC22/MC27 with simultaneous charging and sync
- Charge and sync data at the same time via standard enterprise dock connector
- Compact single-slot design fits small-to-medium warehouse and retail spaces
- Compatible with Zebra MC22 and MC27 rugged Android mobile computers
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$283.99 $271.99 Save $12.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC2X-4SC4BC-01

Zebra CRD-MC2X-4SC4BC-01 4-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery

4-slot cradle charges MC22/MC27 devices simultaneously with integrated battery
- Charges 4 devices at once for warehouse, retail, and logistics fleet ops
- Wired cradle with 600mAh integrated battery charging per device
- Fixed-station design for distribution centers and back-office staging areas
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$785.99 $751.99 Save $34.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC2X-5SCHG-01

Zebra CRD-MC2X-5SCHG-01 MC22/MC27 5-Slot Charge Only Cradle

5-slot charge-only cradle for Zebra MC22 and MC27 devices
- Charges up to 5 mobile computers simultaneously without data sync
- Proprietary Zebra dock connector for MC22 and MC27 compatibility
- Dedicated charging solution for warehouse and logistics workflows
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$526.99 $503.99 Save $23.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC33-2SUCHG-01

Zebra CRD-MC33-2SUCHG-01 MC33 USB Charging Cradle

Single-slot USB cradle for MC33 with spare battery charging
- Charges MC33 device and spare battery simultaneously via USB
- Wired connection eliminates pairing issues in high-traffic dock areas
- Single-slot design fits desk or cart-mounted charging stations
In stock · Ships same business day

$264.99 $252.99 Save $12.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC33-4SC4BC-01

Zebra CRD-MC33-4SC4BC-01 MC33 4-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery Charger

4-slot cradle charges 4 MC33 units + 4 batteries simultaneously
- Consolidated charging station eliminates multiple single-unit cradles and cable clutter
- Integrated 4-slot battery module keeps spares charged for extended-shift operations
- Desktop form factor designed specifically for MC33 mobile computers
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,128.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-MC33-4SE4BC-01

Zebra CRD-MC33-4SE4BC-01 MC33 4-Slot Ethernet Cradle

4-slot cradle charges four MC33 units simultaneously with Ethernet
- Charges 4 MC33 mobile computers in parallel with integrated battery module
- Wired Ethernet connectivity for each cradled device eliminates wireless sync
- Integrated 4-slot battery charging keeps spare batteries fully charged on-site
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,277.99 $1,127.99 Save $150.00

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What to Look For When Buying

The decisions that matter most before you spec.

Dock Capacity vs. Fleet Size & Shift Turnover

Undersized dock infrastructure forces devices offline during peak shifts, reducing inventory throughput and creating data sync backlogs. Calculate simultaneous users × device lifecycle (scan-to-dock interval) to determine minimum multi-slot capacity. Most warehouse operations require 60–80% fleet docking capacity online at any time.

Power Supply Headroom & Sequential Charging

Multi-slot docks drawing peak current from all cradles simultaneously can exceed standard facility circuits (15–20A), triggering breaker trips or damaging dock electronics. Premium docking systems use sequential charge algorithms or redundant PSUs to stagger load and maintain floor stability. Verify PSU wattage against cradle count and device battery capacity (Wh).

Data Sync & Network Connectivity

Wireless-only charging workflows introduce latency and data loss if devices lose connectivity during offshift hours. Communication docks with USB or Ethernet ports guarantee real-time transaction upload, configuration pushes, and firmware updates independent of WiFi. Critical for high-velocity picking, packing, and returns operations where data freshness drives accuracy.

Device-to-Dock Compatibility & Future-Proofing

Cradles are device-specific; charging a mobile computer from a barcode scanner dock requires adapter plates or replacement cradles. Choose docking systems from established OEMs like Zebra, Datalogic, or Unitech that offer multi-device compatibility packs and long lifecycle support to avoid costly proprietary lock-in.

Environmental Durability & Seal Ratings

Warehouse docks face dust, moisture, and thermal cycling from loading docks and freezer units. IP54+ sealed cradles with stainless contacts and conformal coatings prevent corrosion and contact degradation—critical in cold-chain and outdoor dock environments where dock replacement is expensive and disruptive.

Total Cost of Ownership: Dock vs. Device Cycle

A multi-slot dock supporting 8–10 devices typically costs 3–5× a single cradle but eliminates manual charger sprawl, reduces device damage from dropped cables, and centralizes fleet telemetry. Calculate 5-year ROI including labor savings, device replacement rates, and dock maintenance before choosing single-cradle architectures for growing fleets.

Technology Stack

The specs and acronyms that actually affect charging docks and cradles performance.

Simultaneous Charging Capacity (Slot Count)

The number of devices a dock can charge at full rate without power throttling. Single-slot docks handle one device; multi-slot docks range from 4–16+ cradles. Higher slot counts reduce shift-end charging bottlenecks but demand larger power supplies and facility circuits. Verify peak simultaneous use does not exceed dock capacity.

Power Supply Rating (Watts / Amps)

The total electrical budget available to the dock. Calculate: (device battery capacity in Wh × number of simultaneous slots × 1.2 safety factor) ÷ charge time in hours. Example: 10 devices × 25Wh ÷ 2 hours × 1.2 = ~150W minimum. Undersized PSUs cause slow charging or thermal shutdown during peak demand.

Communication Port (USB, Serial, Ethernet)

Docks with data ports enable offline inventory sync, config pushes, and firmware updates without WiFi. Serial/USB ports suit single or small multi-slot docks; Ethernet is required for large fleet management systems. Confirm protocol support (USB-A, Type-C, RS-232, 10/100Base-T) matches your MES/WMS backend.

Contact Material & Plating (Gold, Silver, Nickel)

Cradle electrical contacts degrade from oxidation in humid or freeze-thaw environments. Gold plating resists corrosion longest but costs more; silver or nickel are acceptable for climate-controlled warehouses. Stainless spring contacts prevent mechanical wear; verify contact force spec (gram-force) to avoid loose connections from repeated insertions.

Thermal Management & Charge Algorithms

Multi-slot docks generate heat from simultaneous charging; fans or passive heatsinks prevent PSU throttling. Smart charge controllers reduce current to flagged batteries or idle slots, extending lithium-ion lifespan by 20–30% versus continuous fast-charge. Look for temperature sensors and preheat cycles for cold-chain operations.

Mechanical Retention & Strain Relief

Cradles must secure devices against vibration (forklifts, conveyor shock) and support suspended device weight without stress on the charging port. Over-retention causes port damage; under-retention allows drop damage. Verify retention force (N), cable strain-relief design, and drop-test certification for vehicle-mount or high-traffic scenarios.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

Mid-Size Distribution Center (50–100 Mobile Computers, 2–3 Shifts)

Deploy two 8-slot mobile computer charging docks with Ethernet communication ports in the supervisor station, plus four single-slot vehicle-mount cradles on RF-equipped pallet jacks. Total dock capacity = 20 slots (covers 60% of fleet simultaneous charge). Add spare battery packs and a redundant PSU for dock 1 to prevent single-point charging failure during peak shift.

High-Velocity E-Commerce Fulfillment (200+ Barcode Scanners, 4 Shifts)

Four 12-slot multi-slot docks (48 total capacity) positioned at sort, pick, pack, and returns zones with USB communication for real-time scan upload to WMS. Stagger shift changeovers across docks to distribute 200-device charging load. Include sequential charge firmware to cap inrush current under 20A per facility breaker; verify PSU minimum 400W per dock with redundant backup. Integrate data sync cables into dock infrastructure for offline-tolerant environments.

Cold-Chain / Freezer Operations (30–40 Mobile Computers, -18°C Environment)

Deploy one heated 4-slot dock in the warm vestibule (preheat cradles 2–3 minutes before device insertion) and mount single-slot vehicle cradles on hand-trucks for in-freezer opportunistic charging during pick cycles. Dock PSU must be IP54-sealed with conformal coating to survive condensation. Choose Zebra or Unitech docks with proven cold-soak ratings and stainless contact platings.

Small Retail / QSR Back-of-House (8–12 Mobile Computers, Single Shift)

One 6-slot dock with USB communication installed in the manager station. Supports daytime charging during downtime and overnight full recharge. No redundant PSU required, but confirm dock IP rating for high-humidity kitchen environments. Pair with protective cases and dock mounting brackets to prevent accidental bumps and water splash.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size charging dock do I need for my fleet?

Calculate simultaneous users during peak shift, then size the dock to 60–80% of fleet capacity. Example: 100 devices with 3 simultaneous shifts = ~40–60 devices online at any time; purchase a 10-slot multi-dock (covers 25% concurrent charge) or two 8-slot docks (covers 40%). Factor in device battery capacity (Wh), desired charge-time window (2–4 hours), and PSU headroom—undersized docks cause bottlenecks and extended offline periods. Consult the device specs and dock compatibility sheets from Zebra or Datalogic for precise power requirements.

Can I mix different device types in a single multi-slot dock?

Most multi-slot docks include interchangeable cradle cartridges or adapter plates that support multiple device SKUs (e.g., same dock housing holds cradles for barcode scanners, mobile computers, and label printers). Verify cradle compatibility at purchase or upgrade; proprietary cartridges can be expensive. Check whether the dock PSU and data port can simultaneously handle mixed-power devices (some scanners draw 5W, mobile computers 20W+) without thermal throttling or port conflicts. Contact the manufacturer for compatibility matrices.

What power supply rating do I need for my dock?

Multiply (device battery capacity in Wh × number of simultaneous slots ÷ desired charge time in hours) × 1.2 safety factor. Example: 10 devices × 25Wh ÷ 2 hours × 1.2 = 150W minimum. Multi-slot docks charge faster (higher W rating needed); communication docks add 10–30W for active data transfer. Always exceed calculated minimum by 20% to avoid thermal shutdown or slow charging. Verify facility circuit capacity (typical warehouse breakers = 15–20A @ 120V = 1,800–2,400W); multiple docks may require dedicated circuits.

How do I ensure data sync if WiFi fails in my warehouse?

Choose communication docks with Ethernet or USB ports hardwired to your MES/WMS server. Devices automatically sync when docked, capturing all offline transactions (picks, scans, returns) without WiFi dependency. USB docks suit smaller operations (1–4 slots); Ethernet docks scale to large multi-location fleets with centralized database connectivity. Verify port protocol (USB Type-A/C, RJ45) matches your backend infrastructure. This is especially critical for high-accuracy environments where data freshness drives order accuracy—delays of even a few minutes can cascade through fulfillment.

What maintenance does a charging dock require?

Clean cradle contacts quarterly with isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth to remove oxidation and improve connection quality. Inspect spring contacts for mechanical wear or corrosion, especially in humid/cold environments; replace cartridges if contact resistance exceeds 50mΩ. Monitor PSU fan operation (if equipped) and ensure dock airflow is unobstructed. Replace spare contact cartridges as needed. Most docks have a 5–7 year lifespan; plan replacement cycles around device refresh schedules to avoid stranded infrastructure.

Are vehicle-mount charging cradles durable for forklifts and high-vibration environments?

Yes, vehicle-mount cradles are designed for shock, vibration, and repeated mechanical impact. They feature reinforced retention springs, sealed electrical contacts, and shock-absorbing mounts that exceed MIL-STD-810 drop/vibration testing. Verify IP rating (IP54+ recommended) and retention force (typically 5–10N) to ensure devices stay secure during turns and bumps. Cold-chain and outdoor dock environments benefit most from sealed, stainless-contact vehicle cradles. Confirm cradle compatibility with your forklift mounting system (Zebra, Unitech, and other OEMs offer standardized plate interfaces).

Charging Docks and Cradles

Plan Your Deployment

Showing Results for Charging Docks and Cradles

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-01 Vehicle Dock

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-CON-02 Vehicle Dock Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-01 Vehicle Dock

Zebra CRD-ET6X-VEHDK-PTA-02 Vehicle Dock Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-ET8X-M-KBBKW1-01 ET8x Dock Keyboard Support Bracket

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-2S1D1B Single-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-BS1CO Single-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-HC2L5L-BS5CO 5-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC18-3SLOTH-01 MC18/PS20 3-Slot Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC2X-1SCU-01 Single Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC2X-2SUCHG-01 MC22/MC27 Single Slot Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC2X-4SC4BC-01 4-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery

Zebra CRD-MC2X-5SCHG-01 MC22/MC27 5-Slot Charge Only Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC33-2SUCHG-01 MC33 USB Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-MC33-4SC4BC-01 MC33 4-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery Charger

Zebra CRD-MC33-4SE4BC-01 MC33 4-Slot Ethernet Cradle

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What to Look For When Buying

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