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-TC2Y-BS1CO-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-BS1CO-01 TC21/26 1-Slot Charging Cradle

Single-slot charging cradle for Zebra TC21 and TC26 devices
- Charge-only design for high-volume rotation in warehouses and distribution centers
- One-slot form factor fits dedicated charging stations and mobile workstations
- Compatible with TC21 and TC26 rugged mobile computers
In stock · Ships same business day

$219.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC2Y-BS54B-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-BS54B-01 TC21/26 4-Slot Charging Cradle

4-slot cradle charges 4 TC21/TC26 devices + 4 batteries simultaneously
- Charge 4 rugged mobiles and spare batteries at once—no serial charging delays
- Compatible with Zebra TC21 and TC26 series mobile computers
- Desktop dock consolidates device and battery charging into single power connection
In stock · Ships same business day

$756.99 $723.99 Save $33.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC2Y-BS5CO-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-BS5CO-01 5-Slot Charge-Only ShareCradle

5-slot charge cradle for TC21 and TC26 handhelds, no data sync
- Charges 5 devices simultaneously with standard AC power input
- Charge-only design eliminates USB connectivity and docking delays
- Compatible with both Zebra TC21 and TC26 mobile computers
In stock · Ships same business day

$581.99 $556.99 Save $25.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC2Y-SE1ET-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-SE1ET-01 TC21/26 1-Slot Charge & Comm Cradle

Single-slot cradle for TC21/TC26 with charge and data sync
- Charges and communicates simultaneously without removing device
- Compatible with Zebra TC21 and TC26 rugged mobile computers
- Integrates into standard mobile device management workflows
In stock · Ships same business day

$567.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC2Y-SE5ET-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-SE5ET-01 TC21/26 5-Slot Ethernet Charge Cradle

5-slot Ethernet cradle for Zebra TC21/26 mobile computers
- Charge 5 devices simultaneously with wired Ethernet connectivity
- Built for warehouse, logistics, and field operation environments
- Compatible with Zebra TC21 and TC26 rugged mobile computers
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$1,092.99 $1,044.99 Save $48.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC2Y-VCH1-01

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-VCH1-01 TC21/TC26 In-Vehicle Suction Cup Mount

Windshield suction cup mount for TC21/TC26 hands-free in-vehicle use
- Suction cup attachment installs tool-free on any smooth glass surface
- Withstands repeated daily mount/unmount cycles without device or glass damage
- Holds TC21 and TC26 computers in stable position for driver visibility
In stock · Ships same business day

$92.99 $80.99 Save $12.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-1SCU-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-1SCU-01 1-Slot USB Charge Cradle

Single-slot USB cradle for Zebra TC51 and TC56 mobile computers
- Charges one TC51 or TC56 device with standard USB wired connection
- Compact desktop or wall-mount form factor with included mounting hardware
- USB handles both charging and data communication during charge cycles
In stock · Ships same business day

$406.99 $361.99 Save $45.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-1SCU1-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-1SCU1-01 TC5X 1-Slot USB Cradle

Single-slot USB cradle for TC51, TC56, TC57 with integrated charging
- Charges and syncs one TC5X device via USB 2.0/3.0 without external power
- Works across all three TC5X generations—deploy one cradle type fleet-wide
- Plug-and-play setup, no drivers or software configuration required
In stock · Ships same business day

$327.99 $313.99 Save $14.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SC4B-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SC4B-01 5-Slot Charging Cradle

5-slot cradle with integrated charger for Zebra TC5X fleets
- Charge 5 devices simultaneously; cuts spare battery needs by 40–50%
- Built-in battery charger eliminates separate power equipment clutter
- Sequential charging logic prevents power bottlenecks in high-volume ops
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,184.99 $1,133.99 Save $51.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SC4BC-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SC4BC-01 5-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery

5-slot cradle with integrated battery for TC51/TC56 fleet charging
- Charge 5 devices simultaneously; integrated battery eliminates outlet dependency
- Concurrent data sync during charging pushes configs and task lists to multiple units
- Works with Zebra TC51 and TC56 mobile computers in warehouse and field operations
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,014.99 $970.99 Save $44.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SCHG-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SCHG-01 TC5X 5-Slot Charge-Only Cradle

5-slot charge-only cradle for Zebra TC51 and TC56 mobile computers
- Charge 5 TC51/TC56 units simultaneously with included power supply
- Charge-only design eliminates data communication and licensing overhead
- Desktop cradle reduces device turnaround time across warehouse operations
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,024.11 $826.99 Save $197.12

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SCHG1-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SCHG1-01 5-Slot Charge-Only Cradle

5-slot charge cradle for TC51/TC56 handheld devices, desk or wall mount
- Charges five TC51 or TC56 units simultaneously from single AC outlet
- Charge-only design eliminates unused data connectivity costs
- Compact footprint consolidates multiple devices into one desktop footprint
In stock · Ships same business day

$871.30 $663.99 Save $207.31

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SETH-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SETH-01 5-Slot Ethernet Cradle

5-slot cradle with wired ethernet for TC5X simultaneous charging
- Charges 5 Zebra TC51/TC56 devices at once, cuts device rotation time
- 802.3 wired ethernet per slot eliminates WiFi dead zones in warehouses
- Compact desktop footprint with power supply included, ready to deploy
In stock · Ships same business day

$1,386.99 $1,326.99 Save $60.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-5SETH1-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SETH1-01 TC51 5-Slot Ethernet Cradle

5-slot ethernet cradle for simultaneous TC51 charging and data sync
- Charges 5 Zebra TC51 devices at once with wired ethernet connectivity
- Compact workstation-integrated design fits existing warehouse workflows
- Centralized fleet charging reduces device downtime across operations
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$1,217.99 $1,164.99 Save $53.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-HC1SC-01

Zebra CRD-TC51-HC1SC-01 TC5X-HC 1-Slot USB Charging Cradle

Single-slot USB cradle for Zebra TC5X-HC mobile computers
- Wired USB charging connection for TC5X-HC handheld devices
- Compact 5.0 x 5.0 x 5.0 in form factor fits tight workstations
- Single-device cradle supports rapid battery rotation in field ops
In stock · Ships same business day

$438.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRD-TC51-HC1SC-02

Zebra CRD-TC51-HC1SC-02 1-Slot Charging Cradle

Single-slot USB cradle for Zebra TC51-HC rugged mobile computers
- 1-slot charging dock with USB wired connection for TC51-HC devices
- Supports both fixed workstation and mobile deployment scenarios
- Integrates charging and data sync in one docking solution
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$354.99 $338.99 Save $16.00

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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-TC2Y-BS1CO-01 TC21/26 1-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-BS54B-01 TC21/26 4-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-BS5CO-01 5-Slot Charge-Only ShareCradle

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-SE1ET-01 TC21/26 1-Slot Charge & Comm Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-SE5ET-01 TC21/26 5-Slot Ethernet Charge Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC2Y-VCH1-01 TC21/TC26 In-Vehicle Suction Cup Mount

Zebra CRD-TC51-1SCU-01 1-Slot USB Charge Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-1SCU1-01 TC5X 1-Slot USB Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SC4B-01 5-Slot Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SC4BC-01 5-Slot Charging Cradle with Battery

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SCHG-01 TC5X 5-Slot Charge-Only Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SCHG1-01 5-Slot Charge-Only Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SETH-01 5-Slot Ethernet Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-5SETH1-01 TC51 5-Slot Ethernet Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-HC1SC-01 TC5X-HC 1-Slot USB Charging Cradle

Zebra CRD-TC51-HC1SC-02 1-Slot Charging Cradle

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What to Look For When Buying

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