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: CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-01

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-01 Charging Cup

Replacement charging cup with USB/Ethernet for Zebra mobile computers
- Simultaneous charging and wired data transfer in one cradle
- Wired USB/Ethernet connectivity eliminates wireless dependency
- Drop-in replacement for warehouse, logistics, and retail operations
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$107.99 $103.99 Save $4.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-05

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-05 Charging and USB Ethernet Cradle Set

Five-unit cradle set with USB/Ethernet charging for Zebra scanners
- Simultaneous charging and data sync across five devices via wired connection
- USB and Ethernet connectivity eliminates wireless interference in warehouse RF environments
- Consolidates power and data infrastructure for small to medium scanner deployments
In stock · Ships same business day

$539.99 $516.99 Save $23.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-01

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-01 TC53/TC58 Charging Cradle

Single-device cradle for TC53/TC58 with boot-compatible design
- Charges TC53, TC53e, TC58, TC58e via proprietary connector
- Accepts devices with rugged protective boots—no case removal needed
- Wired AC power for stationary dispatch centers and loading docks
In stock · Ships same business day

$185.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-05

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-05 Charging Cup

Single-device wired charging cup for Zebra TC53/TC58 and R series
- Contact-based charging integrates into fixed depot, wall, or vehicle mounts
- Compact single-device design minimizes footprint in tight charging station layouts
- Compatible with TC53(e), TC58(e), and R series mobile computers
In stock · Ships same business day

$344.99 $329.99 Save $15.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC7-01

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7-01 TC73/TC78 Cradle Cup Replacement

Hot-swap cradle cup for Zebra TC73/TC78 mobile computers
- User-replaceable design swaps in under one minute without tools
- Hot-swap capable—remove or install without powering down the device
- Wired docking interface supports TC73 and TC78 fleet deployments
In stock · Ships same business day

$191.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC7-05

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7-05 TC73/TC78 Cradle Cup (5-Pack)

Replacement cradle cups for Zebra TC73/TC78 — 5-pack snap-fit
- Tool-free snap-fit installation with no screwdrivers or special equipment
- Pack of 5 cups covers multiple devices or field replacement stock
- Restores charging contact and mechanical alignment for TC73 & TC78 terminals
In stock · Ships same business day

$581.99 $555.99 Save $26.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-01

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-01 Charging Cup Kit

Charging cup dock with USB and Ethernet for Zebra TC73
- Docking station integrates power and network connectivity in one unit
- Built for warehouse and logistics environments requiring organized charging
- Compatible exclusively with Zebra TC73 mobile computers
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$112.99 $107.99 Save $5.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-05

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-05 TC73/78 Ethernet Cradle Cup Kit

Ethernet cradle cup assembly for TC73/TC78 docking and charging
- Replacement cradle cup with wired ethernet connectivity for TC73/TC78
- Integrates into existing TC73/TC78 dock infrastructure for device management
- Supports warehouse, field service, and logistics mobile workforce operations
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$561.99 $537.99 Save $24.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L1C-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1C-01 Charge Only Cradle Cup

Wired charge-only cradle cup for TC22 and TC27 fleet depot charging
- Charge-only design eliminates data-sync overhead during battery replenishment
- Wired connection for consistent power delivery in high-RF warehouse environments
- Supports 600mAh batteries; works with both TC22 and TC27 rugged computers
In stock · Ships same business day

$81.99 $78.99 Save $3.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L1CB-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1CB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Wired charging cradle for Zebra TC22 and TC27 rugged devices
- Charge-only cradle with wired connection for TC22/TC27 mobile computers
- Rugged boot-compatible design integrates into multi-device docking setups
- 600mAh battery support capacity for reliable power between work shifts
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$79.99 $75.99 Save $4.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L1E-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1E-01 Charge and Communications Cradle

Wired cradle for TC22/TC27 with simultaneous charging and data sync
- Proprietary Zebra connector charges and transfers data at fixed dock
- Purpose-built for TC22 and TC27 rugged mobile computers
- Wired connectivity eliminates wireless sync delays in warehouse ops
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$109.99 $104.99 Save $5.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L1EB-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1EB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Charging cradle for TC22/TC27 with wired Ethernet connectivity
- Maintains persistent LAN connection during charging cycles for warehouse operations
- Boot-compatible cradle design secures TC22 and TC27 devices during dock operations
- Wired Ethernet integration eliminates wireless dependency for network-critical tasks
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$109.99 $104.99 Save $5.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L4B-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L4B-01 Handheld Battery Charging Cradle

Wired charging cradle for Zebra handhelds with simultaneous power and data sync
- Direct wired connection eliminates alignment issues and RF interference
- 600mAh battery capacity support optimized for standard mobile computer batteries
- Sync application updates and route assignments during charge cycles in fixed stations
In stock · Ships same business day

$545.99

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L5C-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5C-01 Sharecradle Conversion Kit

Multi-device cradle kit for TC22 & TC27 with centralized charging
- Wired docking eliminates pairing delays and syncs data immediately
- Supports mixed TC-series generations on one shared cradle system
- Single power supply feeds multiple cradles—no per-unit PSU needed
In stock · Ships same business day

$372.99 $356.99 Save $16.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L5CB-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5CB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Wired charging cradle for Zebra TC22 and TC27 rugged devices
- Single-device charging station with boot adapter compatibility
- Designed for TC-series mobile computers in warehouse and field ops
- Wired connection for reliable power in high-use enterprise settings
Special Order · Ships in 2-3 weeks

$372.99 $356.99 Save $16.00

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Zebra

SKU: CRDCUP-TC2L5E-01

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5E-01 Sharecradle Conversion Kit

Wired cradle kit integrates TC22/TC27 into Sharecradle depot charging
- Single-device wired connection to Sharecradle stations for reliable charging
- Works with TC22 and TC27 rugged computers using standard boot attachments
- Secure cradle positioning holds devices during charging and data sync
In stock · Ships same business day

$521.99 $498.99 Save $23.00

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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 CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-01 Charging Cup

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5ETH-05 Charging and USB Ethernet Cradle Set

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-01 TC53/TC58 Charging Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC5NB-05 Charging Cup

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7-01 TC73/TC78 Cradle Cup Replacement

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7-05 TC73/TC78 Cradle Cup (5-Pack)

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-01 Charging Cup Kit

Zebra CRDCUP-NGTC7ETH-05 TC73/78 Ethernet Cradle Cup Kit

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1C-01 Charge Only Cradle Cup

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1CB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1E-01 Charge and Communications Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L1EB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L4B-01 Handheld Battery Charging Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5C-01 Sharecradle Conversion Kit

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5CB-01 TC22/TC27 Charging Cradle

Zebra CRDCUP-TC2L5E-01 Sharecradle Conversion Kit

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What to Look For When Buying

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