How to Use: Zebra TC21/TC26 Accessories Guide User Manual

Content

Overview

The TC21/TC26 Accessories Guide explains the charging, communication, protection, scanning, mounting, audio, vehicle, and RFID options available for Zebra TC21 and TC26 mobile computers. These accessories help adapt the device for retail, warehouse, transportation, field service, healthcare, and hands-free workflows.

Accessory selection depends on the device configuration, rear connector type, battery size, required communication interface, and whether the terminal is used alone or with a trigger handle, rugged boot, RFID sled, or workstation setup.

Specifications

Supported mobile computers: Zebra TC21 and TC26.
Standard battery: 3300 mAh, identified as the 1X battery.
Extended battery: 5260 mAh, identified as the 2X battery.
Four-slot battery charger: SAC-TC2Y-4SCHG-01.
Twenty-slot battery charger: SAC-TC2Y-20SCH-01.
Workstation Connect Cradle: CRD-TC2X-1SNWS-01.
Workstation Connect power supply: 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC output, 4.16 A.
Workstation Connect ports: HDMI, Ethernet, 3.5 mm headset jack, and four USB-A ports.
Workstation Connect DC cable: CBL-DC-388A2-01, 1.8 m.
Screen protector: SG-TC2Y-SCRNPT1-01.
Snap-on trigger handle: TRG-TC2Y-SNP1-01.
Rugged boot with integrated hand strap: SG-TC2Y-BOOT-01.
USB-C charging and communication cable: CBL-TC5X-USBC2A-01.
USB-C power supply: PWR-WUA5V12W0XX, 100–240 VAC input, 5 V, 2.5 A.

Detailed Description

Charging and Communication Cradles

The TC21/TC26 charging cradle family includes single-slot and multi-slot designs. Charge-only cradles are intended for routine battery replenishment, while communication cradles add a connection path for data transfer or network integration.

The single-slot communication cradle can use Ethernet with the MOD-MT2-EU1-01 module or USB with the USB cable identified as 25-124330-01R. These components are purchased separately. The single-slot charge and Ethernet communication cradle uses the PWR-BGA12V50W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-388A1-01 DC cable, and a suitable country-specific AC line cord.

The five-slot cradle family supports either five terminals or four terminals together with four spare batteries, depending on the selected configuration. Five-slot systems require the PWR-BGA12V108W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-381A1-01 DC line cord, and an appropriate country-specific AC line cord. Compatible cradle models include CRD-TC2Y-BS1CO-01, CRD-TC2Y-SE5ET-01, CRD-TC2Y-SE1ET-01, CRD-TC2Y-BS5CO-01, and CRD-TC2Y-BS54B-01.

Selected cradles can be installed in a 19-inch rack when used with the BRKT-SCRD-SMRK-01 mounting accessory. A trigger handle and terminal can also be charged together in compatible cradle configurations.

Workstation Connect Cradle

The Workstation Connect Cradle turns a TC21 or TC26 into a desktop-style workstation by connecting the mobile computer to an external display and multiple peripherals. Its HDMI port supports an external monitor, Ethernet provides wired network connectivity, the 3.5 mm jack supports compatible audio equipment, and four USB-A ports accommodate accessories such as input devices or other peripherals.

Cables for attached peripherals are not included with the cradle. The cradle requires the PWR-BGA12V50W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-388A2-01 DC line cord, and a grounded country-specific AC line cord. It can accommodate terminals fitted with or without the rugged boot, hand straps, and standard or extended batteries. Standard M5 screws may be used to secure the cradle to a desk or tabletop. The cradle also supports TC21-HC and TC26-HC healthcare configurations.

Batteries and Battery Chargers

The basic BTRY-TC2Y-1XMA1-01 battery provides 3300 mAh, while the extended BTRY-TC2Y-2XMA1-01 battery provides 5260 mAh. The extended option is intended for workflows that require additional operating time between charging sessions, although its physical configuration should be checked before selecting protective or mounting accessories.

The four-slot charger SAC-TC2Y-4SCHG-01 accepts either battery type and allows the two capacities to be mixed across its slots. It requires the PWR-BGA12V50W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-388A1-01 DC line cord, and a country-specific AC line cord.

The twenty-slot charger SAC-TC2Y-20SCH-01 is designed for larger device fleets. It uses the PWR-BGA12V108W0WW power supply and CBL-DC-381A1-01 DC line cord. The charger can be rack-mounted with BRKT-SCRD-SMRK-01.

Trigger Handle

The TRG-TC2Y-SNP1-01 snap-on trigger handle adds a pistol-style grip and physical scan trigger for high-volume scanning. It attaches to the top housing of the TC21 or TC26, leaves the rear camera unobstructed, and exposes contacts that allow charging through compatible single-slot and five-slot cradles.

The trigger handle is designed for TC21 and TC26 units equipped with the two-pin rear I/O connector. An optional wrist tether, part 50-12500-066, can provide additional retention. The accessory is considered consumable and may need replacement during the service life of the terminal. Optional two-year and three-year comprehensive trigger maintenance plans are identified as OPT-TRGMNT-2 and OPT-TRGMNT-3.

Protection and Hand-Carrying Accessories

The SG-TC2Y-SCRNPT1-01 tempered-glass screen protector covers the TC21 and TC26 display. It is supplied as one protector per package and is a consumable component that may require replacement.

The SG-TC2Y-BOOT-01 rugged boot uses a two-part construction joined by an integrated hand strap. It increases the device drop rating to 5 feet, or 1.5 meters. The lower portion can be removed when the terminal needs to be placed into a compatible ShareCradle.

The SG-TC2Y-HSTRP1-01 hand strap provides a more secure handheld grip. The SG-TC2Y-HLSTR1-01 soft holster uses an open-bucket design that accommodates the hand strap and snap-on accessories. It includes an audio and drainage opening, a non-rotating clip, and an adjustable belt for devices fitted with either the basic or extended battery.

Soft protective and carrying accessories are consumable items. Inspect them regularly for worn stitching, damaged clips, stretched straps, or other conditions that could reduce retention.

Arm Mounts and Wearable Scanning

The SG-TC2Y-ARMNT-01 arm mount supports hands-free operation and can be used with an RS5100, RS6100, or similar ring scanner. The mount uses a swivel design so the display can be viewed in portrait or landscape orientation.

The SG-TC2Y-WMADP1-01 provides a standard-length strap, while SG-TC2Y-WMADP1-02 provides an extended-length strap. Both versions mount the TC21 or TC26 to the arm and support hands-free scanning. Choose the strap length that provides a secure fit without restricting circulation or movement.

Audio Accessories

The HDST-USBC-PTT1-01 is an over-the-ear wired USB-C headset for push-to-talk and voice-over-IP use. Its rotating earpiece supports wearing on either the right or left ear, and integrated controls provide push-to-talk activation and volume adjustment.

The HS3100 rugged Bluetooth headset uses the HS3100 boom module with the HSX100 over-the-head headband module. It is intended for wireless voice communication where a wired USB-C headset is not preferred.

Vehicle Holder

The CRD-TC2Y-VCH1-01 in-vehicle holder uses a suction cup for installation on a window or dashboard. It supports terminals fitted with either the 1X or 2X battery and leaves the USB-C jack accessible.

The holder does not support snap-on accessories. It can be used with the CHG-AUTO-USB1-01 USB cigarette-lighter adapter, which is sold separately.

USB-C Cable and Wall Charging

The CBL-TC5X-USBC2A-01 USB-C cable supports TC21/TC26 charging and communication. When used with the PWR-WUA5V12W0XX power supply, it forms a basic wall-charging setup.

Country-specific power-supply versions include US, Great Britain, Europe, Australia, China, Argentina, Brazil, Korea, and India variants. Confirm that the plug configuration matches the installation location before connecting the charger.

RFID Accessories

The RFD40 UHF RFID sled adds RFID reading capability to a compatible TC21 or TC26 workflow. The sled requires the ADP-RFD40-TC2X-1E TC21/26 sled adaptor. The listed RFD40 configuration supports devices with either the 1X or 2X battery.

The CRD3S4T-RFD40-TC2X-CHG-1R multi-slot charge cradle provides three sled or terminal positions and four spare RFD40 battery positions. It requires the PWR-BGA12V108W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-381A1-01 DC line cord, and a country-specific AC line cord.

The CRD3S4T-RFD40-TC2X-COM-1R provides Ethernet and charging functions. Single-slot options include the CRD1S0T-RFD40-TC2X-CHG-1R charge-only cradle and the CRD1S0T-RFD40-TC2X-COM-1R communication cradle with Micro-USB connectivity. Single-slot RFID cradles require the PWR-BGA12V50W0WW power supply, CBL-DC-388A1-01 DC line cord, and a country-specific AC line cord.

The RFD40 multi-slot configuration supports Zebra eConnex only when used with devices equipped with the eight-pin rear connector. Verify the terminal connector configuration before ordering or installing an eConnex-based RFID setup.

Safety

Use only the power supply, DC cable, and AC line cord specified for the selected cradle or charger.
Use a grounded country-specific AC line cord with the Workstation Connect Cradle.
Confirm connector compatibility before attaching a trigger handle or RFID sled adaptor.
Do not use a damaged cable, power supply, cradle, strap, clip, or protective boot.
Secure a vehicle holder firmly and position it so it does not obstruct the driver’s view or vehicle controls.
Check that the terminal is fully seated in a cradle before leaving it unattended for charging or communication.
Replace consumable accessories when wear could affect device retention, charging contact, scanning control, or protection.

Setup and Operation

Connecting a Charging Cradle

Identify the cradle model and confirm the required power supply and DC cable.
Connect the DC line cord to the power supply and the cradle’s power input.
Attach the appropriate country-specific AC line cord to the power supply.
Connect the AC line cord to a suitable grounded outlet when required by the cradle design.
Place the TC21 or TC26 into the cradle with its contacts aligned with the charging contacts.
For a communication cradle, connect the required USB or Ethernet accessory before starting data communication.

Using the Battery Chargers

Connect the charger using its specified power supply and DC cable.
Insert each 1X or 2X battery into a charger slot with the contacts correctly aligned.
Use any available slot for either supported battery capacity in the four-slot charger.
Remove a battery only after charging is complete or when the charger is disconnected from power.

Installing Protection and Mounting Accessories

Power off the terminal before fitting a boot, hand strap, arm mount, or trigger handle.
Align the accessory with the device housing and press it into place without forcing the connectors.
For the rugged boot, ensure both sections are fully seated and that the integrated strap is not twisted.
For an arm mount, adjust the strap until the device is stable and the display remains easy to view.
For a trigger handle, verify that the terminal has the required two-pin rear I/O connector.
Before docking a protected terminal, confirm that the selected cradle accepts the installed boot and battery configuration.

Using Workstation Connect

Connect the Workstation Connect Cradle to its specified power supply and DC cable.
Attach the external monitor to HDMI and connect Ethernet, USB-A peripherals, or a headset as needed.
Insert the TC21 or TC26 into the cradle.
Confirm that the terminal recognizes the connected display and peripherals.
Secure the cradle with standard M5 screws when a permanent desk or tabletop installation is required.

Using RFID Accessories

Fit the correct TC21/26 sled adaptor to the RFD40 sled.
Attach the sled to a compatible TC21 or TC26 terminal.
Check that the terminal connector type supports the selected RFD40 communication method.
Place the combined unit into the appropriate single-slot or multi-slot RFID cradle for charging or communication.

Troubleshooting

The terminal does not charge: Confirm that the cradle or cable is using the specified power supply, check the AC connection, and reseat the terminal so its contacts align correctly.
A spare battery does not charge: Remove and reinstall the battery, inspect the contacts for contamination or damage, and verify that the battery is a supported 1X or 2X model.
USB or Ethernet communication is unavailable: Confirm that the communication accessory, module, cable, and cradle model support the required interface.
The trigger handle does not operate: Verify that the TC21 or TC26 has the required two-pin rear I/O connector and that the handle is fully attached.
The terminal does not fit the cradle: Check for an installed rugged boot, hand strap, snap-on accessory, or extended battery that may not be supported by that cradle.
The RFID sled cannot communicate: Confirm that the correct sled adaptor is installed and that an eight-pin connector is present when eConnex operation is required.
The vehicle holder is unsuitable: Remove unsupported snap-on accessories and verify that the terminal has a compatible 1X or 2X battery.
The workstation display or peripherals do not respond: Check the HDMI, Ethernet, USB-A, and headset connections, then reseat the terminal in the Workstation Connect Cradle.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Broad accessory range for charging, fleet management, scanning, RFID, hands-free work, vehicle use, and desktop-style operation.
Pros: Four-slot battery charging supports mixed standard and extended batteries.
Pros: Workstation Connect provides HDMI, Ethernet, USB-A, and headset connectivity from one cradle.
Pros: Rugged boot protection is compatible with standard and extended battery configurations and can be adapted for docking.
Cons: Many cradle systems require separate power supplies, DC cables, AC line cords, or communication modules.
Cons: Several protective, carrying, and trigger accessories are consumable and may require replacement.
Cons: Compatibility varies by rear connector, battery size, installed boot, and attached snap-on accessory.

This TC21/TC26 Accessories Guide is intended to simplify accessory selection and installation planning. Match every accessory to the exact terminal configuration and use the specified power components for reliable charging and communication.

PDF

Faqs

Which charging accessory should I use for a TC21 or TC26 with a standard or extended battery?

Choose a charging accessory according to the number of devices and batteries you need to charge. The USB-C cable and wall power supply suit individual charging and communication. A single-slot cradle supports one terminal, while 5-slot cradles support larger deployments. The 4-slot battery charger charges spare 3300 mAh basic or 5260 mAh extended batteries, and its slots can contain a mixture of both battery types. Confirm that the required power supply, DC cable, and country-specific AC cord are included or purchased separately.

How can I charge spare TC21/TC26 batteries without placing the terminal in a cradle?

Use the dedicated 4-slot or 20-slot battery charger for spare batteries. These chargers accept both the basic 3300 mAh battery and the extended 5260 mAh battery, so different capacities may be charged at the same time. Insert each battery carefully into an open slot with its contacts aligned. Use the power supply and cables specified for the charger, and keep the charger on a stable surface with adequate ventilation during operation.

What should I check if the TC21 or TC26 does not charge in a cradle?

First, verify that the cradle is connected to its correct power supply, DC line cord, and compatible AC cord. Reseat the terminal so its charging contacts align fully with the cradle contacts, then check for dirt, damage, or obstruction around the contacts. Remove accessories that may prevent proper seating, unless the cradle specifically supports them. If charging through USB-C, inspect the cable connection at both ends and try a known-compatible cable and power source.

Can the Workstation Connect Cradle turn a TC21 or TC26 into a desktop workstation?

Yes. The Workstation Connect Cradle is designed to connect the mobile computer to an external monitor and multiple peripherals. It provides HDMI, Ethernet, a 3.5 mm headset connection, and four USB-A ports; the required peripheral cables are not included. Connect the cradle to its specified power equipment, attach the monitor and peripherals, and place the TC21 or TC26 securely in the cradle. The design accommodates devices with either battery capacity and with or without supported protective accessories.

How do I choose between a hand strap, rugged boot, holster, and arm mount?

Select the accessory based on how the TC21 or TC26 will be carried. A hand strap improves grip during routine handheld work, while the rugged boot adds drop protection and includes an integrated hand strap. A soft holster keeps the device accessible on a belt and accommodates basic or extended batteries. An arm mount supports hands-free operation and can swivel between portrait and landscape viewing. Check fit and attachment security before moving or scanning with the device.

What should I know before installing the snap-on trigger handle?

The snap-on trigger handle is intended for high-volume scanning and attaches to the top housing of a compatible TC21 or TC26. It is designed for devices with the required two-pin rear I/O connector and does not block the rear camera. Align the terminal carefully with the handle before pressing it into place, and confirm that it is fully seated before scanning. The handle can charge with supported single-slot or multi-slot cradles, but it is a consumable accessory that may eventually require replacement.

How can I mount a TC21 or TC26 safely in a vehicle?

Use the dedicated in-vehicle holder with its suction-cup mounting system on a suitable windshield or dashboard surface. The holder supports both basic and extended batteries and leaves the USB-C connection accessible for charging. It does not support snap-on accessories, so remove a trigger handle or similar attachment before insertion. Secure the mount firmly, connect only compatible vehicle charging equipment, and verify that the device cannot loosen or obstruct the driver’s view.

Which TC21/TC26 accessories are suitable for RFID scanning and wired voice communication?

For UHF RFID work, use the RFD40 sled with the TC21/TC26 sled adaptor and confirm that the terminal has the required rear connector configuration for supported eConnex operation. The RFID charging cradles can charge the sled and terminal combinations described in the guide, including devices with basic or extended batteries. For wired push-to-talk or VoIP communication, the USB-C headset provides a rotating earpiece, built-in PTT button, and volume control. Connect accessories fully before use and route cables to avoid pulling or snagging.