For years, Zebra’s TC series of Android handheld computers has provided durable mobile computing solutions for the enterprise. The TC7x has always been the toughest, ‘best-in-class’ part of the product family.

Zebra has just announced the latest version in this rugged mobile computer family… the TC73 and TC78. This is a significant leap forward in terms of computing power, user ergonomics, durability, and productivity-enhancing features such as an improved barcode scanner.

Zebra TC73/TC78 Offers Major Upgrades Over Prior Versions

• Larger and brighter 6-inch FHD+ tough display (Gorilla Glass)
• More rugged – 10ft drop spec to concrete!
• Enhanced ergonomics – thinner grip area, and contoured back and sides
• Includes barcode scanner: choose between advanced scan engines, SE4770 or SE55
• Hot swap batteries
• Faster Qualcomm processor
• 7% lighter than prior model
• Complete family of accessories

Difference Between TC73 and TC78 Handheld Computer

The 2 versions of this handheld are identical with the exception that the TC73 is Wi-Fi only, whereas the TC78 offers both Wi-Fi and 5G capability. So TC78 is the right choice for work in the field where remote connections are important, whereas TC73 is the best option when the device will only be used ‘within the company walls’ with wireless networks. For example, TC78 would typically be the best choice in direct store delivery or field service usage, whereas for warehouse or retail store usage, the TC73 would be sufficient. Both units include bluetooth.

Target Use Environments for the TC73-TC78

The TC73-TC78 can boast a broad range of great ‘use cases’. Basically, any environment which requires rugged devices, exceptional battery life and scanning capability, and a large touch screen (but not tablet-sized).

Some typical great applications for the TC73 and TC78 include:

Learn More About the TC73/TC78 Handheld Computer

Contact CSSI for information on this powerful new Android computer and schedule your hands-on demo today. CSSI is a Zebra Technologies partner, and pleased to discuss, deploy, and support this product with you. CSSI offers a broad range of professional services to ensure successful rollouts and smooth ongoing usage.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Zebra TC73 & TC78

Q: What’s the difference between the Zebra TC73 and the TC78, and which one fits my operation?

A. Both models use the same rugged hardware, display, processor, and scanning options. The difference is connectivity. The TC73 is a Wi-Fi-only device for workers who stay inside your four walls, like warehouse pickers, receivers, and inventory staff. The TC78 adds 5G/4G cellular through a Nano SIM and eSIM, so it suits field workers, yard staff, drivers, and anyone who leaves Wi-Fi coverage. The TC78 also supports private LTE/5G networks, including CBRS private LTE in the US, and it’s the only one of the two that offers a Qi wireless charging battery. Both have Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. The TC73 replaces the TC70, TC70X, and TC72.

Q: How well will these devices hold up on a busy warehouse floor or in a cold environment?

A. Both are built for heavy use. They survive multiple 10 ft. drops to concrete at room temperature (MIL-STD 810H) and multiple 8 ft. drops across the full operating range of -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C). They’re rated for 2,000 consecutive 3.3 ft. tumbles and sealed to IP65 and IP68, so dust, washdowns, and spills aren’t a problem. Corning Gorilla Glass protects both the display and the scanner window, and the scan trigger is rated for one million actuations. Even with all that ruggedness, the TC73 is nearly 20% thinner and lighter than the models it replaces.

Q: Can workers scan barcodes on high racking without a ladder or a lift?

A. Yes, if you choose the right scan engine. The standard SE4770 imager reads 1D and 2D barcodes out to about 24 inches, which covers most picking and putaway work. The SE55 Advanced Range engine with IntelliFocus reads barcodes from as far as 40 ft. away, depending on barcode size and symbology, so workers can read labels on top-level racking from the floor. Both devices also have a 16 MP autofocus rear camera for photo documentation, like proof of condition on damaged freight.

Q: Will the battery last a full shift, and what happens when it runs low?

A. The standard battery is rated for up to 15 hours of use, and an extended-capacity battery is available for longer or multi-shift operations. Standard SKUs support warm swap and premium SKUs support hot swap, so workers can change batteries without rebooting or losing their session. PowerPrecision+ gives IT and supervisors detailed battery health data, which helps you retire aging batteries before they fail. There’s also a BLE battery option that lets Device Tracker find a misplaced device even after the battery has died. Charging is via USB-C, and the TC78 also offers wireless charging.

Q: How hard will these be for IT to deploy, secure, and support over time?

A. Zebra built the TC73 and TC78 for enterprise IT. Both run Android Enterprise Recommended and use a Qualcomm 6490 octa-core processor with 4 GB/64 GB or 8 GB/128 GB of memory, plus a microSD slot for up to 2 TB of storage. Zebra’s Mobility DNA suite comes with the devices and includes StageNow and Zero-Touch provisioning, OEMConfig for your EMM, DataWedge for scanning into existing apps without coding, Enterprise Browser, and All-touch Terminal Emulation for legacy green-screen applications. For security, LifeGuard for Android provides ongoing patches, and the devices support Secure Boot, Verified Boot, and WPA3 Enterprise. FIPS 140-2 is available on select configurations. Zebra plans five years of product availability and ten years of service and support, which protects your investment over a long refresh cycle. Some features vary by model or need a support contract.