Symbol MC50 - User Manual

Other manuals for Symbol MC50

Integrator Guide174 pages

Quick Start Guide2 pages

Questions and Answers

B
Brandi HumphreySep 23, 2025
What to do if during data communication no data was transmitted, or transmitted data was incomplete on my Symbol Handhelds?
- F
  fsimsSep 23, 2025
  If, during data communication with your Symbol Handhelds, no data is transmitted or the transmitted data is incomplete, it could be due to several reasons. The mobile computer might have been removed from the cradle or unplugged from the host computer during communication; if so, replace the mobile computer in the cradle, or reattach the CAM data cable and re-transmit. It could also be due to incorrect cable configuration. Finally, the communication software may have been incorrectly installed or configured.
A
Alexis WilsonAug 23, 2025
Why does my Symbol Handhelds mobile computer keep turning itself off?
- M
  mlindseyAug 25, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer turns itself off, there could be several reasons. It might be due to inactivity, in which case you can adjust the automatic shutoff delay in the Power settings (Start - Settings - System tab - Power icon - Advanced tab). Also, ensure the battery is properly inserted, not depleted, not exhausted, or not in need of recalibration. Recharge or replace the battery if necessary.
J
Janice GarrettAug 25, 2025
What to do if rechargeable lithium-ion battery did not charge in Symbol Handhelds?
- S
  Scott MorganAug 26, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds rechargeable lithium-ion battery didn't charge, the battery may have failed, so try replacing it. If the mobile computer still doesn't operate, try a warm boot, then a cold boot. Also, ensure that the mobile computer remains in the cradle while charging. A standard battery requires about 3.5 hours, and an extended capacity battery needs about seven hours to fully charge.
H
hfrancisAug 27, 2025
Why is my Symbol Handhelds mobile computer not accepting scan input?
- S
  Shane CarrAug 27, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer is not accepting scan input, make sure a scanning application is loaded. Check that the barcode isn't damaged, and that the distance between the exit window and the barcode is correct. Ensure the mobile computer is programmed to accept the type of barcode scanned and to generate a beep on a good decode. Also, check the battery level.
N
Nichole GilbertAug 27, 2025
How to fix attempt by the Symbol MC50 mobile computer to ActiveSync that failed?
- F
  Francis ScottAug 27, 2025
  If ActiveSync failed on your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer, it might be because the mobile computer was removed from the cradle while the LED was blinking green, or ActiveSync on the host computer hasn't closed the previous session. Wait one minute and reinsert the mobile computer in the cradle to allow another synchronization attempt. Also, make sure you're using the correct cable (USB or Ethernet) with the cradle.
M
Monique FryeSep 16, 2025
What to do if a message appears stating that my Symbol MC50 Handhelds mobile computer memory is full?
- B
  Brian Norman MDSep 16, 2025
  If you receive a message indicating that your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer memory is full, it's likely due to too many files or applications stored on the device. To resolve this, delete unused memos and records, saving them on your host computer if necessary. Additionally, remove any unused installed applications from the mobile computer by going to Start - Settings - System tab and tapping the Remove Programs icon. Select the unused program and tap Remove.
J
Jeff CameronSep 13, 2025
What to do if my Symbol Handhelds mobile computer does not turn on?
- R
  Richard CarrollSep 13, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer doesn't turn on, it could be due to a few reasons. First, the lithium-ion battery might not be charged, so try charging or replacing it. Second, the battery may not be installed correctly; ensure it is properly installed. Lastly, the system might have crashed; try performing a warm boot, and if that doesn't work, perform a cold boot.
M
Melissa BakerSep 14, 2025
What to do if my Symbol MC50 Handhelds rechargeable lithium-ion battery did not charge?
- T
  turnerashleySep 14, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds rechargeable lithium-ion battery isn't charging, the battery may have failed, in which case you should replace it. If replacing the battery does not help, try a warm boot, then a cold boot. Another possibility is that the mobile computer was removed from the cradle while the battery was charging. If so, insert the mobile computer in the cradle and begin charging. Note that the lithium-ion battery requires two to four hours to recharge fully.
M
Meagan JohnsonSep 5, 2025
Why does my Symbol MC50 Handhelds mobile computer not emit sound?
- M
  Mike DixonSep 5, 2025
  If your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer doesn't emit sound, the volume might be set too low or turned off. The unit may be a beeper only unit or incorrect Config Block is programmed into device.
D
david78Sep 3, 2025
What to do if during communication, no data was transmitted, or transmitted data was incomplete on Symbol MC50 Handhelds?
- T
  Tracy CostaSep 3, 2025
  If no data was transmitted or the transmitted data was incomplete during communication on your Symbol Handhelds mobile computer, replace the mobile computer in the cradle and retransmit. Also, check the status bar for an icon indicating an active connection.

Summary

About This Guide

Introduction

Overview of the Integrator Guide's purpose and scope.

Documentation Set

Details the various guides available for the MC50.

Configurations

Lists the features and hardware specifications of the MC50 device.

Chapter Descriptions

Provides a summary of the topics covered in each chapter of the guide.

Notational Conventions

Explains the formatting conventions used throughout the document.

Service Information

Guidance on contacting support for service and warranty issues.

Symbol Support Center

Contact details for technical assistance and service globally.

Chapter 1. Getting Started

Introduction

Introduces the chapter's content on initial setup, charging, and resetting.

Unpacking the Mobile Computer

Steps for safely removing and verifying the contents of the mobile computer package.

Accessories

Lists and describes the available accessories for the MC50.

MC50 Demo Application

Information on sample applications for development assistance.

Getting Started

Basic steps before first use: battery, charging, starting, configuring.

Installing and Removing the Main Battery

Detailed instructions for battery installation and removal.

Charging the Battery

Procedures for charging the main and backup batteries.

Calibrating the Battery

Steps to periodically calibrate the battery for accuracy.

Charging Spare Batteries

Instructions for charging spare batteries using accessories.

Resetting the Mobile Computer

Explains warm and cold boot options for resetting the device.

Performing a Warm Boot

How to perform a warm boot to restart the device.

Performing a Cold Boot

How to perform a cold boot to reset the device to factory defaults.

Locking the Keypad

Instructions on how to lock the keypad to prevent accidental presses.

Chapter 2. Accessories

Introduction

Overview of MC50 accessories like cradles, MSR, CAM, and adapters.

Cradles

Details on USB and Ethernet cradles for charging and communication.

Miscellaneous

Other accessories like spare battery charger, headset, and memory cards.

Snap-on Modules

Describes MSR and CAM snap-on modules for enhanced functionality.

Headset

Instructions for connecting and using the headset.

Multi Media Card (MMC); Secure Device (SD) Card

Information on using MMC/SD cards for storage.

Single Slot USB Cradle

Setup and use of the single slot USB cradle for charging/sync.

Charging the Mobile Computer Battery

How to charge the mobile computer battery using the cradle.

Charging the Spare Battery

How to charge a spare battery using the cradle.

Battery Charging Indicators

Explanation of LED indicators for battery charging status.

Four Slot USB Cradle

Setup and use of the four slot USB cradle for charging/sync.

UConnect

Software for automatic synchronization with the four-slot USB cradle.

Four Slot Ethernet Cradle

Setup and use of the four slot Ethernet cradle for charging/networking.

Daisychaining Cradles

Connecting multiple Ethernet cradles together.

Ethernet Cradle Drivers

Installing drivers for the Ethernet cradle.

Four Slot Spare Battery Charger

Setup and use of the charger for spare batteries.

Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR)

Attaching, removing, and using the MSR snap-on module.

Cable Adapter Module (CAM)

Setup and use of the CAM snap-on module.

Universal Battery Charger (UBC) Adapter

Using the UBC adapter to charge spare batteries.

Chapter 3. ActiveSync

Introduction

Overview of ActiveSync for host computer communication and data sync.

Installing ActiveSync

Steps to download and install ActiveSync on the host computer.

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Host Computer

Configuring ActiveSync settings on the host.

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Mobile Computer

Configuring ActiveSync settings on the mobile device.

Setting up a Partnership

Creating a synchronization partnership between devices.

Chapter 4. Software Installation on Development PC

Introduction

Information on tools for application development: SMDK and DCP.

Required System Configurations

Minimum system requirements for SMDK and DCP.

DCP for MC50

Instructions for installing the Device Configuration Package.

Components

Lists components included in the DCP for MC50.

SMDK for eVC4

Details on installing the Symbol Mobility Developer Kit.

Installing Other Development Software

Guidance on installing additional development software.

Software Updates

Information on obtaining updates for the SMDK.

Chapter 5. Software Installation on Mobile Computer

Introduction

Overview of installing software and files on the mobile computer.

Downloading Files Using ActiveSync

Copying files from host to mobile via ActiveSync.

Downloading Files Using an MMC;SD Card

Transferring files via MMC or SD card.

Adding Programs

Steps for installing software on the host before mobile installation.

Adding a Program from the Internet

Instructions for installing programs downloaded from the internet.

Other Downloading Methods

References to Hex Images, SCM, and AirBEAM Smart.

Chapter 6. Creating and Loading Hex Images

Introduction

Explains Terminal Configuration Manager (TCM) for customizing flash partitions.

Starting Terminal Configuration Manager

How to launch the TCM application.

Defining Script Properties

Setting up properties for creating a hex image script.

Creating the Script for the Hex Image

Steps for creating or opening a script file in TCM.

Building the Image

Process of building the hex image from a script.

Downloading the Hex Image using a USB Connection

Transferring hex image via USB.

Downloading the Hex Image using an MMC;SD Card

Transferring hex image via SD/MMC card.

TCM Error Messages

Common error messages encountered in TCM and their solutions.

IPL Error Detection

How IPL detects and reports errors during download.

Flash Storage

Explanation of FFS partitions and their use.

Downloading Partitions to the Mobile Computer

Using TCM to download partitions to the device.

Chapter 7. Symbol Configuration Manager (SCM)

Introduction

Overview of SCM for creating registry files for device configuration.

File Types

Describes SCT, SCD, and REG file types used by SCM.

User Interface

Explanation of the SCM main window and its components.

Menu Functions

Details the functions available in the SCM menus.

Parameter State Indicators

Explains indicators for parameter status (modified, invalid).

Window Status Bar

Information displayed in the SCM status bar.

Registry File Deployment

Procedures for deploying registry files to the mobile computer.

Chapter 8. WLAN Configuration

Introduction

How wireless LANs enable mobile computer communication.

Mobile Companion

Utility for configuring wireless network settings.

Finding WLANs

Locating available wireless networks.

Setting Options

Configuring AP/Ad-Hoc networks, roaming, and system sounds.

Changing Profiles

Managing WLAN profiles for different network environments.

Using LEAP for Wireless Network Security

Configuring LEAP for secure wireless network access.

Configuring Advanced Password Options

Setting password caching options for LEAP.

Enterprise Level Wi-Fi Protected Access

Using WPA with Full Authentication and Credential Caching.

AEGIS Security Client

Implementation of IEEE 802.1X for network access control.

Configuring the DS (11 Mb) Radio Using a Registry File

Setting radio card defaults using registry files.

Connecting to the Internet on a Wireless Network

Steps to establish an internet connection via WLAN.

Chapter 9. AirBEAM Smart

Introduction

Overview of AirBEAM Smart for software package transfer.

AirBEAM Package Builder

Tool for organizing and defining software packages.

AirBEAM Smart Client

Client software installed on mobile computer for package transfer.

AirBEAM License

Information on the licensed software and key file.

Configuring the AirBEAM Smart Client

Steps to configure client settings for package synchronization.

Synchronizing with the Server

Process of synchronizing packages with the server.

AirBEAM Staging

Support for staging software updates directly from manufacturing.

Chapter 10. Rapid Deployment Client

Introduction

Facilitates software downloads from MSP Console FTP server via bar codes.

Rapid Deployment Window

Displays scan status and provides reset/exit features.

Scanning RD Bar Codes

Steps for scanning bar codes to configure or download software.

Chapter 11. Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Introduction

Instructions for cleaning, storing, and troubleshooting the mobile computer.

Maintaining the Mobile Computer

Tips for proper care and usage of the mobile computer.

Troubleshooting

Common problems, causes, and solutions for the mobile computer.

Troubleshooting the Four Slot Spare Battery Charger

Troubleshooting for the spare battery charger.

Troubleshooting the Single Slot USB Cradle

Troubleshooting for the single slot USB cradle.

Troubleshooting the Four Slot USB and Ethernet Cradles

Troubleshooting for multi-slot cradles.

Troubleshooting the Cable Adapter Module

Troubleshooting for the CAM module.

Troubleshooting the Magnetic Stripe Reader

Troubleshooting for the MSR accessory.

Appendix A. Specifications

Technical Specifications

Summary of the mobile computer's hardware and environment specs.

MC50 Accessory Specifications

Technical specifications for various MC50 accessories.

COM Port Definitions

Definitions for external COM connector assignments.

Pin-Outs

Detailed pin-out information for the external connector.

Appendix B. Keypad Maps

Introduction

Explains keypad maps for different configurations.

Example

Demonstrates how to read a keypad map entry.

Keypads

Functionality details for navigation and QWERTY keypads.

Glossary

Summary

About This Guide

Introduction

Overview of the Integrator Guide's purpose and scope.

Documentation Set

Details the various guides available for the MC50.

Configurations

Lists the features and hardware specifications of the MC50 device.

Chapter Descriptions

Provides a summary of the topics covered in each chapter of the guide.

Notational Conventions

Explains the formatting conventions used throughout the document.

Service Information

Guidance on contacting support for service and warranty issues.

Symbol Support Center

Contact details for technical assistance and service globally.

Chapter 1. Getting Started

Introduction

Introduces the chapter's content on initial setup, charging, and resetting.

Unpacking the Mobile Computer

Steps for safely removing and verifying the contents of the mobile computer package.

Accessories

Lists and describes the available accessories for the MC50.

MC50 Demo Application

Information on sample applications for development assistance.

Getting Started

Basic steps before first use: battery, charging, starting, configuring.

Installing and Removing the Main Battery

Detailed instructions for battery installation and removal.

Charging the Battery

Procedures for charging the main and backup batteries.

Calibrating the Battery

Steps to periodically calibrate the battery for accuracy.

Charging Spare Batteries

Instructions for charging spare batteries using accessories.

Resetting the Mobile Computer

Explains warm and cold boot options for resetting the device.

Performing a Warm Boot

How to perform a warm boot to restart the device.

Performing a Cold Boot

How to perform a cold boot to reset the device to factory defaults.

Locking the Keypad

Instructions on how to lock the keypad to prevent accidental presses.

Chapter 2. Accessories

Introduction

Overview of MC50 accessories like cradles, MSR, CAM, and adapters.

Cradles

Details on USB and Ethernet cradles for charging and communication.

Miscellaneous

Other accessories like spare battery charger, headset, and memory cards.

Snap-on Modules

Describes MSR and CAM snap-on modules for enhanced functionality.

Headset

Instructions for connecting and using the headset.

Multi Media Card (MMC); Secure Device (SD) Card

Information on using MMC/SD cards for storage.

Single Slot USB Cradle

Setup and use of the single slot USB cradle for charging/sync.

Charging the Mobile Computer Battery

How to charge the mobile computer battery using the cradle.

Charging the Spare Battery

How to charge a spare battery using the cradle.

Battery Charging Indicators

Explanation of LED indicators for battery charging status.

Four Slot USB Cradle

Setup and use of the four slot USB cradle for charging/sync.

UConnect

Software for automatic synchronization with the four-slot USB cradle.

Four Slot Ethernet Cradle

Setup and use of the four slot Ethernet cradle for charging/networking.

Daisychaining Cradles

Connecting multiple Ethernet cradles together.

Ethernet Cradle Drivers

Installing drivers for the Ethernet cradle.

Four Slot Spare Battery Charger

Setup and use of the charger for spare batteries.

Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR)

Attaching, removing, and using the MSR snap-on module.

Cable Adapter Module (CAM)

Setup and use of the CAM snap-on module.

Universal Battery Charger (UBC) Adapter

Using the UBC adapter to charge spare batteries.

Chapter 3. ActiveSync

Introduction

Overview of ActiveSync for host computer communication and data sync.

Installing ActiveSync

Steps to download and install ActiveSync on the host computer.

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Host Computer

Configuring ActiveSync settings on the host.

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Mobile Computer

Configuring ActiveSync settings on the mobile device.

Setting up a Partnership

Creating a synchronization partnership between devices.

Chapter 4. Software Installation on Development PC

Introduction

Information on tools for application development: SMDK and DCP.

Required System Configurations

Minimum system requirements for SMDK and DCP.

DCP for MC50

Instructions for installing the Device Configuration Package.

Components

Lists components included in the DCP for MC50.

SMDK for eVC4

Details on installing the Symbol Mobility Developer Kit.

Installing Other Development Software

Guidance on installing additional development software.

Software Updates

Information on obtaining updates for the SMDK.

Chapter 5. Software Installation on Mobile Computer

Introduction

Overview of installing software and files on the mobile computer.

Downloading Files Using ActiveSync

Copying files from host to mobile via ActiveSync.

Downloading Files Using an MMC;SD Card

Transferring files via MMC or SD card.

Adding Programs

Steps for installing software on the host before mobile installation.

Adding a Program from the Internet

Instructions for installing programs downloaded from the internet.

Other Downloading Methods

References to Hex Images, SCM, and AirBEAM Smart.

Chapter 6. Creating and Loading Hex Images

Introduction

Explains Terminal Configuration Manager (TCM) for customizing flash partitions.

Starting Terminal Configuration Manager

How to launch the TCM application.

Defining Script Properties

Setting up properties for creating a hex image script.

Creating the Script for the Hex Image

Steps for creating or opening a script file in TCM.

Building the Image

Process of building the hex image from a script.

Downloading the Hex Image using a USB Connection

Transferring hex image via USB.

Downloading the Hex Image using an MMC;SD Card

Transferring hex image via SD/MMC card.

TCM Error Messages

Common error messages encountered in TCM and their solutions.

IPL Error Detection

How IPL detects and reports errors during download.

Flash Storage

Explanation of FFS partitions and their use.

Downloading Partitions to the Mobile Computer

Using TCM to download partitions to the device.

Chapter 7. Symbol Configuration Manager (SCM)

Introduction

Overview of SCM for creating registry files for device configuration.

File Types

Describes SCT, SCD, and REG file types used by SCM.

User Interface

Explanation of the SCM main window and its components.

Menu Functions

Details the functions available in the SCM menus.

Parameter State Indicators

Explains indicators for parameter status (modified, invalid).

Window Status Bar

Information displayed in the SCM status bar.

Registry File Deployment

Procedures for deploying registry files to the mobile computer.

Chapter 8. WLAN Configuration

Introduction

How wireless LANs enable mobile computer communication.

Mobile Companion

Utility for configuring wireless network settings.

Finding WLANs

Locating available wireless networks.

Setting Options

Configuring AP/Ad-Hoc networks, roaming, and system sounds.

Changing Profiles

Managing WLAN profiles for different network environments.

Using LEAP for Wireless Network Security

Configuring LEAP for secure wireless network access.

Configuring Advanced Password Options

Setting password caching options for LEAP.

Enterprise Level Wi-Fi Protected Access

Using WPA with Full Authentication and Credential Caching.

AEGIS Security Client

Implementation of IEEE 802.1X for network access control.

Configuring the DS (11 Mb) Radio Using a Registry File

Setting radio card defaults using registry files.

Connecting to the Internet on a Wireless Network

Steps to establish an internet connection via WLAN.

Chapter 9. AirBEAM Smart

Introduction

Overview of AirBEAM Smart for software package transfer.

AirBEAM Package Builder

Tool for organizing and defining software packages.

AirBEAM Smart Client

Client software installed on mobile computer for package transfer.

AirBEAM License

Information on the licensed software and key file.

Configuring the AirBEAM Smart Client

Steps to configure client settings for package synchronization.

Synchronizing with the Server

Process of synchronizing packages with the server.

AirBEAM Staging

Support for staging software updates directly from manufacturing.

Chapter 10. Rapid Deployment Client

Introduction

Facilitates software downloads from MSP Console FTP server via bar codes.

Rapid Deployment Window

Displays scan status and provides reset/exit features.

Scanning RD Bar Codes

Steps for scanning bar codes to configure or download software.

Chapter 11. Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Introduction

Instructions for cleaning, storing, and troubleshooting the mobile computer.

Maintaining the Mobile Computer

Tips for proper care and usage of the mobile computer.

Troubleshooting

Common problems, causes, and solutions for the mobile computer.

Troubleshooting the Four Slot Spare Battery Charger

Troubleshooting for the spare battery charger.

Troubleshooting the Single Slot USB Cradle

Troubleshooting for the single slot USB cradle.

Troubleshooting the Four Slot USB and Ethernet Cradles

Troubleshooting for multi-slot cradles.

Troubleshooting the Cable Adapter Module

Troubleshooting for the CAM module.

Troubleshooting the Magnetic Stripe Reader

Troubleshooting for the MSR accessory.

Appendix A. Specifications

Technical Specifications

Summary of the mobile computer's hardware and environment specs.

MC50 Accessory Specifications

Technical specifications for various MC50 accessories.

COM Port Definitions

Definitions for external COM connector assignments.

Pin-Outs

Detailed pin-out information for the external connector.

Appendix B. Keypad Maps

Introduction

Explains keypad maps for different configurations.

Example

Demonstrates how to read a keypad map entry.

Keypads

Functionality details for navigation and QWERTY keypads.

Glossary

Symbol MC50 Specifications

General

Brand	Symbol
Model	MC50
Category	Handhelds
Language	English

Related product manuals

Symbol MC50 - User Manual

Table of Contents

Other manuals for Symbol MC50

Questions and Answers

Summary

About This Guide

Introduction

Documentation Set

Configurations

Chapter Descriptions

Notational Conventions

Related Documents and Software

Service Information

Symbol Support Center

Chapter 1. Getting Started

Introduction

Unpacking the Mobile Computer

Accessories

MC50 Demo Application

Getting Started

Installing and Removing the Main Battery

Charging the Battery

Calibrating the Battery

Charging Spare Batteries

Resetting the Mobile Computer

Performing a Warm Boot

Performing a Cold Boot

Locking the Keypad

Chapter 2. Accessories

Introduction

Cradles

Miscellaneous

Snap-on Modules

Headset

Multi Media Card (MMC); Secure Device (SD) Card

Single Slot USB Cradle

Charging the Mobile Computer Battery

Charging the Spare Battery

Battery Charging Indicators

Four Slot USB Cradle

UConnect

Four Slot Ethernet Cradle

Daisychaining Cradles

Ethernet Cradle Drivers

Four Slot Spare Battery Charger

Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR)

Cable Adapter Module (CAM)

Universal Battery Charger (UBC) Adapter

Chapter 3. ActiveSync

Introduction

Installing ActiveSync

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Host Computer

Setting Up an ActiveSync Connection on the Mobile Computer

Setting up a Partnership

Chapter 4. Software Installation on Development PC

Introduction

Required System Configurations

DCP for MC50

Components

SMDK for eVC4

Installing Other Development Software

Software Updates

Chapter 5. Software Installation on Mobile Computer

Introduction

Downloading Files Using ActiveSync

Downloading Files Using an MMC;SD Card

Adding Programs

Adding a Program from the Internet

Other Downloading Methods

Chapter 6. Creating and Loading Hex Images

Introduction

Starting Terminal Configuration Manager

Defining Script Properties

Creating the Script for the Hex Image

Building the Image

Downloading the Hex Image using a USB Connection

Downloading the Hex Image using an MMC;SD Card

TCM Error Messages

IPL Error Detection

Flash Storage