Automation Wedge


Transform your existing Zebra mobile devices into powerful hands-free automation hubs. Instantly capture barcode data with machine vision and accelerate your highest-volume workflows with zero complex IT integration.

Automation Wedge conveyor scan for application

Your low-risk, high-return path to automation

Zebra’s Automation Wedge is an “IT-Lite” software feature within Aurora Focus™ that enables instant wired or wireless connectivity between Zebra Fixed Industrial Scanners (FIS) and your existing mobile devices. The fixed scanner captures barcodes instantly and routes the data directly into your preinstalled DataWedge app. Your WMS receives the data exactly like a handheld trigger pull—meaning zero custom code, zero WMS backend changes, and immediate deployment.

Automation Wedge pallet building application
  • Low-effort "IT-lite" deployment

    Skip the headaches of complex programming and custom APIs. Automation Wedge uses the software already on your devices, letting you roll out automation in minutes hours, not weeks.

     

  • Zero WMS backend changes required

    Because data flows directly into the preinstalled DataWedge app, your warehouse management system receives scan inputs exactly like a manual handheld trigger pull.

     

  • Minimal disruption, maximum asset ROI

    Avoid the cost of purchasing new host PCs or dedicated workstations. Connect fixed scanners directly to your existing Zebra mobile computers and tablets to prolong their lifecycles.

     

  • Exclusive Zebra-to-Zebra synergy

    Only Zebra offers this seamless, direct link between fixed industrial scanners and the mobile devices, providing centralized, enterprise-grade data management out of the box.

Use case deployments

 

Deploy hands-free workstations without the IT backlog 

Traditional warehouse automation can require dedicated integration teams, weeks of custom coding, and expensive backend overhauls. Here is how Zebra Automation Wedge simplifies deployment across your critical operational zones:

Keep forklifts in continuous motion

Traditional dock portals require expensive cabling, dedicated door PCs, and custom WMS coding. Zebra Automation Wedge eliminates these barriers by letting you mount fixed scanners and pair them directly to forklift-cab computers.

Barcodes are scanned automatically on the move and routed natively via preinstalled DataWedge, providing a high-speed portal with existing Zebra mobile computers, eliminating custom APIs, and forklift stops for scanning.

Stop the "scanner juggling act"

Zebra Automation Wedge bypasses IT integration downtime by letting you plug a fixed scanner directly into an operator's mounted Zebra mobile computer or tablet for immediate, hands-free scanning.

This instant plug-and-play setup enables continuous, packing with no stops for manual scanning with the data routed natively, eliminating manual scanner-handling delays.

Aaccelerate hands-free palletization

Scaling up palletizing throughput shouldn't require system downtime or custom coding backlogs. Zebra Automation Wedge connects fixed scanners directly to your existing mobile devices in just one afternoon. 

Operators build and verify pallets in continuous motion—driving immediate output gains with zero operational disruption.

Dock worker with Zebra FS80 in a warehouse going through a dock door.
Enhancing Packing Bench Efficiency with a Zebra Fixed Industrial Scanner
Zebra FS40 Scanning Forklift Loading Bay in a Warehouse

Compatibility

 

Are your devices automation-ready?

Most modern, enterprise-class Zebra devices are ready for Automation Wedge out of the box or via a simple OS update, including:

Frequently asked questions

Zebra Automation Wedge is an optional software add-on feature for certain Zebra mobile devices. It enables a direct wired (USB) connection between Zebra Fixed Industrial Scanners (FIS) and Zebra mobile computers or tablets with DataWedge already installed.

Ready to accelerate your operations?

Let’s deploy a hands-free proof-of-concept at a single pack bench or dock door and see how easily you can upgrade your facility in just one afternoon.