Set Up Your Zebra DS2278 Scanner
The Zebra DS2278 is a wireless barcode scanner that connects to your iPad via Bluetooth. It uses a cradle for charging and requires scanning configuration barcodes to set up the correct Bluetooth mode for iOS.
Before You Start
Make sure your scanner is charged.
You'll need to scan 3 configuration barcodes (below) to put the scanner in the correct mode for iPad.
Step 1: Factory Reset the Scanner (optional)
If you need to start with a clean slate, scan the factory reset barcode below. Point your scanner at the barcode on screen and pull the trigger.
Factory Reset barcode — scan this first
Step 2: Scan the iOS Enhancement Barcode
Next, scan the iOS Enhancement barcode to enable the correct keyboard mode for Apple devices.
iOS Enhancement barcode — scan this second
Step 3: Scan the HID Bluetooth Mode Barcode
Finally, scan the Bluetooth HID mode barcode to put the scanner in Bluetooth pairing mode.
HID Bluetooth Mode barcode — scan this third
Step 4: Pair with Your iPad
On your iPad, go to Settings → Bluetooth and make sure Bluetooth is on.
Look for "DS2278" in the list of available devices and tap to pair.
If prompted, confirm the pairing request on the iPad.
Step 5: Connect to Meadow
Open the Meadow app.
Go to Menu → Manage Devices → Barcode Scanner.
Select your Zebra DS2278 from the list.
Scan a barcode to test — it should appear instantly in Meadow.
Troubleshooting
Scanner Won't Pair or Connect
If the scanner won't show up in Bluetooth settings or won't connect, follow these steps in order:
Factory reset the scanner by scanning the Factory Reset barcode above.
Scan the iOS Enhancement barcode (second barcode above).
Scan the HID Bluetooth Mode barcode (third barcode above).
On the iPad, go to Settings → Bluetooth. If you see the DS2278 listed, tap the (i) icon and select "Forget This Device."
Restart the iPad (power off completely, then turn back on).
Turn Bluetooth back on and look for the DS2278 to re-pair.
💡 Tip: The 3-barcode sequence (Factory Reset → iOS Enhancement → HID Bluetooth Mode) is the most reliable way to fix pairing issues. Always scan all three in order.
Scanner Paired but Not Working in Meadow
Make sure the scanner is selected in Menu → Manage Devices → Barcode Scanner.
Try scanning a barcode while in a search field — the scanned data should appear as typed text.
If the scanner beeps but nothing appears, it may be in the wrong mode. Re-scan the iOS Enhancement and HID Bluetooth Mode barcodes.
Scanner Disconnects Frequently
Make sure the scanner is fully charged. Place it in the cradle until the LED turns green.
Keep the scanner within 30 feet of the iPad.
Check that no other iPads are trying to connect to the same scanner — each scanner pairs with one iPad at a time.
Scanner LED Indicators
Green LED: Successful scan or fully charged
Red LED: Charging in progress
Blinking blue: Bluetooth discoverable / pairing mode
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect the Zebra scanner to my iPad? Is there a video?
Follow the 3-step barcode sequence above: scan Factory Reset, then iOS Enhancement, then HID Bluetooth Mode. After that, go to iPad Settings → Bluetooth and pair the DS2278. No video is needed — just scan the three barcodes on this page in order.
My Zebra scanner is paired to the iPad but Meadow doesn't recognize it. What do I do?
Open the Meadow app, go to Menu → Manage Devices → Barcode Scanner, and select the DS2278. If it doesn't appear, re-scan the iOS Enhancement and HID Bluetooth Mode barcodes, then check again.
How do I reset my Zebra DS2278 scanner?
Scan the Factory Reset barcode shown in Step 1 above. After the reset, you'll need to scan all three configuration barcodes again and re-pair with your iPad.
My scanner beeps when I scan but nothing shows up on screen. Why?
The scanner is likely in the wrong Bluetooth mode. Re-scan the iOS Enhancement barcode and the HID Bluetooth Mode barcode (Steps 2 and 3 above), then try again. Also make sure the cursor is in a text or search field before scanning.
Can I use the Zebra DS2278 with a computer too?
Yes, but you'll need to switch modes. For PC use, pair the scanner to your computer's Bluetooth without scanning the iOS-specific barcodes. To switch back to iPad mode, scan all three configuration barcodes again.
Helpful Zebra DS2278 Scanner Resources
Download the "Zebra Scanner Control" app on your iPad.
This app allows you to easily change settings and test exactly what is read when a label is scanned. (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/zebra-scanner-control/id6499543371)
Update your Zebra Settings with the Zebra DS2278 Guide
Zebra scanners have many options available for settings; check out the Zebra DS2278 Guide here (https://www.zebra.com/content/dam/support-dam/en/documentation/unrestricted/guide/product/ds2278-prg-en.pdf). These can be updated by scanning codes or using the Zebra iPad app. Some examples from the Guide are below ⬇️
Still Need Help?
Contact Meadow support via chat or email at support@getmeadow.com.