Troubleshooting: Scanner or RFID Not Responding on Zebra Handhelds

Troubleshooting: Scanner or RFID Not Responding on Zebra Handhelds

End user  ·  Yellow Dog Inventory 2026

 ISSUE

On a Zebra handheld, pressing the scan trigger no longer activates the device. The barcode scanner does not light up, and the RFID reader does not begin scanning for tags — even though the handheld is powered on and otherwise working normally.

 CAUSE

Barcode and RFID input on Zebra handhelds is handled by DataWedge, a background service built into the device by Zebra. DataWedge captures each trigger press and routes the scan or RFID data to the app you are using, including Yellow Dog Inventory. When DataWedge stops running or becomes disabled, trigger presses are no longer passed through to any app — so the scanner and RFID reader appear unresponsive.

Note: This is a device-level service issue, not a problem with Yellow Dog Inventory. The scanner and RFID hardware are usually still functional — DataWedge simply is not handling the trigger events. Restoring DataWedge brings both back online.

 TROUBLESHOOTING

Either of the options below will restore DataWedge. Restarting the device is the simplest; restarting DataWedge directly is faster if you would rather not reboot.

Option 1: Restart the device

Restart the Zebra handheld. When it powers back on, DataWedge starts automatically, and barcode scanning and RFID scanning should resume.

Option 2: Restart DataWedge

If you would prefer not to reboot, toggle DataWedge off and back on:

1.   Open the DataWedge app.

2.   Tap the three-dot menu.

3.   Tap Settings.

4.   Uncheck DataWedge enabled.

5.   Wait a few seconds.

6.   Check DataWedge enabled again.

VERIFICATION STEPS

After completing either option:

1.   Press the scan trigger and confirm the barcode scanner lights up.

2.   Confirm the RFID reader begins scanning when triggered.

 WHEN TO CONTACT SUPPORT

Contact Yellow Dog Support if the scanner and RFID reader are still unresponsive after trying both options, and:

•     The Zebra handheld is powered on and charged.

•     You have confirmed DataWedge is installed and enabled.

•     Other apps on the device are also unable to receive scans.

 

Phone: 757-663-7514

Email: support@yellowdogsoftware.com

Support hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. EST

Emergency support (available 24/7): 757-663-7514, Option 1

Last reviewed: June 2026  ·  Applies to: Yellow Dog Inventory 2026


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