End of Service Life for Zebra Scanners: What to Do When Zebra Stops Supporting Your Devices

May 15, 2025

A person is holding a zebra scanner in their hand.

Technology moves fast, and hardware that once supported peak efficiency can quickly become a hurdle. When that time comes, organizations relying on these tools for inventory control, asset tracking, or point-of-sale operations face tough decisions. Continuing to operate older equipment introduces risk, but premature replacement can impact budgets and disrupt operations.


Zebra barcode scanners are built to last, but every device has a point where manufacturer support stops. Known as End of Service Life (EOSL or EOL), this stage marks the official discontinuation of software updates, repairs, and technical support from the manufacturer. 

However, just because Zebra announces End of Service Life (EOSL) for a device doesn’t mean it’s time to replace it. In fact, many thousands of these units are still in active use, performing just as reliably as they did years ago. The only real change? Zebra will no longer offer official repairs or software updates. 


Fortunately, Mercom fills that gap. As a trusted third-party repair provider, we continue to support and refurbish EOSL devices so you can keep using the equipment you trust. Staying consistent with your hardware can protect performance, avoid budget strain, and help you focus on running your business without disruption.


What Is End of Service Life for Zebra Barcode Scanners?


End of Service Life (EOSL) for Zebra barcode scanners signals the point at which Zebra no longer offers hardware support, firmware updates, or repairs for a specific model. Models reach this phase after a manufacturer-defined period, typically several years following the last sale date. This doesn’t mean the device stops working, but it does indicate the need to find alternative maintenance and support options. 


In fact,  EOSL scanners will still function exactly as intended. They continue to power workflows in warehouses, stores, distribution centers, and field service environments. The key difference is that any future repairs or maintenance will need to come from third-party service providers.


Mercom continues to offer full-service repair and refurbishment for many EOSL devices, helping extend their life for years to come. 

Several popular Zebra models are either at or approaching EOSL, including:


  • TC70 – Support ends March 2025
  • TC56 – Support ends July 2025
  • MC9200 (MC92N0) – Support ends December 2025
  • TC21, TC26, TC52, TC57, TC72, TC77
  • MC9300


Keeping EOSL Devices in Service Longer


Many Zebra devices continue to perform reliably well beyond the end of their official support window. Instead of replacing equipment that still functions, businesses can extend the life of their hardware through expert repair, refurbishment, and proactive fleet management.

At Mercom, we help organizations avoid unnecessary hardware turnover by providing:


  • Depot-level repairs for Zebra devices and other major hardware brands

  • Certified refurbished equipment as a cost-effective alternative to new purchases

  • Access to rare and discontinued parts to keep legacy devices operational

  • Scalable support for large device fleets without disrupting daily operations


We maintain repair capabilities for widely deployed Zebra units like the TC70 (EOSL March 2025), MC9200 (EOSL December 2025), TC56, TC21, TC26, TC52, TC57, TC72, TC77, and MC9300.


If you’re looking to stretch your budget while keeping proven equipment in service, Mercom delivers the repair support you need to do exactly that.


Mercom Supports EOSL Repair for Zebra Scanners


Reaching End of Service Life doesn't mean your Zebra barcode scanners have to be retired immediately. Mercom Repair specializes in extending the value of your IT hardware through expert EOSL repair services. 


Our team works daily with retail chains, logistics providers, and enterprise IT departments to support mission-critical operations, even after manufacturer support ends. We stock hard-to-find parts, offer fast turnarounds, and provide dependable service backed by over 30 years of industry experience.


Mercom specializes in EOSL repair and support for barcode equipment from Zebra and others, helping you keep your current hardware working well beyond the manufacturer's timeline.


If you're navigating EOSL decisions or need help maintaining your Zebra equipment, contact the team at Mercom today. Start with a free trial and keep your operations moving with confidence.

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