Model LS4278. We've had this model for at least a year. The base is on and working, but the red beam won't even light up. The scanner has been on the base all evening. This is the very first time this has ever happened. Do you think the battery pack is bad inside and needs to be replaced.

Use " Scanner update utility " to update the firmware.
after this try to configure scanner with " 123 scan utility "

https://www.zebra.com/us/en/support-downloads/scanners/general-purpose-scanners/ls4278.html#pageandfilelist_895c

usually you need to configure the reader to tell it what kind of barcodes you want it to read and how to interpret & output the codes to your computer (whether you need prefix or suffixes to your codes( for automation))

the user manual for the reader has some bar codes to configure the settings for the scanner.

It could be the scanner is not paired to the cradle. The scanner will be once for the barcode and then four times for the communication error. Make sure the cradle has power; it will pull power from a USB port. Scan the pairing barcode on top of the cradle. The scanner will give a high low high low beep and then shortly after give a short low short high beep indicating the radios have paired. If the scanner still beeps four times after doing this, the host type may not be set. If connecting USB scan HID Keyboard from the LS4278 Product Reference Guide.

The most unlikely scenario is that all the bases are defective. If you power your PC off every night, you should purchase a power supply so the scanners can continuously charge. Another issue may be that you need new batteries (also unlikely if they stopped working at the same time). Also try swapping scanners and bases (one scanner from one base and place it with another base) make sure you firmly place the bottom of the scanner in the base to verify there is a good connection with the charging pins. We are here to help if you have further questions.
Tech Support Barcoding Technical Support

The battery is worn out - replace it.

Hi, there are detailed instructions for replacing the battery in the LS4278 Product Reference Guide on page 27 of 414.

Use a philips screwdriver and turn the screw in the base of the scanner counter clockwise to remove the latch at the bottom of the scanner.
Turn the scanner upright to slide the battery out.
Disconnect the battery clip.
Reattach the battery clip.
Make sure the new battery is securely in well of scanner.
Attach and close latch.
Use philips screwdriver to press down gently and turn screw clockwise to lock latch in place.

There is more setup needed and troubleshooting, please contact me so I can guide you how to get this scanner working You can always contact me by phone or email 630-622-2024 [email protected] Please visit our website www.legacyglobal.com

The scanner will probably give you error beeps because you are not using a PS/2 keyboard. All you should have to do is scan the IBM AT Notebook barcode from the LS4278 Product Reference Guide. The link below will take you to the manual and the barcode is on Adobe page 104 of 418. I would suggest saving a copy then printing just the page you need.

If the scanner does not start working immediately you should reboot your computer.

LS4278 PRG:
http://support.symbol.com/support/search.do?cmd=displayKC&docType=kc&externalId=6983403apdf&sliceId=&dialogID=116526806&stateId=0%200%2011869362

You sound like a pretty experienced user. You've likely already tried pulling the battery for an hour replacing the battery, and then defaulting.

If you haven't try it. Symbol gear is excellent, but even BMW'a break occasionally. Our shop is one of many that can effect a hardware repair.