Designed & Made in the USA Since 1983
The MobileCollect MicroBase EVO USB A is the compact base receiver for MobileCollect Wireless measurement data collection — a dongle-sized unit that plugs directly into any USB-A port and receives measurement data from paired Mobile Module and Remote transmitters. It delivers that data to the connected device via two selectable output modes: USB Keyboard Wedge, which types measurement values directly into any active application, or USB Serial, which streams data over a virtual COM port. No USB driver installation is required for either mode. Output mode is selected via the MobileCollect Setup Program.
The MicroBase EVO USB A is designed for mobile and tablet-based deployments — inspection workflows that move with the operator, roving quality stations, and multi-platform environments running Windows, iOS, or Android. For stationary PC workstation deployments where maximum RF range and a wired read switch are required, see the Wedge Base EVO or RS-232 Base EVO. For devices with USB-C ports, see the MicroBase EVO USB C.
Output Modes – USB Keyboard Wedge / USB Serial
Output Modes – Via MobileCollect Setup Program
Keyboard Wedge Platform Compatibility – Windows, iOS, Android, Linux & more
Output Connection –  USB-A
Wireless Range – Up to 100 ft
USB Driver Required – No
Dimensions / Weight – 1.76″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″ / 0.23 oz (6.5 g)
Exposed Dimensions –  1.33″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″ (plugged in)
Read Switch Connectors –  None (Remote Read Switch Compatible)
Certifications – FCC (2ACNQB1), IC (12298A-B1), CE, RoHS2, REACH
Origin – Designed & Made in the USA
$450.00
In Keyboard Wedge mode, the MicroBase registers as a standard USB HID keyboard. Measurement values are typed directly into whatever application field is active on the connected device — Excel on a Windows tablet, a web-based SPC form on an iPad, a browser-based quality application on an Android device. No app, no middleware, no COM port configuration. If the application accepts keyboard input and the device has a USB-A port, the MicroBase EVO USB A can populate it.
In Serial mode, the MicroBase outputs RS-232 serial data over a virtual COM port for SPC software and data acquisition applications that monitor a serial port directly.
Beyond the measurement value itself, the base can be configured to include any of the following fields in each transmitted data packet: channel number, channel letter, custom text field, transmitter module ID, transmitter custom label, units, transmitter battery voltage, and signal strength. This allows each measurement record to carry full traceability data to the host application in a single transmission.
The MicroBase EVO USB A is designed for mobile and tablet-based measurement collection deployments — workflows where the base receiver needs to move with the operator or connect to a device that doesn’t accommodate a full-size desktop unit.
Use the MicroBase EVO USB A when:
Do not use the MicroBase EVO USB A when:
MobileCollect operates on a hub-and-spoke architecture. The MicroBase EVO USB A is the hub. Transmitters — Mobile Modules attached to handheld gages carried by operators, or Remote Transmitters at fixed measurement stations — are the spokes. Each transmitter is paired to a specific base and stores that base’s network identifiers. Measurement data travels wirelessly from the transmitter to the base, which passes it to the connected device via USB.
The base controls the wireless network. It is always listening — but transmitters are asleep the vast majority of the time, waking only to send a measurement when a reading is triggered. This sleep architecture means a facility with dozens or hundreds of MobileCollect transmitters generates RF traffic only when measurements are actually being taken. In environments where multiple wireless systems coexist — Wi-Fi, industrial sensors, other 2.4 GHz devices — RM2.4 transmitters are effectively invisible to the RF environment between readings. That benefits every other wireless system in the facility, not just MobileCollect. For a detailed breakdown of how this compares to Bluetooth’s continuous RF traffic model, see Why Bluetooth Fails in Manufacturing.
Multiple bases can operate simultaneously in the same facility without cross-talk — each base operates on a unique Network S/N and PAN ID. A transmitter paired to one base will not send data to any other base, regardless of proximity.
Pairing the MicroBase EVO USB A requires no software for basic deployments. Using the Pair-on-the-Fly method, a transmitter pairs to the MicroBase by power cycling the base — unplug and replug the MicroBase to initiate the pairing window, put the transmitter into Setup Mode, and press the Setup button. Both devices confirm the link and the transmitter begins delivering measurements immediately on the next read trigger. The MicroBase has no physical Reset button; power cycling initiates the pairing window in its place.
A single MicroBase EVO USB A can receive data from hundreds of paired transmitters simultaneously. Because pairing is managed at the network identifier level rather than through a fixed device registry, the practical limit on transmitters per base is not a hardware ceiling — it’s what is operationally feasible in a given measurement cell. Each transmitter is identified by a unique network ID, so data from multiple operators and multiple gage types remains cleanly attributed at the software level regardless of how many transmitters are active simultaneously. Each base receiver connects to one device — for multi-station deployments, one base is installed per station, with each base managing its own paired transmitter population independently.
All transmitters below can be paired to a single MicroBase EVO USB A simultaneously.
The MicroBase EVO USB A also supports data collection from Mitutoyo U-Wave, T, TC, and TM transmitters and CDI CORE and VRS indicators with the embedded MicroRidge RM2.4 long-range radio module, configurable via the Extended Setup Program.
MobileCollect supports over 3,500 precision gages and RS-232 devices from more than 50 manufacturers — calipers, micrometers, digital indicators, height gages, comparators, hardness testers, surface roughness testers, scales, force gages, DROs, and more. Supported brands include Mitutoyo, Mahr Federal, Starrett, Fowler, Sylvac, CDI, Brown & Sharpe, Ono Sokki, Insize, LMI, Ohaus, Mettler Toledo, and many others.
Gage compatibility is determined at the transmitter level — the correct transmitter and gage cable combination connects your specific gage to the MobileCollect wireless system. The MobileCollect Selection Tool contains the full database of confirmed compatible gages and identifies the correct transmitter and cable for your application. Use it to confirm compatibility and configure a complete system before purchasing.
If your gage isn’t in the database, contact MicroRidge — compatibility coverage is continuously expanding and our team can confirm support for gages not yet listed.
In Wedge mode, the MicroBase EVO USB A registers on the connected device as a standard USB HID keyboard. No driver installation is required. Once configured via the Setup Program on a Windows PC, the MicroBase operates in Wedge mode on any subsequently connected device — Windows, iOS, or Android — without further configuration.
When a paired transmitter sends a measurement, the base types the value into the active field of whatever application is in focus. The operator takes the measurement, presses the read button on the transmitter, and the value appears in the target field. The end-of-packet character is configurable: CR acts as the Enter key to advance to the next row, Tab acts as the Tab key to advance to the next column or field. The field separator between data fields is also configurable: comma (default), Tab, or CR.
Keyboard output speed is configurable — fast (~60 char/sec), medium (~40 char/sec), or slow (~20 char/sec) — set via the MobileCollect Setup Program on a Windows PC.
The MicroBase EVO USB A supports multiple international keyboard layouts for keyboard wedge data entry, enabling global deployment of wireless gage data collection without character mapping issues. Currently supported layouts:
If your region’s keyboard layout isn’t listed, contact MicroRidge — we’re actively expanding language support and welcome requests.
Skip Button — A Mini Mobile Module EVO configured as a Transmit Label Field can be programmed to send Tab keystrokes — or any combination of Tab, Enter, and Space — directly into the active application instead of a gage measurement. This allows an operator to skip fields in an SPC data entry screen, advance through a form, or insert a delimiter between measurement sequences, wirelessly, without touching the keyboard. Non-numeric inspection results — Pass, Fail, Good, Bad, or any 8-character ASCII string — can also be transmitted this way, enabling attribute inspection results to route through the same wireless collection system as dimensional measurements. Requires an EVO Base.
The MicroBase EVO USB A has no wired read switch connector. For applications requiring operator-triggered measurement collection without pressing the read button on the transmitter itself, two options are available:
Remote Read Switch — A Mini Mobile Module EVO configured as a Remote Read Switch functions as a wireless hand switch. When the operator presses its Read button, the base wirelessly commands all active paired Command Mobile Modules to take a reading simultaneously. This allows an operator to trigger a multi-gage measurement sequence from anywhere in the workspace — wirelessly, without a physical connection to the base.
Software Commands — The MicroBase EVO USB A accepts the full MobileCollect command set via its USB Serial port. SPC software or a custom application can programmatically trigger reads on paired Command Mobile Modules by channel, managing measurement collection without any switch actuation at the base or transmitter.
For applications requiring a wired foot switch or hand switch connected directly to the base, see the Wedge Base EVO or RS-232 Base EVO.
No USB driver installation required. The MicroBase EVO USB A uses standard Windows drivers for both output modes — HID keyboard in Wedge mode, Windows Serial in Serial mode. Eliminates IT friction in controlled software environments and allows the base to move between devices without driver re-installation.
Unique USB PID/VID registration. EVO bases carry a MicroRidge Vendor ID (VID: 3774 hex / 14196 decimal) and MobileCollect-specific Product ID (PID: 0834 hex). IT administrators can whitelist the device at the hardware permission level in endpoint security systems — no broad USB class exceptions required. MicroRidge is a certified USB-IF member.
Multi-platform compatibility. The MicroBase EVO USB A operates in Keyboard Wedge mode on Windows, iOS, and Android devices. The HID keyboard driver is standard across operating systems — once configured on a Windows PC, the base delivers keystrokes to any platform’s active application without additional setup.
Compact and mobile. At 0.23 oz and dongle-sized, the MicroBase EVO USB A adds negligible weight and bulk to any mobile measurement kit. It plugs directly into the device — no cable, no desk footprint, no separate power supply.
API access. An API is available for integrating base setup and operational control functions directly into SPC software or MES systems. For more information see the MobileCollect EVO API integration document.Â
MobileCollect transmits measurement data over MicroRidge’s proprietary RM2.4 protocol — not Bluetooth, not standard Zigbee. RM2.4 operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM band (2.402–2.480 GHz) and was purpose-built for factory floor measurement data collection: prioritizing data integrity, RF noise resilience, and reliable range in environments with variable frequency drives, welding equipment, and dense Wi-Fi infrastructure. For a detailed technical comparison against Bluetooth in industrial measurement environments, see Why Bluetooth Fails in Manufacturing.
Each transmitter stores the target base’s RF channel, Network S/N, and PAN ID, and includes those identifiers in every transmitted packet. The MicroBase EVO USB A processes only packets from paired transmitters — no cross-contamination between data streams regardless of how many MobileCollect systems are operating in the same facility.
Wireless range is up to 100 ft. The MicroBase EVO has a smaller ground plane than the full-size EVO bases which accounts for the reduced range relative to the Wedge Base EVO and RS-232 Base EVO at 140 ft. For installations where maximum range is the priority, the full-size bases are recommended. Actual range in any installation depends on RF obstructions between transmitter and base. The three-LED status indicators provide real-time feedback on power, data reception, and transmission activity.
RF channel is user-configurable (default: channel 21). Channels 16–19 overlap with the default Wi-Fi channel 6 frequency range; in dense Wi-Fi environments, selecting a channel outside this range improves reliability. Any hardware bearing the RM2.4 logo is compatible with any other RM2.4 device across Legacy and EVO generations.
Automated wireless measurement data collection directly supports the data integrity requirements of ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820. Manual transcription of measurement values from a gage display to a keyboard entry field is a documented nonconformance risk — introducing transcription errors, omissions, and operator-to-operator variation that cannot be fully controlled through procedural means. For a detailed look at the operational and quality costs of manual data entry, see The True Cost of Manual Measurement Data Entry.
The MicroBase EVO USB A eliminates manual entry as a process step, routing measurement data from the instrument directly to the host application via wireless transmission. Its keyboard wedge output is particularly effective for mobile inspection workflows using tablets and laptops — the base populates whatever quality application the operator is running without requiring COM port configuration or platform-specific software. For a broader look at how wireless gage connectivity enables inline quality control and AI-ready data infrastructure, see MobileCollect: Manufacturing Automation Enabler.
The MicroBase EVO USB A is configured via the MobileCollect Setup Programs on a Windows PC. Once configured, the base operates in the selected output mode on any subsequently connected device — Windows, iOS, or Android — without further setup on those platforms.
Output mode (Keyboard Wedge or USB Serial) is selected in the Setup Program. Unlike the full-size Wedge Base EVO, which uses a hardware slider switch for output mode selection, the MicroBase EVO switches output mode via software only.
For pairing, the MicroBase EVO has no physical Reset button. Pair-on-the-Fly is initiated by unplugging and replugging the MicroBase to enter the startup sequence — during the pairing window, put the transmitter into Setup Mode and press the Setup button. Both devices confirm the link and operation begins immediately.
The MobileCollect Xpress Setup Program covers the configuration requirements of most deployments: pairing, output format, end-of-packet character, field separator, keyboard layout, RF channel, and transmitter labeling. The Extended Setup Program provides access to all parameters including Command Mobile Module active command mode, Remote transmitter configuration, U-Wave transmitter integration, and advanced output formatting. Both are free Windows downloads from MicroRidge.
Important: Use Xpress Setup or Extended Setup to configure a given base and its transmitters — not both. The two programs store parameters in different locations on the devices and operate independently.
The MicroBase EVO USB A has three LEDs visible through the translucent case:
Full LED code reference is in the MobileCollect Hardware User’s Guide.
MicroBase EVO USB A is field-upgradeable via MicroRidge’s firmware update utility. The update procedure is designed to prevent incorrect firmware from being loaded into any MobileCollect device. Firmware updates are available on the MobileCollect firmware update page.Â
What is the difference between the MicroBase EVO USB A and the Wedge Base EVO?
— Both support keyboard wedge and serial output and are compatible with all MobileCollect transmitters. The MicroBase EVO USB A is dongle-sized for mobile and tablet use, operates at 100 ft range, switches output mode via the Setup Program, and has no wired read switch connector. The Wedge Base EVO is a full-size desktop unit with 140 ft range, a hardware slider switch for output mode selection, and a wired read switch connector for foot or hand switch input. Choose the MicroBase for mobility; choose the Wedge Base for stationary workstation deployments requiring maximum range and wired switch triggering.
What is the difference between the MicroBase EVO USB A and the MicroBase EVO USB C?
— The two units are functionally identical — similar dimensions when plugged in, same range, same output modes, same specifications — with one difference: connector type. The USB A version connects to USB-A ports; the USB C version connects to USB-C ports. Choose based on the port available on your device.
Does the MicroBase EVO USB A work with iOS and Android?
— Yes. In Keyboard Wedge mode, the MicroBase registers as a standard USB HID keyboard — a driver standard across Windows, iOS, and Android. Once configured on a Windows PC, the base delivers keystrokes to any platform’s active application. Initial configuration via the MobileCollect Setup Programs requires a Windows PC.
How is output mode switched between Keyboard Wedge and Serial?
— Output mode is set via the MobileCollect Setup Program on a Windows PC. Unlike the full-size Wedge Base EVO, which uses a hardware slider switch, the MicroBase EVO has no physical output selector — mode switching is software-only.
Does the MicroBase EVO USB A have a read switch connector?
— No. The MicroBase EVO has no wired read switch connector. Operator-triggered collection without pressing the transmitter Read button is available via a Remote Read Switch (Mini Mobile Module EVO configured as a wireless hand switch) or via software commands from the host application. For wired foot or hand switch support, use the Wedge Base EVO or RS-232 Base EVO.
How is pairing initiated on the MicroBase EVO USB A?
— The MicroBase has no physical Reset button. Pair-on-the-Fly is initiated by unplugging and replugging the MicroBase to enter the startup sequence. During the pairing window, put the transmitter into Setup Mode and press the Setup button to complete the pairing.
How many transmitters can be paired to a single MicroBase EVO USB A?
— The base supports hundreds of paired transmitters simultaneously. The practical limit is what is operationally feasible in the measurement cell — not a hardware constraint. Mini Mobile Modules, RS-232 Mobile Modules, and Command Mobile Modules with command mode disabled pair via the Global channel. Command Mobile Modules with command mode enabled, RS-232 Remotes, and Digital Remotes are assigned to individual numbered channels (up to 20).
Can the MicroBase EVO USB A receive data from Mitutoyo U-Wave transmitters?
— Yes. The MicroBase EVO USB A supports Mitutoyo U-Wave, T, TC, and TM transmitters via the Extended Setup Program.
Does the MicroBase EVO USB A support ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 measurement data collection requirements?
— MobileCollect wireless data collection eliminates manual transcription as a process step, directly addressing measurement data integrity requirements under ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820. See The True Cost of Manual Measurement Data Entry for a detailed breakdown of the quality and operational impact.
What certifications does the MicroBase EVO USB A carry?
— FCC, Industry Canada (IC), CE, RoHS, and REACH. Approved for use in the US, Canada, EU, UK, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
What setup software is required?
— The MobileCollect Xpress Setup Program covers pairing and standard configuration for most deployments. The Extended Setup Program is required for Command Mobile Module active command mode, Remote transmitter configuration, U-Wave integration, and advanced output formatting. Both are free Windows downloads. An API is available for programmatic integration — contact MicroRidge.
What are the physical dimensions and weight?
— Full dimensions: 1.76″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″ (L × W × H) / 44.7mm × 18.0mm × 10.4mm. Exposed when plugged in: 1.33″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″. Weight: 0.23 oz / 6.5 g.
What are the operating environment limits?
— 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C), up to 90% relative humidity non-condensing.
MicroBase EVO USB A (MC-MB-A-EVO) Specs | |
|---|---|
Part Number | MC-MB-A-EVO |
Full Dimensions | 1.76″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″ (L × W × H) / 44.7mm × 18.0mm × 10.4mm |
Exposed Dimensions | 1.33″ × 0.71″ × 0.41″ (L × W × H) / 33.8mm × 18.0mm × 10.4mm |
Weight | 0.23 oz / 6.5 g |
Case Material | ABS |
Connector | USB-A |
Output Modes | USB Keyboard Wedge (HID) / USB Serial (Virtual COM Port) |
Output Selection | Via MobileCollect Setup Program (software) |
USB Driver Required | No — standard Windows HID and Serial drivers |
USB Vendor ID (VID) | 3774 hex / 14196 decimal |
USB Product ID (PID) | 0834 hex / 2100 decimal |
Keyboard Wedge Speed | Configurable: Fast (~60 char/sec) / Medium (~40 char/sec) / Slow (~20 char/sec) |
End-of-Packet Character | Configurable: CR (Enter key) / Tab (Tab key) / None / Custom |
Field Separator | Configurable: Comma (default) / Tab / CR |
Power | USB power — no external adapter required |
Read Switch Connectors | None (Remote Read Switch Compatible) |
LED Status Indicators | Green — Power; Yellow — Data Received; Red — Data Sent |
Wireless Protocol | RM2.4 conforming to IEEE 802.15.4, 2.4 GHz ISM Band |
Frequency Range | Tx: 2.402–2.480 GHz / Rx: 2.402–2.480 GHz |
RF Output Power | EIRP 0.267mW (-5.73 dBm) |
Radio Duty Cycle | <1% typical, 4.1% peak |
Wireless Range | 100 ft |
Platform Compatibility | Windows, iOS, Android |
API | Available — contact MicroRidge for information |
Firmware | Field-upgradeable |
Operating Temperature | 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) |
Operating Humidity | ≤90% RH, non-condensing |
Certifications | FCC (2ACNQB1), IC (12298A-B1), CE, RoHS2, REACH |
Country Approvals | US, Canada, EU, UK, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa |
Country of Origin | Designed & Made in the USA |
Transmitter Compatibility | All MobileCollect transmitters (Legacy and EVO) |
