Originally Posted by
fumje
I have seen this one or two times, but it appeared to be used as a backup due to something wrong with the podium scanner. I have also seen them do this at the UC sometimes as a supplement to the podium scanners, when they having large crowds and are trying to speed up the entry process. I'm not sure if there's a more general protocol for when they use them but would be curious to know.
I've seen it used at common use gates at some airports, where United doesn't have a permanent setup with their computer, equipment, etc.
In those situations, it can be limiting as no way to print bag tags, boarding passes, etc. They have to get you to one of "their" gates for a Gate Agent to do any printing, etc.