This Week’s Product Pick

TSC Auto ID Technology America (Pomona, CA) presented its TTP-2410M Pro Series of four-inch label printers. This new line features more robust design, with separate die-cast aluminum base plate and back plane, in addition to new metal media supply spindle and two-roll damper. Other changes include new motor gears for quieter operation, gap sensor lock to prevent gap shifting, and anti-static ribbon brush to eliminate static electricity build-up that can occur with certain combinations of thermal ribbons and media. Adjustment screws or knobs that under normal circumstances should not be touched by end-users have been replaced with hex screws. Finally, TSC has added an optional USB Host for applications that require scanner or keyboard. Three TTP-2410M Pro Series models are now in stock: TTP-2410M Pro, which prints at 203 dpi at 12 inches/second; TTP-346M Pro, which prints at 300 dpi at 8 inches/second; and TTP-644M Pro, which prints at 600 dpi for small two-dimensional barcodes, graphics, and other ultra-high-resolution images.

TTP-2410M Pro by TSC

COMPANY BUSINESS

EverServ 7000 Up to PAR

ParTech (New Hartford, NY) has unveiled its next-generation POS terminal, entitled the PAR EverServ 7000. Described as “totally redesigned,” EverServ 7000 seeks to marry state-of-the art performance, rugged durability, and maximum modularity, according to the vendor. Highlights include high-performance Intel Core CPU at 32 nm, fully centralized I/O port connectivity, easy access to major components, and remote diagnostic and management capabilities via Intel Active Management Technology (AMT). Spill-proof, with bezel-free design and low center of gravity, EverServ 7000 measures 15.7 in. (H) x 15.1 in. (W) x 10.6 in. (D) and weighs 25.5 lbs.

“A commitment and passion for quality, performance, and reliability have been PAR’s core principles for more than 30 years and the design of EverServ 7000 is no exception,” declared Scott Langdoc, CTO of ParTech, an official subsidiary of PAR Technology Corporation. “From an industrial design perspective, we challenged our engineering teams to produce a stunning, contemporary looking POS terminal that visually rises about the competition--and they delivered. Impressively, these design changes together with material performance enhancements were achieved at a price point even more competitive than our previous model.”

In terms of scalability, this new terminal offers multiple component options, spanning CPU, memory, touchscreen, disk drives, and customer displays. For instance, the 15-inch display comes in projected capacitive, surface capacitive, or five-wire resistive touch technologies. Likewise, customer displays include 5x7-inch card holder, 4x20 VFD, or full 12-inch. An extensive bank of ports and expansions facilitate networking and peripherals, and built-in VESA mount accommodates wall, low-profile, or kiosk configurations.

“Built for applications designed for the Windows Embedded platform, the PAR EverServ 7000 offers hospitality and retail companies a solution that benefits users on a number of levels, including increased multi-touch capability and the flexibility and familiarity of Windows,” suggested Karen Smith, Worldwide Senior Product Manager at Microsoft. “POS terminals like the PAR EverServ 7000 play a key role in building intelligent systems that allow companies to realize the hidden value of sharing and analyzing data across multiple devices and the cloud.” As expected, all PAR POS software applications are certified to run on the EverServ 7000.

EverServ 7000 Series POS Terminal

Mercury Rising

Can Mercury achieve in customer loyalty what it has in payment processing? (Which, not coincidentally, has been dropped from its name in new branding.) That is, draw the POS VAR and ISV channel into new ancillary technology, with the promise of differentiation, recurring revenue, and minions of SMB end-users. We shall find out with this week’s launch of MercuryLoyalty, its new product based upon mobile marketing technology acquired as part of Sundrop, Inc. earlier this spring.

“We want to level the loyalty marketing playing field, bringing the same advantages enjoyed by big box retailers,” Matt Taylor, CEO of Mercury, told RRN.Com. “We see loyalty as not having any clear leader in the SMB market. We’re the first to launch card-less mobile, with social networking, and fully integrated into the POS. We’ve removed as much friction as possible to smooth processes of selling, installation, and utilization. That’s part of Mercury’s DNA.”

For enrollment in MercuryLoyalty, customers simply sign in at the POS using their mobile device, following the methodology developed by Sundrop. Data from the purchase is bundled with previous shopping history--including information from any previous card-based loyalty system--and stored in memory for the life of the POS. A patent-pending closed-loop coupon redemption process completes the circle. A separate offering with its own pricing, and marketed exclusively through reseller partners, MercuryLoyalty may be used with or without accompanying payment processing services and integrates with his company’s existing gift card program, emphasized Taylor.

MercuryLoyalty Addresses SMB and the POS Channel

Worth Your While

VARTECH US/LATAM
BlueStar
October 5-8
Bahamas Cruise

NACS 2012
National Association of Convenience Stores
October 7-9
Las Vegas

Pack Expo 2012
Packaging Manufacturers Machinery Institute
October 28-31
Chicago

Customer Engagement Technology World
JDEvents
November 7-8
New York

IAAPA Expo 2012
International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions
November 12-16
Orlando

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Gryphon Goes OEM

Datalogic ADC (Eugene, OR) has packaged its Gryphon GFS4400 imaging module for system integration into self-service kiosks, price verifiers, ticket readers, document handling, and medical laboratory applications. With reading of one and two-dimensional barcodes, including postal and stacked, as well as high-impact resin construction to withstand repeated cleanings with solvents, this new subsystem carries optimum motion tolerance, fast processing speed, and great depth of field, according to its manufacturer. Deep red illumination, rather than flicker, supports end-user comfort while four-dot aimer with center cross addresses good reads.

“The Gryphon GFS4400 scan module marks Datalogic ADC’s first generation of high-performance two-dimensional OEM products,” commented Giulio Berzuini, GM of Hand-Held Products at Datalogic ADC. “Customers requiring excellent barcode reading capabilities in reduced spaces with small footprints and lower costs can count on the Gryphon GFS4400 scan module for world-class performance in confined areas.” Physical dimensions of the Gryphon GFS4400 total 1.5 in. (H) x 2.2 in. (W) x 2.3 in. (D) and weight of 7.2 oz. for RS-232 and 6.3 oz. for USB.

Intended for “plug-and-play,” Gryphon GFS4400 features simple mounting and includes bracket for aiming adjustments on two axes. Overall space requirements have been minimized by hardwired cable, eliminating room needed by the connector’s back shell. As expected, this reader will self-trigger when barcodes pass into its field of view or may be keyed remotely through software commands or programmable logic controller (PLC) or sensor. Datalogic’s Aladdin configuration program and OPOS and JavaPOS utilities may be downloaded at no charge, and the manufacturer extends three-year factory warranty for the hardware.

Gryphon GFS4400 Imaging Module

A Stadium Full of POS at Datacap

Datacap Systems (Chalfont, PA) announced that its Stadium Application now accepts transaction requests from mobile devices and PC-based POS in addition to any electronic cash register (ECR) with Datacap interface. Solution providers can employ this new capability to add mobile device support to their product offering by simply sending transactions to NETePay, the company’s “payment backbone,” running locally or in the cloud. For smaller merchants wishing to avoid the need for local software, one of Datacap’s partnered acquirers will host NETePay.

“Currently, only Android phones and tablets are supported,” RRN.Com was told by Justin Zeigler, Director of Marketing for Datacap Systems. “This allows large venues to add mobile payments to their site, but it also allows for extremely flexible installations for any of our products. NETePay can accept transaction requests from our mobile app, or any major ECR--Sam4s, Casio, Sharp, TEC, Uniwell, Datasym, Quorian--allowing a VAR to completely customize a hybrid POS system to perfectly fit the needs of their end-user.”

“Our Stadium Application is a cost-effective alternative to more expensive PC-based POS which in many cases are serious overkill for concession stands with 20 to 30 PLUs,” Zeigler continued. “Any combination of ECRs can send transaction requests through an IPTran to a centrally located copy of NETePay, allowing for consolidated reporting and batching across an entire venue. We’ve now added the ability to create a hybrid POS solution involving combinations of mobile, PC-POS, and ECRs. Use PC-based POS to run ticketing, affordable ECRs to run concessions, and mobile devices for popcorn and beer in the stands. All transactions would process through a single Merchant ID via one copy of NETePay.”

Datacap's IPTran Credit Card Modem

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Week of July 16

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Week of July 2

PARTNER PROGRAMS

The Merchant Warehouse Experience

No lazy, hazy summer days at Merchant Warehouse (Boston), one of the payment processers most appreciative of the POS channel. Promoting an expansion of its “merchant experience” portfolio, the company now provides free U.S.-based, 24/7/365 customer service and technical assistance. Simultaneously, it has equipped both chat and direct e-mail contact through its website and self-service interactive voice response system (IVR) for re-ordering supplies. Finally, Merchant Warehouse has moved to compensate its service professionals through goal-based monthly scorecard based on “quality, efficiency, and first call resolution,” with evaluation after each engagement.

“Customer service has always been a key focus area for our company,” shared Henry Helgeson, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Merchant Warehouse. “We understand that we need to augment and expand our services to meet the varying needs of our customer base and provide the highest level of support possible in the industry. We continue to make investments in training, personnel, and technologies that allow us to be flexible and responsive.”

An afternoon shower of other announcements has rained down. Merchant Warehouse has purchased Avatas Payment Solutions (Newton, MA), an ISO dedicated to the heating fuels and healthcare industries with 600 customers. And for the first time, Merchant Warehouse has solicited outside funding, with Parthenon Capital Partners furnishing funds used to provide liquidity for certain shareholders and the means to pursue growth plans. An “Insight Partnership Program” was launched earlier, promising 100% transparency, with revenue split on gross profit after all credit and debit processing related expenses. Of particular note to RRN.Com readers, Merchant Warehouse has delivered its next-generation Genius payment platform, which sits as another layer atop the processing pyramid and enables consumers and merchants to pick and choose between hardware and software payment solutions, whether credit and debit, NFC, QR Codes, or mobile wallets.

Henry Helgeson, Co-CEO of Merchant Warehouse

Stamp of Approval for Brother

Brother International Corporation (Bridgewater, NJ) has introduced its new QL-700 series of label printers, which allows end-users to print stamps directly from their desktop with free subscription to the “pbSmartPostage” scheme by Pitney Bowes. Through SaaS, Pitney Bowes also allows small businesses to produce shipping labels and die-cut markers as well as to track packages from any web-enabled PC without the need to download software. Brother QL-700 carries fast print speed of up to 93 standard address labels per minute, media width of 2.4 inches, and may accommodate continuous rolls for banners and signs up to three feet long.

“This is a great opportunity for Pitney Bowes to work with Brother to offer a convenient, cost-efficient mailing and shipping solution to the market that can be used anytime, anywhere,” stated Neil Rader, GM of Pitney Bowes Digital SMB Solutions. “We continue to focus on ways to simplify mailing and shipping processes so that consumers and small businesses can focus on the many other daily tasks that they need to get done.” Windows and USB connection are required for pbSmartPostage, it should be noted.

Brother International also shipped its new P-Touch PT-D200 desktop label maker. This entry-level device features four one-touch buttons for quick access to various fonts, symbols, and frames, as well as “deco mode” button to provide predesigned patterns. In addition, Brother plans to launch an accompanying handheld model, the P-Touch PT-H100, later this year. “As one of the leaders in labeling products, Brother continues to create unique tools that will not only help inspire consumers to tackle everyday projects but also provide them with an easy-to-use product that produces long-lasting, laminated labels,” said Linda Sanford, Director of Marketing for Electronic Stationary Products at Brother.

Brother QL-700 Printer Tied to Pitney Bowes

Code Corner

Skycore (Boston) has added mobile-optimized e-mail services to its marketing, campaign management, and e-commerce platform. Text, images, and videos may be inserted into an e-mail along with dynamically generated, transaction-embedded, two-dimensional barcode images with custom logo. Each unique transaction code can be scanned directly on the mobile screen, comprising tickets, vouchers, coupons, or individual identification badges. Through point-and-click interface or developer APIs, clients can pass their own transaction IDs or have unique IDs generated on-demand as part of the service. The resulting code--QR or PDF-417--for each message is generated on the fly, combined with logo and related test, and then inserted as single image within the body of an e-mail and also as an attachment. “Skycore has been inserting dynamic two-dimensional barcodes into rich media MMS messages for many years now,” recounted Rich Eicher, CEO of Skycore, which offers managed, co-managed, and self-serve versions of its services through SaaS. “As smartphone penetration has grown, so too has brand and enterprise interest in using both MMS and e-mail messaging channels for engaging customers. Our intention going forward is to support the mobile delivery of all transaction-embedded objects, regardless of technology or OS, whether it’s barcode on iOS, Android or BlackBerry devices, an NFC token in mobile wallet, or Pass in Apple’s Passbook on iOS 6.”

ALLIANCES

Alpha Bay Dished Up

Alpha Bay Corporation (Salt Lake City), prominent retail ISV, has been purchased by Blockbuster, the movie rental subsidiary of Dish Network Corporation (Denver). In addition, to outfitting the nearly 900 Blockbuster brick-and-mortar stores in the U.S., the newly acquired Alpha Bay business will continue to market its enterprise systems to retailers at large, according to the two parties. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“A key element of the Alpha Bay solution is mobile functionality that will allow Blockbuster’s in-store employees to move out from behind the counter,” observed Jack Blount, Chairman and Founder of Alpha Bay. “Mobile checkout combined with Blockbuster’s ability to deliver individualized promotions will revolutionize the company’s retail experience.” Alpha Bay calls its SaaS-based retail platform, “AIRS,” which stands for Adaptive Integrated Retail System.

“Alpha Bay promises flexible deployment and gives Blockbuster new levels of customer service, inventory management, and visibility at the store level and across the enterprise,” summarized Michael Kelly, President of Blockbuster. As additional benefits, Blockbuster noted that Alpha Bay’s system operates in real-time, giving retailers decision support at any point in the business cycle. Seamless upgrade and the flexibility to integrate with legacy retail systems were also cited as benefits.

Jack Blount, Chairman and Founder, Alpha Bay Corporation

Datascan Snaps on GainSpan

Auto ID VAR Datascan (Carrollton, TX) has adopted the ultra-low-power embedded Wi-Fi module from GainSpan (San Jose, CA) for integration into its recently released wireless barcode scanner configuration. Chosen was the Model GS1011M, which accommodates easy system integration and minimal use of host resources, according to the two parties, while operating with standard 802.11b/g/n access points at speeds of up to 11 megabits/second and linking to any 8 to 32-bit microcontroller using simple AT commands. Firmware provided to run on the module includes security, the networking stack, and advanced features in areas of embedded servers, service and device discovery, XML parsing, and over-the-air provisioning.

“Datascan has over 80,000 handheld scanners being used worldwide by retail companies doing self-inventory of their store stock,” indicated Carter Graves, VP of Operations for Datascan, which rents its hardware to retailers. “For our newest wireless scanners, we needed connectivity that would work with wireless networks already installed at retailers, many of which were Wi-Fi, handle commercial grade encryption, and because they are battery-operated devices, consume as little power as possible. After testing wireless solutions from any number of companies, we decided that GainSpan Wi-Fi technology outperformed all the others and offered one of the best price/performance ratios on the market as well.”

“Datascan has more than 40 years of innovation history in the inventory processing industry and we’re proud to collaborate to continue this record,” volunteered Bernard Aboussouan, VP of Marketing with GainSpan. “As Wi-Fi is already installed in many retail locations and as employees are familiar with it and find it easy to use, the demand for low-power Wi-Fi enabled handheld scanners, POS terminals, portable printers, and others is booming. We’re pleased to be able to provide Datascan with this quick and easy way to add Wi-Fi connectivity to new products.”

Versatile Wi-Fi Module From GainSpan

Key Advertiser Links

Be sure to visit these vendors for the latest in channel products and offers for resellers.

POS & Auto ID Distribution
BlueStar
Synnex Corporation
Wasp Barcode Technologies
Yellowfin Distribution

POS & Peripherals
J2 Retail Systems
Pioneer POS
Posiflex
POS-X
Touch Dynamic

POS Systems - Hospitality
PAR

Barcode & Transaction Printers
Datamax-O'Neil
Zebra Technologies

Cash Drawers
MMF POS

Data Collection Terminals
CipherLab
Datalogic ADC
Janam Technologies

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems
Merchant Warehouse

Keyboards
Cherry, ZF Electronics Corp.

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Repair & Refurbishment
AMCOR Tech Solutions

Thermal Printers
Seiko Instruments USA

Touchscreens & Monitors
Elo TouchSystems

INSTALLATIONS

Epson Takes the Tram

The Tram at Hanauma Bay in Honolulu has implemented mobile POS courtesy of two prominent channel players, Menusoft (Springfield, VA) and Epson America (Long Beach, CA). Carrying tourists from the top of the crater, where parking and food are available, to the bottom of the cove, the new solution equips Tram attendants with Digital Dining POS software, an Epson Mobilink TM-P60 portable printer with belt clip, and the Apple iPod Touch. It was recommended and installed by POS VAR Pinnacle Technologies (Orem, UT).

“The City of Honolulu required that credit cards be accepted and receipts be provided to customers,” noted Ryan Fuller, President of Wasatch Transportation, the contractor for the new system. “Our mandated daily sales reports are sent directly via the Digital Dining software and the Epson mobile printers work great. We were up and running smoothly within four days. They even went the extra mile to hide access points in palm trees so that tourists can experience the beauty of Hanauma Bay without seeing the back-end technology.” In particular, the Epson TM-P60’s battery life, security, and cutter were called out for praise.

Before Wasatch Transportation took on the mobile POS project, the previous contractor honked a bicycle horn and shouted out prices to lines of tourists contemplating the hike down the steep road to the water’s edge. Only cash was accepted, complicating matters greatly. Since its deployment, the new system has increased revenues by 30%, according to Menusoft and Epson America, while processing customers more quickly and complying with reporting requirements.

Mobile POS at The Tram in Hanauma Bay

Hershey Sweet on Cashless POS

Maybe we call it “CPOS,” for cashless POS. Whatever the term, Precision Dynamics Corporation (San Fernando, CA) continues to attract fans in the amusement park arena with its RFID wristbands. Case in point: the massive Herseypark in Pennsylvania, which opened this summer season with substantial use of the company’s Smart Bands. Guests may flash this waterproof accessory to make purchases, check balances, and load additional funds at any of the park’s 200 RFID-enabled POS stations.

“RFID capabilities are already built into most POS software systems, so the conversion is seamless and cost-effective,” observed Greg Cetera, RFID Manager for Precision Dynamics Corporation. “The convenience factor for guests is an enormous bonus since they no longer have to carry cash or access their locker for money to make purchases. Faster transactions and shorter lines equate to increased efficiency and time savings for guests, and greater ROI for the park.”

The cashless POS system represents an expansion to Hershey’s embracement of RFID technology. Four years ago, Hersheypark implemented RFID-enabled lockers, which leveraged Precision Dynamic’s Smart Bands. Based on the success of the current RFID installation, additional applications are being reviewed for use in the future, according to the two parties. Possibilities include social media integration, electronic access control, photo management systems, and customer loyalty programs. Somewhat quietly, Precision Dynamics has been pursuing such RFID technology for healthcare, leisure and entertainment, and law enforcement for several decades.

Guests Utilize RFID Wristbands by Precision Dynamics Corporation

Channel Factoid

Latest dispatch from the tablet market shows global shipments reached 25 million units in Q2 of 2012, for 67% growth. Apple rose to 68% market share, Android stayed steady, and Microsoft desperately needs launch of Windows 8. Here are the numbers from Strategy Analytics for Q2 2012 compared with Q2 2011: Apple iOS at 17 million vs. 9.3 million (68.3% market share vs. 62%); Android at 7.3 million vs. 4.4 million (29.3% market share for both time periods); Microsoft at 300,000 vs. 600,000 (1.2% market share vs. 4%); and “Others” at 300,000 vs. 700,000 (1.2% market share vs. 4.7%). This means iPad’s total share is at the highest level since Q3 2010, while this was the industry’s slowest overall growth rate since the finger-driven tablet market began in Q2 of that year, even at 67%, perhaps due to the volatile world economy. “Despite high expectations for companies like Amazon, Samsung, Acer, and Asus, the Android community has yet to make a serious dent in Apple’s dominance of the tablet market,” concluded Neil Mawston, Executive Director at Strategy Analytics. “Unspectacular hardware designs, limited uptake of cellular models, and modest number of tablet-optimized services have been among some of the main reasons for Android’s mixed performance so far.” The definition of tablet does not include e-book readers for this analysis, nor does it specifically address the promise of dedicated Android devices in vertical markets such as Motorola Solutions’ ET1, Casio’s V-T500, and Partner Tech’s EM-70B.

HELLO GOODBYE

Turner Atop CognitiveTPG

CognitiveTPG (Lincolnshire, IL) has elevated Kyle Turner to the top position of CEO/President. Turner’s rise through the executive ranks of the receipt and label printer maker has included successively higher titles in marketing, business development, engineering, and operations. He joined Axiohm Transaction Solutions, Inc., forerunner of ATSI Holdings, CognitiveTPG’s parent company, in 1998.

“Kyle’s leadership has helped propel CognitiveTPG’s growth over the last four years as he served as the company’s GM,” remarked Rob Morris, CEO of Huntington Capital Partners, the equity firm that owns ATSI Holdings, as well as former CEO of CognitiveTPG. “It is expected that the change will allow for continued growth by providing a stronger, more independent management team with the ability to react quickly to market and product requirements. We are grateful for Kyle’s 14-plus years of service with the company and wish him success in his new position.”

CognitiveTPG also has launched two summer promotions for its desktop thermal label printers. In the first, “Wanted Alive,” the vendor invites owners of its Blaster and Advantage LX devices to send video of their oldest working installations. A $500 Visa gift card will go to the winner. In the second, the vendor offers $25 off the first order of any model in its new DLXi series. Resellers may take advantage of this discount through one of the manufacturer’s distributors--BlueStar, Ingram Micro Data Capture/POS, ScanSource, and Synnex. Both promotions run through August 31, and more information appears on the company’s website.

Kyle Turner, CEO/President, CognitiveTPG

APG CD in the EMEA

APG Cash Drawer (Minneapolis) has welcomed Sascha Straub as its Strategic Account Manager for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Straub, based in Hamburg, Germany, will be charged with growing business for both the vendor and its customers. He brings 14 years of international efforts in marketing, sales, IT, and manufacturing in the EMEA and South East Asia regions. In terms of suitable educational qualifications, he holds an MBA in Business and Economics from the University of Hamburg.

“We are very excited to have Sascha on our team,” relayed John Meilahn, SVP of Sales and Marketing at APG. “This is an exciting opportunity for us as we continue to expand our footprint globally. Sascha will enhance our ability to support new and existing customers in the EMEA geographic region and his addition marks an important move for APG in supporting customers worldwide.”

“On a global scale, APG has been working to grow our presence in other parts of the world, particularly in the EMEA and China regions,” elaborated Meilahn. “As we work to leverage our products and brand in worldwide markets, our sales team at APG needs to continue to grow. Our aim is to support our customers and to produce the right products for the markets they serve.”

Supply Chain Polished at Tompkins

Tompkins International (Raleigh, NC), one of the leading supply chain consulting firms, has enlisted Alain Poirier as its VP of Business Development. Poirier is well known in the industry from various executive and sales leadership positions for companies such as Aldata, Sterling Commerce (IBM), TrueDemand (Acosta), and Manhattan Associates. In his new role, he will be charged with developing strategies that ensure customers meet their business objectives through supply chain planning, design, and implementation.

“We are delighted to add Alain to our expanding firm and look forward to his contributions,” stated Jim Tompkins, CEO/President of Tompkins International. “His 20-plus years of experience serving the retail industry will reinforce our presence in bringing solutions to clients as the rapid growth of e-commerce transforms the multichannel environment.” Addressing supply chain for the past 35 years, Tompkins has offices throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.

Interestingly, Tompkins also released survey information which indicates that more than 30% of distribution centers are fully outsourced at this point in time, somewhat lower in the case of retail at 21%. “Data indicates that while many companies continue to have their own DCs staffed by their own employees, there is an upward trend in the percentage of DC buildings and labor being outsourced in the past two years,” reported Bruce Tompkins, Director of the Tompkins Supply Chain Consortium. Total annual cost of logistics as percentage of net sales ranged from 4.1% to 10%, according to companies surveyed.

Alain Poirier, VP of Business Development, Tompkins International