actinic epos
hardware
Most EPOS systems consist of a computer, software application, cash drawer, receipt printer, monitor, customer display and an input device for data entry such as a touch screen, programmable keyboard, scanner or handheld terminal. This section is designed to provide you with detailed information on selecting the right EPOS hardware components for your system.
Computer
The central component of the EPOS system is the computer
that runs the application. There are two main types
of EPOS computer system; those that are integrated
or those that are based on a standard personal computer.
An integrated EPOS computer system houses a number
of components in a compact unit. Integrated systems
offer an affordable, complete solution with a host
of built-in features and can range in price. An entry-level
system usually provides the computer integrated with
a touch screen whilst a fully integrated system can
provide a computer, touch screen, customer display
and a receipt printer, all in one unit. An integrated
system looks neater and is compact which frees up valuable
counter space at the point of sale.
Alternatively you can base your EPOS system on a standard personal computer and connect peripherals such as a printer or customer display, to suit your requirements and budget. This modular system also provides flexibility to separate the screen from the computer and lay out your point of sale in the way that best suits your needs - ideal if counter space is at a premium.
The lowest cost way to build your EPOS system is to use an existing PC and purchase the software and components to connect. However, do make sure the PC meets the required specifications to avoid compatibility problems. In particular, serial interfaces are frequently required to enable the connection of peripheral devices.
Touch Screen
There are two main types of touch screen and Actinic
can supply both options. You can choose between an
integrated computer and touch screen unit (see ‘Computer’)
or a standalone touch screen which is plugged directly
into the computer.
Many users find touch screens more intuitive and faster
to use than keyboards. With virtually no training time
needed, touch screen interfaces increase sales-throughput,
minimise transaction times and improve customer service.
Most touch screens are sleek, flat-panel LCDs - they
cost more than traditional computer monitors, but they
last longer, use less power and take up less space
on the counter.
Keyboard
For systems without a touch screen a keyboard is required
for data entry. The least expensive option is to use
a standard PC keyboard and mouse although there are
significant benefits in using the specialist Actinic
EPOS keyboard. This is a compact keyboard with keys
programmed for specific item codes. It is ruggedly
built for a POS environment and is smaller, faster
and more reliable than a standard keyboard.
Barcode Scanner
The scanner reads the barcode and sends the resulting
data back to your EPOS computer, improving speed and
accuracy during checkout. There are two main options
for the barcode scanner – multi-line or single
line and Actinic can supply both types.
A multi-line scanner can scan barcodes at any angle,
which makes it quicker and more reliable. This is particularly
beneficial where there is a constant flow of customers.
A single line scanner requires the barcode to be aligned with the scanner for reading. This is a less expensive option, but is also less flexible and slower than a multi-line scanner. However, ideal in situations where customer throughput is less intensive.
Scanners can be operated both handheld and fixed to
the counter top. In an environment where scanning of
larger, bulkier products is required a handheld operation
is easier and more flexible.
Receipt printer
Every EPOS system needs a printer to create receipts
for customers. Many EPOS systems now have specialist
thermal printers that use heat sensitive paper to print
receipts. These receipt printers have a small footprint
and so do not take up much counter space. They are
also fast, quiet and reliable because they have few
moving parts.
Pole or Customer display
This displays the item and price information to the customer. This will save time at the checkout and is particularly beneficial for customers who are hard of hearing or to overcome language difficulties.
For some integrated till systems you will need to
purchase a specific pole displays which plugs directly
into the dedicated interface. Alternatively, if you
are considering a PC-
based display you can purchase
a stand-alone customer display to plug into the
standard
computer interface.
Cash drawer
Cash drawers store cash, credit card slips, gift certificates
and other important paperwork. They frequently serve
as a shelf for a display or other heavy pieces of equipment
so look for a sturdy construction.
Some cash drawers receive their signals from the receipt
printer so will not function if a printer is not installed.
Others can be plugged directly into the computer, but
need a separate power supply. If you are building your
own EPOS system it is worth checking with Actinic whether
you have purchased the correct combination of components.
Chip and Pin
Actinic EPOS systems are Chip and Pin approved. By using a Chip and Pin terminal you can save time re-keying transactions into a separate PDQ terminal, speed up card transactions considerably and reduce fraud. Credit card receipts are printed on your receipt printer.
In order to process transactions using Chip and Pin you will need:
- Merchant Account
- Chip and Pin terminal (with a monthly service agreement)
- Broadband internet connection (to process credit card transactions)
Handheld terminal
The handheld terminal is a bar code scanner, keypad
and a clear computer display in one compact, lightweight
unit. The handheld terminal uses a wireless connection
to communicate directly with the EPOS system, enabling
you to scan barcodes, display and edit product prices,
enter and update information directly into the EPOS
