This Week’s Product Pick

Touch Dynamic (Irvington, NJ) premiered its Saturn Atom Booksize PC, based on Intel’s 1.6-GHz Atom CPU. Measuring just 8.75 in. x 5.43 in. x 1.5 in., with fanless design, the Saturn Atom PC addresses POS applications where counter space is limited but processing requirements are high, according to the vendor. The Saturn Atom PC is spill-resistant for use in demanding hospitality environments and can be wall-mounted. It features four Serial Ports, Gigabit LAN, and optional WLAN (802.11a/b/g), as well as PCI Express Mini Card expansion slot. Operating systems supported include Windows XP, Windows XP Embedded, Windows CE, Linux, WEPOS, and POSReady 2009. Designed for low-power PCs and mobile devices, Intel’s Atom processor packs 47 million transistors on a single chip measuring less than 26 mm, about one inch, making it the company’s smallest and lowest power processor, but with full Internet capabilities. “With this kind of processing power in such a small package, we saw an immediate application for a reduced-size PC for those many POS environments in which size, heat, noise, and power consumption restrictions ruled out the use of normal-sized PCs,” observed Craig Paritz, President of Touch Dynamic. “Our reseller partners have been asking for ever-smaller PCs for their end-users for some time and the specs of this new model address their size and power concerns and a lot more.”

Saturn Atom Booksize PC from Touch Dynamic

Worth Your While - 2010

NRF 99th Annual Convention & Expo
National Retail Federation
January 10-13
New York

RSPA Inspire
Retail Solutions Providers Association
February 7-10
Cancun, Mexico

Connect
Radiant Retail User Conference
February 24-26
Atlanta

FMI
Food Marketing Institute
May 10-13
Las Vegas

NRA Show
National Restaurant Association
May 22-25
Chicago

NACS Show
National Association of Convenience Stores
October 5-8
Atlanta

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Color Question Solved by Zebra’s IQ

Zebra Technologies Corporation (Lincolnshire, IL) introduced IQ Color thermal labels, which allow users to print color highlights on demand using their existing Zebra thermal printers. During the label manufacturing process, invisible color inks are applied in up to four designated zones customized to the end-user’s needs and label format. Four colors may be chosen by end-users from the eight colors offered, in addition to size and shape. Zebra’s printhead then heats the ink to make the selected colors visible based on the format sent to the printer.

IQ Color will enhance label printing across industries addressed by RRN.Com readers such as retail, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare, according to Zebra. In healthcare, color-cued labels allow for the identification and prioritization of orders in laboratories and pharmacies. For logistics, color-coding helps reduce shipping and stocking errors during sortation by displaying special-order instructions, as well as improving overall inventory management. For manufacturing, better product identification aids in the areas of assembly and quality control. Finally, for retail, shelf labeling will be improved through the addition of color images, text, and graphics at the point of printing.

“Zebra’s IQ Color technology illustrates our dedication to providing our customers with innovative products that streamline their operations, and reduce errors and costs,” stated Christine Weber, Product Marketing Manager for Zebra Technologies. “Eliminating the need for pre-printed color labels increases productivity, as it eliminates roll changes and there’s less inventory to manage.”

Zebra's IQ Color On-Demand Thermal Label Technology

Nextep Checks Out Hotels

Nextep Systems (Troy, MI) debuted its Self Check-In/Out solution for hotel hospitality at this week’s International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show in New York City. Utilizing touchscreen kiosks, the new solution seeks to reduce total guest time spent at the front desk by providing virtually any service required: check in/out within 30 seconds, encode room keys, upgrade or change rooms, switch credit cards, scan passports and licenses, and lastly, view, print, or e-mail bills and receipts. Nextep has already tied the Self Check-In/Out solution to the Micros Opera Property Management System, and will develop additional interfaces to other leading hospitality management systems.

“This hotel solution has allowed us to further expand our offerings and bring to both guests and management an entirely new level of service,” reported Tommy Woycik, Nextep President and Co-Founder. “Extending Nextep’s ability to deliver enjoyable guest experiences and provide seamlessly integrated management systems directly to hotel lobbies is a natural extension of our experience and success in the foodservice and hospitality industries.”

Nextep’s Self Check-In/Out allows hotel management to dedicate additional time to customer service by making guest registration more efficient and streamlined, according to the developer. It features remote system management through Nextep’s enterprise-class “mynextep.net” tool. Standard and custom hardware options are offered, as well as electronic signature capture. Finally, the hotel’s branding efforts can be expanded to encompass personalized messaging, including specials, package deals, and excursions.

Nextep Touchscreen Kiosk

Join the Party at No Charge

Subscribe Today! Email:

Do you need to reach the POS & Auto ID resellers who really drive business—in the most targeted editorial environment, and on the most cost-effective basis?

E-mail Michael Kachmar for advertising information,
or call 973-270-3284

Did you miss one of our issues and suddenly realize your competitors know more than you do?

Hurry ! Use the links below to catch up :

Week of November 2

Week of October 26

Week of October 19

STARTS & STOPS

Ingram Micro and Motorola Step Outside

Ingram Micro’s Data Capture/POS Division (Carlsbad, CA) will distribute wireless broadband products from Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions to its partners throughout the U.S. and Canada. Under the terms of the extended distribution relationship, Ingram Micro DC/POS will support, market, and resell Motorola’s point-to-point (PTP), point-to-multipoint (PMP), outdoor mesh networks, and related accessories. The new line will be supported by a team of dedicated Ingram Micro sales, marketing, and technical staff trained to cater to Motorola channel partners.

“Motorola’s portfolio offers an ideal wireless connectivity solution for the public sector that not only addresses the market’s need for secure, outdoor wireless broadband networks, but also provides our channel partners with the potential to achieve significant profitability as a result of high-value sales opportunities,” remarked Justin Scopaz, GM and VP of Ingram Micro DC/POS. “With the increasing IT sales opportunities stemming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the growing need for network broadband throughout North America, the timing for expanding our Motorola relationship couldn’t be better. We’re thrilled to bring this innovative and in-demand technology to our channel partners at a time when their customers need it most.”

“We are particularly excited about the prospect of increasing our reach into the government and education IT space through Ingram Micro’s GovEd Alliance channel partners,” emphasized Michael O’Connor, MSSI VP, North American Distribution, Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions (Schaumburg, IL). Last month, Motorola released the latest member of its fixed wireless broadband family, the PMP 430 network, which runs in the 5.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands for high-speed connectivity to underserved and hard-to-reach locations and customers. It can carry data, voice, and video for up to 40 miles in line-of-sight installations.

Justin Scopaz, GM and VP, Ingram Micro Data Capture/POS Division

3Com Pulled into HP

Consolidation continues unabated. Now Hewlett-Packard (Palo Alto, CA) will acquire 3Com Corporation (Marlborough, MA), one of the longstanding leaders in network switching, routing, and security solutions, for approximately $2.7 billion, or $7.90 per share in cash. Terms of the transaction have been approved by the HP and 3Com boards of directors and now await approval by 3Com’s stockholders. The combination of companies will transform the networking industry, according to the two parties, and underscores HP’s data center strategy built on the convergence of servers, storage, networking, management, facilities, and services.

The purchase of 3Com will dramatically expand HP’s Ethernet switching offerings, add routing solutions, and significantly strengthen the company’s position in China--both through market share garnered by products from Huawei-3Com, or H3C, and from 3Com’s powerful R&D facility based in that country. 3Com also brings to HP best-of-breed network security capabilities through its TippingPoint portfolio. Approximately 30% of Fortune 1000 companies have already deployed TippingPoint intrusion prevention systems.

Commented Dave Donatelli, HP’s EVP and GM, Enterprise Servers and Networking: “By combining HP ProCurve offerings with 3Com’s extensive set of solutions, we will enable customers to build the next-generation network infrastructure that supports customer needs from the edge of the network to the heart of the data center.” Once the acquisition is completed, HP intends to roll out the combined solution across its global infrastructure of 300,000-plus employees, according to Randy Mott, EVP and CIO. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2010.

HP ProCurve Switch

[Editor’s Note: Now comes word that JDA Software’s purchase of i2 Technologies, announced last year and killed in December, has been moved to the front burner once again. JDA plans to pay approximately $396 million for this melding of two supply chain software leaders.]

Code Corner

Seagull Scientific (Bellevue, WA) released Version 9.2 of its BarTender label and RFID software, which includes three new companion applications that simplify printing and the administration of label format changes. Version 9.2 also offers the ability to acquire images directly from scanners and cameras, as well as to make changes to graphic images once they have been imported. It represents the first version of BarTender formally validated for operation on the recently released Windows 7 O/S, according to Seagull. In terms of applications, “Librarian” provides secure revision control of label formats and other files, with special attention paid to the document management and audit preparation needs of users operating in highly regulated environments. In addition, two new print utilities have been added. “Print Station” gives non-technical users easy point-and-click label printing from displayed formats. Also new, “Batch Maker,” as its name would imply, allows users to select multiple label formats and group them together for printing. “The new, larger family of companion applications addresses a wide variety of important functions vital to supporting operations in the enterprise space,” explained Russ Clark, Global Director of Sales, Seagull Scientific. “This includes user and group-based security, enterprise print management, print job logging, and even the reprinting of old labels.”

RDM Corporation (Waterloo, ON, Canada) has added new functionality to its ITMS WebClient and Simply Deposit payment products that allows users to proactively decide when, or even whether, to re-present returned customer checks. When checks are returned for insufficient funds, RRN.Com readers know well, the check recipient may be forced to take the uncomfortable and time-consuming step of contacting the check writer to arrange for alternative payment. RDM’s intelligent check re-presentment capability offers users the convenience of resubmitting the check electronically at a time of their own choosing. For example, they may choose to wait until “pay day” to increase their chances of collecting. They may also elect not to re-present the small check whose face value is less than the potential bank charge that may be incurred. “The intelligent re-presentment feature is a fantastic new tool for our customers,” suggested Douglas Newman, President/CEO of RDM Corporation. “This functionality should appeal to users for the same reasons they chose remote deposit capture in the first place--convenience, speed, and lower check processing costs.”

ALLIANCES

Agilysys Sails into Mobility with Global Bay

Agilysys, Inc. (Cleveland) has teamed with Global Bay Mobile Technologies (South Plainfield, NJ) to deliver in-store mobility solutions to retailers. Specifically, Global Bay’s platform technology and customer-facing capabilities will be used by Agilysys to develop and deploy applications on Motorola wireless devices, as well as BlackBerry smartphones, the Apple iPhone, and the Apple iPod. Goals include increased operational efficiency and enhanced customer service, with task and inventory management central to the equation.

“Realizing wireless and mobility solutions are playing an increasing role in store operations and consumer-facing self-service, we are excited to partner with a leading mobility technology company like Global Bay to expand our current application offerings, development, and services capabilities in this arena,” declared Paul Civils, SVP and GM of the Agilysys Retail Solutions Group. “The benefits of our combined solution extend beyond the store associate to retail executives, providing access to key performance indicators and data related to individual store performance. Access to this real-time information is extremely valuable, especially given today’s retail climate.”

“We are proud to announce this partnership as we continue to grow our market share in the dynamic retail segment,” added Sandeep Bhanote, CEO of Global Bay Mobile Technologies. “Agilysys has established impressive credentials in the retail industry in IT services and we look forward to delivering the next generation of mobility software solutions with them.” To that end, the two companies plan joint research and development activities, and eventually will expand their footprint beyond the retail industry into healthcare, government, and transportation.

Paul Civils, SVP and GM, Agilysys Retail Solutions Group

Psion Teklogix Forges “Stay-Links”

Psion Teklogix (Hebron, KY) will begin shipping its rugged mobile computers as “Stay-Linked Ready,” which means preloaded with host-based, thin-client wireless terminal emulation software from Stay-Linked Corporation (Tustin, CA). Stay-Linked software will be preloaded on the Workabout Pro, 7535, 7530, 8515, 8525, and NEO. With Stay-Linked, wireless terminal device users connecting to 5250/3270, VT100/220, and SSHv2 host systems experience the highest levels of performance, connection/session reliability, and data security, according to the two parties. Further, centralized IT/Help Desk staff benefit from the Stay-Linked Administrator GUI Console.

“Psion Teklogix is a recognized leader in the rugged mobile computer industry and we are very pleased that they are now an active member of our growing Stay-Linked Ready program for device manufacturers,” shared David Griffith, President of Stay-Linked. “Companies that purchase Stay-Linked licenses with Psion Teklogix devices are now able to take immediate advantage of Stay-Linked’s unique productivity-enhancing capabilities right out of the box.”

“Psion Teklogix ensures our customers receive maximum value from our solutions, ultimately boosting our customer’s Return on Mobility,” said Dave Peddemors, VP of North American Sales for Psion Teklogix, which has trademarked the "RoM" wordplay on Return on Investment. “Our partnership with Stay-Linked Corporation will provide our customers unique access to their terminal emulation applications both inside and outside the four walls.”

Psion Teklogix 7535 Rugged Handheld Computer

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Auto ID Distribution
BlueStar
ScanSource

POS & Peripherals
FEC USA
Logic Controls
pcCashDrawer
POS-X

Barcode & Mobile Printers
Datamax-O'Neil

Cash Drawers
MMF Cash Drawer

Data Collection Terminals
CipherLab
Datalogic Mobile
Honeywell Scanning & Mobility
Janam Technologies
Motorola

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems

Keyboards
Cherry Electrical Systems

MICR Check Printers/Self-Service Kiosks
Source Technologies

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Star Micronics

Retail Software
InfoTouch

Screen Protection
3M Optical Filters

Video Surveillance & Access Control
ScanSource Security

INTEGRATION

Can Myztro Pull NFC Out of the Hat?

TranZfinity (Carlsbad, CA) announced its Myztro Mobile POS solution for Near-Field Communication (NFC) and contactless payment processing needs. Utilizing Myztro and an existing mobile phone, in conjunction with existing card processing platforms, merchants can now move freely, offering secure transactions for their customers anytime, anywhere, according to the developer. Although closed-loop pre-paid card schemes will be certified first, TranZfinity expects this solution to ultimately support MasterCard PayPass, Visa PayWave, and even PayPal Mobile in the coming months.

On the consumer side, one of several schemes can be supported: contactless cards, 80 million of which have already been issued in the U.S.; passive payment stickers, such as First Data’s Go-Tag; or use of an interactive peripheral NFC enabler such as Myztro. Both the consumer and merchant solutions will be compatible with native NFC handsets. In addition, delivery and maintenance of the payment application will be provided by TranZfinity’s Secure-Z Trusted Service Management platform, either hosted by TranZfinity or offered through an enterprise license.

“Now, true mobile payment acceptance can be a reality for millions of merchants worldwide, and they can do it with the equipment that they have in their hands today,” maintained Jeff Miles, CEO of TranZfinity. “By using the merchant’s existing mobile phone, along with Myztro, they no longer have a need for a dedicated payment terminal. This provides a cost-effective solution for many merchants who previously could not cost-justify credit card acceptance at their location or on-the-go. This technology, along with its cost savings, could be game changing.”

Myztro Mobile POS Solution on BlackBerry

[Editor’s Note:  According to Juniper Research, one in six mobile subscribers will have NFC-enabled devices by 2014. At that time, gross global transaction activities should exceed $110 billion as acceptance of the technology moves from Japan to North America and Western Europe. Think cameras in cell phones.]

UBC:  ECRs Still Free, But Better

United Bank Card (Hampton, NJ) has updated its free ECR program, which furnishes Casio’s TK-1550 and TE-1500 Electronic Cash Registers as part of the overall payment processing solution. First, UBC has opened the program to the company’s existing merchants, in addition to new clients. The program also has been updated to allow merchants to obtain multiple ECRs for a single location. Up until now, only one free ECR was allowed per location. Certain terms and restrictions may apply in both cases, the company notes.

Additionally, UBC has strengthened its ECR hospitality application with tip functionality as well as support for server numbers and bar tabs. This application will be made available for both the Casio TK-1550 and TE-1500. UBC has also eliminated the initialization process that was previously required when first setting up the cash register and after any power loss, further simplifying things for the merchant.

“We feel that these changes will increase merchant satisfaction while providing our partners with an even more powerful sales tool,” related Jared Isaacman, USB’s CEO. “As we receive feedback from our sales partners, we will continue to adjust our programs to meet their needs. We expect to have many improvements, new features, and user-friendly functionality enhancements over the life of this remarkable product.”

Jared Isaacman, CEO, United Bank Card

Channel Factoid

One-third of U.S. companies (33%) are too scared to change their current data server due to possible complications and data loss. The large majority of these businesses primarily use their servers to host Web data (87%), with additional critical applications represented by e-mail (67%), managing business data (52%), storing office documents (50%), and hosting business software (44%). Interestingly, many of these businesses report problems with their current servers over the past year. Despite issues such as unsteady e-mail (36%), Website downtime (34%), failed hardware (26%), and slow software (34%), companies still think twice about upgrading their server technology. Still, “changing IT solutions” was cited as the goal of 25% of respondents, with 10% describing their server as outdated, and 22% admitting they have not upgraded or changed their server in at least three years. “Business and technology go hand-in-hand,” commented Stephen Holfrod, Chief Marketing Officer for Fasthosts Internet, which sponsored the study. “IT solutions are integrated into every part of a company’s livelihood, whether it be e-mails, customer information, profit data--you name it, servers store it.”

HELLO GOODBYE

BlueStar Deepens Latin America Team

BlueStar (Hebron, KY) has appointed Carmen Diaz to the position of Inside Media Specialist, where she will work with Latin America VARs to enhance the quality of their marketing campaigns and increase their end-user base. “I am excited by this new opportunity,” Diaz stated. “As an Inside Media Specialist, I hope to translate my experience in international sales and distribution into superior results for BlueStar’s partners.”

Prior to joining the BlueStar team, Diaz spent 12 years with Intermec Technologies, where she served as Media Sales Specialist International, Media Sales Account Specialist, and Customer Service Representative. At Intermec, she focused on internal initiatives to drive sales, improve customer service, and facilitate product distribution. In addition, Diaz was the point of contact for all Latin American distributors and worked closely with the Applications Department to provide relevant RFID products.

“Carmen Diaz’s appointment to Inside Media Specialist will help BlueStar further augment its sales and services to key partners in Latin America,” commented Santiago Arias, GM of BlueStar Latin America. “Her expertise will allow us to add more value to their current businesses.” In particular, Intermec’s VARs will benefit, Arias pointed out.

Carmen Diaz, Inside Media Specialist, BlueStar