This Week’s Product Pick

CAEN RFID (Staten Island, NY) expanded its easy2log family with the RT0005 Temperature Logger semi-passive UHF tag. Designed for transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive goods, including food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, this low-cost tag provides compatibility with most of the Gen2 UHF RFID readers on the market, according to its manufacturer. Measuring 4.2 in. x 4.2 in., with very thin profile, the tag carries an operating range of -20 to +70 degrees C, and temperature accuracy within one-tenth of one degree. Up to 16 configurable temperature ranges can be specified, with maximum monitoring time span of five years and an 18-hour start/delay window. Alarms can be configured by factors such as high or low temperature, mean kinetic temperature, estimated time of arrival, and remaining shelf life. Meeting IP-67 environmental ratings, CAEN RFID’s Temperature Logger stores data of up to 512 bits in the EPC Bank and up to 512 bits in the User Memory Bank. “Our new RT0005 Temperature Logger is extremely feature-rich and reliable, since it includes many techniques coming from the suggestions of our customer base,” declared Stefano Coluccini, Business Development Manager for Cold Chain Solutions at CAEN RFID, which is based in Italy. “This logger is the first milestone for the stronger involvement of CAEN RFID in the cold chain because we believe that combined RFID interface and temperature monitoring can open a new era of track-and-trace solutions for this market.”

Temperature Logger from CAEN RFID

Worth Your While

KioskCom Self-Service Expo & Digital Signage Show
JD Events
April 14-15
Las Vegas

NACStech
Association for Convenience and Petroleum Retailing
May 5-7
New Orleans

FMI Show
Food Marketing Institute
May 10-13
Las Vegas

WERC Annual Conference
Warehousing Education and Research Council
May 16-19
Anaheim, CA

NRA Show
National Restaurant Association
May 22-25
Chicago

POS Partner Invitational
Ingram Micro Data Capture/POS Division
May 26-28
Chicago

U Connect Supply Chain Conference
GS1 US & VICS
June 7-10
San Antonio, TX

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Datalogic Mobile’s Big Elf

Datalogic Mobile (Eugene, OR) debuted its next-generation professional PDA, "Elf," designed from the ground up to address the needs of field service, logistics, and retail. Intended for single-handed use, at 6.2 in. x 3.2 in. x 1.6 in. and 15 oz., Elf features XScale 624-MHz processor, 256-MB RAM, and Micro SD card slot. All data collection technologies have been addressed: one and two-dimensional barcoding, three-megapixel autofocus camera, and optional HF RFID. “Elf uses our advanced platform, providing incredible speed coupled with the latest technology for mobility, all packaged into one of the best ergonomic devices on the market,” indicated Gian Paolo Fedrigo, CEO of Datalogic Mobile.

Among its innovations, the new PDA is one of the first in the mobile computing industry to run Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5. Customers may choose between QWERTY or numeric keyboards and between QVGA or FVGA displays for specific applications. Use of an accelerometer eliminates awkward presentation of on-screen data, while the unique guitar pick stylus provides for intuitive touchscreen navigation, according to the vendor. In terms of ruggedness, Elf carries an IP-64 environmental rating for water and dust resistance and withstands drops of five feet onto concrete.

As in all Datalogic Mobile computers, the Wavelink Avalanche device management system comes pre-loaded and pre-licensed. Elf connectivity options include: UMTS HSDPA mobile radio for voice and data communication; embedded 802.11a/b/g radio with Cisco CCX Version 4 certification for secure enterprise-class mobile connectivity; and Bluetooth 2.0 EDR for simultaneous connections with lower power consumption. For good-read notification, the PDA utilizes Datalogic Mobile’s patented Green Spot technology.

For more information on Elf, click here.

Datalogic Mobile's Next-Generation PDA

Putting POS on the Tube

Quadrox (Henderson, NV) will join forces with Panasonic System Networks (Secaucus, NJ) and Aloha Data Systems (Las Vegas) to provide retailers with an integrated solution for POS and video recording. Panasonic Retail Solutions will include POS terminals, network cameras, and displays--supported by Quadrox WebCCTV network video recording technology and Aloha Data Systems’ POS software. Target markets include specialty retail, with initial emphasis on grocery, convenience, and liquor stores.

“The POS-integrated video recording solution will allow store owners and managers to use the POS application to search and retrieve key loss-prevention metrics and easily access video recordings from transactions of interest delivered directly to the POS,” explained Larry Buckley, President of Quadrox US. “The three-way alliance between Panasonic, Quadrox, and Aloha Data Systems offers merchants a complete, seamlessly integrated solution across a broad range of retail applications.”

Quadrox, based in Belgium, is one of the leading providers of digital video security solutions. Its WebCCTV NVR hardware component replaces NTSC/PAL and VHS standards with ten digital standards and supports NRF ARTS IXRetail POSlog. In addition, WebCCTV NVR works with 90% of network cameras sold on the market. Besides POS Monitor, Quadrox offers Count!Guard, its visitor counting and marketing tool.

WebCCTV Network Video Recorder, With Monitor

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CERTIFICATION

Restaurant Maid Serves Up Citizen

Citizen Systems America (Torrance, CA) has achieved compatibility for its CT-S801 POS printer with Restaurant Maid POS software from Alexandria Computers, LLC (Boca Raton, FL). Now customers can count on consistent and reliable operation when using the CT-S801 in conjunction with all Restaurant Maid products and technologies, according to the two parties. Citizen’s CT-S801 represents the industry’s first POS printer with backlight graphic LCD display for user prompts. It prints at 300 mm/second and includes USB-Hub for associated devices such as PIN pads and biometric scanners.

“Citizen Printers are one brand name that our customers come asking for--they know it, they trust it, they have heard or seen of the quality that is associated with the company,” related Filip Zevderski, Founder and CEO of Alexandria Computers. “Citizen’s printers are the only ones that we currently carry that work on all Microsoft Windows platforms, up to Windows Vista and Windows 7, including 64-bit versions of these systems, which is still challenging for many manufacturers.”

Founded in 2000, Alexandria Computers develops and markets affordable POS software packages such as POS Maid (retail) and Salon Maid (all manner of salons), as well as Restaurant Maid (hospitality). All three cost less than $100 and integrate with X-Charge, MerchantWare, and PCCharge for payment processing. In addition, the company distributes POS terminals from POS-X, Posiflex, Pioneer POS, Logic Controls, and Elo TouchSystems, as well as associated peripherals from many leading vendors.

Filip Zevderski, CEO of Alexandria Computers

Power to the Public

Eaton Corporation (Raleigh, NC) has extended its line of single-phase Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) that have been deemed compliant with the U.S. Trade Agreement Act (TAA), creating additional opportunities for its resellers in the public sector spanning schools, courthouses, libraries, and state facilities. Previously, Eaton’s Models 9170, 9155, 9355, and 9390 UPS were deemed to have met TAA requirements; now Eaton’s 5115 Tower, 5130 Rack/Tower, and 9130 Rack UPS have been added. Such single-phase products make up about 80% of government-related UPS sales, according to Frost & Sullivan.

Through Eaton’s PowerAdvantage Partner program, deal registration framework, and government and healthcare rebates, qualified resellers can earn discounts as high as 14%, the company said. In addition, Eaton appears on several U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) schedules for products and services, and provides letters of supply to its distribution partners for continued ease of business in the public sector. Just recently, Eaton presented its PowerAdvantage Partners with an online content syndication program to help them drive sales leads for its products through their individual websites.

“Data centers and the networks that support them form the backbone of government operations in the 21st century, especially considering every aspect of an organization can be affected when there are problems with power,” noted Matt Cheap, Product Manager, Eaton’s Power Quality Division. “Eaton’s single-phase UPS are designed to deliver the reliability and uptime that is necessary for critical applications.”

Eaton’s 5115 Tower UPS

Code Corner

Sybase, Inc. (Dublin, CA) will introduce advanced spatial data functionality as part of the next release of its SQL Anywhere database and synchronization solution. Previewed at this week’s ESRI Worldwide Business Partner Conference in Palm Springs, California, the new build makes Sybase one of the first vendors to enable development of data-driven spatial applications for leading smartphone devices that also synchronizes with related databases, application servers, and enterprise systems. By leveraging this new capability, companies in key markets such as utilities, telecommunications, manufacturing, and government can supply their field workers with access to detailed spatial information as well as real-time data for critical decision-making, according to the developer. ESRI, as many RRN.Com readers may know, has long led the way in so-called Geographic Information Systems, or GIS. Sybase’s new technology includes: support for OGC and SQLMM standards for spatial data types and APIs; native import for shape files and built-in functions to export to KML, GML, and SVG formats; use of spatial data on all of the platforms supported by SQL Anywhere, whether Linux, Unix, Mac O/S, Windows, BlackBerry, or iPhone; and true bidirectional synchronization of spatial and standard data between field worker and many popular enterprise systems. “We expect the Spatial Information Management market to continue to grow at its healthy, compound annual rate over the next several years,” commented David Sonnen, IDC’s consultant in this area. “Spatially-enabled Sybase SQL Anywhere addresses the occasionally-connected environmental gap that exists in the spatial market today.”

ALLIANCES

Two Pay Days for RBS

RBS WorldPay (Atlanta) has forged closer relationships with two leading POS players--Retail Pro International and Radiant Systems. First, Retail Pro (Folsom, CA) has tapped RBS WorldPay as its preferred electronic payments processor. After winning “an exhaustive” RFP selection process, RBS will deliver Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) processing choices for Retail Pro merchants. RBS also will provide “improved pricing for Retail Pro’s high-performance payment interface,” according to the two parties.

“I’m pleased with the results of the selection process and the enthusiastic response from the payments industry to our Request for Proposal,” commented Kerry Lemos, Retail Pro’s CEO. “While it was challenging to choose from so many worthy offerings, I’m certain we selected the top payment processor serving the specialty retail space and we’ve achieved our goal of providing excellent payment options at lower cost to our customers.”

RBS WorldPay also has partnered with Radiant Systems (Alpharetta, GA) to bring Token Replacement to the latest version of Aloha POS. When credit cards are swiped, data is first sent to the secure RBS WorldPay host, which then processes the payment and returns a unique token identifier to the POS for future reference, eliminating the need to store sensitive customer data. In addition, the seamless integration between Token Replacement and Aloha POS software increases speed of service by reducing processing time. “Unlike other competitive alternatives, there are no additional transaction fees associated with our Token Replacement feature,” promised Jeff Hughes, VP of Hosted Solutions at Radiant Systems.

Retail Pro Endorses RBS WorldPay for Electronic Payments

[Editor’s Note:  Three men suspected of the $9 million hacking of RBS WorldPay in November 2008 have been arrested by Russian authorities this week. The trio--Viktor Pleshchuk, Sergei Tsurikov, and Oleg Covelin--used cloned payroll cards to withdraw money from ATMs in hundreds of cities worldwide. Their arrests have been welcomed as signs of greater Russian commitment in the fight against cybercrime.]

Gift and Loyalty, from Virtually Anywhere

Apriva (Scottsdale, AZ) has joined forces with SparkBase (Cleveland, OH) to offer secure, wireless gift and loyalty card processing. The integrated solution will allow merchants to process such prepaid transactions from virtually any location using public wireless networks, according to the two parties. Based on Apriva’s baseline technology, it also arms merchants with value-added services such as online reporting, order processing, and customer management.

“Apriva is pleased to add SparkBase to our growing list of certified partners that supply gift card and loyalty products for VARs and Independent Sales Organizations (ISOs),” shared Bill Clark, EVP for North America at Apriva, which divides itself into Point of Sale and Information Security Solutions. “We anticipate that the integration of the SparkBase gift and loyalty program with Apriva’s wireless payment solutions will enable merchants to further optimize the success of their existing stored-value payment programs.”

SparkBase entered the private-label stored-value industry in early 2004 as one of the first independent gift and loyalty processing networks. The company goes to market through the SaaS model, and partners with Hypercom, VeriFone, and Microsoft Dynamics. Technological resources include its $20 million data center, proprietary gateway, and platforms for both traditional cards and new mobile payment methods such as SMS messaging. Douglas Hardman, one of the company’s founders, serves as CEO.

Bill Clark, EVP, North America, Apriva

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Auto ID Distribution
BlueStar

POS & Peripherals
FEC USA
Logic Controls
Pioneer POS
Posiflex Business Machines
POS-X

Barcode & Mobile Printers
Datamax-O'Neil

Cash Drawers
APG Cash Drawer
MMF Cash Drawer

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

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Screen Protection
3M Optical Filters

Self-Service Kiosks
Zebra/Motorola

Video Surveillance & Access Control
ScanSource Security

INTEGRATION

Fujitsu Thinks Small for OEMs

Fujitsu Components America (Sunnyvale, CA) added an ultra-high-speed, compact three-inch thermal printer mechanism for embedded OEM designers of kiosks, label and ticket machines, and medical instrumentation. The new printer (designated FTP-63AMCL101/111/301/311) delivers 250 mm/second print speed and handles stock from 60 to 220 micrometers thick. Measuring only 4.7 in. x 2.1 in. x 1.2 in., including rotary cutter, the printer meets the needs of today’s shrinking product designs, according to Fujitsu.

Designed to function indoors or outdoors, the RoHS-compliant printer has an extended operating temperature range of -20 to +70 degrees C. Additionally, its die-cast frame provides durability, protects against electrostatic discharge (ESD), shock, and vibration, and also serves as the heat sink. Text, characters, graphics, international fonts, and two-dimensional barcodes are all supported. Compatible Microsoft Windows drivers are offered, as well as USB 2.0 and Serial RS-232C interface boards.

The device features the company’s patented Easy Load Mechanism with platen release to simplify paper roll changing. It also gives full access to the print head for maintenance or to clear paper jams. Integrated sensors detect paper out/black mark, abnormal head temperatures, and motor over-current protection to minimize interruptions and maximize printer uptime. The printer carries an MSRP of $96 in 1,000 piece quantities; with cutter configuration that bumps to $176.

Compact Thermal Printer Mechanism from Fujitsu

Putting Active Directory in “Proximity”

Passlogix, Inc. (New York) launched “v-GO Universal Authentication Manager” (v-GO UAM), which allows Microsoft Windows to accept any identification device for log-on: proximity badges and ID cards, standalone or built-in laptop biometrics, one-time passwords via mobile phones, and question-and-answer sequences. By utilizing Microsoft Active Directory for data storage and administration, the solution negates the need for proprietary authentication servers. It features open architecture, enhances employee roaming capabilities, and supports regulations for PCI DSS, HIPAA, and FISMA (Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002). No more forgotten passwords, either.

According to the developer, v-GO UAM vastly simplifies the user log-on process. For entry, employees need only tap their door access badge on the reader attached to their computer and enter their PIN code. Then they tap their badge again to lock their computer or log-out. Likewise, smart card users have been accommodated. Passlogix offers the solution independently or as part of its v-GO Access Accelerator Suite.

“Until now, organizations that wanted to use strong authentication for Windows log-on had to pay more than $100 per user for the supporting software and servers,” observed Stephane Fymat, VP of Strategy and Product Management for Passlogix. “They were also usually linked to one type of authentication device, had costly changes of the back-end infrastructure if they wanted to switch authenticators, and had to impose confusing log-on processes on their end-users. By solving these problems with our universal device strategy, simple interface and affordable non-proprietary back-end, v-GO UAM finally makes it possible to deploy strong authentication enterprise-wide.” Passlogix cites $15 as the monthly cost for its solution.

Stephane Fymat, VP of Strategy and Product Management, Passlogix

Channel Factoid

Despite the economic doldrums which required downward adjustments to ABI Research’s RFID worldwide forecasts for 2009 and 2010, the outlook appears good for steady growth through the next five years, according to new semi-annual market data just released by the firm. “We expect the overall RFID market to exceed $8.25 billion in 2014, or approximately $7.46 billion with automobile immobilization excluded,” predicted Michael Laird, Practice Director. “That would represent 14% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next five years.” This year alone, the RFID market should reach $4.47 billion, 15% more than the adjusted 2009 figure. (Again, this figure does not include automobile immobilization, which stays steady at about $800 million per year.) “Modernizing” applications for RFID will grow more rapidly than their “traditional” predecessors such as access control, automobile immobilization, electronic toll collection, and others that account for slightly more than 61% of the total market today. These applications are expected to grow 6% compounded annually from 2010 through 2014. In contrast, modernizing applications--animal identification, asset and supply chain management, baggage handling, cargo tracking and security, and POS contactless payments and ticketing--are forecast to grow by roughly 19% in the same time period.

HELLO GOODBYE

Zebra’s Channel Herded by Murphy

Zebra Technologies Corporation (Lincolnshire, IL) has elevated Deborah Murphy to VP of Market and Channel Development for the Specialty Printing Group. In this new position, Murphy will be responsible for developing SPG’s multi-year, global market plan that embraces new verticals, channels, and applications, as well as the strategic alignment and continued development of alliance relationships. She will report to Mike Terzich, SVP, Global Sales & Marketing.

Murphy’s 14-year career with Zebra has featured prominent marketing roles within SPG, including the formation and development of the company’s burgeoning healthcare business. Most recently, she served as Zebra’s Director of Marketing. Prior to Zebra, she worked at MCI Telecommunications and GTE.

“Debbie’s historical knowledge of the Zebra business, combined with her proven ability to develop strategic, thought-leading marketing programs, will help identify and strengthen our market position around the world,” stated Terzich. “In this new role for the organization, Debbie will also develop our new Independent Software Vendor Program, which will offer an expanded set of applications and solutions for today’s business needs--a critical and growing area of importance for Zebra.”

Debbie Murphy, VP of Market and Channel Development for Zebra’s Specialty Printing Group

NRF Not Shy About Shay

The National Retail Federation (Washington, DC) has selected Matt Shay to serve as its next President and CEO. Shay joins NRF from the International Franchise Association, where he served as CEO/President. He will be elected formally at the June 22 NRF Board meeting, and succeeds Tracy Mullin, who is retiring after 17 years as NRF’s leader.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate with NRF’s outstanding Board of Directors and staff in leading such a dynamic and influential association,” Shay said. “Retail is the lifeblood of our economy and with the challenges we face on Capitol Hill, the stakes have never been higher. There is a lot of work to be done, and I’m very excited to get started.”

“Matt brings a deep level of knowledge and experience that will be very beneficial to NRF and its members,” noted Terry Lundgren, Chairman of the NRF and CEO/President of Macy’s. “He has the leadership skills, energy, and enthusiasm necessary to guide this organization confidently into the future, and I look forward to working with him on the issues and projects that lie ahead.”

Matt Shay, New CEO/President of the National Retail Federation