This Week’s Product Pick

NCR Corporation (Duluth, GA) debuted the NCR SelfServ 28, the industry’s only fully weatherized, free-standing cash-dispense ATM. SelfServ 28 makes it possible for financial institutions and other businesses to extend their brand by offering ATM services in high-traffic, off-premise locations such as sporting events, concert venues, and music festivals. With both wired and wireless connectivity, NCR’s newest ATM needs only its power outlet to operate and was designed to be easily deployed and redeployed. It measures 61.1 in. x 19.3 in. x 32.1 in. and weighs 1,213 lbs., without optional air-conditioning. SelfServ 28 carries the familiar look and feel of NCR’s SelfServ family, together with features such as low-energy LED lighting, self-healing technology that allows the ATMs to make minor repairs, full-motion instructional videos, and modular design to facilitate servicing and ensure maximum availability. Additional benefits include vandal-resistant glass, internal alarms, and NCR’s 2ST two-sided thermal printing technology. “To achieve leadership in this consumer-facing market, your brand has to be available wherever your customers are,” noted Michael O’Laughlin, VP and GM, NCR Financial Services.

NCR’s SelfServ 28 Terminal

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

MP on Duty at Datamax-O’Neil

Datamax-O’Neil (Orlando) unboxed the next generation of its MP Compact printer family, now designated the MP Compact4 Mark II and the MP Compact4 Mobile Mark II. Constructed on solid-cast metal frame with die-cast covers, and delivering state-of-the-art performance, the new thermal printers incorporate the following qualities: Datamax-O’Neil’s DPL printer language, IntelliSEAQ print head for analytics and reporting capabilities, expanded emulation capacity, “top-of-form” multi-function sensors, and, as an option, WLAN 802.11b/g with WPA2 security protocol. Speeds and feeds are 203/300-dpi print resolution, 10 inches per second print speed, and 6.6- inch maximum print width. The Mobile Mark II has been configured specifically for use on forklifts, with vibration-proof operation.

“MP Compact4 Mark II printers have an incredibly small footprint which allows them to be used in applications where space is limited,” commented Umesh Cooduvalli, Senior Product Manager for Datamax-O’Neil, part of Dover Corporation’s Product Identification Group. “Their compact size takes up less than half the space of a traditional desktop label printer but with the same duty cycle and strength.”

D-O’s MP Compact series has achieved considerable market share in Europe, according to the vendor. “We expect these printers to achieve similar success in other regions of the world,” shared Cooduvalli. “The new features we’ve incorporated into the latest Mark II generation printers make them an even more competitive offering.”

For more information on Datamax-O’Neil’s printer family, click here.

Datamax-O’Neil’s MP Compact4 Mark II Series

Optimus 2 on the Clock

Accu-Time Systems, Inc. (Ellington, CT) introduced Optimus 2, an enhanced version of its premier workforce management terminal, Optimus. The new terminal now includes standard features such as expanded 128x128 memory, internal USB connectivity, tamper-resistant keypad with integrated Braille alphabet, large color screen, improvements to the internal circuitry, and lockable high-strength enclosure. Intended as “an employee self-service terminal,” it was launched at last week’s International Security Conference (ISC) West in Las Vegas.

Optimus 2 also offers biometric, barcode, contact and contactless card reader options, 10 programmable ATM-style function keys, advanced file management, self-diagnostic capabilities, an internal modem, and programming via Accu-Time’s Universal Command Set. It carries the company’s comprehensive one-year warranty, in keeping with all of its products. As reported by RRN.Com in February, Accu-Time Systems, or ATS, has been acquired by Amano, the Japan-based leader in time recording, access control, automated parking, and cleaning systems with annual revenues upwards of $700 million.

“With Optimus 2, we took all of the attributes our customers liked in the first Optimus and made them better, while also adding new features,” disclosed Larry Dawson, ATS VP of Marketing. “Optimus 2 will provide even more capabilities for companies to efficiently manage their workforces and for their employees to manage themselves. When employees can manage their own schedules, approve their own time cards, enroll in benefit programs, request vacations, and perform many other functions for themselves at the kiosk, then companies can significantly lower their administrative costs.”

Optimus 2 Workforce Management Terminal from Accu-Time Systems

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ALLIANCES

Secure128 Counts on PCI DSS

Secure128 (Roswell, GA), the value-added wholesaler of website security and marketing products catering to resellers, has partnered with Trustwave (Chicago) to address PCI DSS. Specifically, Secure128 will resell Trustwave’s TrustKeeper SSL Plus package, which includes both SSL Control Center and TrustKeeper, an on-demand compliance management service that detects and alerts customers of security flaws at their network perimeter and helps counter such “exploits.” Secure128 already handles SSL certificates from industry leaders such as VeriSign, GeoTrust, and Thawte.

Most centrally, TrustKeeper SSL Plus includes an Enterprise SSL certificate to provide security for merchants communicating sensitive cardholder data over the Internet. These certificates feature 256-bit encryption and $250,000 identification guarantee, as well as free reissues for the life of the certificate. Additionally, merchants will be able to display Trustwave's Trusted Commerce security seal, which marks their compliance with PCI DSS.

“After surveying existing customers and partners for additional security services we could provide, we determined that solutions for validating compliance with the PCI DSS were at the top of their lists,” stated Anthony Ricci, CEO of Secure128. “We wanted to provide them with a solution second to none in the industry and Trustwave gives us just that. Their products and services complement our current offerings and give our customers one more reason to partner with Secure128.”

Anthony Ricci, CEO of Secure128

3M and Socket Go Tracking and Tracing

3M Track and Trace Solutions (St. Paul, MN) has tapped Socket Mobile (Newark, CA) as the first hardware partner for its new mobile asset management solution. The prosaically-named 3M Asset and Inventory Tracking System will be composed of 3M software, 3M RFID or barcode tags, and Socket’s SoMo 650 handheld computer and dual-function Socket Compact Flash RFID Reader-Scan Card. The scheme accommodates both 3M and third-party RFID and barcode tags, and data gets backed up automatically in the dedicated Tier III data center, where it may be accessed by end-users.

“Our 3M system is designed to be flexible enough to suit the wide variety of customer needs,” said Rory Yanchek, GM of 3M Track and Trace, “and since the system is a hosted application, our customers can be up and running quickly, without the need to install and configure servers or purchase database licenses.” Further, 3M’s software allows documents to be attached to the asset record, such as owner’s manuals and warranties, and managers are provided with comprehensive search and report functionality.

“The 3M Asset and Inventory Tracking System is geared specifically toward small and medium-sized businesses where maximizing profits and minimizing costs are essential to operating successfully,” added Chuck Furedy, SVP of Worldwide Sales for Socket Mobile. “Socket has a long-standing history of providing SMBs with innovative solutions that increase productivity and efficiency, and we’re excited to work with 3M as they bring their solution to market.”

Socket’s Compact Flash RFID Reader-Scan Card

Code Corner

Xsilva Systems, Inc. (Montreal) shipped LightSpeed 3.0, the latest manifestation of its retail management platform for Apple’s Mac. LightSpeed combines front-counter POS with back-office functions such as inventory management, order processing, and billing. Version 3.0 delivers an enhanced user interface, multi-store capabilities, and expanded support for Xsilva’s e-commerce solution, Web Store 2.0. In addition, Version 3.0 exploits LightSpeed Server, the developer’s powerful server middleware application, in order to improve communications with the database. The new POS screen includes “button mode” for touchscreen-friendly category-based invoicing, built-in credit and debit card processing, and the ability to put multiple sales on hold and restore at any time. Multi-store look-ups and transfers are provided as standard modules. Available for an additional annual subscription fee, the all new Multi-Store Pro goes beyond basic functionality in this area to offer product replication and cross-store gift cards, returns, and reporting. For multi-channel purposes, Version 3.0 also ties more closely to Web Store 2.0, an add-on to the LightSpeed suite of retail tools that is purchased separately. Improvements here include larger product images and faster product catalog uploads. “LightSpeed 3.0 builds on the elegance and ease of use of previous versions to provide new features and functionality critical to running an efficient retail operation or multi-store chain,” observed Dax Dasilva, Founder and CEO of Xsilva Systems. “Our goal with LightSpeed has always been to help our customers create a business lifestyle with a powerful and visually rich suite of retail tools for the Mac.”

BELLS & WHISTLES

An Infinite iPod

Infinite Peripherals, Inc. (Arlington Heights, IL) has entered the market for mobile POS with the debut of its Linea-pro solution for the Apple iPod. A two-piece plastic shell that attaches to second and third-generation iPod touch units (running O/S 3.1.2 and higher) via its 30-pin mating connector, the Linea-pro piggybacks software that runs on the device, allowing data to be stored locally or transmitted from the iPod touch by Wi-Fi network. It reads multiple barcodes and all three standard magnetic-stripe tracks used by financial, transit, telecom, and driver’s license agencies. It accepts customer signatures, while purchase receipts can be wirelessly printed or e-mailed.

Accompanying the Linea-pro are software development resources and tools so resellers can program the scanner and reader functions into their own software application, and thereby extend its versatility in POS and additional areas such as inventory management, inspection/workflow, and healthcare. Infinite Peripherals also has partnerships with several development companies that can write custom applications. Linea-pro lists at $499 and carries the manufacturer’s one-year warranty against defects.

“With the Linea-pro, we’re markedly improving business efficiencies through technology,” suggested Jeffrey Scott, VP of Sales at Infinite Peripherals, which also goes by IPC. “We’re bringing the functionality of a cash register to iPod touch, giving retailers a great new way to help customers check out faster than ever before.”

Linea-Pro from Infinite Peripherals

No Waffling on Dirty Printers

KICTeam (Auburn, ME) has deployed its Waffle Technology to produce dedicated cleaning cards for thermal printers from Bixolon (Carson, CA) and Seiko Instruments USA (Torrance, CA). Developed in conjunction with each company, these new cleaning cards quickly and effortlessly remove any leftover adhesive residue or paper dust that can degrade the legibility of the print. Both manufacturers will offer the cleaning cards through their current distribution network.

“These products were designed for easy use in any printer environment,” indicated Debra Ross, Product Manager, OEM Business Development Worldwide, for KICTeam, which was formed by the merger of Clean Team and KIC Products in 2008. “They offer thermal printer users fast and effective cleaning while maintaining the clarity of the printed label. By using these products with the proper maintenance schedule, your devices will print clearer and last longer.”

Waffle Technology utilizes raised and bubbled platforms to reach the print head’s leading edge and provide enough tension to rotate the platen for full-circumference cleaning. KICTeam also offers its Wonder Solvent, an alcohol-free cleaning solution, which does not dry out belts and drive rollers. No products carry the KICTeam name, it should be noted, since the company designs and produces products specifically for its business partners.

Thermal Printer Cleaning Cards from KICTeam

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
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

Thermal Printers
Seiko Instruments USA

Video Surveillance & Access Control
ScanSource Security

INSTALLATIONS

Hotel Group “Prefers” Micros

Preferred Hotel Group (Chicago) has chosen Micros (Columbia, MD) and its Opera Property Management System (PMS) for all of its holdings: Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Preferred Boutique, Summit Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Hotels, and Historic Hotels of America. With 750 distinctive properties in 65 countries, Preferred Hotel Group allows its members to leverage their individuality while still benefitting from the economies of scale achieved by an affiliation with the larger group. Micros Opera will bring an enterprise-wide database, tools for central and property operations, and the capabilities to seamlessly integrate with third parties, according to the two companies.

“Micros is a tremendous addition to Preferred Hotel Group’s Alliance Partners program,” testified Thom Nutty, SVP, Business Relations, Preferred Hotel Group. “We are proud to offer our hotels a powerful property management enterprise solution from a reliable company that has the capacity to offer localized support around the globe. We are confident Micros will provide our members with the tools to excel.”

Micros also released an XML-based interface between RateTiger’s channel management system, RTConnect--one of Europe’s leading online reservation tools--and its Opera PMS system (as well as its myfidelio.net SaaS offering). “This allows hotels to generate additional revenue from online travel portals and to automate the process flow between points of sale and hotel systems,” explained Peter Agel, VP of Distribution and Logistics for Micros-Fidelio. Information from more than 500 travel sites will be maintained directly from the Opera PMS, allowing hotels to manage rates, availability, inventory, and reservations.

One Member: Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter of New Orleans

[Editor’s Note:  Micros also has selected Odyssey Software (West Henrietta, NY) to provide remote device management for its POS workstations. Micros will utilize Odyssey’s Athena client-side agent to detect and resolve device problems. “Athena operates within a small memory footprint, taking few CPU cycles, making it an efficient and ideal addition to the native Micros firmware,” pointed out Paul Schleicher, Director of the Hardware Solutions Group at Micros.]

Extra Large Order for Kitchen Automation

QSR Automations (Louisville, KY) has completed roll out of its kitchen automation solution with CKE Restaurants in all 482 company-operated Hardee’s locations. In addition to recommending QSR technology to its international franchisees and international licensees, CKE has also tested and approved the solution for Carl’s Jr. CKE’s selected solution includes QSR’s ePic Kitchen Display Software (ePic KDS) along with kitchen video controllers, keypads, and bracketing hardware. Hardee’s restaurants were implemented over five months, with QSR providing staging services for each restaurant.

“QSR is proud to have been selected as the preferred kitchen automation solution provider for CKE,” said Andrew Sonntag, COO for QSR Automations. “QSR has been privileged to work with the most recognized quick-service companies. We look forward to partnering with CKE, a company known for premium quality, to help their restaurants exceed guest expectations and streamline costs.”

QSR’s ePic KDS offers fully customizable views, advanced routing of items and orders, and real-time events. For instance, an operator may choose to use one monitor station during non-peak periods for both carry-out and eat-in orders, configuring 6x1 in the top half of the screen for eat-in and 4x1 in the bottom half of the screen for carry-out. Each virtual view supplies specific routing instructions and keypad for touchscreen functions. XML-based, QSR’s ePic KDS platform runs Crystal Reports and integrates with leading POS systems, according to the vendor.

CKE’s Paris Hilton Marketing Campaign, Circa 2005

Channel Factoid

After two years of paying down debt and skipping family vacations, many Americans plan to cautiously start spending their tax returns once again. According to NRF’s 2010 Tax Returns Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, 43.9% of Americans expecting returns will pay down debt, fewer than the 48.0% in 2009. In total, 65.5% of tax payers expect refunds, down from 68.4% last year. According to the survey, 12.5% of people expecting refunds plan to treat themselves or their families to a major purchase such as a new television, furniture, or car, up from 11.0% last year. Others will stash their refund away in savings (40.3%), put it towards everyday expenses (28.8%), or go on vacation (10.0%). “A little bit of ‘free money’ will go a long way for Americans this year,” said Tracy Mullin, CEO/President of NRF. “Retailers planning special promotions over the next few months may find that shoppers are a bit more receptive to opening up their wallets than they have been for the past year.”

HELLO GOODBYE

Hyper About Rossiter

Hypercom Corporation (Scottsdale, AZ) has named William Rossiter as its VP of Marketing. Rossiter will be principally responsible for the deployment of the company’s mobile payment technology, and will report to Philippe Tartavull, CEO/President. His experience includes marketing, sales, and business development for electronic transactions, mobile payments, and consumer electronics, including six years with Oberthur Card Systems. He joins Hypercom from the brand strategy consulting firm Bassett & Partners.

“With this appointment, we ramp up our capabilities and strengthen our competitive positioning in mobile payments,” said Tartavull. “Will is a dynamic and experienced executive with a keen understanding of the mobile and wireless markets and what it takes to win business, build market share, and enlarge our global footprint.”

Hypercom also announced that National Processing Company (Louisville, KY), one of the largest U.S. acquirers exclusively focused on the merchant processing market, has Class-A certified the Optimum M4230 mobile payment terminal. This opens an important sales channel for Hypercom’s device through NPC’s large customer base. The high-performance, PCI-PED-approved M4230 features long-range GPRS with dial back-up, the industry’s top security certification, 32-bit multi-application processing for maximum transaction speed, and 24-MB memory to accommodate value-added applications such as check services.

William Rossiter, VP of Marketing, Hypercom

Musical Chairs at First Data

First Data Corporation (Atlanta) has appointed Joe Forehand, former Chairman and CEO of Accenture, as Chairman and Interim CEO. Forehand succeeds Michael Capellas, who has accepted a new role as senior advisor at KKR focusing on technology, after having served as CEO of First Data for three years. Capellas will continue to support First Data in an advisory capacity.

Henry Kravis, co-founder of KKR and member of First Data’s Board of Directors, released this statement: “I would like to express my deep appreciation to Michael Capellas for his leadership and significant accomplishments at First Data. First Data has shown exceptional resiliency and continues to grow and invest during this economic downturn. I look forward to working with Michael in his new role as KKR senior advisor, and I am confident he will be a strong contributor to our technology team.”

Forehand currently serves on First Data’s Board of Directors, and as senior advisor at KKR. He was Accenture’s CEO from November 1999 through August 2004, and Accenture’s Chairman from 2001 to 2006.

Commented KKR member and First Data Board Director Scott Nuttall: “Joe is a proven leader. He guided Accenture through its IPO and a period of significant growth and success. He has been an important part of KKR’s efforts as a senior advisor and has more recently been directly involved with First Data. As a result, we expect a seamless transition and no change in the strategic direction of the company.”

Joe Forehand, Chairman and Interim CEO, First Data Corporation