This Week’s Product Pick

CipherLab USA (Plano, TX) has stocked its Model 1861 Wireless RFID Reader to address the growing demand for UHF read/write capability across multiple industries. This accessory supplements CipherLab’s own 8400 or 9600 series of mobile computers, as well as other Bluetooth-enabled devices, which snap onto its holder. It features trigger activation as well as toggle switch for moving between RFID tag reading and barcode reading. Weighing about 18 ounces, the 1861 delivers maximum read/write range of 3.3 ft./1.6 ft. with tricolor LEDS, vibrator, and beeper as indicators. It comes with Windows-based ScanMaster software for fast and easy configuration via USB interface. “Our 1861 meets the latest requirements to adapt RFID technology in warehousing operations, as well as logistics, manufacturing, and retail industries,” noted Luis Wu, GM of CipherLab USA.

Model 1861 RFID Reader by CipherLab

COMPANY BUSINESS

Wyse Guys at Dell

Dell (Round Rock, TX) has signed an agreement to purchase Wyse Technology (San Jose, CA), thereby protecting its flank from declining PC sales while simultaneously opening new fronts in advanced device management, desktop virtualization, and cloud computing. With more than 3,000 resellers worldwide, Wyse ranked first in thin-client unit shipment volume in Q4 2011, according to figures from the two companies. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“Desktop virtualization can help organizations streamline IT management, improve productivity and security, and increase cost efficiency for discrete workloads or usage scenarios,” stated Jeff Clarke, President of End User Computing Solutions with Dell. “The Wyse Technology desktop virtualization capability complements Dell’s strongest-ever device and computing solutions portfolio, and strengthens our position in offering customers the broadest set of computing choices from the edge to the core to the cloud.”

Dell clearly knows the way to San Jose. Last month, it acquired SonicWALL, also based in that city. SonicWALL, as many RRN.Com readers know, represents one of the leaders in advanced network security and data protection and owns 130 patents, registered and pending, with 300,000 existing customers and several popular firewall products. Through the move, Dell fortifies its security portfolio, which already includes Dell SecureWorks and Dell KACE, providers of data encryption, vulnerability assessment, and patch management. It plans to merge SonicWALL’s strong channel program--with 15,000 resellers--into its own PartnerDirect efforts.

Jeff Clarke, President, End User Computing Solutions, Dell

Recruited to the “Nth” Degree

A new cloud-based information platform for retailers and distributors, dubbed nChannel, has enlisted nine prominent Microsoft Dynamics RMS partners into its Value Added Reseller Program. This roster includes POSitive Technology of Maryland, Revolution POS of Pennsylvania, Retail Technology Experts of Florida, Falcon’s Nest Business Solutions of Georgia, IUG Business Solutions of New York, Point of Sale Advantage of Georgia, JourneyTeam RDA of Pennsylvania, Texo of Montreal, and Retail Point of South Africa. In addition to selling its solution directly through its website, nChannel (Columbus, OH) markets through VARs, System Integrators, and Independent Software Vendors (ISVs), touting the “high margin revenue stream” resulting from its Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).

With nChannel, subscribers have the capacity to link their existing financial, inventory management, and POS systems across multiple outlets including storefronts, websites, and marketplaces, according to its developer. In addition to Microsoft Dynamics RMS, nChannel embraces Microsoft Dynamics GP, QuickBooks, QuickBooks POS, Mercury Payment Systems, Magento, and ASPDotNetStorefront, with more third parties to be added in 2012. Steve Weber, former VP of eMarketplace Outsourcing Services for Sterling Commerce, now part of IBM, serves as CEO/President of nChannel.

Testified Mike Nicholson, COO of POSitive Technology, “nChannel is one of the most exciting multi-channel offerings we’ve seen in years--a simple, easy-to-use, easy-to-sell-and-support, holistic subscription service with a great team behind it. nChannel, when combined with our OpSuite, gives our retailers a complete cloud-based management framework that can incorporate all sales channels. We have numerous OpSuite/nChannel projects underway and we look forward to being part of nChannel’s future success and helping our customers take advantage of the benefits that cloud computing offers.”

Cloud-Based Information Management Platform Draws POS Resellers

Worth Your While

NRA Show 2012
National Restaurant Association
May 5-8
Chicago

WERC 2012
Warehousing Education and Research Council
May 6-9
Atlanta

Solutions Partner Invitational
Ingram Micro Data Capture/POS
May 15-17
San Diego

NACStech
National Association of Convenience Stores
May 21-23
Nashville, TN

VARTECH Canada
BlueStar
June 4-5
Toronto

HITEC 2012
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)
June 25-28
Baltimore

RetailNOW 2012
Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA)
July 29-August 1
Las Vegas

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Bematech Soups Up LC8800

Bematech (New Hyde Park, NY) has introduced the newest member of its LC Series of Industrial Computers, the LC8800 with Intel’s Atom CPU D525 at 1.8 GHz. With its enhanced processing power, the LC8800 can run multiple software programs at advanced speeds, thereby meeting the needs of today’s POS, self-service, and digital signage, according to the vendor. End-users also will benefit from an innovative hatch that facilitates maintenance of the hard drive without exposing the motherboard.

Bematech’s LC Series of Industrial Computers all feature fanless, noiseless operation and rugged die cast casing with no vents to prevent damage from moisture and dust. Sleek design and compact form factor of 8 in. (L) x 6.3 in. (W) x 2 in. (D) accommodate environments where space is limited. A full package of modern and legacy I/O ports are included, with four Serial, six USB, VGA, DVI-I, Ethernet, and PS/2. Microphone and speaker ports are available as well. Mass storage is provided through Compact Flash as well as PATA/SATA hard drive.

“Bematech strives to provide business owners with the tools needed to operate their business at maximum efficiency,” stated Wladimir Alvarez, President of the International Division of Bematech. “Our dual core processing unit is proof of our commitment to providing the retail and hospitality industries with technology designed to address their ever-changing needs. Our new Industrial Computer operates with high quality, speed, and reliability, all while reducing costs.”

Dual Core LC8800 Industrial Computer by Bematech

A Sleeker Omnii from Psion

Psion (Hebron, KY) has unveiled its new Omnii RT15 rugged handheld device for field service, delivery, and transportation environments. Measuring approximately 9 in. (L) x 4 in. (W) x 2 in. (D) and weighing 1.3 lbs., Omnii RT15 employs the company’s modular design philosophy that allows end-users to choose among state-of-the-art scanner, keyboard, and wireless communication formulations. Equipped with Psion’s “Vu” software and 3-7-inch transreflective color touchscreen, the device features an ergonomic, balanced construction for ease of use, extended battery life of 20 hours, an IP-65 environmental rating, and drop resistance of 6 feet/1.8 meters.

Built with the new Texas Instruments’ AM3715 Sitara ARM CPU and Psion’s custom ASIC architecture, Omnii RT15 delivers superior performance and efficiency, emphasized the manufacturer. Productivity is further boosted through Windows CE 6.0 or Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5. Finally, the new device falls under Psion’s Omnii Advantage program, allowing customers to upgrade one of the main modules after one full year of ownership, further extending its value proposition.

“The Omnii RT15 is an important addition to our portfolio of handheld devices, and clearly shows how Psion’s modular Omnii platform enables us to bring new models to market quickly in response to customer input,” relayed Ron Caines, President of Worldwide Sales and Service for Psion. “The combination of the Omnii modular platform, working together with Microsoft and the adaptable nature of the devices, enables us to deliver exceptional value in terms of lower total cost of ownership.” Omnii RT15 is now available to order in all major U.S. and European territories, with manufacturer’s list price starting at $1,899.

Psion Omnii RT15 Rugged Handheld

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PARTNER PROGRAMS

Cherry Sweet on BlueStar

BlueStar (Hebron, KY) has been chosen as Cherry Corporation’s Value Added Distributor of the Year for 2011. This marks the second consecutive designation for BlueStar from this vendor, which said it tallies votes from its North American sales team in making its decision. Part of ZF Electronics, Cherry supplies BlueStar with keyboards for vertical segments such as POS, healthcare, and mobility.

“Cherry is pleased to present this award for Value Added Distributor of the Year 2011 to BlueStar for their outstanding effort as one of our key distributors,” remarked Mike McElhone, Manager of Distribution Sales and Marketing at Cherry/ZF Electronics (Pleasant Prairie, WI). “BlueStar continues to play an important role in our marketing efforts on keyboards and mice. We value the relationship we have with these fine people.” Added Mark Fraker, VP of Marketing for BlueStar, “Our partnership with Cherry has provided many opportunities for both of our organizations over the years, and we are excited for the future growth we foresee.”

Earlier this year, Cherry debuted its EZClean 4100 keyboard with silicone cover for easy cleaning and key protection. Targeted at medical providers, this new subsystem utilizes the company’s G84-4100 QWERTY keyboard with mechanical key switch technology, “ultra-slim” form factor of 11.1 in. (L) x 5.2 in. (W) x 1 in. (D), and PS/2 and USB 2.0 ports. In addition to benefits in reducing the spread of germs and growth of bacteria, the EZClean 4100 provides an enhanced tactile feel for end-users. It comes with two-year warranty, with one-year for the removable silicone cover assembly.

Cherry EZClean 4100 Keyboard With Silicone Cover

[Editor’s Note:  BlueStar has commissioned “Imagination” of Carnival Cruises in the Bahamas for its VARTECH US/Latin American Show, one of the POS & Auto ID channel’s most popular annual gatherings. Ship sets sail on October 5 and returns on October 8, with vertical market seminars, CodeZone, and workshops from industry experts. Registration will begin soon at www.vartechamericas.com.]

Looking Sharp at TouchSystems

TouchSystems (Hutto, TX) has added large-format displays from Sharp Electronics to its list of product offerings. Featuring sizes of 42 inches and 47 inches, these displays have been equipped with dispersive signal technology (DST) by TouchSystems for use in high-traffic environments. DST is an optimal touch technology for public spaces because of its durability and reliability, according to Carol Nordin, President of TouchSystems.

Additional features enhance 24/7 operation, such as the scheduler, an internal temperature sensor, and “power on delay” function. Other elements of note are the displays’ fanless architecture, which cuts down on noise and dust, the slim bezel, and the built-in speakers. “The Sharp displays won’t replace any of our product lines, but they do complement them with their different size offerings,” Nordin said.

TouchSystems also has announced its 22-inch, open-frame display for its InnovaTouch family, which uses projected capacitive (PCAP) touch technology similar to consumer smartphones and tablets. These displays are bezel-free, with benefits in both appearance and cleaning, in keeping with PCAP. “This new display’s design, customizability, and size make it attractive to a variety of markets, including gaming, retail, and hospitality,” Nordin noted. Products can be bought directly from TouchSystems or through its distributors, Synnex and Ingram Micro.

Large-Format Displays Added to Product Line

Code Corner

Harbortouch (Allentown, PA) has released three new versions of its POS software, entitled Retail, Spirits, and C-Store. Harbortouch Retail has been designed for retail environments of any size and includes color/style/size matrices for pieces of apparel. This function helps to streamline order selection, according to the company. Additional attributes include gift registry, layaway, consignment, and rental. Harbortouch Spirits adds features to meet the unique needs of wine, beer, and liquor sales. A key function of this version of the POS software is age verification that prompts cashiers and displays approval for restricted products. This system can also differentiate between single drinks and multi-packs when checking out customers. Lastly, Harbortouch C-Store meets the needs of the high-volume transaction environment found in its target market. All three packages include advanced reporting, time and attendance, inventory tracking, dynamic pricing capability, and integrated customer database, according to Harbortouch, which provides its POS terminals at no cost as part of its payment processing and service contract. “While our free POS program has been a tremendous success in the restaurant and hospitality arena, we were always committed to developing a solution that fits the needs of retailers, liquor merchants, and convenience stores,” reported Jared Isaacman, CEO of Harbortouch. “We include customizations in each of these three packages that perfectly suit their unique business.”

ALLIANCES

Beyond Rugged, to Extreme, for Getac

Getac, Inc. (Irvine, CA) will partner with the ProCustom Group to provide its end-users and resellers with the resources to customize its rugged mobile computers. Such service includes special ports and connections, circuit fabrication, internal modifications, protective caps and covers, vehicle and aircraft mounts, and testing and certification. ProCustom Group, based in Finksburg, MD, functions under the umbrella of Mid Atlantic Computer Services, which plans to open an office in Southern California in order to meet the needs of Getac.

“We are very eager to provide Getac and their customers with customization options for their rugged systems that maximize performance in the extreme environments in which they are typically used,” indicated Don McCook, VP of Business Development at ProCustom Group. “Dedicated I/O connectors, embedded modules, configured mounts and docks, and the host of cables, squids, and dongles are only some of the features we have been providing to Getac customers over the years. We seek to provide the best customization products with world-class customer service and support.”

“Partnering with the ProCustom Group brings new opportunities for our customers who need rapid prototyping and customization for unique applications,” explained Jim Rimay, President of Getac. Earlier this year, in January, Getac renewed its commitment to resellers by bringing onboard Scott Shainman as Director of Channels for North America. Shainman brings extensive experience in partner relations for vendors such as General Dynamics Itronix, Avnet, and Intermec.

Engineering Firm to Customize Getac’s Computers

USAePAY on the Way

USAePAY (Los Angeles) has approved two more POS workstation suppliers for its payment processing platform: DigiCom International and HioPOS. Headquartered in Farmingdale, NY, with manufacturing in Taiwan, DigiCom supplies its POS D810 All-in-One with triangular aluminum structure, 15-inch touchscreen, Intel Atom Dual Core CPU D525 at 1.8 GHz, and fanless operation, among its other products. Peripherals for the D810 include three-inch thermal printer, magnetic-stripe reader (MSR), customer-facing display, and expansion slot.

“We are thrilled to announce that USAePAY has completed integration with our Sunkeen Restaurant Management Software,” commented Jammy Chen, CEO of DigiCom International. “USAePAY provides complete payment solutions for merchants, with multiple choices, security, and high speed. We are proud to work with USAePAY to serve merchants everywhere.”

ICG Software Group, based in Spain, produces and markets the HioPOS All-In-One, which carries 15-inch touchscreen, Intel Atom Dual Core CPU D525 at 1.8 GHz, proprietary POS software, and Wi-Fi communications capability. Distributed internationally in over 30 countries, HioPOS has sales offices in New York and San Francisco. “HioPOS has an international presence that takes advantage of USAePAY’s ability to process for retail, lodging, and restaurant industries,” noted Vlad Galyuz, VP of Integration at USAePAY, which supports all major credit card and check payment players and meets Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance.

Payment Processor to Support HioPOS Terminal

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Auto ID Distribution
BlueStar
Wasp Barcode Technologies

POS & Peripherals
FEC/Acrelec
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
WorldPay US

Keyboards
Cherry, ZF Electronics Corp.

Mobile Marketing & Loyalty
Sundrop Mobile

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Repair & Refurbishment
AMCOR Tech Solutions

Touchscreens & Monitors
TE/Elo TouchSystems

INSTALLATIONS

Triad Doubles Down on QR Codes

Triad Retail Media (Tampa), one of the leading players in digital marketing, will outfit its customers with QR codes from Scanbuy, Inc. (New York). “This partnership enables us to provide our clients with a proven mobile barcode platform to deliver a more dynamic and intelligent shopping experience that will capture attention and increase brand loyalty,” declared Triad Retail Media CEO Greg Murtagh. Founded in 2004, Triad Retail has developed custom digital marketing programs for many leading retailers and brands--Walmart, eBay, CVS, Sam’s Club, and Dell, for example--which leverage surging smartphone use on the part of shoppers.

“Some of the most active mobile barcode campaigns in 2011 were generated by companies within the consumer packaged goods and retail industries, which makes this the perfect partnership not only for Triad Retail Media, but Scanbuy as well,” observed Mike Wehrs, CEO/President of Scanbuy, “We’re thrilled Triad has chosen to use our ScanLife platform to strengthen their clients’ mobile consumer engagement and ultimately drive bottom-line revenues.” In addition to its universal barcode reader app, now widely deployed, Scanbuy offers developer tools for building customized solutions.

As another goal, Triad Retail Media’s campaigns seek to provide detailed insights into consumer behavior by tracking scanning activity, location, and other valuable business information. A “scan and send” function enables brands to engage the millions of consumers with non-app enabled mobile phones. In such cases, access to content is achieved by snapping the picture of the barcode and passing it to Scanbuy’s ScanLife mobile barcode platform via multimedia messaging service (MMS) or e-mail. Motorola Solutions has invested in Scanbuy, Inc., in recognition of the consumer appeal of QR codes.

Scanbuy’s Mobile Barcode Platform Brought to Digital Marketing Firm

RedPrairie Spread Across Hellmann

RedPrairie Corporation (Alpharetta, GA) has furnished its Warehouse Management System and Parcel Management System for Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. Hosted by RedPrairie, this integrated platform was made operational at Hellmann’s distribution center in Miami within 12 weeks, improving both inventory control and shipment capabilities, according to the two parties. Where justified, Hellmann plans to implement the new solution across its extensive U.S. distribution network. To date, the third-party logistics provider (headquartered in Germany, with no ties to mayonnaise) maintains cooperative agreements with dozens of airlines and maritime companies, as well as running its own fleet of 5,000 trucks.

“RedPrairie’s industry experience combined with its flexible and robust solution suite made it the best choice for Hellmann,” remarked Harold Barboza, VP of Contract and Logistics for Hellmann USA. “By taking advantage of RedPrairie’s pay-as-you-grow model, we were able to deliver immediate value to our customers with minimal upfront costs. Adding RedPrairie’s supply chain execution solutions to our toolbox of enabling technologies will help to ensure that we meet our U.S. growth objectives while providing the most efficient, cost-effective distribution environment for our customers.”

“We welcome the opportunity to provide Hellmann with our proven Warehouse and Parcel Management solutions to help fuel its U.S. expansion plans,” chipped in Jagan Reddy, GM of Discrete Manufacturing at RedPrairie. “It’s an exciting time for Hellmann. RedPrairie has the experience and capabilities to help ensure that Hellmann meets its growth objectives and continues to provide the world-class level of service its customers have come to expect.”

Distribution Center for Hellmann Worldwide Logistics

Channel Factoid

Worldwide media tablet sales to end-users are forecast to total 118.9 million units in 2012, surging 98% from 2011 sales of 60 million units, according to Gartner. Apple’s iOS continues to be the dominant platform, projected to account for 61.4% of purchases by end-users this year. Despite the arrival of Microsoft-based devices in this market, and the expected international roll out of the Kindle Fire, Apple will continue as the market leader throughout the study’s timeframe. Android tablets are forecast for 31.9% of media tablet sales for 2012, held back in part by the lack of dedicated apps. Microsoft platforms, fueled by Windows 8, are projected to account for 4.1% of the market this year, which should grow to 11.8% by the end of 2016. Here’s the breakdown for each category for 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2016, in thousands and rounded off:  Apple iOS, 40, 73, 100, 170; Android, 17, 38, 62, 138; Microsoft, 0, 5, 15, 44; Other, 3, 3, 7, 18. This totals to 60, 119, 182, and 369. Interestingly, enterprise sales of media tablets will represent 35% of purchases in 2016, although many of these tablets will be owned by consumers who use them at work. “This poses an enormous threat to vendors focusing on the enterprise market who will now have to become appealing to consumers as well,” cautioned Carolina Milanesi, VP of Research at Gartner. “This is exactly the same trend that vendors such as RIM had to face in the smartphone market. The difference here is that tablets have been created for consumers first and then depended on an ecosystem of apps and services to make them more manageable in the enterprise. When the deployment will come from the IT department, we believe that operating systems such as Windows 8 will have an advantage as long as they are not seen as compromising usability.”

HELLO GOODBYE

Miller Fitted into Socket

Socket Mobile (Newark, CA) has elevated Tim Miller to COO, with day-to-day responsibility for the company’s worldwide sales and marketing, engineering, and operations. Miller joined Socket Mobile in 2003, and has served as VP of Engineering and VP of Worldwide Operations. He brings more than 30 years of electronic products manufacturing experience to his new position, including seven years in executive management with Com21, developer of cable modem technology.

“Tim has been instrumental in completing Socket’s key development programs and guiding the company through the economic downturn. Now that we have completed the product cycles for both our Apple-centric 7Xi and 7Ci cordless scanners, and are nearing completion of our newest handheld computer, the SoMo 655, the time is right to make these organizational changes,” stated Kevin Mills, CEO/President. “Consolidating and building a strong management team under Tim’s leadership will improve our ability to address the challenges associated with growth as we work to achieve market acceptance of our new products. In addition, Tim’s promotion will enable me to spend more time with key customers, developers, and shareholders, and increase the overall value of Socket.”

This month, Socket Mobile celebrates its 20th anniversary in business. As milestones, it points to introduction of the world’s first PCMCIA network card, co-invention of the Compact Flash I/O standard, and involvement in defining the Bluetooth and Secure Digital I/O standards. “It’s been a tumultuous ride, and as the market had its ups and downs, so did we,” shared Mike Gifford, Co-Founder and EVP. “I believe the key to our longevity has been our ability to accommodate and adapt to these changes. As a result, we are more focused on our current products than we’ve ever been.”

Tim Miller, COO, Socket Mobile

Futura’s Future in Campbell’s Hands

The Futura Loyalty Group (Toronto), which addresses customer relationship management, has named David W. Campbell as CEO/President. A member of the Board of Directors since 2008, Campbell became CFO in 2010. He replaces Mark Farrell, who guided the company for the last ten years, and now wants to return to his native city of Ottawa to pursue other opportunities. Farrell now will serve on the Board of Directors for Futura, which also announced the signing of its 130th auto dealer agreement in Canada, solidifying its prominence in that market.

“The decision to leave Toronto at such an exciting time in the company’s history was an extremely difficult one to make,” Farrell mused. “I believe the company is well positioned to continue its growth in Canada and to market its products, services, and loyalty solutions into the U.S. I’m confident that David and the current team can take Futura to the next level of success. At the same time, I’m happy to continue to be part of Futura’s growth and prosperity and will continue to assist in any way I can.”

“Through his vision, Mark has been able to steer the business onto its current focused path, and it has been a real pleasure working with him on a day-to-day business,” Campbell acknowledged. “The company continues to grow its retail loyalty book of customers in various sectors and looks forward to achieving profitability through a focus on its core loyalty services and ancillary marketing services.” During the course of his career, not coincidentally, Campbell has been deeply involved in raising early stage venture capital.

David Campbell, CEO/President, The Futura Loyalty Group