This Week’s Product Pick

SAM4s has introduced its SPT-4700 POS terminal with fanless design. Building upon the previous SPT-4500, the SPT-4700 features an Intel Atom Dual Core D2550 CPU at 1.8 GHz, 2 GB RAM upgradeable to 4 GB, and 15-inch, five-wire resistive touchscreen from Elo. A full suite of ports have been incorporated, along with consolidated cable management and tool-free access to RAM and Hard Disk Drive (HDD). Options include customer-facing displays (2x20 VFD or 7- and 15-inch LCD), encrypted credit card reader, biometric fingerprint reader, and wall-mount bracket. CRS Inc. (St. Paul, MN) and Ready Distribution (Beaverton, OR) handle SAM4s in the U.S., including the new SPT-4700.

SAM4s Fanless SPT-4700

COMPANY BUSINESS

MC9200 Muscles Up

Motorola Solutions (Schaumburg, IL) has brought technical upgrades to its wildly popular MC9000 industrial mobile computer series with the release of the MC9200. Advances concentrate on three areas: Texas Instruments Dual Core OMAP 4430 CPU at 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM and 2 GB Flash, and 802.11n wireless. As a result, the MC9200 runs faster, handles thicker applications, and extends its range, RRN.Com was told by Amanda Honig, Product and Solutions Marketing Manager, Enterprise Mobile Computing, for Motorola Solutions.

"We kept the same classic design because it's what our customers want," indicated Honig. "End-users won't need to be retrained and the ecosystem of accessories has been preserved." All key elements of the MC9000/9100 are present, including rugged construction, 3.7-inch high-resolution VGA touchscreen display, six interchangeable keypads, and diverse selection of one and two-dimensional scanning engines. For O/S, MC9200 runs Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 and Windows CE 7.0 (now designated as Windows Embedded Compact Version 7.0 by Microsoft). More power efficient, MC9200 also extends battery life.

"In terms of cost, MC9200 will maintain parity, with slight premium for the latest technology components," Honig told RRN.Com. She cited significant benefits for the channel from this new device. "For VARs, we've protected the investment they've made in the MC9000. Applications can easily port over from the 9000 or 9100 to the 9200, which in turn offers higher memory and faster processing speed for developers. Also, VARs continue the relationship they have with their customers, and may offer an upgrade path with the same signature device, as well as attract new customers who see the extra capabilities." Motorola has shipped more than two million of the MC9000 over the past ten years.

Motorola Solutions' Upgraded MC9200

Double Vision at ScanSource

ScanSource (Greenville, SC) has announced its new worldwide management structure for all of its business units. Two segments have been established, each with its own chief executive, shifting the primary focus from geographical to technological responsibility, RRN.Com was told. The two segments are Worldwide Barcode and Security, which includes ScanSource POS & Barcode and ScanSource Security, and Worldwide Communications and Services, which encompasses ScanSource Catalyst, ScanSource Communications, and ScanSource Services Group.

Glen "Buck" Baker has been appointed to the new position of President, Worldwide Barcode and Security. Baker most recently served as Interim President of ScanSource Europe, including its POS & Barcode and Communications business units. Baker joined ScanSource in 1995 and filled such roles as President of ScanSource Communications, North America, as well as VP of Merchandising for both Catalyst Telecom and ScanSource POS & Barcode, North America. Mike Ferney, former VP of Merchandising for ScanSource Catalyst, has been appointed to the new position of President, Worldwide Communications and Services.

North American resellers of POS and Auto ID will see no change in processes or programs in the short-term, Baker told RRN.Com. Both Paul Constantine, President of POS & Barcode for North America, and Tony Sorrentino, President of Security for North America, will report to Baker. Going forward, ScanSource Worldwide Barcode and Security expects to share best practices, create synergies, and identify new growth opportunities, according to Baker.

Glen "Buck" Baker, President, Worldwide Barcode and Security, ScanSource

Worth Your While

RetailNow 2013
Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA)
August 4-7
Las Vegas

VARTECH US/LATAM 2013
BlueStar
September 9-11
San Antonio, TX

Pack Expo 2013
Packaging Manufacturers Machinery Institute
September 23-25
Las Vegas

Customer Engagement Technology World
JD Events
November 6-7
New York City

IAAPA Expo 2013
International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions
November 19-22
Orlando

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Elo's Bigger Picture

Elo Touch Solutions (Menlo Park, CA) has expanded its family of Interactive Digital Signage (IDS) with the launch of Model 3201L 32-inch and Model 4201L 42-inch platforms. These built-for-touch professional displays combine energy-efficient LED HD screens with optional Intel Core i3 or i5 computer modules running Microsoft Windows. The rugged design of the 3201L, 4201L, and existing 70-inch 7001L offer VARs scalable, high-performance solutions that are easy to deploy and maintain in heavy-use public environments such as airports, railway stations, office buildings, healthcare facilities, and retail stores, according to the vendor.

New 3201L and 4201L models may be ordered with Elo's IntelliTouch surface acoustic wave or optical touch technologies that enable up to six simultaneous touches for multi-user participation. Both displays offer strengthened clear glass for maximum brightness and durability as well as side silhouette of less than four inches. Additional benefits include three-year standard warranty with optional two-year extension, NFC/RFID scanners and webcam kits, and flexible mounting in portrait, landscape, and table-top orientations.

Simultaneously, Elo has unveiled its EloView remote management and monitoring tool for its IDS. Via web browser, tablet, or smartphone, system administrators may check system performance, ensure consistent configuration of brightness, sound, and color, and dispatch service technicians when needed. Moreover, customers may capture content running on the digital signage for advertising proof of performance. Three versions have been offered: EloView Server hosted in the cloud, EloView Device Clients for Elo hardware, and EloView Mobile Apps for Apple iOS and Google Android.

Elo IDS Now Comes in 32, 42, and 70 Inch Versions

Magellan 9800i Leaves Port

Datalogic ADC (Eugene, OR) has shipped its Magellan 9800i scanner-scale, first previewed at the National Retail Federation Show in January. Targeted for high-volume retail, Magellan 9800i provides advanced digital imaging in all reading planes, resulting in seamless handling of one and two-dimensional barcodes without requiring item orientation by the cashier. In addition to spotting cumbersome barcodes, its "Top Down Reader" allows shoppers to easily self-scan digital coupons from mobile devices, paper-based coupons, and loyalty cards.

Design of Magellan 9800i offers advancements as well, with the lower tower height of 2.7 inches reducing the barrier between the customer and cashier. Also, its large horizontal window has been ergonomically positioned for both standing and seated cashiers. Finally, an oversized "All Weighs" scale platter handles large produce, while "Scale Sentry" technology defines the weighing area, alerting the cashier and blocking the POS in the case of misplaced objects.

"The landscape of today's customer experience within the retail store is undergoing dramatic change," related Matt Schler, GM and VP for Fixed Retail at Datalogic ADC. "This product demonstrates our continued commitment to develop innovative technology and to use it to help retailers and system integrators improve their store automation solutions." Along those lines, an accessible service port allows the product to stay in the counter for maintenance and software upgrades.

All Digital Imaging Scanner-Scale by Datalogic

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 June 10

Week of June 3

Week of May 27

Channel Correction

In last week's edition of RRN.Com, and our coverage of HP's ElitePad Mobile POS Solution, we neglected to cite Synnex (Fremont, CA) as one of the participating distributors for this new product. BlueStar (Hebron, KY) and Ingram Micro Data Capture/POS (Carlsbad, CA) also will handle the ElitePad Mobile POS Solution, as we indicated.

PARTNER PROGRAMS

#CashRegisterRIP, Writes PayPal

PayPal has revealed more details of its "Cash for Registers" program. As delineated by Carolyn Groobey, VP of Global Products, writing in her blog, this promotion will run from July 10 through September 30. It waives processing fees for up to $20,000 worth of transactions conducted by PayPal each month through January 31, 2014 (including credit, debit, and PayPal charges). To qualify, business owners must submit proof of purchase for at least $450 worth of eligible replacement hardware and commit to one of three sources--PayPal Here, or either participating purveyor of iPad-based POS, ShopKeep POS (New York) or Vend (San Francisco).

"There are two easy ways for small business owners to start using PayPal in their shops depending on their business needs," chronicled Groobey. "For a simple point-of-sale payment solution that can replace their old cash register, they can just download PayPal Here, set up the hardware with their iPad, and they're ready to start taking payments easily. If their business needs more advanced functionality with accounting, inventory management, and customer relationship management, they can select a point-of-sale solution from one of our partners, ShopKeep POS or Vend, then link their PayPal account and set up the hardware recommended by our partners."

"This program is the latest example of PayPal's commitment to small business and our mission to empower business owners with simple, secure, and powerful technology products that get the job done and help them sell more," continued Groobey. "Moving forward, we plan to extend this program through our other partners, including acquirers and POS vendors, to provide these valuable services to even more business owners throughout the U.S." Only the first 10,000 qualified merchants will be accepted into the program, it should be noted.

Vend iPad-Based POS System

Shape Shifting at Intermec

Intermec (Everett, WA) has debuted two new scanners incorporating its high-performance EA30/31 area imager (or EV14+ linear imager), with the devices designated as SF61B and SR31T. Bearing compact "flashlight" form factor and weight of six ounces, SF61B targets the mobile worker in distribution, transportation, logistics, and healthcare. Gun-shaped and tethered, its companion SR31T fits general purpose, retail, and light industrial environments. "Introduction of the SF61B and SR31T demonstrates our continued commitment to delivering best-in-class products to support the varying needs of our diverse customer base," proclaimed David Downey, GM of Data Capture Operations for Intermec, which awaits finalization of its purchase by Honeywell Scanning & Mobility.

Significantly, the SF61B features magnetic attach/release that allows the device to be quickly accessed or stowed away as needed, according to the vendor. In particular, SF61B supports Android, iOS, and Windows Mobile tablets and smartphones already deployed in field service, customer service, or mobile point-of-sale applications. Additional characteristics include Bluetooth Class 1 wireless radio with range of 100 m/325 ft., full eight-hour shift battery capacity, and ruggedness via IP-65 ratings for water and dust and withstanding of repeated drops to concrete of 2 m/6.5 ft.

Described as "mid-range class," and weighing about seven ounces, the SR31T with EA30/31 can read common one-dimensional, two-dimensional, PDF, and postal symbologies, whether printed or onscreen, at rates of up to 200 scans per second. Distinctive design elements add to its versatility, according to Intermec, including an over-sized LED light pipe on the scanner head to provide bright 360-degree feedback in any lighting condition. Similar to the SF61B, the SR31T may come with disinfectant-ready casing for healthcare.

SF61B Area Imager From Intermec

Code Corner

Skycore LLC (Allston, MA) has added easy mobile wallet detection to its multimedia content and messaging platform. When the QR code is scanned, under this system, the company's Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) can selectively issue pass files to wallet apps as well as display web content to standard barcode scanning apps. Thus, participating partners may offer one QR code to consumers rather than one for instant pass issuance and yet another for web content. (When the QR code is scanned by most barcode scanning apps, the embedded URL typically launches web content; an additional embedded URL must point to the specific pass wallet.) Skycore's announcement follows expectations that Apple's iOS 7 will enable QR scanning within its Passbook App as well as the release of similar functionality within PassWallet's Android App, currently in beta testing. Skycore's mobile marketing platform accommodates QR codes, SMS/MMS, and mobile-optimized e-mail and web pages. Skycore also operates codeREADr, an automatic identification and data capture solution based in the cloud.

Skycore Pass Coupon

NOTES FROM THE FIELD

Back to the Future for Source

Earlier this month, Datamax-O'Neil (Orlando) disclosed its purchase of the thermal printer product lines of Source Technologies (Charlotte, NC), attracted in part by use of the PCL5e global printer language. Now the new owner of Source's MICR laser technology has stepped forward, in the form of investment firm StoneCalibre (Century City, CA). Source has been one of the leaders in the supply of MICR laser printers, consumables, maintenance, and software, primarily to the banking industry, as many RRN.Com readers know.

"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work in partnership with the strong and loyal employee base of the company, who are committed to being the go-to provider for MICR solutions and secured print in the market," relayed Brian Wall, Founder and CEO of StoneCalibre, "and we are committed to putting in the effort necessary to help Source Technologies achieve new heights." Previously, Source Technologies was owned by Liberty Partners. Terms of the recent transaction were not revealed.

Keith Hamilton, former VP of Sales for Source Technologies, will now serve as CEO. "We are excited to leverage StoneCalibre's expertise as we pursue opportunities in security around print," declared Hamilton. "This is an area of growing concern beyond our traditional financial markets and we look forward to expanding our secure print solutions to adjacent markets such as healthcare and staffing."

Source to Focus on MICR, Including ST9700 Series

A New Provision for Inventory

New West Technologies (Portland, OR), one of the leading players in Microsoft Dynamics RMS, has launched Point Inventory Count, an innovative mobile inventory application. This system leverages an end-user's smartphones and tablets for data collection, with secure cloud-based hosting of results by New West, in order to simplify the inventory process for end-users. Both Android and iOS are supported, with data collection accomplished through the device's camera or Bluetooth Cordless Handheld Scanner from Socket Mobile (Newark, CA).

"Inventory counting is painful, time-consuming, and expensive for many companies," Dan King, CEO/President of New West, explained to RRN.Com. "With Point Inventory Count, an end-user may provision their whole team of people in minutes. Just download the App and scan the QR code." As an important benefit, King notes that the so-called "Control Point" allows management to audit the inventory process in real-time, so mistakes may be corrected immediately (such as entering the UPC code into the "Quantity" field).

New West supplies data connectors between Point Inventory Count and Microsoft RMS, in addition to QuickBooks. End-users may download the App for free from the Google Play Store, then enter into monthly subscription for the web component. New West has an extensive channel which is expected to resell Point Inventory Count, being comprised of both referral partners and fully certified resellers sharing in both the sale and recurring revenue. "Inventory is not generally an exciting topic, but people are enthusiastic over this solution," reported King. "We're seeing interest from merchants with one to thirty stores, and from areas outside of retail, too, such as public utilities."

Control Point Dashboard by New West Technologies

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Auto ID Distribution
Synnex
Wasp Barcode Technologies

POS & Peripherals
AZT POS
Partner Tech
Pioneer POS
POS BANK USA
Posiflex
POS-X
Touch Dynamic

POS Systems - Hospitality
PAR

POS Systems - Apple Based
LightSpeed Retail

Barcode & Transaction Printers
Brother Mobile
Sato America
Zebra Technologies

Cash Drawers
MMF POS

Data Collection Terminals
CipherLab
Datalogic ADC

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems
Merchant Warehouse
Mercury

Keyboards
PrehKeyTec USA

Keyboards & Mobile POS
Cherry, ZF Electronics Corp

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Scanners
Code Corporation
Honeywell

Thermal Printers
Seiko Instruments USA

Touchscreens & Monitors
Elo TouchSystems

INSTALLATIONS

Dunkin' Runs on NCR

Dunkin' Donuts has deployed NCR's Vitalcast digital signage at stores throughout the U.S. Approximately 400 sites have been completed, with more than 2,000 planning to transition from static menu boards by year's end. In addition to showcasing food and beverages with high resolution product shots and video, Vitalcast will make it easier to update information in real time, feature new and seasonal products, and disseminate nutritional information, according to the two parties. Resources of Texas Digital, which NCR bought in 2011, spearheaded the project.

"We are delighted to partner with NCR," remarked Scott Hudler, VP of Consumer Engagement for Dunkin' Donuts (Canton, MA). "With the ability to cost effectively dispense information, our new NCR Vitalcast digital signage solution will provide Dunkin' Donuts franchise owners with any number of valuable tools to enhance the guest experience." Not surprisingly, Dunkin' Donuts will follow the visual style of its national advertising in its new digital signage.

As an example of depth, Vitalcast enables promotion of specific menu items during different day parts, localization of content, and identification of regional menu item variances, all of which may be integrated with the POS. In addition to providing the Vitalcast software, NCR will support the installation with content management services. "Dunkin' Donuts operates one of the most respected and recognized brands in the world and they are taking an innovative approach to enhance the in-store customer experience," commented Kim Eaton, SVP and GM of NCR Hospitality (Duluth, GA).

NCR's Vitalcast Digital Menu Boards

QSR Goes Veggie

Veggie Grill, the fast casual vegetarian restaurant chain out of Southern California, with 18 locations and counting, has chosen kitchen display technology from QSR Automations (Louisville, KY). QSR will supply its ConnectSmart Kitchen (CSK) automation software and ConnectSmart Team Assist recipe viewer graphical software, as well as accompanying hardware such as controllers, keypads, bump bars, and touchscreens. CSK will help Veggie Grill meet and track its goal of completing orders within five minutes, according to the two parties, while Team Assist provides preparation instructions to the cooks.

With the CSK, each item from an order is displayed at the specific kitchen station with responsibility for preparation. In addition to efficiency benefits, the CSK gives Veggie Grill access to production data and speed of service metrics helpful for use by operators. With QSR's xCeed kitchen controller powering each station, Veggie Grill employs touchscreens to perform bump actions. Its KP-7500 keypad and patent-pending TouchBump power the stations that require both touch and key functionality.

"Our accountability to our team is to give them the tools they need to operate at top efficiency," reflected Greg Dollarhyde, "Chief Energizing Officer" of Veggie Grill. "With QSR's CSK, we capture our kitchen timing and know our performance while meeting goals at high volume sales periods. With Team Assist, cooks can reference assembly instructions and photos or video on any item at their command quickly and without leaving their stations."

QSR Kitchen Display Portfolio

Channel Factoid

A dire future for paper checks? According to the recent "Small Business Payments Survey," conducted by WePay, fully 52% of the so-called Millennial Generation of 18 to 34 year-olds indicate they never use checks as their form of payment. By contrast, the survey found that 72% of small business owners still prefer to accept cash or checks for payment, as opposed to credit cards. On average, 64% of consumers said they write fewer than three checks per month, up from 35% three years ago. Similarly, 27% of small business owners report fewer check payments today when compared to three years ago. Further, 58% of small businesses said they regularly receive requests from customers to accept credit cards. Consumers that will only shop at businesses that take multiple forms of payment (categorized by age) are as follows: 69% of consumers 18-34; 58% of consumers 35-44; 52% of consumers 45-54; and 48% of consumers 55 and over. "These statistics show a growing trend, from consumers of all ages, that checks are dying," advises the survey. "With the rise of online and mobile banking, automated bill pay, and online payment providers, the process of carrying around a checkbook and hand-writing a check seems provincial. In particular, the trend among Millennials is a strong signal to small businesses to pay attention to new consumer demands."

HELLO GOODBYE

A Bromance for BlueStar

BlueStar (Hebron, KY) has been recognized as Datalogic's 2012 Distributor of the Year in North America, as well as the engine of "Highest Revenue Growth in Distribution." A combination of factors were cited in the announcement, "including exemplary product support, well-stocked inventory, and custom configuration services instrumental in expediting thousands of reseller devices." BlueStar reportedly enjoyed four record months of sales for Datalogic in 2012

"Datalogic and BlueStar have a unique relationship and a close partnership that is reflected in our continued success year after year," observed Jean Secrist, Channel Manager for Datalogic ADC. "Both companies have benefited from innovative approaches to growing our business such as global business reviews and revolutionary VAR educational events. Datalogic looks forward to continuing to develop new and creative ways to expand our channel business with BlueStar and to maintain the outstanding growth we have recognized over the past several years."

"BlueStar is honored to be recognized by Datalogic, one of our top manufacturers in the automatic data capture vertical market," shared Mark Fraker, VP of Marketing at BlueStar. "We strive to provide the best service and support to our reseller partners, and our partnerships with vendors like Datalogic have helped all of our businesses realize growth over the years. We are proud of the distinctions offered to us by Datalogic and will work diligently to maintain this level of partnership for years to come."

Mark Fraker, BlueStar's VP of Marketing, Accepts Award From Datalogic ADC

Salesforce.com Adds Building Block

Salesforce.com (San Francisco) has recruited Keith Block as its President and Vice Chairman. In this executive role, Block will lead the cloud-based CRM colossus in areas of global sales, customer support, and consulting services--"customer-facing operations," in other words. In addition, he has been appointed to the board of directors.

Prior to joining salesforce.com (the company wants to be lowercased), Block spent 26 years at Oracle, most recently holding the title of EVP of North America Sales & Consulting. In addition to leading his 11,000-person team to "record revenue growth and margin expansion," he served on Oracle's Executive Committee. Heady stuff, indeed. Block began his career at Booz Allen Hamilton as Senior Consultant to the U.S. Air Force.

"Fourteen years ago, salesforce.com completely changed the face of enterprise software and they are once again leading a new era of software with next generation social and mobile cloud technologies," Block expounded. "I'm incredibly excited to join salesforce.com and help pave the way to $10 billion by delivering innovation, growth, and customer success." Stated Marc Benioff, Chairman and CEO, "Keith's exceptional track record leading sales, consulting, and engineering teams makes him a powerful addition to our world-class distribution and leadership team."

Keith Block, President and Vice Chairman, Salesforce.com