Restaurant Pos Software for the Hospitality Trade

Almost all restaurants and retail stores now employ hospitality pos systems in one flavour or another. The advances in computer technology and pos software has made it possible for smaller retail outlets and fast food stores to compete on a level playing field against large corporations with out breaking the bank.

Point of sale system software has come down in price over the years to an affordable level allowing many of the smaller retail chains to purchase these retail software systems.


Pos Software is designed to be modular yet simple to update and easy to manage, allowing smaller restaurants and shops to install basic systems and software functionality, but with the ability to upgrade by switching on built in modules as and when business dictates.





After two decades of using and installing other manufacturers software, Epos-Pos decided it was time to produce a pos and restaurant software, which would be user friendly, fully modular and upgradeable, but more importantly took the best from all other software’s on the market and combined this into one truly versatile package.


After several years of development we finally produced exactly what the customers wanted, a powerful yet easy to use flexible hospitality pos software suite, which could be used by both the hospitality and retail trade.





Software comes in three packages


1: small retail point of sales outlets


2: Pubs, Clubs, Bars and Restaurant


3: large corporate hospitality chains


A Rolls Royce of hospitality, with every required feature add on included


1: phone caller id for the takeaway market


2: Remote PDA for pubs bars and restaurants


3: Employee payment and administration control


4: Stock control and inventory monitoring


5: Customer loyalty and a host of modules are available


6: full stock control reporting, web sales integration





Most customers wanted a stylish yet functional system, which could be upgraded at the touch of a button. Our licensing system enabled us to do exactly this, give a fully featured pos software package with all modules installed but the more advanced features disabled until a licence key is purchased. This made it much easier for clients, knowing there was no programming or software downloads needed to upgrade to extra features.


This pos system software has increased efficiency and decreased service times of orders.





Epos-Pos have done exactly this what is set out to achieve. Epos-Pos have been involved in electronic point of sales solutions for more than 30 years developing installing and supplying restaurant pos software and point of sale hardware systems.

About the Author:

I work as a software development manager for www.epospos.com developing Pos Software, CMS, CRM and desktop applications, when i am not working I like to spend time with my family and enjoy sailing, Diving and Socialising

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/restaurant-pos-software-for-the-hospitality-trade-294260.html

Author: UKGent

Restaurant POS Software in Affordable Prices

Point of Sale (POS) software can make the difference for your restaurant business, and choosing the right one with the best after-sales support is vital. If you are struggling to separate the wheat from the chaff then this is the article for you. Do you own a restaurant, cafe or another establishment in the hospitality industry? Are you struggling to get by not only in the sense of keeping track of orders, but in financial terms too? If so you have made the right choice in researching Restaurant POS Software Why? POS software, and in particular Restaurant POS Software is used by a whole host of successful companies throughout the world. You may already have restaurant software, but are beginning to realise you need something a bit more sophisticated in order to move your business forward. The major challenge a business face these days are the lack of co-ordination co-related to the multi-dimensional facets of the business activities. If one can assimilate everything around into a single unit, then the entire process would have changed for the better. As said earlier, the prescribed software is hot hit in the sectors it has moved so far. As far as hospitality is concerned, the pos software plays a vital role in enterprise resource optimisation and management. What can POS software offer my business? The best Restaurant POS software is not cheap, but for success it’s worth it. The advantages of using POS software outweigh any of the disadvantages, which include cost as the only major obstacle. If you are a restaurant owner, installing Restaurant software can be the defining difference between staying open and being a big success, to having to close through lack of revenue. POS software allows you to speed up the service and improve the quality of your products. Through purchasing such peripherals as a hand-held device, your waiter or waitress can automatically send orders through to the Chef in the kitchen whilst taking the orders from the customers; thus saving an incredible amount of time in the long run. The restaurant software can also keep track of staffs wages and clock-in times from the one establishment you are in, or even a number of restaurants you own around the world - all with a few clicks. Don’t have a keyboard? Don’t worry! The best POS software usually comes with a touch screen keyboard allowing you to operate with little clutter and more ease. The software can also keep track of sales and outgoings, helping you to decide on what you should purchase again and what didn’t do so well. This type of information is like gold dust to a restaurant owner. Another advantage that will have your accountant jumping for joy (possibly literally!) is that the Restaurant POS software can help with book-keeping and accounts. These are what make the software more than capable of handling multiple operations running at the backend of the business all along the way, every time and in all the ways possible. For more details please contact at: http://www.restaurant-pos-software.com/About the Author:

David Brett is a highly experienced IT professional and a well known SEO consultant who has successfully ranked major websites into leading positions in Google, MSN, Yahoo, etc.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/restaurant-pos-software-in-affordable-prices-824236.html

Author: Compete Infotech

How Retail Pos Software Can Improve Your Business:

If controlling and managing your retail business is driving you to the point of despair then you need to think about installing a pos software solution to help you keep control of your business and keep your overheads to a minimum.

From the simple things such as a barcode system that can speed up the checkout process to powerful administrative tools for reporting and stock control. There are plenty of ways that can help your business achieve its goals without creating more work for you.





The ultimate solution for your business is one that provides helpful assistance and answers without increasing overheads. The solutions that you seek should make your job much easier, and enable you to get tasks done faster and effortlessly.





A professional retail POS software package will allow you to quickly and effectively take control of your business.





Pos software has many benefits and can greatly speed up the process of enter new items into your stock files, set ordering levels, set price levels for product items. Additionally it will also be much easier to change pricing on an item by item or by group sale prices, set item discounts, provide discount loyalty cards and even coupons all controlled from your retail POS software.





If you have a need to continuously update prices when you are running special promotions you have a lot of problems to deal with, typically looking at all of your options, you could either relabel all of the items, or you could just make signs and hope that your staff follow the new pricing, but this is often risky.





Retail POS software is much better since it removes all of the mistakes and guesswork that is involved in a special pricing promotion. By monitoring your sales using pos software full reporting module will give you a better understanding of your customers preferences and allow a better understanding of stock requirements.





One of the biggest areas where businesses are always looking for improvement is in stock control and record keeping. Using a good pos management software for your business can keep track of how many items you are selling, which are most the popular, including breaking down the results by color and size and even determining precisely when your business is getting the most business from customers.





All of this information makes it a lot easier to appropriately stock your store, as well as ensure you have the staff on hand to handle the business. Using a computer system with retail POS software ensures that you have everything you need right at your fingertips.





Overall benefits that retail software will bring are 10 fold.





There is no reason to feel as if your business is controlling you, a good set of business software will help you to regain complete control over your entire business and will be very instrumental in making sure you know exactly what is going on with your business in terms of stock levels, sales levels and even how successful a promotion is immediately.





This control is a vital asset that no retail store should be without and makes absolute sense to any business wishing to succeed that you will absolutely love for your business.

About the Author:

Having worked for one of the largest furniture retailers in the UK for more than 18 years as an

Epos engineer David then decided to develop a complete Hospitality solution geared towards Hotels, Restaurants and Hotel Reservation Software

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/how-retail-pos-software-can-improve-your-business-385536.html

Author: David Brett

The Importance Of Pos Software Updates

Are you a retailer who is in need of new POS equipment, also commonly referred to as point of sale equipment? Whether you are looking to outfit a new store or update your current POS equipment, you may be interested in buying multiple pieces of POS equipment. These equipment pieces may include POS cash registers, POS scanners, and so forth. Your first thought, when buying POS equipment, may be to examine costs and functions. Yes, these are important factors, which you should take into consideration, but that is not all that you will want to examine when looking to buy POS equipment. It is extremely important that you also place a focus on POS software updates.

POS equipment is vital to the functioning of many businesses. POS equipment, namely POS cash registers, allows your employees to quickly and effective handle customer transactions, as well as track inventory at the same time. While POS equipment can assist you and your business, it is important that you take the time to find the right equipment, namely the equipment that is the perfect match for you and your business. This is where POS software updates are important. When you make a POS equipment purchase, your purchase should come with POS software installed. As technology advances, so does POS software. That is why POS software programs are regularly updated.



Although nice to hear that POS software programs are regularly updated, you may be curious as to how this should impact your POS equipment purchase. Although any POS software is better than no POS software at all, it can be harmful to your business to not be running updated versions of your POS software. If your POS software is old or outdated, you will find your business running behind in the competition. Old or outdated POS software can result in the inaccurate tracking of inventory, as well as slower handling of customer transactions. This, in turn, can cause your business to lose a substantial amount of money. That is why it is important that you take POS software updates into consideration, when looking to outfit your business with POS equipment, like a POS cash register.



Another one of the many reasons why it is important to keep POS software updates in your thoughts when examining POS equipment is because it can help get a larger return on your investment. In this instance, the investment is your POS equipment. By properly implementing POS equipment, such as point of sale cash register systems, you are more likely to keep accurate inventory counts, as well as service your customers in a quick and effective matter. This, alone, ensures that you get a return your investment, but with access to regular POS software updates, you are able to get an even larger return on your investment. As a business owner who is looking to make a profit, this should bring a smile to your face.



Updated POS software also enables you to extend the life of your POS equipment, like a POS cash register system. As previously stated, outdated software can hamper the functioning of your business. If you are unable to do business with a POS equipment distributor who does not offer you POS software updates, as soon as they become available, your POS equipment, like your cash register, may be rendered useless. On the other hand, regular POS software updates allows you to continue using your POS equipment pieces; thus extending their life and reducing your business spending.



As outlined above, POS software updates are an important factor to take into consideration, when looking to buy POS equipment for your retail store or stores. By taking the time to find a POS equipment manufacturer or distributor who provides you with POS software updates, as soon as they become available and often free of charge, you are more likely to see your business shine. This is done due the fact that you are able to limit your business expenses, extend the life of your POS equipment, keep your customers happy, by servicing them in a quick fashion, as well as by keeping accurate inventory counts.



For a large selection of POS equipment, including complete POS cash register systems, as well as replacement parts, such as POS handheld scanners, you will want to examine the selection at VisionPos.com.

About the Author:
Vision Point of Sale is the leader in point of sale equipment. With affordable point of sale systems and quality service programs, like POS software updating, you are sure to find what you need and more at VisionPOS.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/management-articles/the-importance-of-pos-software-updates-188362.html

Author: Jennifer Zimmreman

Pos Software: Revolutionize Your Business!

POS software will help you to keep track of your money. It will let you know many things about it – such as where it is coming from, where it is going to and what is making you the most possible amount of money. It’s going to ensure that your inventory is filled with products that are being sold the most. This is how you are going to make more money from using POS software. There is no reason to fill your inventory with items that are not selling, and pos software can even help you to recognize trends, so you can see what products are going to be in demand at different times throughout the year.

POS software also creates very easy management of inventory, due to the fact that it can record and adjust inventory lists as soon as an item is purchased. The fact that this can be done without any significant delay makes inventory management much less complicated, and it also tends to save money on inventory costs.


POSMarket offers you from point of sale to barcode label design software; we cater for a wide range of businesses and industries. Not sure which software or version is best for you? Talk to one of our friendly sales staff.


POSMarket.com.au is a trading name for Tensor Design Pty Ltd and is part of a group of companies that specialized in point of sale products and services and the Internet. We aim to provide you with the largest variety of the best POS gear from many of the leading manufacturers, and at the same time be able to provide you with the best prices in Australia. We ship from several distribution points located throughout Australia for quick delivery of your POS equipment. Although it cannot be guaranteed, most of our customers receive their products within 2-3 days of ordering.





Here at POSMarket we keep abreast of today's changing market and always provide the products that our customers truly need. By being fair and honest in our business practices we have formed strong ties with many types of businesses.

About the Author:

POS market are the experts in point of sale equipment and technology. We offer products including cash registers, Cash Drawer,barcode scanners, barcode readers, label printers, receipt printers, POS software are much more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/pos-software-revolutionize-your-business-381434.html

Author: POS Market

What Equipment Do I Need to Accept Credit Cards For My Business?

The basic piece of equipment most small retail operation will want is a terminal, that black box that sits next to the cash register and is connected to the card processor via phone line or Internet. Cards may be swiped or input manually and an optional debit PIN pad allows customers to enter their secret PIN for their debit card.

If you accept checks, you can also connect a check swipe reader that will scan the check through the check guarantee service of your choice and electronically deposits the funds into your account, saving trips to the bank. Connected to or part of the terminal is a receipt printer.

Instead of a terminal, you may elect to use a personal computer with a card swipe reader attached to it. Point-of-sale software installed on the computer will accept the input card and send it via internet or phone line for processing and authorization.

There are literally hundreds of POS systems available on the market, many industry-specific, such as for hotels or restaurants.

If you do not have or want a POS system, you can set up a "virtual terminal" on your PC by logging in to your credit card processor's website and swiping or manually entering card information for authorization. Such sites usually also permit you to void, force and refund transactions or set up recurring transactions such as monthly health club memberships, automobile payments, etc.

Virtual processing usually also permits you to use you cell phone to get authorizations on the go, out in the field, and usually also offer a shopping cart that you can integrate into your company website for online purchases.

For businesses that deliver merchandise to customers, such as pizza shops, there is a new wireless terminal, most like a cell phone, that your drivers carry with them. At the customer's home they swipe the customer's card through this mobile terminal and get an authorization. This can represent a tremendous monthly savings over accepting orders over the phone at the store and manually keying in the customer's credit card number. Remember, manually keyed-in cards are charged a higher Non-Qualified Rate because the fraud risk is higher when the card is not present and swiped. The mobile terminal does swipe the card and it is treated as a card-present transaction, at a much lower rate. Mobile terminals utilize Packet Radio Service or cell service and are very reliable. The driver carries a small printer on their belt to print receipts for the customer.

You can acquire equipment by outright purchase, or lease it. Each option has advantages, discuss them with your accountant. If you do lease, you don't have to worry if the terminal breaks, just swap it for a new one. Some processors will provide you with a "free" terminal but you will usually end up paying higher transaction rates or other hidden fees. There is no free lunch.

James Hussher is a national Account Executive for Card Payment Solutions, a registered merchant services provider (MSP) for Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase banks. Contact James at http://creditcardmerchantnews.com, a site James maintains to inform his credit card merchant clients. Wherever you are in the USA, I offer a free analysis of your current merchant account statement. I will provide a report showing you exactly how much you are paying to accept cards in each tier, plus monthly fees; I will also propose the rates we can give you, for a clear side-by-side comparison

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Hussher

By James Hussher

Great Plains For Restaurant Business - Typical Implementation And Integration

Microsoft Dynamics GP allows you to automate many typical and classical businesses, restaurants are typical GP deployment example. In this small article we will review typical scenarios and technical questions. As we often see that restaurant owners are not technical people or programmers - we will try not to use ERP and software academic language and be right to the point:

1. Your server and network structure. It is typical when restaurants are in several places across the city and you control and operate your business from central office or even the basement of your house. You should place your Great Plains server to your headquarters. If you have only few restaurants, consider purchasing Microsoft Small Business Server, as it will allow you to install and configure your Windows domain and create your users without or with minimal IT consultants help. Also on your Small Business Server, please setup virtual private network (vpn) - this will be the gateway to upload transactions from your stores to central ERP: Great Plains

2. Great Plains - which modules do I need? You will need Great Plains Business Ready, allowing you to deploy typical modules: GL, AR, AP, SOP, POP, Inventory control and others. If you are purchasing GP right now, March 2008, then you should check with your GP VAR

3. Integration with Point Of Sale (POS) systems. If you are purchasing existing businesses, then in most of the cases you are getting mix of various POS and Retail Management Systems: Aloha, Microsoft POS, Microsoft RMS, etc. In this situation you would rather prefer something which will resolve your POS system dependence. We recommend you Aspect - it basically works as Store Operation Management Software for Restaurant businesses. Aspect will import your POS transactions or even more - it will allow you to run the restaurant facility on Aspect without POS. Aspect has very robust features to export transaction to GP via Great Plains Integration Manager

4. Barcoding. We believe that if you are small or even midsize dining network, barcode scanners are not really required. If you have warehouse management operations, the you have to give us a call on barcode solutions

Andrew Karasev, Alba Spectrum Group, http://www.albaspectrum.com help@albaspectrum.com , 1-866-528-0577, 1-630-961-5918. We serve you USA and Canada nationwide, if you are comfortable to work through web sessions and potentially short onsite visits. If you are absolutely not technical, we provide local service in Chicago and Houston metropolitan areas. We also encourage you to visit our media portal Pegas Planet: http://www.pegasplanet.com , where you can share your experience on running restaurant business and submit your article or press release to give your business additional publicity

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Karasev

By Andrew Karasev

Parallel Printers Make the Perfect Receipt Printers

As long as computers still have parallel printer connections, parallel receipt printers will be a smart choice for business owners. Receipt printers come in a wide variety of interfaces, but parallel interfaces are a great choice for receipt printers.

Using the standard parallel printer connection for your receipt printer gives you the option to utilize the serial and USB connections for other peripheral devices that will not work on a parallel interface. For the most part, scanners, cash drawers and pole displays will not work with a parallel interface. By using the parallel interface for the receipt printer you then open up the serial and USB ports for other devices.

Parallel printer connections are newer technology than serial interfaces. In the 1990's a group of printer manufacturers banded together to create the parallel interfaces. They did so because of the superior speed and reliability of the parallel interface compared to the then standard serial connection.

To check to see if your computer does have a parallel connection look at the bank of connections generally found in the back of your computer. A parallel connection is a wide 25-pin female connector. For verification look for the parallel connector label above or below the connector.

Parallel printer signals are not good for long distances. Generally, parallel connections are only for cable runs of 10 meters or less. That makes them difficult to use as remote printers since those runs require distances of 100' - 300' feet from the connection point. Since receipt printers are always located next to the point of sale terminal, long distance cable runs are not an issue.

Another reason that parallel cables are not good for long runs is the thickness of the cable and the cost. The connectors at each end of a parallel cable are very wide and impossible to run through conduit without cutting off the ends. These cables are also a big benefit because of their fast data transfer and reliable signal.

These same connectors are perfect for receipt printers because they lock into place. This helps greatly with receipt printers as it keeps the printer cable securely in place and difficult to accidentally come loose. These are very important factors with regard to a point of sale receipt printer.

USB cables do not lock into place and can come loose with repeated movement of the printer. Unless you screw in a serial cable you will have the same problem with cables coming loose. It is the unique and easy locking parallel cable connector that makes a parallel receipt printer the perfect choice.

By utilizing an otherwise ignored communication interface, freeing up other interfaces to be used for other devices and by having a locking connector parallel receipt printers are truly the perfect receipt printer for point of sale systems.

As always, check with your point of sale software vendor to make sure that they support parallel receipt printers. Not all point of sale software uses parallel printers. Be sure to consult your owner's manual or your software provider for more details.

Nathan Lewis has earned a solid reputation helping small to medium sized businesses expand their reach through niche market websites such as My POS Printer. New receipt printers from Epson Receipt Printers and Star Micronics Receipt Printers

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By Nathan Lewis

New Tax Laws Require Pharmacies To Upgrade Their Point Of Sale Systems

Beginning January 1, 2009 a new IRS regulation requires pharmacies to have implemented an IIAS (inventory information approval system) compliant point of sale system. To comply with these new regulations, every pharmacy in the United States must implement a POS system that complies with these new requirements or discontinue the acceptance of FSA (flexible spending account) credit and debit cards.

In addition to the new IRS requirements, the government has also recently signed into law the Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP). The most significant stimulus for pharmacies is the bonus depreciation that the plan offers for capital purchases. This allows a business to expense a capital purchase 100% in the first year (up to $250,000.00) if it is put into service during the 2008 calendar year. This benefit returns to normal depreciation starting in 2009 (5 year depreciation schedule). Both laws implemented by the IRS will force pharmacies to purchase/upgrade POS systems in the 2008 year if they want to remain compliant with the new IRS regulations.

1. IIAS - Inventory Information Approval System. Beginning in 2009, the IRS is requiring all pharmacies to have implemented an IIAS compliant POS system if they want to continue accepting FSA (Flexible Spending Account) debit/credit cards. These credit cards are issued to employees of companies who have elected to withhold a portion of their pay in a non-taxable Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account (HSA).

a. To date, most pharmacies and retailers accept these credit cards without acknowledgment as they are branded as normal VISA or MasterCard credit cards. The IRS is now implementing a qualifying requirement, similar to the Food Stamp program, which designates eligible items that can be purchased with the FSA card. Non-eligible items will have to be paid for with a different form of payment. A IIAS compliant POS system must be able to maintain this eligibility list, have the functionality to separate the items and perform a split tender for eligible versus non-eligible items. The system will also be required to produce audit reports that adhere to IRS specifications and maintain five years of audit history.

b. If a retailer or pharmacy does not have an IIAS compliant POS system on January 1, 2009, they will no longer be able to accept FSA debit/credit cards.

c. Pharmacies will risk losing existing customers and sales to pharmacies who have implemented an IIAS system beginning January 1, 2009.

d. Visa has an established marketing campaign targeted towards every FSA/HRA cardholder. This marketing program educates cardholders on IIAS requirements and compliant merchants.

2. Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP) of 2008 - The President signed into law the ESP on February 13, 2008. This act returns the 50% Bonus Depreciation for the 2008 year and also increases the Section 179 expense purchases maximum allowance to $250,000.00. This will allow a pharmacy to expense a point of sale system purchase in the 2008 year and reduce their tax liability.

Chester Ritchie is the Vice President of Sales & Marketing at CAM Commerce Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: CADA) located in California. For more information regarding IIAS, FSA cards, and compliant pharmacy point of sale systems please visit http://www.camcommerce.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chester_Ritchie

By Chester Ritchie

POS Printers

Fast-developing technology has come up with a variety of features of features in point of sale, or POS, printers that provide for the different uses at a point of sale. Remote printing is now the “in-thing” for restaurant owners—customer orders are directly printed in the kitchen with number and order size.

Printers in a POS system are the main output devices and usually have one or two independent cash register ports attached. Such a printer and cash register will share a single port with a PC and leaves other PC ports free for other peripheral devices of the POS system. Traditional electronic cash registers with printers have given way to specialized printers and accessories for point-of-sale functions like labeling and coding products, printing receipts, and printing identity cards. There are many manufacturers in the market who give printers with different features to suit unique needs of vendors.

Printers can be classified according to the printing technology used, their connection compatibility, and the unique features provided by the manufacturers. Dot-matrix, thermal printers, and laser printers are the most common types of printers used in most POS systems. Laser and thermal printers are very quick, but it is the dot-matrix printer that is used by small scale retailers and restaurant owners, due to its low pricing and maintenance costs. For clear printing that is essential for barcodes and labels, the best solution are direct thermal printers and thermal transfer printers with auto cutters. PC and printer compatibility is essential for smooth functioning of the POS system. Computers and printers can be connected directly through a parallel port in both the devices, or they can be connected directly through a serial interface. Some PCs allow printer connection through USB cables or RJ11 adapters as well.

You should be looking at the specific needs of your outlet before choosing a printer with different features like barcode formats, auto cutters, check and credit card receipts, and product labels. Getting the right printer with the right combination of technology, features, and cost-effective system-compatibility will play a part in smooth running of your business.

POS provides detailed information on POS, POS Software, POS Systems, Restaurant POS and more. POS is affiliated with Metal Store Fixtures

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Valentino

By Steve Valentino

Understanding a POS System

POS or Point of Sale refers to the system that records financial transactions in stores and restaurants. It could either be an electric cash register or an integrated computer system that records the data pertaining to the sale of goods or services. A typical POS system consists of a cash drawer, receipt printer, monitor and input device. POS systems can be purchased as an entire unit or as individual components. Prices vary widely depending on the brand and technology. We have put together a guide explaining the different components of point of sale hardware.

* Computer: This is the main component of a POS system and it runs the software. It is advisable to use your POS computer exclusively for the purpose it is meant for - recording sales transactions, generating reports and managing inventory. Specifically, do not use your point of sale system for accessing the Internet.

* Monitors: Various kinds of monitors are available for purchase including touch screen, flat screen, flat panel, CRT, LCD, TFT and FPD. Most touch screen monitors have flat screens and are slim, sleek and lightweight.

* Receipt Printers: Receipt printers are used to print receipts/orders for customers. Many restaurants also use POS printers to send orders to their kitchen and bar staff. There are two kinds of printers available - dot matrix and thermal. The former use pins and an ink ribbon to print on regular paper and are cheaper to buy. Thermal printers use heat and special heat-sensitive paper to generate receipts, but can be more expensive.

* Barcode Scanners: Barcode Scanners are used to scan or read barcodes and send the results back to your POS computer. There are many options that you can choose from based on your average customer volume at checkout.

* Magnetic Stripe Readers: Magnetic Stripe Readers (MSR) are used to read credit/debit & charge cards. Keyboards and touch screens often have built-in readers. You can also buy a standalone magnetic stripe reader if your input device does not have one.

* Keyboards: There are different kinds of POS keyboards available in the market. Choose one that suits your needs.

* Cash drawers: Cash drawers are used to store cash, credit card slips, gift certificates, exchange receipts and other important paperwork.

* Customer displays: Customer displays are meant for showing item and price information to the buyer. They are also known as pole displays.

* Check readers: To prevent fraud, you can install magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) automatic check readers that can verify essential account information.

When choosing a POS system, it is advisable to look for one with software that can run on any type of PC. Buy the basic components of a POS system when you are starting your business. You can always add additional components as and when the need arises. Adding new hardware is generally easy but ensure that equipment you choose is compatible with your software.

Hi, I'm Akhil Shahani, a serial entrepreneur who wants to help you succeed. If you like to work smart, check out http://www.SmartEntrepreneur.net It's full of articles and resources to help you start and grow your business successfully. Please visit us & download our special "Freebie of The Month" at http://www.smartentrepreneur.net/freebie-of-the-month.html

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By Akhil Shahani

Hosted Point of Sale Applications

With Software as a Service becoming the motto of many of today’s large software companies it becomes obvious the power Internet Applications hold. Instead of selling a license to install software and risk a bad install software manufacturer’s can charge for access to the software online through a web browser. This provides so many benefits that I don’t think I can list them all.

*Hosted software is instantly updated to all users

*Has an install so easy you can just click a shortcut and you’re running

*Can provide guaranteed off-site data back up that was once only the luxury of super rich mega companies.

Those are just the icing on the cake. You can run a Hosted application on almost any platform. Suddenly Linux systems don’t require a specialized software install, just a web browser. The technical support required for a non-Microsoft operating system drops considerably. You also get the added advantage of easy access on handheld devices and mobile phones.

The easiest fastest way to create any tool for multiple platforms and not worry about technical support costs is to look for those companies making the leap to the next level of technology. Software companies that make Internet Based and Web Based applications are going to experience an explosion as the world moves to this advantage.

Many of the largest companies have already stated their support and intensions in this area. When looking for a software company to provide a point of sale system I look at how well it integrates into this model. Can the software be hosted on a single server and manage 100 locations? How easy is it to install on different platforms? Can I keep it backed up and updated quickly and easily? Will it lower my bottom line and increase my profits? Evaluate the arguments and you’ll see the advantages Hosted Applications can offer any size business.

The development costs for a Hosted Application are also significantly less. Instead of worrying about difficult installs for multiple operating systems (even Windows Apps have to be tested on Win98 and up) you can focus on writing towards the most currently accepted standards as determined by the W3C. Having only one standard to worry about removes the concern that different operating systems will require different installs and files. As long as you use a browser that follows the W3C guidelines, and the big ones do, then you’ve reduced development and testing time. This creates a better application that isn’t bloated with all the junk needed to make it run on a million different systems.

There may be some concern in using a Point of Sale system through the Internet, but SSL encryption and other security techniques are quite sound. Stealing information has been around long before technology and thieves will always pick away at the profits. The question is whether the risk is higher in using a Software tool that can be so easily accessed by not only your employees but by financial assassins that we all know are there. Security is an always will be a concern, but if your company is connected to the Internet in any way then any information on those networks is at just as much of a risk if not more of a risk than the information stored in a hosted application.

If your network is connected to the Internet then you’re already taking the same risks as someone using an Internet Hosted Application. Even systems on a closed WAN have their security risks. The benefits of using an Internet Hosted Point of Sale System far outweigh the risks. In business every dollar counts and when it comes to technology picking the right path can make a huge difference in your profits.

Please consider this article for publication in your newsletter or on your website. Permission is granted to reprint for free with author box and byline intact. Please send me a copy of your publication if you choose to include my article

© Ed Duval (2006) Ed Duval is contract writer and software developer for http://www.AndTechComputers.com and Creator of the HotPotato Restaurant Point of Sale Software System. With over a decade of experience in software development he shares his unique insight on today's point of sale software systems

support@andtech2020.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edward_Duval

By Edward Duval

Broken Point of Sale Receipt Printers - Repair or Replace?

Prices of computer hardware continues to drop in price and increase in features and functions. This is to the advantage of the consumer. However, many consumers do not take full advantage of this situation.

Point of sale equipment that is computer based follows this pattern of drops in price and increase in features. An entire industry flourishes behind a cloak of mystery regarding point of sale hardware, software and systems. In large part, business owners continue to pour money into the pockets of dealers who continue to overcharge for repair and replacement parts, including printers.

POS Printer Repair - What you get

Let's take a look at what most people do with a broken printer. They will attempt to repair the printer through their local dealer.

A call is placed to the dealer who will ask questions of the business owner to determine if the printer is truly broken or if the problem could be a software, cable or power issue. Yes, there are truly repair calls that are solved by properly plugging the printer power supply into the electrical outlet.

If the printer is determined to be broken a technician will come to pick it up. If there is a prior agreement with the dealer a temporary loaner printer may be substituted while the repairs are done.

Many dealers have now gone to a flat-fee for printer repairs. They will charge this fee plus parts to repair the printer. Parts are charged at full list price and will range as high as $125 - $150. Charges higher than that are generally not charged as they exceed the cost of a new printer.

In total, the charge to repair a POS printer should never exceed $300 as you could get a new printer for that amount. However, a repaired printer will not carry forward the full warranty like a new printer will. You will probably only have a 30 - 90 day warranty on the repairs. That means if this same printer goes down again in 91 days you are going to have to do this all over again.

POS Printer Replacement - What you get if a dealer does it

Replacing a POS printer is much simpler and quicker than repairing. This is largely due to the fact that most dealers do not repair the printer themselves. They actually send the printer to a repair depot to be serviced remotely and then returned. This repair process can take weeks and in the worst cases a month or more.

Replacement printers are often kept in stock by local dealers. If not, they can obtain a replacement printer from one of their vendors in a day or two. However, be prepared to pay full price with a dealer margin in excess of 40%. This could easily drive the replacement cost of a POS printer to the $500 mark.

At least with a new replacement printer you will start the clock on a new warranty period. The problem with this is how much of this new warranty is passed to you by the dealer. I am sorry to say that a great many dealers will pass 1 year of the 3 years of warranty offered by the manufacturer.

POS Printer Replacement - What you get if you do it

Let's take a look at what you get if you source the replacement printer via the Internet. You may be shocked at how easy it is and how much you get for less money.

First, you get the same printer that you get from the dealer. You may even get the printer from the same warehouse that the dealer buys from.

Next, you pay far less because you are eliminating the dealer margin. In some cases this is in excess of 40%.

Finally, you get the full manufacturer warranty. In the case of POS printers this is usually 3 years or more. What this means is that you will contact the printer manufacturer who will then direct you to the nearest warranty repair center who will repair the printer and bill the manufacturer.

Want to know the really funny part of this? In a great many cases you will find that the dealer you were doing business with is the printer warranty repair center. Remember how they only passed a year of the 3 year manufacturer warranty? That means that they charge their customers to repair the printer and still get the warranty paid for by the printer manufacturer.

DIY is easier than you think

It no longer takes certification, special training or a college degree to change out a POS printer. A 12-year old can do it without a screw driver. Then why can't you? Only because you have not tried.

The next time you pass by your point of sale system take a look at the printer. Look at the cables in the back. There are probably a maximum of 3 cables that plug into the same connectors on the replacement printer. Each cable has a different connector and will only fit the identical plug on the replacement printer. No tools required and no training is necessary.

You wouldn't call an electrician to replace a light bulb in a lamp and you should not call a technician to replace a POS printer.

Nathan Lewis has earned a solid reputation helping small to medium sized businesses expand their reach through niche market websites such as My POS Printer. New receipt printers from Epson Receipt Printers and Star Micronics Receipt Printers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathan_Lewis

By Nathan Lewis

Point of Sale Hardware - Your Own Branded Point of Sale Terminal

Point of Sale Hardware Bundle

A CPU, motherboard and memory will form the PC unit of the POS Hardware bundle, with the combination of POS input device like POS keyboard, smart card or credit card reader and barcode scanner; and output device, like customer pole display, LCD screen or touch screen, and receipt printer, all bundle together to form a proper Point of Sale machine.

Most POS vendor would provide PC POS solution to their customer for the low cost and high availability of hardware replacement. However, this would open the opportunity for other vendors to compete, although you can get any components easily, but your customer will be able to look for the same source, and they will not rely on you to provide the support and services.

The better solution is using a point of sale terminal, a truly integrated solution with proper hardware mounting, all 3 units are tightly integrated together, saving spaces and eliminates the messy wiring! Most of the integrated POS terminals are expensive, the needs of better and cheaper solutions are in the market.

Types of Point of Sale Hardware Systems

Retail POS Hardware and Restaurant POS Hardware are almost the same, but differentiate by the touch screen and software that manage the business. See below for detail description.

Retail Point of Sale Hardware and System

For single terminal, only 1 set of POS hardware needed, including a proper LCD display, the CPU unit, pole display, receipt printer, barcode scanner, card reader and POS keyboard. For multiple terminals, additional PC server will be needed to consolidate all sales data and provide more sophisticate reporting to management.

Restaurant Point of Sale Hardware and System

There are two main components in restaurant pos hardware and system, the front desk and the back kitchen. The front desk will have a touch screen pos system that receive order and send the order to the back kitchen, and a receipt printer at the kitchen will print the order for the chef.

Depending on the software design, some will support remote data transferring back to the HQ for sales consolidation and control.

Cheap Point of Sale Hardware

One of the best ways to get an integrated point of sale terminal is through used hardware. Some vendors or POS hardware store might have such a solution, however, used point of sale hardware is always a bit old and outdated, might not be suitable to run the new software, and you might need to live with the older software and using the older management method provided by the software!

Do you know that EInspire POStar series with a matching price of normal PC POS, also allows you to rebrand the machine together with your point of sale solution? Not only provide the professional sense and compactness, it help you promote your brand in the market with a minimum price!

Quickbooks Point of Sale Hardware

POStar series are fully compatible with Quickbooks point of sale hardware requirement, and the customizable touch screen allows you to extend your market from retail into restaurant, food and beverages industries, and you can easily rebrand the hardware to your own name.

If you want rebrandable POS hardware solution for your company, feel free to visit our website: http://www.e-inspirecomputer.com, we provides all kind of customizable Point of Sale Terminal at the very affordable price, visit our website: POS Terminal for more information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Polish

By John Polish

Barcode Software Companies

The term barcode software company can be applied to a firm that develops barcode software, distributes software from a third party, or provides services such as custom software development. Barcode software programs are used to create professional barcode labels, including those on photo IDs, warehouse goods, departmental store products, and driving licenses.

Many software companies deal in developing barcode software and selling them to other establishments. They also customize barcode software according to specific requirements. While several companies offer free trials for their products before charging a fee, some companies offer their products for free. Among a few famous companies that develop barcode software are Azalea Software Inc., MEC Software, Seagull Scientific Inc., Teklynx, and Worth Data.

Azalea Software provides barcode fonts and barcode printing software independent of operating systems. Their barcode fonts create Data Matrix, PDF 417, and many other barcode symbols using Crystal Reports, Excel, Access, Visual Basic, C/C++, and other applications. These programs can be uploaded on a computer like any other software program.

MEC Software develops software barcode fonts, data collection software, and inventory software. MEC barcode programs provide barcode printing capability for any laser printer, regardless of make, model, or operating system. Data collection software features simple, effective, and flexible tools for capturing barcode data.

Seagull Scientific is noted around the world for barcode label design software. Their products have powerful features for compliance labels and integration with enterprise software. Seagull allows you to download its free demo software from the website.

Teklynx is one of the world's leading developers of AIDC software. Each software package provides a complete set of solutions designed to meet the product identification and labeling needs of customers. The programs are grouped into three major categories: label design, data collection, and ERP/host connectivity.

Worth Data is the developer of barcode label printing software and the publisher of barcode fonts. Its products are reliable, easy to use, competitively priced, immediately available, and come with a money-back guarantee.

Bar Code Software provides detailed information on Bar Code Software, Bar Code Scanner Software, Bar Code Printing Software, Free Bar Code Software and more. Bar Code Software is affiliated with Retail POS Software

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey

By Eddie Tobey

Bar Code Printing Software

All products in the market are bar coded these days. Even the smallest retail items, like chocolates or pencils, have a unique bar code to identify them accurately. Bar codes have specific symbology that is defined in the height and width of the bars as well as the spacing between them. Each of these bars might represent only numeric data, alphanumeric data or character data, depending on the type of symbology being used.

Bar code printing software is used to print bar codes on labels. They are small, convenient to use and can design labels as necessary. Although there are manually operated printers, present trends show a change in this kind of printing. Many are using software suites that guide the printer to print the labels with minimal human help. The user needs to specify the design and the software takes care of the whole printing process at a much faster rate. These software suites are accurate, and print the labels with minimal wastage in the process.

Software suites usually give additional software linking facilities so that it can link to a document or database containing the design for the label. The software would then recognize it and print it as per user instructions. All bar code printing software is compatible with popular operating systems such as Windows, Macintosh, and DOS. Also available are variations that work on operating systems such as Unix, ASP and Linux.

As is the case with all designing software suites, bar code printing software comes with some excellent sample designs. Colors, designs and fonts can be designed as per the user’s requirements. They would be compatible with spreadsheets, databases such as Microsoft Access, etc., and can print directly from these files or reports.

Printers normally store these fonts, which can be used as and when needed. Even newer fonts can be downloaded and stored for specific uses. One command would be sufficient for the printer to start printing the bar codes on the documents. Individuals having proficiency in software development and programming can also take help of the libraries, ActiveX controls, and other linkable procedures to create unique bar codes using graphic characters and fonts.

Bar code printing must be accurate, as an individual cannot understand the output unless the same is scanned. Before printing the bar code, the user must ensure that the font, size and other details are correct, to get an error-free set of labels.

Bar Code Software provides detailed information on Bar Code Software, Bar Code Scanner Software, Bar Code Printing Software, Free Bar Code Software and more. Bar Code Software is affiliated with Retail POS Software

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey

By Eddie Tobey

The Costs and Benefits of Pre-Owned Point of Sale Equipment

Point of sale systems are used in all retail businesses, from restaurants to malls to grocery stores. Although necessary, it can be an expensive investment. Today, POS no longer consists of a simple cash register, but is rather a fully functioning system with software designed to make customers happy and give you less headaches. To cut back on cost, is it a good idea to buy pre-owned point of sale appliances? Here are a few advantages and disadvantages to buying pre-owned POS equipment.

While the equipment may be older, the software doesn't have to be. By saving money on the actual hardware, you are left with extra cash to splurge on the latest technology to organize your system. Cosmetic value runs very low when you consider that that old cash register operates on the same system as newer, better-looking machines. For business owners still dealing with startup costs, this route is a very viable option. You get a pre-owned point of sale system for a fraction of its original price, but with all the benefits of updated software.

With the latest software, you are still able to accurately track your sales and inventory. Not only that, but you also have all the benefits of being able to serve customers quickly and effectively. Because you bought pre-owned point of sale hardware but the latest technology to run it, you can easily recoup the cost of your investment, and then some.

One disadvantage to a pre-owned point of sale system is finding a reliable distributor. Make sure that when it comes time to outfit your retail establishment, you find POS equipment from a certified vendor. If you buy point of sale hardware without first checking out the credentials of the supplier, you may be throwing your money away. You get the largest return on your investment if you buy certified gear from a certified distributor.

Guarantee Business Systems, Inc (http://www.gbsncr.com) provides reliable and affordable POS equipment Visit the website today to find a solution for your business. Rachel Spohn is a freelance author

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Spohn

By Rachel Spohn

Point of Sale Hardware - Your Own Branded Point of Sale Terminal

Point of Sale Hardware Bundle

A CPU, motherboard and memory will form the PC unit of the POS Hardware bundle, with the combination of POS input device like POS keyboard, smart card or credit card reader and barcode scanner; and output device, like customer pole display, LCD screen or touch screen, and receipt printer, all bundle together to form a proper Point of Sale machine.

Most POS vendor would provide PC POS solution to their customer for the low cost and high availability of hardware replacement. However, this would open the opportunity for other vendors to compete, although you can get any components easily, but your customer will be able to look for the same source, and they will not rely on you to provide the support and services.

The better solution is using a point of sale terminal, a truly integrated solution with proper hardware mounting, all 3 units are tightly integrated together, saving spaces and eliminates the messy wiring! Most of the integrated POS terminals are expensive, the needs of better and cheaper solutions are in the market.

Types of Point of Sale Hardware Systems

Retail POS Hardware and Restaurant POS Hardware are almost the same, but differentiate by the touch screen and software that manage the business. See below for detail description.

Retail Point of Sale Hardware and System

For single terminal, only 1 set of POS hardware needed, including a proper LCD display, the CPU unit, pole display, receipt printer, barcode scanner, card reader and POS keyboard. For multiple terminals, additional PC server will be needed to consolidate all sales data and provide more sophisticate reporting to management.

Restaurant Point of Sale Hardware and System

There are two main components in restaurant pos hardware and system, the front desk and the back kitchen. The front desk will have a touch screen pos system that receive order and send the order to the back kitchen, and a receipt printer at the kitchen will print the order for the chef.

Depending on the software design, some will support remote data transferring back to the HQ for sales consolidation and control.

Cheap Point of Sale Hardware

One of the best ways to get an integrated point of sale terminal is through used hardware. Some vendors or POS hardware store might have such a solution, however, used point of sale hardware is always a bit old and outdated, might not be suitable to run the new software, and you might need to live with the older software and using the older management method provided by the software!

Do you know that EInspire POStar series with a matching price of normal PC POS, also allows you to rebrand the machine together with your point of sale solution? Not only provide the professional sense and compactness, it help you promote your brand in the market with a minimum price!

Quickbooks Point of Sale Hardware

POStar series are fully compatible with Quickbooks point of sale hardware requirement, and the customizable touch screen allows you to extend your market from retail into restaurant, food and beverages industries, and you can easily rebrand the hardware to your own name.

If you want rebrandable POS hardware solution for your company, feel free to visit our website: http://www.e-inspirecomputer.com, we provides all kind of customizable Point of Sale Terminal at the very affordable price, visit our website: POS Terminal for more information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Polish

By John Polish

VB Net POS Accounting Source Code

VB Net POS Accounting Source code combines the flexibility of VB dot Net and the power of Visual Studio to provide highly customizable and fast extensible function. The source code itself will provide the base ground for another retail application to integrate POS features into their own software. Some of the benefit listed below:

Benefit #1 - Developer can integrate POS feature to their application within days.

With access to source code, developer can choose to modify the integration interface or just some call to the database server and automate the exchange data process, tightly integrated into existing application framework.

Benefit #2 - Software vendor can re-brand the system.

One of the biggest benefits of royalty free Source code is able to re-brand the product and claim the features to their own brand. End user will have no idea they are using a standard POS provided by another vendor.

Benefit #3 - Rapid Application Development Coding.

Some source code vendor utilizing Visual Studio newest RAD tools - Dataset designer to map business rules in the visual way, decrease the needs to code everything manually. Faster delivery time to market.

Benefit #4 - Leverage the Power of SQL.

Powerful SQL database is now free and available at the finger tips of developer, why still rely on file base when you can have all the benefit of true SQL database?

Benefit #5 - Small Update and Installation footprint.

Most Windows comes with dot net, this will allow software vendors to distribute only core components, updates will be very small and available to be download even with dial-up connection.

These are just 5 of the most common benefits, there still many features such as cross platform interface and web base ready user interface! Now is the time to move from existing VB 6 coding to dot the net platform.

(C) Copyright 2008 CYNICS SOFTWARE - Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety as long as all links and author resources box in place.

Download the VB Net POS Source Code from Cynics Software, accelerate your migration speed up to 200% or more !

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kok_Choon_Kow

By Kok Choon Kow

Barcode Label-design Software

Barcode label-design software is a complete solution to all your designing needs for barcode labels. A barcode label is the common way to identify a product or asset. The software designs a pattern of black lines of different thicknesses, each unique from the other. Most design software is compatible for barcode label printing applications.

Label-design software first generates a template, which is the actual format of a barcode label. Once the template is created, it is printed on a specialized paper with an adhesive surface using a printer. All barcode label-design software packages are easy to use. No programming is needed by the user.

Starting with thousands of predefined label stocks, each package guides you through label design with intuitive menus and help features. You can create labels with constant data, serial numbers, and dynamic data from text files. It is also possible to write notes that do not print and keep them in the scratch area (off of the label). Some packages allow you to link fields and enter dynamic information from the keyboard at print time.

Barcode label design software is commonly classified into two types: stand-alone menu-driven programs and barcode font programs. The menu-driven programs come with scalable fonts, graphic image import, all popular barcodes, data file import, and easy custom operator interface. A font-based program can select barcode fonts from any word processing program (such as Word, Excel, PageMaker, etc.), independent of operating systems.

Most barcode label-design software packages available on the market are easy; they enable you to integrate barcode label designing into your business processes. Choosing which one is right for you depends on how comprehensive you want to get. It is always better to use a trial version before you select your barcode label design software solution. A lot of web sites provide barcode label design software downloads.

Bar Code Software provides detailed information on Bar Code Software, Bar Code Scanner Software, Bar Code Printing Software, Free Bar Code Software and more. Bar Code Software is affiliated with Retail POS Software

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey

By Eddie Tobey

Why Businesses Should Use Point of Sale Equipment

A key component of running a successful business is the use of point of sale equipment. Used in small and large businesses, POS helps businesses speed up the transaction process while providing detailed and accurate receipts thereby improving customer satisfaction

This is used in businesses to accept customer payments in a number of different ways. This includes electronic checks, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, electronic benefit transfer cards, and check guarantee services. By offering a variety of methods to pay for a product, businesses benefit from an increased likelihood of impulse buying, better accounting of inventory, and a reduction in labor costs.

In earlier days, this equipment was just a cash register. Because of progressive technology, it has made significant advancements. This has allowed for mobile POS, self-serve, biometric scanners that scans electronic coupons, POS systems for online retailers, and many more new technologies. There is now scanning technology that makes pricing and price checking a simple task.

In order to find the POS equipment that meets your needs, it is important to implement the following:

Research the Providers: If suppliers know that they have to compete for your business, they will work harder to explain the advantages and disadvantages of it.

Check Security Features: Make sure you purchase equipment that is not susceptible to fraud.

Check Other Retailers: It is a good idea to see how it works in other stores. You can make a purchase to judge the quality and speed of it. You may also want to discuss the particular equipment with the owner of the store to get their feedback

Test the Equipment: You would not buy a car without a test drive so it makes sense you would not buy the equipment before testing it. You will get a sense of the features to make sure they meet your business needs. Swipe technology is more efficient than manually entering information.

Check Time of Debit: When using a bank card or credit card, check to see how long it takes for the money to be debited from the account. A fast transaction usually goes with a modern system. Customers prefer to have the money debited from their accounts quickly and businesses prefer a quick transaction.

Point of sale equipment is a proven method of increasing customer sales, improving customer satisfaction, and making a business run smoother and more efficiently. To find the right equipment to meet your business needs, it is essential to find modern technology that saves time and money. For example, if a customer has to wait for particular length of time for the transaction to be completed that customer is less likely to return. Also, if there are a number of customers waiting in line, they may likely leave causing a loss in sales. In these tough economic times, losing one customer can be detrimental to a business. It was created to boost sales, improve the quality of the sales experience, and make transactions smooth and fast. If money is tight, there are companies that sell used pos equipment.

Keeping customers and employees happy is an essential part of running a successful business. It is important to carefully research it that will help create happy customers, stress free employees, and easier business management. It will result in a much more profitable business.

Canada's leading processor of debit and credit card payments.
Providing POS Systems and Point of Sale Software and full of innovative ideas for retailers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt

By Amy Nutt

VB Net Framework POS Accounting

VB dot Net framework provides the best base ground for POS and Accounting software, because both systems need great support to access and process data frequently, and Visual Basic with .Net framework seems to work very well. Since VS2005, Rapid Application Development tools enable developer to create business software in the fastest time ever!

Only RAD development will guarantee the database related project to success in the shortest time and deliver the highest quality. VS2005 comes with SQL server 2005 express edition, which is free for desktop application and small business software. SQL Server 2005 plays an important row to ensure scalability of storage and software.

There are many source codes based POS and Accounting software, but only very few employed Rapid Application Development methodology and design, this brings lots of work for developer if the source code not already supporting RAD programming.

When choosing the suitable source code, one should consider to adapt to the latest tools and technology, legacy coding will only slow your overall development time! Why pay for legacy technology when you can enjoy the best out of the newest tools and coding! Cynics POS and Accounting is built on the pure dot net platform, SQL stored procedure and RAD tools such as visual inheritance and Dataset Designer.

Cynics POS even enjoy the offline benefit of dot net remoting! Your POS system will store all information locally and synchronize back to the server when connection are available. Up until now only very few software in the market can provide such a great feature, and this feature is expected to gain popularity by the introduction of Microsoft Sync Framework for ADO.Net.

Let's summarize some of the great features that a good source code based POS and Accounting system should have:

Feature #1 - Offline Capability.

Able to work offline and not dependent on network connection to store data.

Feature #2 - Stored Procedure Processing.

Using powerful database stored procedure to speed up the processing time.

Feature #3 - RAD Design and Coding.

Use the latest Design and Coding method, code the software using RAD tools and speed up the maintenance process!

These are the 3 most important features, beware to check for these criteria before proceed... Invest your money carefully.

(C) Copyright 2008 CYNICS SOFTWARE - Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety as long as all links and author resources box in place.

Find out more information about fully RAD coding and Offline Capable source code based Software: VB Net Framework POS Accounting System

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kok_Choon_Kow

By Kok Choon Kow

How to Choose the Most Convenient POS Solution For My Business

Choosing a POS, or point of sale, system seems as though it would be quite easy. After all, you simply need a system that can scan items, calculate totals, and print receipts. In a nutshell, that is what you need your POS system to do. However, there is a lot more that goes into one of these systems than just the functions, so choosing one may not be as easy as you might think.

Start with the Software

The software you are going to use to run your POS is the first step towards choosing the right equipment. You need to make sure that the POS hardware - the scanners, computers, and printers - is compatible with the software you have chosen. To save yourself the hassle of trying to find a compatible option, consider buying your software and hardware together as a package. This usually costs less as well.

As you are looking at software, find out what will happen if software upgrades are needed. Many packages offer free software upgrades. Find out how you will have to implement software upgrades, and make sure you are comfortable with the process.

Think About Your Needs

The POS needs of a grocery store are going to be different than the POS needs of a camera store. Sit down and make a list of all of the features you need in your POS system. You may want to consider the items that you would like to have, but could wait to have, if your budget is tight. This will help you choose a system that will be as convenient as possible for your business.

Look at Customer Service

The actual equipment is not the only thing you are buying when you buy a POS system. What happens if your POS system is not working? You either lose sales or have to rely on your cashiers to add and total your sales properly. Make sure that the customer service and help options that come with your POS system are going to be there when you need them. Readily available technical support is essential when you are looking into POS systems.

Focus on Ease of Use

Make sure that your POS system is easy for your cashiers and workers to use. Touch-screens, for instance, make it easy to correct mistakes or make changes to an order. Systems with complicated codes that have to be entered in order to make changes are going to be a hassle to use. Having an easy to use system is especially important if you have multiple workers who are going to be using your POS system.

Don't Focus on Price

You want to choose an efficient, flexible program that you can use for many years. It is going to cost money, so do not focus too strongly on price. While you need to stay within your budget parameters, make sure that you plan to spend a decent amount on your POS system. What you really need to focus on is making sure that the program has all of the features that your business needs and can add the options you may want someday.

Ensure Changes Can be Made

You know what your business needs today, but in a month or a year your needs may be different. Make sure the program is flexible enough to allow you to make changes without a lot of hassle. For instance, if you add a product line or make a major price change, make sure that you can make these changes easily.

Your end goal is to find a POS system that is easy to use, convention to change when needed, and complemented by quality support, all while meeting the needs of your business. Look in depth at your options, see sample reports, and try out the software if possible. You will be able to find a convenient option for your business with a little bit of research and work.

North America's leading offline and online payment processor for debit and credit card processing offering merchant account services, Point of Sale (POS) equipment, machines and solutions

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt

By Amy Nutt

The Small Retailer's Guide to Savvy Cash Management

Whether you're selling gardening supplies, trendy clothes, or high-end electronics, your retail store's success is largely connected to your cash management procedures. Many small business owners treat their sales and cash flow with little regard for process. Instead, they approach it haphazardly without considering the benefits of integrating sophisticated point of sale (POS) systems and procedures related to petty cash and drawer balancing.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at efficient cash management procedures for small retailers. I'll explain how the traditional cash register can impact your ability to compete. I'll also provide an overview of a robust POS system and describe its value to improved inventory control.

Will A Traditional Register Suffice?

The answer depends upon your needs and budget. For example, if you have a small shop that processes a minimal number of sales throughout the day, a simple register may be enough. But, there are a number of limitations to keep in mind.

First, a traditional register will probably be incapable of tracking your store's inventory. Second, it won't allow your vendors to manage your inventory status in order to replenish products as needed. Third, a register will not offer the level of reporting that a point of sale system provides.

Each of these factors plays a key role in improving the efficiency of your retail business. For example, allowing your vendors to monitor your inventory levels in real time through a POS system reduces - even eliminates - product shortages. Vendors can keep your shelves filled which removes your need to store excess inventory. With fewer resources tied up in inventory, you can better allocate funds to take advantage of other opportunities.

Your Point Of Sale System

Most POS systems include the same basic components. There's a computer which manages the entire system. There's also a cash drawer in which you'll keep the money and receipts from credit card transactions. You can also invest in a pole display, though it's optional. Other pieces of the system include a monitor, keyboard, scanner, credit card terminal (again, optional), and a printer for the receipts.

You can also invest in POS software that offers varying levels of functionality. For example, basic packages can easily handle sales taxes, pricing flexibility, and printing product descriptions. Software that is more robust can process coupons, track inventory, connect to vendors, and provide detailed accounting reports.

The prices for POS systems start at several hundreds of dollars and can climb to several thousands. However, even as their functionality increases, their prices continue to decline. Plus, they add enormous value and flexibility to the small retailer's inventory control procedures. That leads to quicker inventory turnover, fewer product shortages, and more efficient cash flow management.

Coping With Increased Competition

One of the major concerns that specialty retailers have is how they can compete when the big-box merchandisers penetrate their market. Indeed, the presence of chain stores and discounters can siphon sales away from small shop owners. There are, of course, viable solutions. The important thing to realize is that small retailers have a number of advantages over giant chains. For example, they can move more quickly, provide better service, and enjoy high margins on products that are produced in lower quantities.

While installing a POS system won't resolve all of the challenges inherent with battling the large discounters, it will improve your ability to compete with them. Don't underestimate the value of maintaining strict cash management procedures combined with a robust point of sale system. As the megastores struggle under broad inventories and slim margins, you can leverage your size through better inventory control.

G.A. Wright specializes in high-impact store closing sales that produce big increases in sales volume and attract big audiences. Check out our website for more information: http://www.gawrightsales.com

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By Gary A. Wright

PCI Auditing Difficulties Number 1

Systems and System Boundaries

This series of white papers is presented as a public service by Mindteck Consulting as part of its ongoing effort to help businesses achieve a higher information security posture. Each article is written to focus specifically on one topic to be as specific and useful as possible.

System Auditing, Security Assessment, C&A and even PCI Audits have many things in common despite some notable differences. All these processes start from a common point, normally a snapshot of an organization at a particular point in time. They all then evaluate the enterprise and its electronic assets to arrive a final point, whether that point is a Pass/Fail or a numerical score or a Risk Rating is irrelevant for our purposes. A problem common to all these assessment methodologies is Defining Systems and System Boundaries.

A "System" is defined as "a regularly interacting or interdependent group of items forming a unified whole " and also as a "any network component, server, or application included in or connected to the ... data environment ." Using these definitions works in about 90% of instances that we are likely to encounter. The remaining 10% is tough. The difficult part comes when we are faced with technology that introduces situations that don't easily fit our common notions of what a "System" is. And without a crystal clear idea of what systems exist within a particular organization, it is next to impossible to define their boundaries. It is in these areas of uncertainty, or grey areas, that we prove our worth as Information Security Professionals. Some examples of particularly difficult instances, along with the ways that we have dealt with them, follow.

Virtual Machines

There was a day not so long ago where a computer was either a server or a workstation. One computer, one function (server or workstation), one OS and therefore one "System". But these lines began blurring a few years ago with the release of VMWare, Xen, Windows Virtual Machine and the like. Now it was possible for one computer to hold multiple Operating Systems each running in its own, protected and isolated instance (or so the story went). This situation posed and continues to pose perhaps the greats problem to defining systems that IS Professionals face today. For this first example we had to re-think our definition of what a "System" is, but the thought process freed us to expand our thoughts about exactly what constitutes a computer system.

A client was looking for a pre-PCI audit. They were a small shop and it was obvious that they were very concerned about controlling their IT costs. They ran a dozen servers, all with Virtualization Software installed, so that these 12 physical servers actually housed 31 different Operating Systems. The particular server which housed the database with credit card information also had 2 additional instances of the virtualization software, thus one server actually housed 3 separate OS's. (A word of explanation about software virtualization is needed here. There are a bewildering array of virtualization products on the market that can virtualize everything from a single internet session to the entire Operating System. Our client used this latter type of software, virtualizing two Windows XP's and one Redhat Linux installation. This type of virtualization solution is called "native" or "full virtualization".) One of the Windows XP Server instances housed the client's Point of Sale (POS) software and database of credit card information. Access to this particular server was controlled by a firewall Access Control List (ACL) as well as 2 factor authentication by the user. The pool of potential users was very small at only 3 individuals. Initially this seemed like a very easy case and it looked like it would easily fall within the PCI DSS Standards. However, the server virtualization is the "fly in the ointment" because the PCI DSS Council had not yet fully addressed virtualization. We sought some guidance from the PCI forums as well as relying on our own experience in evaluating this machine more closely. We audited each logical instance of a computer "system" on the server, but tempering this evaluation with the knowledge that these logical instance do not exist in a vacuum and that each one is deeply dependent on the hardware and software resident on the box.

Once we replaced our traditional ideas of "systems" equating to one physical computer, we began to think in terms of "logical instances". While this method of dealing with computer systems is not without problems, it has helped our practice immensely with our auditing assignments.

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By Chaz Sowers

An Overview of Various Types of Restaurant Software Solutions

Computer based management has gained acceptance in almost all the industries. Restaurant and catering sector is not far behind either. There are a number of different restaurant software packages that you can use in a restaurant to make the overall operations very easy and much more efficient and fast. Here are some of the most common solutions which can be deployed in a restaurant.

The first is the Point of Sale software package. Point of Sale software, colloquially known as PSO software package is a solution which automates most of the money related tasks of the restaurant. Some of the common tasks of this software include order retrieval from guests, creating bills, keeping other accounts and financial matters related to the personnel of the restaurant.

Generally the number of computers with this software depends on the size of a restaurant. A small restaurant can do with a single installation of POS software. Bigger restaurants generally need a much larger number of computers equipped with POS software packages. The role of POS software in overall guest satisfaction is monumental. You must therefore make sure that POS software is intuitive and easy to use.

The second is inventory management software for your restaurant. You can equate the inventory software for your restaurant as something like a database in which all the records of materials and supplies of the restaurant are kept. It can track all the supplies and provisions that are in the restaurant. You can use it to make sure that all the provisions are well supplied in your restaurant. In this way you would be able to place the order for replenishment of supplies as soon as they go down.

Restaurant inventory software can also play a great role in the overall food safety. All the food products have an age. Generally perishable products have very less age and they are much more prone to bacteria and fungus. Your inventory software can alert you about the age of your supplies. You can easily remove the supplies which would be expiring soon and dispose them off. At the same time you can place order for fresh supplies.

Third important package of restaurant software is costing software. This can perform the basic tasks of inventory but works best when integrated with a full fledged inventory management system. The main task of costing software is to create estimates of the money that you have to spend on your restaurant in a given period of time or under a given set of parameters. Thus it can be of great aid as a prediction tool to restaurant manager.

Restaurant software packages are available from a number of vendors. You must be careful while making deployment decisions as not all of them may inter operate with each other.

Garen Garson is a restaurateur with a passion for Restaurant Business, done right. -check out his website http://www.RestaurantBusinessMagic.com and Get useful, actionable information including restaurant marketing know-how... You are invited; Restaurant POS software

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By Garen Garson

POS Dealers

Choosing your point of sale, or POS, systems could be a disaster if you approach the wrong dealer and go for the wrong equipment. A new technical product hits the markets every seventeen seconds. A good percentage of this is POS technology. And, there are a myriad of dealers and manufacturers for POS equipment, hardware and software. But prospective buyers of POS technology often tend to take considerable care in choosing the hardware and software for their point-of-sale activities and give only secondary importance to the dealers. Your point of sale might end in a mess with long queues and angry customers if you do not get judicious advice and well-timed technical support and maintenance from your dealer.

A busy retailer may not have time to check out system updates, install them and train employees on the new features. This is where a credible dealer can help with timely support and training. A neighborhood dealer with a commendable track record of standardized products and client services would be the ideal choice. It is also advisable to buy POS systems from direct dealers of big manufacturers like Microsoft, Sun Microsystems, NCR, Epson, Fujitsu-ICL and IBM, which have reputed dealers and franchisees in all parts of the country.

Having a good working relationship with a reliable dealer will help in the long run, as a vendor should continuously check back for updates and maintenance of the POS system. Since hundreds of people open and close software and hardware dealerships every year, it becomes necessary to approach a dealer who has been in the business at least for five years, which will assure you of good technical support and necessary software updates. Additionally, credible dealers can provide information on futuristic technology and advice on planning for at least a couple of years down the line, which may well decide the profit and loss for your business.

POS provides detailed information on POS, POS Software, POS Systems, Restaurant POS and more. POS is affiliated with Metal Store Fixtures

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By Steve Valentino

Free Photo Editing and Organizing Software

With the rapid growth of digital photography we now often have hundreds if not thousands if digital images stored on our computers. This has created a need for quality free photo software to help with both image editing and organizing our growing collections.

The 'gold standard' photo editor is Adobe Photoshop CS2. While Photoshop is an amazing product it is also quite expensive and some of the advanced features can be somewhat difficult to master. Another popular commercial product used to edit photo images is Paintshop Pro, which is less expensive and much easier to master than Photoshop, but is still around $100 US. Photoshop Elements is another commercial product that many find meets their basic photo editing needs and it sells for around $90 US. Fortunately there are many free photo editing software product alternatives that can meet the needs for all but true photo editing professionals (in which case Photoshop has high end features that certainly will be required).

The two most popular photo organizer software products are actually already free. Picasa from Google and Preclick Gold should be able to meet all of your digital photo organizing needs. There are a number of other free image organizers that also perform quite well.

The following are some of the most popular free photo software products available today. We will be adding many more exciting and useful free digital image editing and organizing products to allfreebiesoftware.com in the coming weeks.

Picasa (Google) This photo software is available alone or as part of the amazing free Google Pack and is the only product that we use to organize and share our digital pictures!

Sqirlz Morph Easy to use free photo morphing software! Morph two or more images together, or warp images individually. Images can be morphed together in several different ways. Try multi-morphing all the family's faces into one unique movie or picture! Save your animation as a Flash movie, AVI video clip, animated GIF file, or bitmap/jpeg files. Version 1.4 is compatible with Windows Vista.

2 Pic Easy to use basic photo and image editor. 2 Pic is designed for ease of use and it has a unique design with the functions clearly arranged on tabs. That's the big advantage of 2 Pic: with less time and less experience, you can do very creative things.

Snipshot This website provides online photo editing by allowing you to upload images from your computer. You also can enter the Web address of any photo stored online and get a copy with which to work. Snipshot uses nondestructive editing - the original image that is taken from your computer or the Web remains untouched.

cPicture Image presentation application for digital camera pictures in JPEG format.

Preclick Gold Features a very effective red-eye tool, has the ability to add metadata to photos including caption, event and place, ad-hoc album creation and organization, filmstrip display, camera acquisition, batch stamping, CD burning and much more.

paint.net Photo manipulation software that supports layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and a wide variety of useful and powerful tools. Like Photoshop this photo editing software has many features not found on other free photo editors.

Gimp for Windows A popular open-source photo and image editor.

Serif PhotoPlus 6 Serif PhotoPlus 6 is probably the best free image editor available. Many will find that it works as well as Photoshop for basic photo editing. Serif offers older versions (like this version 6) for free to attract new customers to the newer products. Give it a try!

Visit http://allfreebiesoftware.com/photo-software to download the free products mentioned in this article and to get more information about the top free photo editing and sharing software available. The home page http://allfreebiesoftware.com will also help you locate and download the best free POS software, free CD burning software, free small business accounting software and much more!

The author Dave Jacobs has a marketing focused MBA and has had a love-hate relationship with computers ever since he purchased his first computer, a Commodore 64 in the early 80's

Dave is an 'advanced amateur' level photographer who currently has over 10,000 photographs stored on his various computers. Picasa has the task of keeping them all organized! Dave does most of his work with a Canon Digital Rebel XT that he bought a couple of years ago. To contact Dave click on the website link above

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By Dave Jacobs