Total Point of Sale Buyer's Guide Part 3
KeyboardYou should consider replacing your standard keyboard with a good POS keyboard. Why? First of all, POS keyboards are built to take everyday retail abuse. They include spill resistant materials and heavy duty material that will last longer. POS keyboards also include programmable keys much like the traditional cash register. The keys can be setup to do one-key functions such as total, produce, soft goods, discount, etc. In addition, you can integrate credit card swipes and scanner ports to save space and add convenience.
When choosing a POS keyboard, you have several options to consider...
Size
Most keyboard manufacturers offer "compact" or "full size" keyboards. It's important for you to measure your counter space to make sure the keyboard, cash drawer, mouse, monitor and all your peripherals will fit.
Integrated Credit Card Swipe (MSR)
Sometimes the most convenient place for your credit card swipe is at the top of your keyboard. Integrated swipes are nice because they save precious counter space and they don't easily move. If you've ever used the credit card swipes with Velcro you'll know that it's nice to have the swipe attached to a fixed object.
Programmable Keys
POS keyboards allow you to program the keys to do almost any function you'd like. This can help you save time by creating keyboard shortcuts that anyone can figure out. Each POS keyboard has a different number of programmable keys, so you'll need to decide how many you want - and how you want the keys laid out.
Integrated Touch Pad Mouse
If your counter space is limited, then you might want an integrated touch pad mouse. The touch pad works much like laptop computers so you can throw out your bulky mouse pad and mouse.
Scanner ports
POS keyboards offer optional scanner ports and integrated bar code decoders. This is important -- if your POS keyboard has a built in decoder then your scanner doesn't need one. And if your keyboard has a built in scanner port, you scanner doesn't need a keyboard wedge kit. Now that most scanners offer integrated decoders and keyboard wedge kits that are affordable, these features aren't very important. However you should be aware of the options so you can make sure all you devices work together.
Costs and other considerations
POS keyboards also offer advanced features like integrated smart cards reader, finger tip identification and other security features. Depending on the features you choose the keyboards will cost between $100 and $500 dollars. If you'd like to learn more about these features check out these websites:
http://www.cherrycorp.com
http://www.ute.com
http://www.logiccontrols.com
http://www.preh.com
http://www.emaxintl.com
http://www.partnertechcorp.com
http://www.posiflexusa.com
Cash DrawerA cash drawer is an essential item that opens when you ring up a sale just like a cash register. You can get locking cash drawers, plastic inserts to separate your bills and coins, slots for your credit card slips and much more.
Here are your main options to consider:
Size
When looking for a cash drawer it's very important to consider the size of the cash drawer. You need to decide whether you want the cash drawer on the counter or underneath. If the drawer is under the counter, you need to drills holes for the drawer wiring. Then you'll need to measure your counter space or the opening underneath. Cash drawers come in various sizes from 11 to 20 inches wide, 12 to 24 inches deep, and 2 to 4 inches high. Not only does the drawer need to fit on your counter but it should be large enough to place the printer, keyboard and monitor on top of it.
Connection type
You can choose two connections types "receipt printer driven" and "direct-connect". The first requires a receipt printer with a cash drawer port. The port looks just like a telephone jack. The port on the printer sends an electrical signal to the cash drawer that pops the drawer open. "Receipt printer driven" drawers are more popular because they're less expensive.
Direct connect drawers use the serial or COM port on the back of a computer to fire the drawer. These are commonly used with the larger laser or dot matrix invoice printer. These drawers are generally more expensive.
Media slots
You can choose a drawer with or without media slots. They're for slipping checks and credit card receipts in the drawer without exposing the cash.
Number of bill and coin trays
If the drawer only has 4 coin trays, you'll be mixing coins. Remember that half dollars and Susan B Anthony Dollars are still around. You may also want some extra room for rolled coins and coupons.
Locks
Most cash drawers come with locks but not all of them. You should get a drawer with a lock so you can open it without power and lock it for the night.
Material
You can choose thin metal, heavy metal or plastic Heavy metal will obviously last longer and make it more difficult to break into.
Space for hiding wires
Some drawers provide additional space behind the till for tucking in those loose wires from the printer, pole display, keyboard, mouse, and monitor. These drawers will typically have an additional deck or organizer to accommodate the peripherals. They may also provide a pass-through hole in the bottom to allow the cabling to emerge from the bottom of the drawer, through the counter and then to the computer.
Costs and other considerations
Price is always a consideration and cash drawers generally run around $100 to $400. Your biggest concern will be the size and connection type of the cash drawer. Then you can choose from loads of features. You should also consider the reliability of the drawer. Look for things like solid slide wheels and track, quality release mechanisms, and solid construction. Remember the drawer is going to get slammed thousands of times. When the drawer is shut it should easily re-load - and not have to be shoved.
Manufacturer websites
http://www.apgcd.com
http://www.mscashdrawer.com
http://www.mmfcashdrawer.com
http://www.icdpos.com
http://www.logiccontrols.com
http://www.posiflexusa.com
Customer DisplayBig retailers like Wal-Mart and Target use customer displays for a good reason Displays improve customer satisfaction. If your POS software supports displays, then maybe it's time for you to get one.
When choosing a customer display you have a several options including...
Table or pole display
This depends on your counter layout. You can get a "pole display" which, as the name implies, includes long poles that stick above your monitor so the customer can see it. When choosing a pole display, consider the length of the pole. Use a tape measure to figure out the optimal height at your counter. If you don't need the added height, then you can get table display. They simply sit on a flat table-top surface.
Character size
You can choose from 5mm to 12mm character sizes. Bigger characters are easier to read but you can't display as much information. Consider the distance between your customer and the display. In addition, consider the screen size and the number of characters you need to display. There should be a happy medium.
Screen
Most displays have 2x20 screens. However you can get bigger screens with 3 or more lines. Displays also vary in brightness and screen type. Some use fluorescent lighting and other use LCD. When deciding on your screen size, think about the merchandise that will be displayed. How many characters will you need? Do you want to display additional messages on the screen?
Connection type
As most peripheral items you'll need to choose a connections type. You options include USB, serial and parallel.
Cost and other considerations
It's hard to choose a pole display without seeing it. Next time you're out shopping pay attention to the displays and decide what looks best. You'll notice other options including double sided displays and some that even display graphics. Displays run from $200 to $600.
Manufacturer websites
http://www.epson.com
http://www.logiccontrols.com
http://www.emaxintl.com
http://www.posiflexusa.com
http://www.ieeinc.com
http://www.partnertechcorp.com
http://www.ultimatetechnology.com
MonitorsHave you considered the type of monitor you should buy? This may not seem important, but most retailers end up wishing they bought different monitors (usually smaller monitors or maybe touch screens). Before you buy any old monitor, here are a few options for you to consider:
Touch screen
Touch screens allow the mouse cursor to be controlled by touching the screen with your finger instead. Touch is one of the simplest, most instinctive human actions making it very simple for the user to interact with the computer. In some instances touch screens allow you to completely eliminate the mouse and keyboard which saves space and simplifies training. That's why touch screens are extremely popular in restaurants and bars.
In addition, touch screens are useful when your walk in customers need access to a computer. For example, touch screens are often used with public information kiosks, wedding registry kiosks and self check out stations.
When choosing a touch screen durability is important. The screen needs to endure thousands of touches, scratches, dirty fingers and possibly spills. Touch monitors often include software that emulates the mouse click -- so you should check with your POS software vendor and ask if this type of system works. Here are a few manufacturer websites to check out:
http://www.elotouch.com
http://www.microtouch.com
http://www.ttxusa.com
http://www.reflexintl.com
http://www.posiflexusa.com
http://www.3m.com/3MTouchSystems
http://www.partnertechcorp.com
http://www.preh.com
http://www.tekvisions.com
http://www.tatung.com
CRT (Cathode ray tube)
CRTs have very attractive price tags however they take up a lot of precious space. If you're on a tight budget and space is not a concern then a CRT might be your best choice.
Flat panel or LCD (Liquid crystal display)
LCD monitors have finally taken over CRTs in the marketplace. In fact, LCD monitors work great for the point of sale because they take up very little space. Not to mention, LCDs are better than CRTs because they consume less energy; the image is crisper; they reduce eye strain; reflect less glare; and finally they look cooler and more professional!
Your biggest drawback will be price. LCD monitors still cost a few hundred more than CRTs. But prices are getting better and there's a good chance that your next monitor purchase will be an LCD.
Screen size
Monitors come in a variety of screen sizes from 9" to 22" screens - or even larger. For most business and home uses -- the bigger, the better. However in the POS retail environment counter space is a commodity and you should consider a smaller screen size or a flat panel. Most new computers come bundled with 17" CRTs or 15" flat panels. The 17" CRT might be a little bulky for your counter, so make sure you get out the tape measure before you go with the bundled package.
The screen size is specified in terms of the diagonal measurement of the screen. However, LCDs have a larger viewing area because the whole screen area is active. Consequently a 15" LCD can give the equivalent area of a 17" CRT, and a 17" LCD is the equivalent of a 19" CRT.
There are countless monitor manufacturers all fighting for your business. To avoid warranty issues, I suggest a name brand company that won't go out of business. To learn more about monitors, here are some great websites that include buyer's guides and helpful information:
http://www.pcmag.com
http://www.pcworld.com
http://www.viewsonic.com
| To learn more, check out The POS Software Buyers Guide. To Your Success. Jeff Haefner POS buyers guide |
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