(POS) Hardware Discussion

You can run a basic POS system with any PC. If you have more that 3000 items any one of your inventory, customers or invoices files, we recommend at least a 486-66 for the DOS version and a Pentium with 64MB of RAM for the Windows 9x version.

To build on this, KwikSALESTM Manager supports the following:

1 - POINT OF SALE SLIP PRINTER - this is a must in stores where customers expect a standard 3 inch sales receipt/slip. Good choices are the Star Micronics SP-200 or SP-300 line of printers or the Epson TM-U200. Use the Star printers for affordable reliability. Use the Epson if you want something that is smaller, faster, quieter (and more expensive).  Both Star and Epson slip printers have an "RJ12" jack in the back to connect a cash drawer, which is an excellent feature. Whatever slip printer you choose, make sure it is a 40 column printer.

2 - AUTOMATIC CASH DRAWER - any type will work but the simpler the better. We recommend one with an RJ12 plug so that it can connect to the back of a Star or Epson POS slip printer. How do you recognize an RJ12 plug? It looks like a telephone plug but twice as big. If you need a source for cash drawers try MS Cashdrawer Corp. in Pasadena, California at 1-800-544-1749.

3 - POS BAR CODE READER - KwikSYSTEMSTM applications will accept a bar code scan at any point where a stock code is wanted using a "keyboard wedge" adapter. Once again, any type of wand will work but the simpler the better. Ask your computer dealer for a "keyboard wedge bar code reader". The basic wand is very affordable ($175) and the laser guns can be expensive ($400 and up). If you need a source for bar code readers try American Microsystems in Euless, Texas at 1-800-648-4452.

4 - BAR CODE PRINTER - if you need to put your own barcode labels on your merchandise you will need an HP Laserjet or compatible printer (Brother makes a real nice one). The barcodes are printed on Avery #5160 3-up labels.

5 - CREDIT CARD READER - KwikSYSTEMSTM applications can be ordered to support ICVerify, a software card approval system that runs in background. It will do all the credit and debit cards, as well as check guarantees. A card reader can be connected to the same keyboard wedge as the the barcode reader mentioned above. ICVerify is a separate product available from your computer dealer. ICVerify Inc. is in Oakland, California and their number is (510) 553-7500.

6 - PORTABLE STOCK RACK - you will want one of these if you have a large amount of barcoded stock. To do fast inventory counts you walk along the shelves reading a barcode from each item and punching in the phyical count. When you are done you dump the information into your point-of-sale PC where KwikSALESTM Manager reads it. You can then view a table that shows where the physical count does not match the inventory data, correct the onhand quantities, and update the inventory.