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POS or PC - that is the question. What to choose a POS terminal or POS system

POS system (POS - Point of Sale) is a software and hardware complex operating on the basis of a fiscal registrar; The POS system is assigned a typical set of cash functions: accounting and issue of goods, receiving and issuing money, canceling a purchase, etc. Usually components POS systems are called POS computer, POS monitor, receipt printer, fiscal registrar, POS keyboard, buyer display, money box, magnetic card reader.

A POS computer is understood as a special cash register computer, which, first of all, fully complies with all established standards and requirements for the functionality of a cash register unit in the structure of an enterprise with a trade specific activity. Moreover, such a computer is usually equipped with several peripheral devices that significantly expand its functionality; they are often integrated into the system.

Thanks to the compact design of the POS computer case, there is quite a significant saving of working space, in addition motherboard is securely fixed and in most cases is equipped with a number of auxiliary connectors and keys that effectively lock to disks and other information storage devices present.

The features of the power supply of such a computer are, first of all, low power, which ranges around 100 W; depending on the modification, it is located inside or outside. The production of POS computers is not large in volume and such devices are not produced in large quantities, which directly affects their inflated cost compared to regular ones. However, the number of undeniable functional advantages that you will receive by purchasing such a POS computer in as soon as possible will cover the costs incurred for its purchase.

The POS computer is an integral part and the most important basis in organizing a cash settlement system has a number of undoubted advantages.

High level of reliability. This device many times more reliable in its performance properties than regular computer due to its original purpose for solving highly specialized problems different levels difficulties. The components that make up such a computer are subject to strict quality control and selection, which are based on the results obtained during numerous tests.

Ergonomics. As a rule, more than 10 POS devices can be easily installed at a checkout, given that compact computer is an essential condition and guarantee of ensuring effective and precise work cashier. There are a number of such computer models that are made with a number of features of modular cases, into which, if desired, you can install a monitor or a cash drawer using the slots of the system unit.

High functionality. Characteristic feature A POS system is the ability to connect to it and stable support of peripheral devices in large quantities; as a rule, both wired interfaces (COM, USB, RS) and non-wired ones are used for this. Additional conveniences are created thanks to the POS computer’s support for such media as DiscOnChip, Compact Flash or the like. And when active use portable devices Those responsible for storing information in a number of cases, you can abandon the use of hard drives, which significantly reduces the likelihood of system failures.

Performance. Modern POS computers fully comply with the list important requirements, which are important for high speed transmission data, such performance is achieved by purchasing a device with powerful processor on board and significantly increased memory capacity. Performance characteristics are most important in a number of cases when the computer is equipped with the functions of a cash register server.

(Point Of Sale - “point of sale”) are software and hardware integrated together to automate cashiers’ workplaces using fiscal recorders or receipt printers replacing them.

POS systems are used in various types of businesses, which is why they are supplied in a variety different options and configurations. The requirements of a retail store and a restaurant differ widely enough that there is no single solution that can fit every application. POS system is a combination of software and hardware components. In their development they have come a long way from simple computers And fiscal registrars. Selecting the right POS system components is the key to properly managing your business, maintaining customer satisfaction, and this in turn is the path to success. Best POS System one that will help you organize your business exactly the way you need.


Each enterprise is unique in its needs and process design, but a well-designed POS system can do his job in any type of business. The first step to choosing POS systems will determine your individual requirements.

  • Type of your business (product or service offered, market segment, B2B B2C...)? Is the solution required to be mobile?
  • How many operations are planned to be performed per day?
  • Will you work with debit or credit cards?
  • How many checkout places will you need? Do you have a network between workstations?
  • Is a reservation system necessary?
  • Do you need to connect a chain of stores?
  • Is it necessary to contact third party programs(such as accounting, commodity accounting)?

Information about how you will use and what features you need in POS system will help determine the best combination of software and hardware, which is suitable for your specific business.

POS System Basics

Every POS system consists of software and a set of basic hardware components. Before delving into the specifics of a particular business, let's look at a basic POS system.

Program

– this is the center of any system; it clearly determines what and how you can do at the checkout. The choice of program will depend on the functions you need and the conditions of use. Many POS programs very flexible and suitable for a range of businesses, but there are also specialized solutions, for example systems for restaurants or mobile points of sale. In addition to this, many applications come in Basic, Professional and Enterprise versions with different features.

So how can you determine which cash program suitable for Your business?

The best thing to do first is decide which features are important to your business. All programs can process basic trading operations but there is a long list additional functions, which you may or may not need. There are a number of specific functions that are needed in a service salon but not in a store, and some may be needed later in the process. Here are some of the many possibilities to consider:

  • Inventory Management– every business needs to manage its inventory and most cash register programs will help you track balances based on each sale. Up-to-date data for every minute will help you quickly satisfy customer requests.
  • Reports- one of great benefits, this is what it can tell you about your sales and buying habits. Most programs have all the basic reports, and some even have the ability to customize additional ones to give you the most complete picture of what's happening in your business.
  • Automatic procurement– by monitoring balances in the program, you will always know when goods run out in a warehouse or store. Some cash register programs, in addition, can prepare an order to the supplier for missing items and even prepare payment orders in the accounting program. You will never find yourself in a situation where a customer comes for a product that is not in your store.
  • Relationships with clients– loyalty programs, promotions, coupons and reservations are all possible with the right software. Achieve better service customers and they will contact you again!
  • Digital security– more and more purchases are made using bank cards. To ensure that your customers' payment data remains secure, the POS system and software it must meet safety standards.
  • Return procedure– returns and exchanges of goods occur in any business. The cash register program will help you carry out these operations painlessly for you and your clients.
  • Employee control– control of employees going to work and sales occurs due to their authorization at the checkout. All this information is available in the form of reports or uploaded to accounting program for salary calculation.

These are just some of the most common features of cash register software, but knowing exactly what your business needs will make it easy to choose the right one. When preparing a cash register, there is a desire to save on software, but giving up many functions can cost a lot of time and headaches in the future.

Equipment

Any POS system consists of several components to run the program, store the payment and print a receipt for the buyer. Your choice will ultimately depend on your application and application, but the following components are required for most automations.

Terminal/PC (personal computer)– all components of the POS system are connected to it. Many businesses can use standard PCs that fit system requirements for a cash register program and which have enough USB and COM ports to connect all devices. But it is better to use special POS computers that are produced in sealed cases with low power consumption; there are also all-in-one options (monoblocks) with a built-in touch screen and card reader to take up less space. If grocery stores can still use standard PCs, then a restaurant or boutique will most likely have to save space or adhere to a strict interior design, in which case the all-in-one option is preferable. Moreover, the quality may be mobile computer, which will allow you to create a completely mobile solution. In any case, the POS terminal or PC must withstand heavy daily loads and specialized equipment is much better suited for this.

– each operation at the checkout ends with the printing of a receipt for the client. The fiscal recorder is one of the most loaded devices, so make sure that it can handle your sales volume and is easy to use. Most modern fiscal recorders use the thermal printing method and no longer need to change the cartridge. Just charge the paper and you can work again! Regardless of the size or type of check, you will find a registrar that suits you.

Money box– The cash drawer is one of the simplest components of any POS system, but it is nevertheless very important to have a secure place to store cash, checks and bank terminal slips during the trading day. Typically, the box is connected to a fiscal recorder and is opened with each cash transaction in the box. Select secure box, which connects to your system and it will last a very long time.

Card reader / payment terminal – paying with payment cards today is as natural as paying in cash, so every POS system must be able to quickly read and process bank cards. Depending on the capabilities of the cash register program, you will only need a card reader or a separate full-fledged payment terminal, but in both cases you will be able to carry out transactions with customer cards.

– a scanner is a key part of many POS systems; with its help you can enter goods faster, which of course will significantly speed up the sales process. Standard laser scanners read all UPC barcodes on products, but 2D scanners are increasingly used to work with coupons and loyalty cards. Many scanners are manual, but for a POS system would be better suited an in-line, multi-planar scanner that is hands-free and provides more quick scan, and as a result, fewer queues!

Types of POS systems

Now that you have a basic knowledge of POS systems, you can begin to understand the types of systems to choose the one you need. All POS systems have the same basic set functions, but there are still many nuances on which the choice of software and hardware depends, so that your POS system works in accordance with the tasks of your enterprise.

Retail

Retail POS systems focus primarily on the “sale” transaction and tracking all the information associated with it. Most of basic functions cash programs, such as inventory control, sales reports, product return procedures and loyalty systems, are simply necessary in retail. Although any business needs reports, retail is especially important. detailed reports at the level of each product and product groups. Requirements from outside retail are the most extensive, but most cash register programs such as these take into account all retail needs.

As for equipment, of course you will need a barcode scanner to simplify entering information about the product and speed up sales processing. Because Most data is entered using a scanner, then, for example, all-in-one computers with a touch screen are of course useful, but not so essential in trading. Because Most likely, you will perform many transactions at the cash register every day, then it is worth taking care of a reliable fiscal registrar, such as, for example. A reliable scanner and fiscal recorder will ensure there are no queues and increase customer loyalty.

Restaurants-hotels

The big difference between a typical retail POS system and one used in restaurants and hotels is due to the differences in sales processing. In trading, all sales and payment information is entered immediately. In a restaurant or hotel, the order is fixed and paid only after it is fully completed. An appropriate POS system is capable of delaying an order until it is completed and payment has been accepted. In addition, she must be able to record client wishes, schedule reservations and monitor available tables/rooms. The interface of such a cash register program will be very different. In retail you mainly enter information using a barcode scanner, but in a restaurant or hotel it is much more convenient to use a touch screen. Therefore, to facilitate order entry, it is very important that the program interface be adapted to a touch screen, for example, such as Frontol:Restaurant.

From a hardware point of view, big difference from POS systems for retail on the importance of a barcode scanner. Although you will occasionally use a scanner in a restaurant or hotel, most transactions are entered manually in the cash register program itself using touch monitor. This is where a touch monitor can really make your job easier. Moreover, since working space Usually limited and a lot of tangled wires cause a lot of inconvenience, then a candy bar with a touch screen will be much preferable. A receipt printer is important in any POS system, but when you need to send orders to the kitchen or other place where the operating temperature is high, it is preferable to use a contact printer, for example Epson TMU 220D than thermal printers, which are good for printing customer receipts.

Mobile

Mobile POS systems do not differ in functionality from ordinary ones. The sales processes, tracking balances and printing receipts are the same everywhere. Mobile POS systems also easily support the processing of bank cards, provided there is access to the Internet. Cash register programs for mobile POS systems, as for all systems, will vary depending on the supported functionality, be it control of balances or some kind of reports. Some programs are the same as on conventional systems, while others are aimed only at saving transactions and subsequently synchronizing them with a regular cash register. The choice of software greatly depends on whether the mobile POS system will be completely independent or just an addition to the main system.

Since the main goal of a mobile POS system is to get rid of the fixed point of sale, the hardware is greatly affected. Instead of desktop computer You will run the cash register program on mobile device, for example, or even on a tablet. Most of these devices have both a scanner and a touch screen, which provides any options for entering information. The only thing that is missing is a fiscal registrar and a card reader (although models with these functions are already beginning to appear). If you have UNDV tax system, then you can use mobile printers such as Zebra MZ320. Mobile card readers are also abundant on the market, so you can easily add card functionality to any mobile solution. Same as with regular POS system, when choosing the right mobile solution You can make sales anywhere.

Choosing the Right POS System

A POS system that meets all the needs of your business is an important tool in enterprise management. In addition, it will allow you to focus on meeting the needs of your customers. Whether you have a retail store or a restaurant, decide how you will use the POS system and this will help right choice software and hardware. If you still find it difficult to make a choice or have any questions, please contact our POS system specialists. We'll be happy to help!

The prefix “POS-” denotes belonging to a retail outlet and is used in cases related to situations of increasing sales. Thus, POS material is advertising products placed near point of sale. It helps to increase demand for the product. POS (point of sale) is the point of sale itself, the cash register. A POS machine (terminal or system) is workplace cashier.

POS terminals and systems: what are they?

A POS terminal is a software and hardware complex for settlements with customers, which forms the cashier’s workplace and thanks to which trading operations are automated.

In Russia there is also the concept of “POS system”. It is separated from the concept of “POS terminal” only in our country (the concept of “POS machine” is used throughout the world). Nevertheless, for our country the difference is significant, and a lot depends on it.

Difference

POS system is a set of equipment that uses system unit. Periphery equipment connects to the system unit. Either a fiscal registrar (FR) or a receipt printer (CHP) can be used, depending on the type of taxation of the owner.

POS terminal is a monoblock in which the control unit, monitor and, if necessary, other components are combined into one housing. The POS terminal may also contain a fiscal registrar, or perhaps a CPM (check printing machine).

Sales data is stored in the central unit software. Amounts for shifts are stored in the fiscal memory of the FR. EKLZ also stores shift sums, but in an encrypted form that is protected from editing. The choice of software depends on the software functionality, convenience, cost and other similar factors.

Cash register equipment appears in the State Register at the initiative of the manufacturer. If the cash register is in the register, it can be used to register with the tax office and work on issuing a check to customers. If the cash register is part of the terminal, the entire terminal is entered into the register.

The sales receipt is printed at any cash register. Cash register owners who pay UTII are required to issue a check of the established form upon request.

Design

The POS system consists of several devices: computer part(system unit), fiscal registrar, cashier POS monitor, cash drawer, keyboard, reader for various types cards, barcode scanner, customer display.

The cashier enters items into the check using the keyboard personal computer or touch screen, and after punching the check they end up in the software. The amounts per shift enter the fiscal registrar, where they are stored in the fiscal memory in encrypted form.

POS systems can be prefabricated or monoblock.

  • Prefabricated POS systems exist on the basis of a system unit. As a rule, only the buyer’s monitor is displayed for public viewing; wires and peripherals are hidden. This option is often used in boutiques. Maintenance of the prefabricated system is more convenient.
  • Monoblock POS systems contain equipment inside one housing, thereby saving space. Thanks to the absence of wires, the equipment hardly fails. It is often chosen by shops, restaurants, and fast foods due to its compactness.

The prefabricated design involves two types of landing: frontal and classic. If the POS system is block-based, then its components can be placed so that the monitor, keyboard and printer are in front of the cashier’s eyes and between the cashier and the buyer (front seating). The choice of system depends on your field of activity.

Selecting and purchasing a POS system

The POS system must remain functional even in harsh conditions: dust, dirt, and liquid accidentally spilled on it must not affect its performance. And the fewer cash registers in your outlet, the more reliable each of them should be.

Thus, cafes and bars especially need a waterproof system: just one spilled cup can stop the work of an entire restaurant, disabling the only cash register. For fashion stores, they choose systems that allow you to hide all the wires under the counter. For construction hypermarkets, the POS system requires a standing workstation. It all depends on the field of activity.

Today, POS systems can be equipped with video surveillance systems for the cashier and be protected from accidental or intentional power outages.

The volume of payments through POS machines in the world is growing steadily. It's no surprise: Buyers and sellers around the world value speed and convenience.

Any business that involves accepting payments will require the purchase of cash register equipment. Among modern equipment, the most popular option is POS systems. They can be different, so you need to carefully select equipment, depending on the characteristics of the retail outlet or other establishment for which it is intended.

What is a POS system and why is it needed?

In the name of the equipment, the prefix POS indicates that this is equipment for a point of sale. Although this does not mean that the system can only be used in stores - such technology is used wherever there is a need to accept payments - in hotels, restaurants, various salons. A POS system performs functions similar to cash register equipment, but it has much more capabilities and allows you to automate payment transactions.

A POS system differs from a POS terminal in that it is a set of various devices that are connected to a system unit responsible for managing the entire set. The terminal is a monoblock, that is, all components are located in one housing. Such a division does not exist in all countries, and abroad both types of equipment are often called one definition - a POS machine. This is worth knowing if you plan to cooperate with foreign partners.

Components of a POS system

One of the most important components of the system is the cash program. This is software that is selected specifically for a certain area of ​​business, taking into account some specific needs and features. Without the program, the equipment simply will not work. In addition to various special features, there are also standard ones that are inherent in almost all programs:

  1. Cash register software can generate reports by collecting information about the quantity and level of sales, evaluating and analyzing them. The program already contains the basic forms of reports, but you can customize this section at your own discretion by adding some necessary items.
  2. Using the program, you can manage inventory; it will tell you how many product units are in stock, and whether it’s time to replenish their quantity. This helps to optimize your business and arrange deliveries on time to eliminate various delays and downtime.
  3. The program can take care of the procurement itself. If you configure it accordingly, then when the quantity of goods in the warehouse decreases, it will itself create a request for the supplier and prepare a payment order if the equipment is linked to an accounting program.
  4. You can make discounts and award various bonuses to customers. This eliminates any deception on the part of sellers; they will not be able to manipulate discounts.
  5. Each employee working at the cash register is authorized in the system using a special card and your own password, which will eliminate various frauds on the part of the staff.
  6. You can quickly make a return if the customer is dissatisfied with the product. The procedure will not take much time, which will avoid irritating the visitor even more.
  7. Modern systems have a sufficient level of security so as not to worry about the safety of all data.

To operate the program and set up the entire system, you will need a specialized computer. It is permissible to use conventional equipment if it complies necessary requirements, but it's better not to do this - user computers not intended to work with cash register equipment, they will quickly fail and begin to malfunction. In addition, a dedicated computer consumes less energy.

A fiscal registrar is necessary for keeping records of goods or services, as well as printing receipts. For popular establishments with a large flow of visitors, the speed of the device is important. And salons or restaurants often pay attention to the aesthetic design of the receipt. Therefore, you need to choose a registrar depending on the specifics of your business. It is also worth noting that thermal printing machines are not as noisy as matrix machines.

Selecting a cash drawer is not so difficult; you just need to decide on the dimensions, the number of required compartments, and also check the reliability of the lock and all internal elements. When assembling the system, the box is connected to the registrar and automatically opens when making a purchase or paying for a service.

A terminal or card reader is required to work with bank cards. Many people pay with them when making a purchase, so there is no way to do without such a device. For the device, speed during operations, as well as safety, are important.

Selecting POS systems for different areas of business

How to choose the right POS system? It depends on the area of ​​activity of the organization, the number of visitors and other nuances:

  1. For retail stores, quite a lot of functions are needed, since sales are carried out at such points large quantities different products, discounts are involved, there is a need to make returns, and you will also need to generate reports. Equipment you must have is a barcode scanner, a card terminal, and a fiscal recorder. It is better to choose a scanner with a visual search for goods - this will make the cashier’s work easier.
  2. In restaurants or hotels, the software will be different. The software must have the function of generating an order and adding it to the waiting list until payment is made. Also, in a restaurant it is necessary to take into account the planned and actual cost of dish ingredients. The program should work with various gifts and bonuses, and the check may require depositing additional information with the client's address if the restaurant has a delivery service.
  3. If we're talking about about a small cafe or bar, where there is little space behind the counter, then the POS system should be mobile type, and also with waterproof protection, as drinks may accidentally spill on it. Mobile systems also suitable for organizing outbound trade.

When choosing a system, you also need to decide on the following questions:

  1. Take into account the features of the goods or services offered, whether the trade will be wholesale or retail. The format of the activity is also important - business to business (B2B) or business to clients (B2C).
  2. The number of planned operations per day determines the required productivity.
  3. Need to count total number cash desks, and whether they will be connected into one system.
  4. Will there be one retail outlet or is it planned to open a chain of establishments?
  5. Will there be a need to connect with other programs - accounting or for accounting of goods?

Popular manufacturers

Many companies produce POS equipment because such equipment is in demand. Among the most famous and popular are several companies:

  1. The Atol company is quite well known in the market. It produces both technology and equipment, as well as software for trading systems. The organization became one of the largest IT suppliers for retail.
  2. The Mercata company produces POS systems intended for retail outlets selling food and non-food products, specialized retail, etc.

Using POS systems is current solution For various fields business, which will help optimize the operation of a retail outlet or establishment. Modern equipment significantly facilitates the cashier’s work, allows you to quickly resolve various issues when servicing customers, and also eliminates various inaccuracies and problems. A comprehensive POS system can be assembled individually to suit the needs of any enterprise.

POS system

POS system- this is a software and hardware complex operating on the basis of a fiscal registrar; A POS system is assigned a typical set of cash functions: accounting and issue of goods, acceptance and issuance of money, cancellation of a purchase, etc. Typically, the components of a POS system are called a POS computer, a POS monitor, a receipt printer, a fiscal registrar, a POS keyboard , customer display, cash drawer, magnetic card reader.

POS computer (or system unit)

A POS computer is a specialized system unit that acts as the basis of a POS system. Use in enterprises is due to its compact size and a sufficient number of connectors, making it possible to connect one or another peripheral device. The productivity of the entire system depends on how fast the POS computer runs.

POS monitor (or cashier monitor)

POS monitor is an information output device. Distinguish the following types cashier monitors: cathode ray tube monitors, liquid crystal and touchscreen. Using a touch monitor simplifies the control process because there is no need to connect a keyboard or mouse, although you can use additional devices input. Regardless of the type, the POS monitor has the properties of increased resistance and resistance to accidental damage

Receipt printer

A receipt printer is a device for printing checks, receipts, coupons, forms, logos, barcodes, etc. There are built-in printers, stationary printers, and printers with underlay printing on multilayer documents. Unlike the fiscal registrar, it is not the main device.

Fiscal registrar

A fiscal registrar is a receipt printer with a built-in fiscal memory; After receiving information through a communication channel, it is able to process it and print it. Data on cash transactions performed can be stored in fiscal memory for as long as desired, until the need to reset it to zero arises.

POS keyboard (or programmable keyboard)

A POS keyboard is required for data entry and command control. It is also called programmable due to the fact that code sequences (commands for each button) are written by a technician during installation of the equipment. The functionality of the POS keyboard depends on the number of possible programming levels.

Buyer display

Customer display - a device on which information is displayed interesting to the buyer: product price, name, final amount purchases, etc. Due to its use in the checkout area, it significantly speeds up the cashier’s work: there is no need to answer the buyer’s questions once again.

Money box

A cash drawer means a device for safe storage revenue in sections intended for paper and metal money. Locks provide protection against unauthorized access or burglary.

Card reader (or magnetic reader)

The card reader reads the code from the magnetic stripe of the plastic card. Connecting a card reader helps expand payment acceptance services. In addition, it allows you to run special programs loyalty for loyalty card holders. In some cases, the card reader also performs the function of employee identification (relevant in public catering places where the cashier is forced to leave his workplace unattended).

The difference between a POS system and a POS terminal

A POS system and a POS terminal are fundamentally different from each other in the location of the fiscal memory: for a POS system it is built into the printing device, for a POS terminal it is located in the computer unit.

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