Accessories for POS systems continue to set the pace for the POS industry as both demand and supply for the products continue to increase. The sector is rapidly passing from the growth stage and is already becoming an important line among many companies.
POS systems, sometimes referred to as Point of Purchase, make up the payment terminals where the purchase transaction typically occurs. They are made up of hardware and software components and manage the sales process through a user-friendly interface managed by a salesperson. The system is responsible for creating the payment invoice and receipt.
Most systems essentially include a thermal printer, barcode scanner, and keyboard. Other accessories are LCD screens, kits and cash registers.
A thermal printer produces the most tangible aspect of the purchase and creates the receipt. The paper used is thermochromic or thermal paper, which turns black in heated areas. Most of the models on the market are very cost-effective compared to the traditional dot-matrix printer, which is often too cumbersome to use and more noisy.
Most thermal printers come in basic form factors. Most are entry-level and mid-range lines. Higher-end products are often printer replacements that come bundled with original complete systems and often have wireless modules and better aesthetics.
Price considerations for today’s available printers center around compatibility, print speed, and ingress protection from various enclosures. For example, most models use the direct printing method and ESC/POS emulation. They can print at speeds of at least 150mm/s and have a resolution of 8 dots/mm.
New releases from many providers can connect with many terminals and can be easily installed on different platforms. Newer printers, particularly the luxury selections, are integrated with Bluetooth modules for wireless connectivity. They are also suitable for use on rugged sites. Most of these feature an easy-to-clean casing that is resistant to moisture, corrosion, and mildew. Expect more portable and handheld models in the coming months.
Barcode scanners or readers are electronic devices for reading printed barcodes. They consist of a light source, a lens, and a light sensor that converts optical impulses into digital codes.
Conventional scanners used in the retail sector come in handheld or pistol-style forms, and freestanding or under-counter scanners. The handheld type uses single line scanning, while the bedside or freestanding scanners are omnidirectional. Both CCD and laser based units adopt 1D scanning. The latest, more expensive models use 2D and can read squares, dots, hexagons, and other geometric patterns in images.
High-end wireless units are seen to gain ground in the coming months.
Keyboards for POS systems come in conventional and encryption units. The former dominate the market and are labeled for the low-end and mid-range markets. They are mostly made by PC input device vendors. The second type is considered exclusive and is widely used by banks and many other financial institutions.
Accessories for POS systems are expected to meet market demand while seeking product development for future transaction systems. Expect R&D for the sector to focus on scan speed, scan area, and ergonomics.