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  1. APG Cash Drawers are now available in Australia

    POS'99 is supplying the high quality APG Cash Drawer to a number of small and large corporations in Australia and New Zealand.

    APG Cash Drawer requirements are mostly project based, and as such have a lead time of approximetly 4 weeks.

    The APG Cash Drawer range consist of the following options:

    Best - Performance Solutions Range:

    Exceeding customer and industry expectations, Performance cash drawers are the ultimate heavy duty cash drawers. 

    4 Million Transaction guarantee, 5 Year Warranty, Made for high volume operations such as: Fast food, C-Stores, Grocery.

    Series 4000 Cash Drawer (Part Number starts with “J”):

    • – Sizes range from (13 x 17) to (18.8 x 21) inches
    • – Painted or stainless steel front
    • – Rugged steel construction for demanding environments
    • – Limited Lifetime Warranty* (*Online Registration Required) 

    Series 100 Cash Drawer (Part Number starts with “T”):

    • – Sizes (16 x 16) or (16 x 19.5) inches
    • – One piece injection-molded inner drawer
    • – Small footprint with full size heavy duty till

     

    Better - Standard Solutions Range: 

    Standard cash drawers are a cost-effective solution for moderate volume environments, and includes features such as multi-function locks and drawer status reporting, found in more expensive cash drawers.

    1 Million Transactions, 3 Year Warranty, Medium volume such as: Hospitality, Retail

    Vasario™ Series Cash Drawer (Part Number starts with “V”):

    • – Sizes range from (13 x 13) to (19 x 15) inches
    • – Painted or stainless steel front
    • – Manual option availabl

     

    Good - Economical Solutions Range:

    APG's Entry level cash drawers, are cost-effective, highly functional economical cash drawers that offer excellent value for lower cash volume locations.

    500,000 Transactions, 1 Year Warranty, Low volume such as: Kiosk, Food truck, Pop up retail stores.

    Entry Level Cash Drawer (ECD)

    • – Size includes 16 x 16.5 inches
    • – Painted steel
    • – Hardwired printer interface

     

    Popular APG Cash drawer models include the following:

    • - Series 1150 Cash Drawer
    • - Series 1150 Brochure Series 1150 Spec Sheet
    • - Series 1517 Cash Drawer
    • - E3000 Cash Drawer
    • - E3600 Flip-Top Cash Drawer
    • - E3900 Cash Cassette Series
    • - STD2000 Cash Drawer

     

    Please contact us for more information and pricing, thanks!

     

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  2. What is the difference between Laser, CCD, Linear Imager or Omnidirectional barcode scanners?

    The use of barcode scanner imagers (CCD, Linera Imagers) has been increasing due to the adoption of 2D symbols in many warehousing and Point of Sale ("POS") applications. Laser scanners are generally  more accurate and scan barcodes with higher speeds in most applications.

    The best barcode scanning solution for you will be dictated by requirements of an application, the enviroment and your budget.

     

    Lining up the barcode: Omnidirectional vs CCD, Laser and Linear Imager

    - CCD, Laser and Linear Imager barcode scanners are single line, hand-held or hands free, barcode scanners and you must line up the barcode to scan it.

    - Omnidirectional is a form of Laser scanning specifically for hands free scanning, and projects multiple lines (or lasers) so that you can easily and quickly swipe a barcode past without even having to line up the barcode. This scanning techonolgy is popular in high traffic areas such as convenince stores, fuel stations, and liquor stores.

     

    Laser vs CCD vs Linear Imager vs Omnidirectional

    Laser

    Disperses a laser dot into a thin solid line and in turn projects it onto a barcode. The laser beam repeatedly moves from left and right, hence the scanner has moving parts.

    Advantage: They can scan in direct sunlight (in most instances), and project a thin, very precise laser beam onto the barcode. Using laser scanners allows for the reading of wide and distant bar code labels.

    Disadvantage: Struggles to scan small barcodes or high resolution barcodes (Not as good ion as Linear Imager scanners), and has moving parts that can break.

     

    CCD (Charged Coupled Device) 

    Light detectors aligned in a single row eluminates the barcode, and an actual lens in the scanner reduces the full barcode image onto the imaging sensor. CCD barcode scanner technology is based on camera imaging technology.

    Advantage: This method is great for capturing very high resolution details along with widened color space. It can also scan folded lines, and has no moving parts.

    Disadvantage: Has a close scanning range, and is generally not used for medium to long distance scanning.

     

    Linear Imager

    Based on the same technology as CCD scanners (imager), but has a longer range, comparible to Laser barcode scanners.

    Advantage:  Able to scan smaller barcodes than lasers scanners. Genreally more rugged than Laser scanners because they have no moving parts.

    Disadvantage: Usually can't scan in direct sunlight

     

    Omnidirectional

    The next level up from normal Laser barcode scanners, it projects 20 or more lines (instead of a single line), so that you don't have to line up the barcode as you swipe it fast. It's ideal for fast hands free scanning.

    Advantage: No need to line up the barcode when swiped fast. Ideal for hands free or presentation scanning.
     

    So which one works for me?

    For short range scanning: CCD scanners are a good choice if price is an issue and occasionally scanning barcodes.

    For long range scanning: Laser scanners are geenrally the best choice, with some rugged scanners able to scan up to 100 meters long. 

    Laser vs Linear Imager: For the vast majority of applications ir won't make a diffrence choosing between a Linear Imager or a Laser, unless you need to scan really small barcodes (use Linear), or you have to scan in sunlight (use Laser).

    Hands free scanning: Omnidirectional is almost always better than Laser or Linear Imager because it has multiple beams negating the need to line up the barcode onto a single beam.

     

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  3. Zebra Desktop Label Printer Comparison

    This comparison of the Zebra series of 4 inch desktop label printers includes the GC420, GK420 and GX420 printers

    These are alll desktop printers suited for light to medium volume barcode and label printing, and include 2 inch and 4 inch printers. 2 inch printers are used mostly for printing barcodes up to 54mm wide, and 4 inch printers are used mostly for printing shipping labels and larger barcode labels. All the models are available in either direct thermal technology (Model "D"), or direct thermal and thermal transfer techonology (Model "T"), and come in either 203 dpi or 300 dpi print resolution.

    The main differences between these three lines of printers are their print speed and interface options. As the price increases it will provide more interface options, additional options such as auto cutters, and better print speeds.

    Here is a summary of the benefits and differences of these label printers:

    Zebra GC420 (Replaced the Zebra TLP2844)

    A simple, entry-level desktop label printer in this series, and is the most competitively priced.
    Delivers quality, durability and reliable performance for low to medium volume printing applications.
    Print speed: 4 inches per second .
    Interface options: USB, Serial, Parallel.
    Thermal Direct (GC420d) and Thermal Transfer (CG420T) models are available.

     

    Zebra GK420 (Replaced the Zebra LP2844)

    A solid mid-range printer in this series, reliably prints clear labels and barcodes. 
    Has faster print speeds and network manageability for medium to large organisations.
    Fast print speed: 5 inches per second.
    Interface options: Ethernet, USB, Serial, Parallel.
    203 dpi, Thermal Direct (GK420d) and Thermal Transfer (GK420t) models available.
    Additional options include: ZebraNet® 10/100 Print Server & Asian and international font kits

     

    Zebra GX420 and GX430

    The highest-performance printer in this series, the GX420 is flexible and and efficient. 
    Provides the fastest print speeds, and packed with extra features and options.
    Print speed: 5 inches (GX420) and 6 inches (GX430) per second.
    Interface options: WiFi 802.11b/g, Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB, Serial, Parallel.
    203 dpi (GX420) or 300 dpi (GX430)
    Thermal Direct (GX420d or GX430d) and Thermal Transfer  (GX420t or GX430t) models available.
    Additional options include: LCD screen, Adjustable media sensor for black line media, Auto Cutter

     

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  4. Does my printer have a Serial or Parallel Connection?

    Interface on the Computer:

    The parallel port found on computers is for connecting peripherals, where many bits of data are sent at once, in parallel communication, and requires multiple data lines in their cables and are also larger than the modern serial ports. Modern computers tend to be manufactured without serial ports, and require serial-to-USB converters to allow compatibility with Serial / RS-232 serial devices.

    The serial port is a serial communication interface, that sends bits of data, one at a time, requiring one data line and are smaller than the parallel ports. Suprisingly and interestingly, interfaces such as Ethernet, FireWire, and USB sends data as a serial stream. Serial port identifies hardware as compliant to the RS-232 standard, intended to interface with a modem or with a similar communication device.

    Serial ports are still used in applications like point of sale systems, scientific instruments, industrial automation systems, and some industrial and consumer products. Server computers may use a serial port as a control console for diagnostics. Network equipment (such as routers and switches) often use serial console for configuration. Serial ports are used in these areas as they are simple, cheap and their console functions are highly standardized and widespread. A serial port requires very little supporting software from the host system.

     

    Interface on the Printer:

    Pre-2000, desktop printers had one of two interfaces: serial and parallel. The type of interface decreed how fast the cable between printer and computer carried data.

    A parallel interface was faster, using a thicker, more complex cable.

    The serial printers were cheaper but slower though it allowed for larger distances between the printer and computer.

    Today, the parallel port interface is practically non-existent because of the popular Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices, along with network printing using Ethernet and Wi-Fi connected printers.

     

    Examples of Cables:

    The parallel interface needs many wires to carry 8 or more bits of a byte at a time, adding to the cable's complexity and cost.

    Cables for serial printers use multi-wire cables fitted with nine or 25-pin "D" type miniature connectors, one pair of wires for sending, one for receiving, an electrical ground and data signalling wires. It uses two wires to carry data each way, sending data one bit at a time. A printed document becomes a stream of ones and zeros in single file.

     

    Sources:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parallel_port

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serial_port

    http://smallbusiness.chron.com/serial-printer-57640.html

    https://www.techwalla.com/articles/difference-parallel-port-serial-port

    http://www.starasia.com/Download/Manual/sp700-9w_hm_en.pdf

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  5. How to open the Star Micronics mPOP cash drawer

    Troubleshoot when the Star Micronics mPOP cash drawer does not open

    There are two methods to open the mPOP cash drawer:

    1. Manual method: You can use the lock release lever to open the cash drawer by hand.

    2. Electronic method: If the "drawer open function" has been programmed with the multi-function button, you can use the multi-function button to open the drawer. Please note than anyone with access to the mPOP will be able to open the drawer if they know about this feature.

     

    Manual method:

    1. Use the lock release lever:

      a. Free the mPOP unit which may be secured by brackets or the mount kit.

     

    2. Open the cash drawer:

    a. With the left side or right side of mPOP at the bottom, lift and operate the lock release lever located towards the back on the bottom surface

    b. Insert something slim and tapered in the hole of the lock release lever (like a pen) and by sliding this to the front side the cash drawer will open.

    Warning: As tilting mPOP too much will cause the contents of the cash drawer to spill out when the drawer is opened, do not tilt more than necessary when lifting mPOP. Be careful, as the cash drawer will spring open.

     

    Electronic method: Using the multi-function button

     

    1. To Enable or Disable the multi-function button:

    a. Download the mPOP Utility App on you iPad/Android device: www.star-m.jp/mpop-app.html
    b. Open the MPOP Utility app, and ensure that the MPOP is connected to the App, and that the status light on the mPOP is solid blue.
    c. On the lower tab of the app, select “Settings”
    d. Be careful what you do here, you may invalidate your mPOP warranty if you change the wrong settings.
    e. Now select: “Memory Switch Settings” (Green icon)
    f. On the “Function” tab, scroll down to reach “Drawer Open Switch”. Tap on it, and select “Enable” to Enable the multi-function button, or Disable to stop using the multi-function button to open the cash drawer.

     

    2. Now open the cash drawer using the multi-function button:

    a. Turn the power on and press the power switch on the side of mPOP.


    b. Pull out the printer and push the front face of the printer to unlock and pull out the printer.


    c. Open the cash drawer and press and hold (1 second or more) the multi-function button to open the cash drawer. 


    Note: Be careful as the cash drawer will spring open

     

    Need mPOP receipt paper rolls? Click here to purchase:

    57mm wide x 36 diameter - Box of 50 Rolls 

    57mm wide x 47 diameter - Box of 48 Rolls 

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  6. What is WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)?

    WPS is short for Wi-Fi Protected Setup and it is a wireless networking standard that makes connections between a router and wireless devices faster and easier. It works only for wireless networks / routers that have WPA Personal or WPA2 Personal security. WPS doesn't provide support for wireless networks using the deprecated WEPsecurity.

    In a normal network setup, you can't connect a wireless device to a wireless network unless you know its network name (aka SSID) and its password (aka the WPA-PSK key). On the devices you must first pick the network you want to connect to and then enter its security password. This is where the WPS comes in to simplify the connection process.

    There are several ways you can connect to a wireless network using WPS:

    1. First, press the WPS button on your router to turn on the discovery of new devices. Then, go to your printer, laptop, tablet or smartphone and select the network you want to connect to. Your device gets automatically connected to the wireless network without entering the network password.

    2. You may have devices like wireless printers or wireless range extenders with their own WPS button that you can use for making a quick connection. You connect them to your wireless network by pressing the WPS button on the router and then on those devices. You don't have to input any data during this process. WPS automatically sends the network password and these devices remember it for future use. They will be able to connect to the same network in the future without you having to use the WPS button again.

    3. A third method involves the use of an eight-digit PIN. All routers with WPS enabled have a PIN code that's automatically generated and it cannot be changed by users. You can learn this PIN from the WPS configuration page on your router. Some devices without a WPS button but with WPS support will ask for that PIN. If you enter it, they authenticate themselves and connect to the wireless network.

    4. A fourth and last method also involves using an eight-digit PIN. Some devices without a WPS button but with WPS support will generate a client PIN. You can then enter this PIN in your router's wireless configuration panels and the router will use it to add that device to the network.

    The first two methods are both secure and very quick, the last two are insecure and they do not provide any benefits in terms of connecting devices to a wireless network faster than usual. Typing that eight-digit PIN and typing the wireless network password is just as fast. The fourth method of connecting to a wireless network is even slower, because you have to access the router's wireless configuration section and type the PIN provided by the client device.

     

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  7. How to Enable CUPS Printer Interface for your Mac

    CUPS is a network printing service used on Mac computers, and allows you to setup your printers on a network, and customise options such as the page settings, cash drawer setup, etc.

    1. Go to http://localhost:631/printers/

    A screen will appear saying 'Web Interface is Disabled'

    To enable CUPS:

    1. Select and copy the following text: "cupsctl WebInterface=yes"

    2. Next, click on the magnifying glass in the top right hand corner of your screen and search for "Terminal".

    3. Once in the terminal programme, paste teh following text into it: "cupsctl WebInterface=yes" and click enter.

    Now you should be able to go to http://localhost:631/printers/ and find/view your installed printers.

    To change settings for your printer, or to set up your cash drawer for example, click the desired printer, and modify the options provided.

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  8. Paypal Here Compatible Receipt Printers

    August 2016

    PayPal Here and the PayPal Here card reader for your iPhone and iPad is designed to support a variety of printers, cash drawers, and iPad Stands.

    PayPal does not currently have a PayPal branded receipt printer.

    You can use the following receipt printers, in addition to printers that are AirPrint or ePrint enabled with your iPhone and iPad :

    Star Micronics:

    Epson:

    • TM-T20-LAN
    • TM-T20 II-LAN
    • TM-T82 II-LAN
    • TM-T82-LAN

    Paypal Here Android compatible portable printers (Not available in Australia):

     

    PayPal Here for iPad also works with cash drawers that connect to the Star or Epson receipt printers. Examples include the APG Vasario 1416 and APG Vasario 1616 (USA Only). Or the POSBOX, VPOS or NEXA Cash drawer available in Australia (We ship to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, and all rural locations) 

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  9. NETO & POS'99 Partnership

    Neto Launches All-In-One POS System For Small Business and announces POS'99 as the official hardware partner

    Two Aussie companies are partnering in creating a fully integrated PS solution for retailers — one of them being Telstra-owned e-commerce platform Neto, and POS’99, a reseller of popular POS hardware.

    The POS solutions are a way of combining online and offline storefronts in one centralised platform — the way Neto describes it, small online stores can now move easily into an offline presence, and offline storefronts can bring their businesses online in a way that combines perfectly with their store POS systems.

    “We’re seeing a lot of smaller online retailers have a desire to set up a physical store, but previously they have struggled to unify their online and offline presence, which has made running both sides of the business challenging,” said Neto COO, Jason Titman. “Through the Neto platform, and backed by POS’99’s hardware, this is no longer an issue. We’re making it easy and seamless for retailers to sell across all of their channels.”

    Instead of using custom hardware, Neto and POS’99 are selling POS packages that are compatible with common hardware — such as PCs, iPads, and Mac — with offerings from POS’99 including cash drawers, stands, receipt printers and scanners. These are all sold either separately or in easy bundles.

     


     

    http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2016/06/neto-is-launching-an-all-in-one-pos-system-for-small-business/

     

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  10. New Star TSP143iii LAN / Ethernet printer

    The new Star TSP143iii LAN is faster, has a longer cutter life, comes with auto decurl function to enable easy QR code reading.

    From a software perspective, this new printer will operate exactly the same as the previous TSP143 LAN, and will run on all the compatible POS software like Vend, Hike, Meza App, Neto, Shopify, ERPLY etc.

    The new TSP143III LAN also works happily with Star’s new Digital Receipting service AllReceiptsHow does this work? The printer immediately sends an image of the printed receipt with full colour promotional image or advertising to the Cloud for anonymous retrieval by the customer, there is no need for phone number or email address. Retailers will now be able to receive instant feedback on customer satisfaction as well as provide promotional material on their customer’s smartphone. The customer, in turn, will have an exciting new mobile App to manage their receipts digitally by date, type or retailer with backup & print facility. 

     

    Comparison of OLD and NEW Model:

     

     

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