• What is a DigiPoS?

The DigiPoS range of systems are purpose-built retail and hospitality point of sale (pos) computers.

Their design was created out of a need for flexible POS solutions, allowing retailers to customize their systems to fit their specific needs, thus reducing costs and increasing their return on investment.

The DigiPoS does this by offering a wide range of features such as an external power supply (that can easily be swapped out in case of failure), powered serial ports (increased conectivity to other pos devices), internal fuses (to block mother board failures as a result of power spikes), as well as added security and cable management features.

In addition, and most importantly, it comes with the DigiPoS Diagnostics software to locate and diagnose failures in seconds (even before it happens!) saving valuable time and money for tech support call outs.

We stand behind the DigiPoS range of systems and peripherals so much that we have backed each system up with the industry's only three-year warranty program, which demonstrates our commitment in providing high quality POS hardware for even the most demanding environment.

FEATURES & BENEFITS:

Embedded on the 8MB Disk on Chip which ships with every DigiPoS base unit is a diagnostic utility called The Global Systems Manager that will provide significant information about the DigiPoS base unit and peripheral devices. Because it boots directly from the disk on chip, this utility can eliminate software/hardware finger pointing by determining if a peripheral device is operating properly external to the application and operating system. In addition, this feature is extremely useful for improving service levels and depot repairs because it allows the right component or part to arrive at the store after a simple phone call.

The DigiPoS power supply is an external unit for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it allows for a smaller footprint base unit while still providing ample power for the base unit and all of the peripheral devices (a 250 watt power supply is standard, compared to 40-80 watts from a traditional PC). The second reason for the external unit is the ease of replacement. The power supply in any PC or POS terminal is the single largest point of failure. By making it external to the unit with a positive latching connector, it is simple to replace in the event of a problem and completely secure when connected to the unit.

Unfortunately, power spikes, brownouts and static electricity are all unavoidable hazards. The consequences of power related problems on computer equipment are significant and sometimes costly since inevitably it is the motherboard that is affected by the event. The DigiPoS system employs a bank of fuses built into the board to minimize the impact of such events. Should a power surge or static hit the DigiPoS, one of the internal fuses will blow before damage to the motherboard or other internal circuitry can occur. The fuses themselves are standard automotive fuses, which are both readily available and inexpensive compared to the alternative of a blown motherboard. In addition, this feature also protects all RS232 connected peripherals.

One of the many drawbacks of using a standard PC / Cash drawer configuration is that each peripheral device requires its own external power supply. The DigiPoS system provides four powered serial ports that allow power to be provided to each connected device through the existing interface cable. This feature eliminates the need for individual power supplies and cuts the number of cables at the point of sale in half. Not only does this provide a more efficient configuration, it will improve reliability by reducing the number of cables required.

In creating a retail specific terminal, it is extremely important to understand the possible environments where the unit will be required to function. POS base units are often installed in poorly ventilated areas or have otherwise obstructed airflow to and from the unit. This fact, along with the increased heat generated by newer CPU chipsets can produce overheating problems with standard PC cooling technology. DigiPoS' unique liquid cooling technology radiates heat away from the CPU and graphics chipsets, keeping them far cooler than a traditional cooling fan approach.

Powered serial ports eliminate the need for external power supplies. Taking it a step further, DigiPoS Systems has created cable sets that allow for further reduction in cabling and better identification of the cables that are required. For example, a typical receipt printer requires a power cable, an interface cable and a cash drawer kick cable. DigiPoS Systems has developed a single cable that houses all three functions. The cable is easily identified and therefore makes telephone support significantly easier along with the obvious reduction of clutter and mess behind the register. An optional rear cover for the DigiPoS system adds to the management of cables and reduces the chance of prying eyes and hands removing a cable from the back of the unit. For above counter installations, this is often a necessity.

As retail space becomes more expensive, it is increasingly important that all available space be used to its fullest potential. The DigiPoS system enables retailers to choose a powerful, retail purpose-built open platform that requires a minimum of space. At 11" x 11" x 3", the DigiPoS system is ideal for when valuable inches are at a premium.