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Mobile StoreTrader goes a BOM

One of the attractive features of StoreTrader is that it runs on mobile versions of Windows as well as the desktop editions. That’s right – the same software, with no programming changes, runs on a Windows CE or Mobile 5 PDA or handheld computer. This removes the need for training assistants on two or more systems, and it improves reliability because it’s the same software being used for all transaction types. These were major factors in Virgin Trains’ decision to use StoreTrader in the buffet shop and with the buffet trolley on their high speed trains.

But one of the drawbacks in using a mobile system for taking customer payments is just that – how do you take the money without carrying a Chip & PIN terminal around with you as well?

The PinPOS from Bristol Office Machines solves the problem with an elegant handheld device which combines two units in one: a Windows Mobile 5 PDA on one side and a pinpad on the other. And StoreTrader is the first independent application to take advantage of the PinPOS to deliver full-function StoreTrader PoS software with an integrated credit or debit card payments system.

So now you can enter the sale transaction using the built-in barcode reader, or by using any of StoreTrader’s facilities like preset keys, searches and drop-down lists, and then select ‘Card Payment’ from the available payment types.

StoreTrader fills in the sale amount so that when you turn the PinPOS unit over you can simply slip the card into reader slot for the pinpad to contact the authorising bank via WiFi or GPRS.

When the transaction is approved, simply flip the unit over again to ask StoreTrader to print a composite receipt on a nearby printer – perhaps a lightweight unit on your belt connected by Bluetooth. All done!