pos hardware information

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You might find my experience helpful.
 We run a small retail women's clothing boutique and currently using
SQL-Ledger.  Planning on converting to LedgerSMB hopefully this weekend.
 I assume that for this particular topic, that there should be minimal
differences between SQL-Ledger and Ledgersmb.  My environment consists
of SQL-Ledger running on SUSE Linux.  We have a typical Windows XP
workstation that we use as our POS hardware, and also have a receipt printer.
 Since we have everything barcoded, hope to add a barcode scanner
shortly.  So far what I have found is the key decision is picking
a receipt printer that is compatible with the printing system (i.e. CUPS).
 We chose a TSP 600 from Star Micronics.  They provide the appropriate
Linux drivers so setting this up was fairly easy.  In addition, it
includes a port to connect a cash drawer to it so that when the receipt
printer prints, it can control the opening of the cash drawer.  We
are not currently using that feature as of yet.  Our printer is connected
to a wireless print server so it does not have to be physically connected
to the Windows XP workstation.  This gives me the ability to enter
sales remotely, and print the receipt at the store.  Our users enter
all sales through the browser.  The GUI is not as flashy as many boxed
Integrated POS systems, but provides a lot of flexibility when it comes
to integrating with other systems.  We are currently in the process
of implementing a CRM system (i.e. SugarCRM) and exploring how to best
to integrate key information.  Same goes for an online E-Commerce
store.  I am guessing this would be next to impossible if you were
using something like QuickBooks, especially if you are running several
retail outlets.  With SQL-Ledger/LedgerSMB, I can have one server
hosting the application, and all retail outlets can connect to it via the
Internet, assuming of course you have addressed appropriate security measures.

Best Regards,
Steven Marshall

Taty Lee Boutique
11705 Jones Bridge Rd., B206
Alpharetta, GA 30005
770-410-6964

"Once you experience the stylish comfort of Brazilian-cut jeans, you
will demand nothing less!"