This structure describes the POS in branches of a retail chain using Linux. It contains the POS terminals of the branches as well as the server for communication and configuration in the head office, which communicates with the branches e.g. via both the prevailing ORACLE solution and Internet connection.

 

Cash terminals in branches (Linux)

Depending on the model the POS are equipped with a keyboard and an operator display or a touch screen. Over and above that, our cash points have both a cash drawer and a thermal slip printer. The cash desks operate with the following modes of payment: Cash, EC-card (ELV), credit card and voucher. As for payments without cash an online-authorization is arranged using the existing Internet gateway. Moreover, the magnetic card reader is able to identify the store card with function to pay and bonus system. The payment gets authorized in the head office. 

 

Cash server in the head office (Linux)

The KORONA server represents the connecting link between cash points and the prevailing ORACLE system in the head office. The server is located in the head office or in an external computer centre. It has a permanent Internet connection with a permanent address. The download of the data information in XML format is available to the branches. As an alternative of the SSL connections using Internet, transfers via VPN are possible.

 

Back office positions in the head office (Windows)

Master data administration, evaluation and materials management are arranged at one or more workplaces in the office. However, there is an additional possibility to fulfil these tasks at an external one via Internet. For this purpose it is not necessary to install any special software at PCs in the office, because the system is completely operated via web interfaces in the Internet browser. The evaluation can be carried out as a whole or for every branch.