Why choose an IBM register over a PC register?
| POS | PC | |
|---|---|---|
| Visual |  |
 |
| Life span | 7 to 8 years | 3 to 5 years |
| Product Line Renewal | +/- 5 years
Stability of the on-board software, even in the case of POS evolution. Software portability guaranteed by IBM. |
Every 6 months
Fundemental changes in components can create significant problems when replacing a PC. |
| Reliability | Tested on-site, in your actual shop environment: raised temperatures, shocks to the hard disk, dust, dirt, perturbations of the electrical system. | Tested for office or home use. Rapid deterioration of equipment when subjected to intensive in-store use (keyboard, hard disk, etc...) |
| Appearance and Disposition | Clean and compact (cables hidden and secured), doesn't interfere with shop's own brand or image.
No risk of inoppurtune deconnections (clients, cleaners, ...) |
Large quantity of unsightly yet visible cables gives impression of a hobbyist's home set-up!
Very real risk of problems linked to accidental deconnection of various elements. |
| Unified image of hardware | Even if the electronics change over time, the appearance of the POS will be conserved, guaranteeing a unified look for your check-out array. | Rapid turnover of models and looks mean that you can't avoid a bric-a-brac of different machines (unless you replace all of them each time only one needs replacing) |
| Shop integration | Well adapted, 12" LCD screen, kit for integrated configuration at the check-out | Unusually large screen for retail, and mobile (read "wandering") components (printer, keybourd, etc). |
| Protection | Protection of the electronic components of the POV | Standard PCs are much less "sure" and incidents of all kinds are likely, often random ("system crash") and difficult so solve. |
| Maintenance | Guaranteed, on-site, by a qualified technician | Usually by returning unit to the factory, and then re-installation of the repaired item without technical assistance |
| Guarantee | All IBM POS systems are delivered with a one year, on-site guarantee | Extending the guarantee to on-site is optional (and extra!) |
| Availability of components | Components are available up to many years after the end of production of a model | Rapid disappearance of components stocks means the whole machine must be replaced (including the peripherals... printer, keyboard, etc). |
| IBM | 1.3 millions POS systems installed
25 years of experience in POS |