RALEIGH, N.C., June 26, 2001 ... IBM today announced the new SurePOS 600
point-of-sale (POS) Series, which offers specialty retailers an affordable
point-of-service solution, Internet capability, and durable components, packaged
in a sleek design that preserves limited counter space. The new SurePOS 600
systems also are designed to link a retailer`s store, catalogs and online
operations for improved customer service.
With the new system, specialty retailers can access customer data from any
selling channel and can leverage the power of the Internet at the POS to build
customer loyalty, generate higher revenue per customer and increase operational
efficiency.
In addition, the SurePOS 600 features powerful multimedia capabilities, which
can serve to make employee training easier and more economical in an industry
where employee turnover can be high and labor is often in short supply.
"Consumers are looking for choices, convenience and outstanding service from
their retailers and they now have more retail choices than ever before. With the
latest technology, specialty retailers have the opportunity to meet these
consumer needs and build profitable customer relationships in their unique
markets," said Tom Peterson, general manager of IBM Retail Store Solutions.
"The SurePOS 600 equips sales associates with the e-business tools they need to
access and update a wide range of information across the retailer`s entire
enterprise. That transforms the point-of-sale into a comprehensive
point-of-service."
Reflecting IBM`s commitment to open standards, the SurePOS 600 also features
open platform compatibility and a choice of operating systems. IBM`s commitment
to an open platform will provide specialty retail operators with protection on
their investment for the life of the POS, as well as a variety of full-function
software application solutions from IBM Business Partners located worldwide.
IBM designed each member of the SurePOS 600 family with the latest computer
technology. Each model supports a choice of operating systems and driver
interfaces, including DOS 2000, Windows 98/2000/NT, OPOS and JavaPOS. Standard
options include a 400 MHz processor, 12.1 inch touch screen display, universal
serial bus (USB) connectivity, a 10.1 GB hard drive and the advanced
cooling-pipe technology. All of this advanced technology is protected with a
durable, spill-proof ergonomic casing allowing for improved cable management.
IBM has also developed a variety of color-matched peripherals, including the
thermal SureMark printer, which can print logos and customized messages, as well
as magnetic stripe readers, stereo speakers, cash drawers and customer displays.
Due to the high-end processing capabilities and the flexibility of operating
systems, specialty retail operators also have the option of an external CD-ROM
drive, dual screens and Internet access. For example, a CD-ROM might be a viable
replacement for a POS user manual, similar to computer-based training. Employees
could easily search the disc when they have a particular question about how to
complete a transaction with which they are not familiar, such as an out-of-state
check.
The IBM SurePOS 600 family also was designed to provide an integrated POS
solution for retailers. Depending on their requirements, customers can choose
from three different POS systems, each offering the same flexibility,
reliability and low cost of ownership. All models are equipped with an active
matrix LCD with the option of touch and non-touch configurations to provide an
affordable, in-store, point-of-service solution.
The three models are:
--The SurePOS 651 features a sleek design that combines an integrated active
matrix touch screen with enough processing power to support a full-function POS
or a combined POS with back-office applications. A personal computer memory card
expansion slot enables the use of wireless terminals where it is difficult to
route cable.
--The SurePOS 621 is optimized for specialty retail operators that want the
advantages of the SurePOS 651, such as the multimedia and wireless capabilities,
but are not considering a touch screen at the POS.
-- The SurePOS 611 can be the answer for specialty retailers looking for a
full function POS, but do not require the touch screen, multimedia capabilities
or wireless POS.
IBM Retail Industry
IBM, the world`s leading e-business and information technology company, provides
the Retail Industry with a full range of e-business solutions, including:
hardware and software technology; consulting focused on business transformation,
IT strategy and planning, store operations improvement, and supply chain
optimization, and with services, such as outsourcing, managed operations,
systems integration, and application development and design. For more
information on IBM Retail Solutions, please visit www.ibm.com/solutions/retail
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