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Handheld computer POS terminals represent a quantum shift in point of sale devices. Devices are more versatile than existing standard PC based point of sale systems, providing greater versatility of functions and for wireless connectivity to the network. Both 802.1x fixed wireless and 2.5 / 3G wireless data solutions are supported by the new POS systems permitting seamless transport of information to enterprise systems. Transport does depend on middleware integration software.
Markets grow because systems leverage customer loyalty programs to increase sales. Incentive pricing, coupon management, repeat business, customer service and managed transaction systems all can be implemented in an efficient manner using the handheld terminal computers. Both the scanner and the handheld terminal have separate computing capability to create efficient systems.
Handheld points of sale computer unit market shipments at 7 million in 2004 are anticipated to reach 53 million by 2011. Markets will grow as the retail and inventory process is made significantly more efficient by portable terminal function set including wireless transport and capability. E-commerce initiatives are enabled. Implementation depends on groups of people defining goals together to achieve a common goal. That goal is sometimes elusive. |