By: Larry Greenberg, Director of Sales and Marketing at MMF POS

The DC/POS world is filled with the latest high tech devices and software.  When assembling POS bundled solutions, the first thoughts are getting the POS software loaded, key injection for pin pads, or how the latest RFID chips will track purchases at retail.  Often overlooked (or last to be considered) are the basic, and yet most essential pieces of hardware that complete and support the entire POS system —  cash drawers, payment terminal stands and other secured mounts.

Let’s start by analyzing the cash drawers:

Top Ten questions that should be considered when selecting a cash drawer: 

1. Will the cash drawer connect directly to a POS system (regular PC / All-in-One) or a printer?
2. If connecting to a POS system, does it need a USB, RJ-12 or Bluetooth connection?
3. What is the volume of cash transactions? (Light, Medium, or Heavy Duty?)
4. Does the drawer offer Loss Prevention features that help prevent cash shrinkage? (e.g., illumination for an optimal security camera view)
5. Can it help identify counterfeit bills in dimly lit or outdoor environments?
6. How flexible is it for indoor/outdoor environments? (weather resistance)
7. What is the footprint needed to fit into the available POS counter space?
8. Will the other POS peripherals be sitting on top of it? Is a platform needed to help organize and secure those peripherals?
9. Are extra cables needed, especially if there are multiple drawers at each station?
10. For expedited cashier turnover, are additional tills required? (This could provide additional revenue on the sale!)

The reliability of the drawer is a key factor.  Considering the environment where the equipment will be deployed is fundamental in order to select the most viable option for your customers’ expectations.

 Custom Options
Does the situation require a part that’s totally custom or will a customized existing part suffice? (Different color, logo imprint, or minor modification) The challenge is that the cost of low volume quantities can be price prohibitive.  Longer lead times can also be a factor.  The key questions are: How many? How soon?  How much?

So now what?
Contact a reputable manufacturer to evaluate their hardware offering with your system. 

1. Look for a manufacturer that has capabilities in more than one material or offers unique products that aren’t available through other sources.
2. Find out if they have a good-better-best or light-medium-heavy duty offering.
3. Ask for samples or demos for your own internal testing and evaluation.
4. Compare cost and lead time, though keep in mind that you get what you pay for.
5. Make sure the products are readily available through your current channels of distribution.

About the author:
Larry Greenberg is the Director of Sales and Marketing for MMF POS (www.mmfpos.com), a leading manufacturer and innovative supplier of cash drawers, POS mounting systems, and other accessories. The company provides a complete line of product solutions to enhance the retail checkout environment.