April 12, 2010

PFU Systems Launches Partner Program at KioskCom in Las Vegas

Fujitsu PFU Systems Launches Partner Program at KioskCom in Las Vegas

source article


This brand new program is designed specifically for software vendors and system integrators who are starting a new kiosk business or who are searching for the latest in kiosk hardware and platform options for their existing self-service business.

Following its phenomenal success in Japan, PFU Systems will provide kiosk partners in the U.S. with customized training, sales and marketing tools and support, technical support and the license of the KIOSK SERVICE PLATFORM TM which helps partners develop and operate their kiosk systems.

The Partner Program is a risk-free opportunity to evaluate PFU Kiosk Integration PlatformTM – the most advanced, most comprehensive kiosk program on the market today. With it, partners will benefit from accelerated time to market and lower application development, maintenance and servicing costs.

“We have created a platform that will free up our partners so they can focus on developing the best user interface and fulfilling the business needs of their customers,” said Hiroji Fukui, Director of Marketing and Business Development for PFU Systems. “Consequently, our partners need not worry about problems like controlling I/O device drivers, handling hardware errors, scheduling preventative maintenance and developing a remote management system because we offer our partners comprehensive support to ensure their success.”

To see a live demo and discover how PFU System can benefit your business, visit booth #630 at KioskCom in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center where PFU Systems will demonstrate its family of kiosks and comprehensive platform products on April 14-15.

About PFU:

PFU Limited of Japan, a subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, is a $1 billion global enterprise that designs, develops, manufactures, sells and maintains computer hardware, peripheral products, enterprise software and systems. PFU Ltd. also designs and manufacturers embedded computers and interactive kiosks. PFU Ltd. entered the Japanese kiosk market in 1995 and today remains a dominant kiosk manufacturer with over 50,000 installed kiosks in Japan. PFU Ltd. markets a full line of innovative kiosk products in Japan, and offers customized kiosk products through its ProDeS division. PFU kiosks are extensively deployed in the healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and government markets. PFU Systems, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of PFU Ltd., markets kiosks, embedded computers, and network security software in the United States. For more information, visit http://www.pfusystems.com/.

PFU Systems, Inc.
Hiroji Fukui, +1-408-451-2987

Posted by staff at 12:14 PM

April 21, 2008

HP Enters the Kiosk Market

News out of Las Vegas -- HP has decided to enter the self service kiosk market. The company is extending retail point-of-purchase presence to self-service kiosks.

HP Enters the Kiosk Market

The company is extending retail point-of-purchase presence to self-service kiosks.

Hewlett-Packard is adding self-service, customer-facing kiosks to its portfolio of retail applications.

HP announced the availability of its new kiosk solutions April 17 at the KioskCom Conference & Exposition in Las Vegas.

“We have provided clients with customized kiosk solutions in the past on an ad-hoc basis,” said Phillip Cutrone, manager of HP’s North America commercial third-party solutions business. “We’re taking kiosks and making them available directly from HP for all customers.”

Cutrone said HP is now making kiosks available on a broad basis in response to growing demand from its customers and the marketplace in general.

“Customer requests for ad-hoc custom kiosks have increased exponentially in the past few years. The market is growing. The time is right for HP and right for kiosks,” he said.

HP will manage kiosks as part of its overall toolset.

“We manage our technology from PCs through the data center to the kiosks as one set of tools,” Cutrone said. “We keep it all secure as one set of tools. The end-to-end technology expertise HP has lends itself to helping customers with their complex kiosk deployments.”

HP kiosks will operate the same way as any other thin client in a retailer’s infrastructure, according to Cutrone.

“We’re taking the existing thin client configuration and leveraging it inside kiosks,” he said. “It’s very seamless.”

Cutrone said HP will provide the functionality of its business desktop portfolio, as well as functionality from HP technology partners, within the kiosk format. HP will offer the option of using standard kiosk enclosures from its technology partner Kiosk Information Systems and continue to perform kiosk custom design services, he said.

Cutrone said that while technology in general can increase revenues, decrease costs and improve efficiency, many vertical markets are now reaching the tipping point for customer-facing technologies.

“Technology is becoming an expected aspect of 21st century life,” he stated. “Kids are growing up with it.”

Rufus Connell, vice president of information and communication technology for consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, said lifecycle and project management are two areas where HP may be able to most distinguish itself in the kiosk marketplace.

“The real problem with kiosks is you must manage their entire lifecycle,” Connell said. “This is where HP can compete with an advantage, especially compared to smaller turnkey kiosk integrators.”

He said extensive project management and technical resources have allowed leading business technology providers IBM and NCR to take dominant positions in the self-service kiosk market, and HP has the capability to become a third major option. He said HP has actually been in the self-service kiosk arena for some time, partnering with Kiosk Information Systems to provide branded photo kiosks and also supplying PC hardware that is used in kiosk enclosures from other vendors.

Posted by staff at 07:10 AM

October 10, 2006

Elo TouchSystems Releases Touchscreen Drivers for Linux and Mac

El TouchSystems released new set of drivers for touchscreens today including Linux and Mac. These include USB and Serial. Also XPe.

ELO OFFERS NEW TOUCH DRIVERS FOR LINUX AND MAC OS X

New Drivers Complement Elo’s Extensive Range of Flexible Offerings

October 2006 – Elo TouchSystems, the global leader in touch technology and a division of Tyco Electronics Corporation, has developed a new range of touch drivers for both Linux and Mac OS X. These new offerings complement Elo’s already extensive range of touch drivers for Windows, Macintosh and legacy operating systems such as DOS and OS/2.

According to Software Engineering Manager, Peter Studt, Elo now has the most comprehensive and flexible family of touch drivers in its market segment. “We are committed to the design and development of contemporary drivers to support all versions of current and future operating systems; in fact, any and all solutions that add value to our customer’s interface with touch technology,” says Studt.

The Driving Range
Elo offers touch drivers for a complete range of operating systems.
· Full Microsoft Windows support including Windows XP, XP Embedded (XPe), 2000 and CE
· Legacy Windows operating system support including Windows NT, 98, 95, 3.x and ME
· Three levels of Linux support
· Mac OS X and Mac OS 9.x
· Legacy OS (OS/2, DOS, Unix, QNX, SUN and other Unix drivers)
Drivers are available with serial and/or USB touch interface (where supported).

Three Tiers for Linux
Elo’s new Linux drivers are offered in three tiers:
Open/Public: This public driver was developed and is maintained by the Linux community. The developer/end-user is free to modify the driver and is responsible for the support/development of the software. It is ideal for customers who build their own systems.
Custom/Kernel: This unique and stable driver is designed, supported and modified by Elo. This is the perfect system for customers who require an “out-of-the-box” solution.
Unified: This is a blend of Open/Public and Custom/Kernel and is ideal for customers that wish to modify the code but have limited resources.

In-house Development
“Elo produces its core driver software in-house,” Elo Director of Product Management, Michael Bartelmess, confirms. “And this gives us a distinct advantage that we pass along in the quality and consistency of our products to value-added resellers (VARs), systems integrators (SIs) and, finally, the end-users themselves.”

By producing touchmonitors, the touchscreen technology within the monitors and the software drivers for the touch function, Elo is able to optimise the functionality of the total solution. It also gives customers a single point of contact to resolve any potential conflicts.
“Our in-depth knowledge of driver operation is a must for effective technical support,” adds Bartelmess. ”It also gives us the flexibility to develop custom solutions and the ability to quickly add features and address any problems. In addition, we are able to ensure a commonality between drivers produced for the various operating systems.” Bartelmess believes that this unique in-house development, combined with the company’s innate innovation and customer-centric commitment, ensures that VARs and SIs find Elo touch drivers far easier to integrate, support and sell, saving them time and money. “It also makes life easier for the end-user,” Bartelmess explains, “because our products are far easier to use.”

About Elo TouchSystems
Elo TouchSystems, global leader in touch technology, is a division of Tyco Electronics Corporation. Elo develops, manufactures and markets a complete line of touch products that simplify the interface between people and computers in both public access and employee-activated applications. Founded in 1971, the company is headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with manufacturing sites in the United States, Belgium, Brazil, China, and Japan (Elo operates in Japan under the name of Touch Panel Systems). For more information on Elo TouchSystems’ products and services, call +32 16 35 2100 in Europe or visit our web site at www.elotouch.co.uk


About Tyco Electronics
Tyco Electronics, a business segment of Tyco International Ltd., is the world’s largest passive electronic components manufacturer; a leader in cutting edge wireless components, complete power systems, and premise wiring components and systems; and a provider of critical communications systems to the Land Mobile Radio industry. Tyco Electronics provides advanced technology products from over forty well known and respected brands, including Agastat, Alcoswitch, AMP, AMP NETCONNECT, Buchanan, CII, CoEv, Critchley, Elcon, Elo TouchSystems, M/A COM, Madison Cable, OEG, Potter & Brumfield, Raychem, Schrack and Simel. For more information, visit www.tycoelectronics.com

###

http://www.elotouch.com/files/unrestricted_drivers/sw600071.exe
XP/2000 Universal

http://www.elotouch.com/Support/Downloads/dnldlicense.asp?file=sw500932.exe
XP Embedded USB

http://www.elotouch.com/files/unrestricted_drivers/Unified_USB_v2.zip
Linux Unified USB

http://www.elotouch.com/files/unrestricted_drivers/Unified_Serial_v2.zip
Linux Unified Serial

http://www.elotouch.com/files/unrestricted_drivers/linux_public.zip
GPL Linux

http://www.elotouch.com/Support/Downloads/dnldlicense.asp?file=sw600115.sit
PowerMac. OSX10.4

http://www.elotouch.com/Support/Downloads/dnldlicense.asp?file=sw500711.sit
iMac, G3 and G4. Mac OS 9 or 9.1

Main download page for ELO
http://www.elotouch.com/Support/Downloads/dnld.asp

Posted by keefner at 10:41 AM

November 03, 2003

EloTouch : Touchscreen Technology

Elotouch is one of our partners for touch screen technology (CRT and LCD). Here are some resources available to learn more about touch screen technology.


Powerpoint on touch screen technology by Elo

Touch Screen Technology Comparison

Posted by Craig at 06:37 PM

October 27, 2003

Printers Kiosks - Practical Automation

Practical Automation offers the ITK, cLTx, ATX38 printers for kiosks.



Products...

Choose from the printer series below. Click on the "More Information" link for detailed descriptions of printer capabilities, special features, specifications and diagrams. You're sure to find a printer that meets you needs and your budget.


ITK 23/24 series printers

The ITK Series printers are designed to satisfy heavy duty printing applications. These may include the generation of coupons, maps, lists, graphics, etc. The printers operate under the Windows™ operating system utilizing a WYSIWYG driver supplied by Practical Automation. Print speed is fast — 3.1 inches per second.
More Information


cLTx series printers


cltx

Designed For Easy Integration
The cLTx series is a modular ticket printing system designed for easy integration into an ATM (automatic ticket machine) kiosk. The cLTx consists of two modules: a printer module and a power supply module. The printer module combines a thermal print mechanism, auto-cutter, and control electronics in a compact, lightweight package suitable for fixed base or slide mounting. Operating power is provided by a universal input power supply module. A four foot power interconnect cable allows the power module to be placed in a remote location for overall simplified packaging.

More Information


ATX 38


atx38

ATX 38 Wide Format Kiosk Printer

A Direct Thermal Raster Graphics Printer Designed For Easy Kiosk Integration

The Practical Automation Model ATX 38 is the perfect choice for wide format, 6 1/2 to 8 1/2 inch printing in unattended kiosk systems. Applications include information dispensing, statements, government forms, educational registration, car rental forms, etc.

More Information


ATX 23/24 series printers


atx23/24

A direct thermal, Windows™ compatible printer with options and features to support operation in kiosks or similar environments. Choose model ATX 23 for 3.34 inch (85mm) paper width or ATX 24 for 4.48 inch (114mm) paper width. Print speed under Windows is very quick - 3.1 inches per second.
More Information

Posted by Craig at 04:29 PM

Printers Ticket - Practical Automation

Practical Automation offers multiple ticket printers.

The ITX 3000 Series are offered in a desktop and countertop (vertical mount) versions with standard ticket widths of 2 inches (51 mm) or 3.25 inches (82.6 mm). more info
Model ITX - G 2000/3000 series printers are for standard ticket widths of 2 inches (51 mm) or 3.25 inches (82.6 mm). The Models GTX-THLP-2 and -4 ticket Storage Assemblies are designed to conveniently hold up to 2.5 and 4.5 inch wide fanfold tickets, respectively. more info
The GTX3004A is a direct thermal, desktop ticket printer with an adjustable path to accommodate any ticket width between 2 inches (51 mm) and 4 inches (102 mm). more info
The ETX series printers are offered in either 2" or 3.25" versions. The 2", designated by type 2002, and 3.25", designated by type 2003, pertain to the thermal ticket width. more info
Smaller and lower priced, LTX 2000 series is an attractive, practical choice for low to moderate ticket printing. This printer is offered in desktop and vertical mount versions, with ticket width of 2 or 3.25 inches. more info
Posted by Craig at 04:22 PM

October 15, 2003

EWI Prepaid and WebRaiser Technologies

Joint Marketing Agreement; Collaboration Leverages Best-of-Breed Technologies and Solutions into Retail, Vending and Fast Food Markets

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 15, 2003--EWI Prepaid, a leading global provider of advanced prepaid services and technologies, today announced a joint marketing agreement with WebRaiser Technologies, Inc. Together with WebRaiser, a software provider and system integrator to the self-service industry, EWI will provide its patented prepaid kiosk payment technology to retail, vending and fast food markets nationwide.

"EWI is pleased to be collaborating with WebRaiser Technologies, a longtime pioneer in self-service technology," said Patrick Hazel, CEO, EWI Prepaid. "We anticipate a rapid return on this joint marketing agreement in the form of new opportunities for both companies, particularly in the fast food arena. The opportunity to leverage the leading brands to open new doors represents tremendous growth possibilities. More and more, retailers are recognizing that self service from kiosks and ATMs is the perfect way to sell prepaid services, and EWI technology like the patented PinXpress(TM) transaction platform is setting the standard in these environments."

"WebRaiser believes strongly in partnering for success," said WebRaiser president, David J. Gonsiorowski. "The combined market leadership positions held by both companies will accelerate our sales and marketing penetration in our targeted verticals and result in significant success."

Designed and built for a wide variety of retail environments and uses, including ATMs, networked point of sales systems, credit card terminals and Web services, the PinXpress transaction platform from EWI is the standard for the real-time delivery of PIN codes in the prepaid environment. PinXpress processes an unlimited array of products and services for a diverse client base including major retailers, distributors, merchant acquirers and re-sellers both in the U.S. and abroad.

About EWI Prepaid

EWI is a leading global provider of advanced payment processing technologies to the prepaid and cash payments sectors. With EWI's patented systems, the delivery of prepaid services such as prepaid wireless, utilities, long distance and wireless content can now be transacted and settled in real time, a vast improvement over prior manual processes. Based in San Diego, California, EWI is a privately held company. For more information, visit www.ewiprepaid.com.

About WebRaiser Technologies, Inc.

WebRaiser Technologies, Inc., developers of the award winning Total Self-Service Enterprise software suite; a universal platform for developing, deploying and managing self-service devices, relationships, applications, transactions and content. WebRaiser is a complete solution provider with products and services uniquely suited to address government, healthcare, human resources, retail, and vending needs. WebRaiser has been focused solely on self-service since 1997. Additional information is available at www.webraiser.com.

CONTACT: EWI Holdings, Inc., San Diego
Patrick Hazel, CEO, 858-560-7373
[email protected]

Posted by Craig at 02:21 PM

October 14, 2003

Prepaid Technology Alliance

Info Touch Technologies Partners with EWI Prepaid to Deliver PIN-Based Products across North American Retail Kiosk Networks

SAN DIEGO & BURNABY, B.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 14, 2003--Info Touch Technologies, North America's leading kiosk Technology Company, (www.infotouch.net) (IFT: TSX Venture Exchange) has entered into a strategic alliance with EWI Prepaid, a leading global provider of advanced prepaid services and technologies to deliver a PIN-based line of prepaid products on retail kiosk networks across North America. Through this partnership, Info Touch has integrated EWI's PinXpress(TM) payment processing solution into its proprietary kiosk security and management platform, Surfnet Premiere.

Info Touch is utilizing EWI's patented PinXpress technology to sell and deliver any PIN-based products or services to consumers in public locations. Consumers are empowered to pay for PINs in cash, credit card, debit card, check or any other payment modality supported by Surfnet Premiere. Although there is no limit to what kind of products and services can be sold, PINs are ideally suited for prepaid goods such as:

-- Prepaid Long Distance

-- Prepaid Wireless Top-up

-- Prepaid Local Dial-tone

-- Prepaid Mobile Content (graphics, games, ring-tones, etc.)

-- Prepaid Wi-Fi Access

-- Prepaid Directory Assistance

Info Touch is currently offering an assortment of the aforementioned prepaid telecom-based products in hundreds of kiosks in the United States through its various kiosk networks in a variety of public settings including convenience stores, malls, airports, wireless products retail stores, hotels, etc.

"We are thrilled to join forces with EWI Prepaid. Its PinXpress technology enables Info Touch to literally stock the virtual shelves of its various kiosk networks that utilize Surfnet Premiere with tangible and valuable products and services," said Hamed Shahbazi, chairman and CEO of Info Touch Technologies Corp. "Info Touch can now virtually fulfill PIN-based products in a secure and robust way in any public location, which will help Info Touch grow revenues and improve the ROI for kiosk operators that use our technology."

"EWI is pleased to be working with Info Touch, a company that sets the standard for kiosk technology," said Patrick Hazel, CEO, EWI Prepaid. "We are confident its use of our patented PinXpress payment solution will deliver the competitive advantage needed to prosper in the retail environment. More and more, retailers are recognizing that self-service kiosks are a superior and cost effective way to sell prepaid services and PinXpress is the standard for these environments."

About PinXpress

Designed and built for a wide variety of retail environments and uses, including ATM terminals, networked point of sales systems and Web services, the PinXpress transaction platform is the standard for the real-time delivery of PIN codes in the prepaid environment. PinXpress processes an unlimited array of products and services for a diverse client base including major retailers, distributors, banks and re-sellers both in the United States and abroad.

About EWI Prepaid

EWI is a leading global provider of advanced payment processing technologies to the prepaid and cash payments sectors. With EWI's patented systems, the delivery of prepaid services such as prepaid wireless, utilities, long distance and wireless content can now be transacted and settled in real time, a vast improvement over prior manual processes. Based in San Diego, California, EWI is a privately held company. For more information, visit www.ewiprepaid.com.

About Info Touch

Recently named one of Canada's Profit 100 and Deloitte and Touche's Fast 500 (in North America) companies, Info Touch is North America's leading provider of kiosk software based security and management solutions. Surfnet Premiere, its flagship software platform, is the Fortune 1000's preferred solution for public Internet access. Established in 1997, Info Touch provisions premiere kiosk technology solutions that help drive bottom-line benefits through the convergence of online and offline operations. Info Touch clients include: Chapters Indigo, Coca Cola Corp, Future Shop/Best Buy, Macs/Couchetard, ConocoPhillips/Circle K, Nestle, Procter & Gamble, KB Home, Chase Manhattan Bank, Merrill Lynch/HSBC, MCI, the U.S. Army, Marines Corps and Navy.

CONTACT: Info Touch Technologies Corp.
Behshad Hastibakhsh, Media Relations
604-298-4636, Ext. 250
Toll Free: 888-679-3322
[email protected]
or
Linear Capital Corp.
(Investor Relations -- Info Touch Technologies Corp.)
John Lewis, 416-364-2266
Toll Free: 1-877-600-6001
[email protected]
or
EWI Prepaid Services
Patrick Hazel, CEO, 858-560-7373
[email protected]

Posted by Craig at 03:15 PM

October 13, 2003

Netshift Chosen in Large Project

Compuware Corporation (NASDAQ: CPWR), the software and services provider, has chosen NetShift as one of its strategic partners for a project with Torfaen Borough Council. The �1.1M contract, won by the software and services provider......

Original Release

Compuware Chooses NetShift for Torfaen Borough Council Project


London UK, 13 October, 2003 - Compuware Corporation (NASDAQ: CPWR), the software and services provider, has chosen NetShift as one of its strategic partners for a project with Torfaen Borough Council. The �1.1M contract, won by the software and services provider Compuware, is for the development and deployment of a community portal within the Torfaen Borough in South Wales. Torfaen�s portal, being introduced as part of a pilot project in the area, will provide information and services under the following headings: Public Service, The Community and Business. The portal will be branded �Webster� and is being funded by the European Regional Development Fund, The Welsh National Assembly, The Welsh Development Agency and the Council itself.

30 Internet kiosks will be installed across the Borough providing information and services to its citizens. NetShift will be responsible for designing the user interface which will look to attract and encourage people to use the kiosk. NetShift will also provide remote management technology enabling continual monitoring, fault diagnosis, problem management, content management and reporting.

The portal will be launched in January 2004 and will initially operate for 18 months; however the council is already exploring funding opportunities to sustain the portals� future. Although the concept of a community portal is not new, this project is widely viewed as ground-breaking due to the involvement of the community and the breadth of services planned. Public and voluntary sector organisations will be able to provide and maintain content and interactive services via an easy to use content management interface. Torfaen County Borough Council will also be integrating existing public services, with information provided by community groups and other local organisations. To assist them in providing content these groups will receive at least one PC, a broadband Internet connection (where available), an e-mail account, access to two community outreach workers and a training programme free of charge. Businesses will be offered similar incentives to provide content for the portal. Chat rooms and discussion boards will also be formed to encourage community groups and business to share ideas and thoughts. Also planned is a teaching and learning section, which will deliver information of interest to teachers, pupils, parents and training organisations.

�Being in the position of prime contractor for this project meant that we needed to be sure that not only the price of the kiosk solution was competitive, but it also had to be of the highest quality and reliability,� comments Steve Jobson, Vice President UK and Ireland, Compuware Ltd. �NetShift demonstrated a thorough understanding of how to build, deploy and run kiosks in a local government environment. They also worked extremely hard to make sure the solution was the right one which mirrors our own ethic.�

Posted by Craig at 03:01 PM

October 10, 2003

New Netkey article

Nice article on changes at Netkey.

Story Link

Meet the new Netkey
by Christine Zimmerman, editor 10 Oct, 2003
Back News Archives

Netkey has been changing. Its evolution reflects what is happening in the self-service industry itself. Leaders are emerging and new paths are being forged. It�s time to take things to the next level. Netkey is a bellwether of the industry because it has lasted through the years.

"What Netkey does is significant because it�s the oldest kiosk company standing. It has been around since the early �90s," said Francie Mendelsohn, president of Summit Research Strategies. And what Netkey does is guided by V. Miller Newton, chief executive officer since July. See related story, "Who's who: V. Miller Newton."

"We are transitioning from being entrepreneurial to putting in a sales team that will take us to high-growth mode," said Newton. "We will seek the large deployments of the world versus the ones or twos of the world."

Newton said Netkey will focus on the verticals of retail and human resources in the kiosk and digital-display markets. "We are very interested in owning the unattended self-service space."

He explained that self-service has transformed from being a market of early adopters to one of high growth. "We see huge deployments on projects that were in the test stage only a year ago."

And he casts aside rumors that the company is in financial trouble. "I can tell you, we have a clean balance sheet with darn-near zero debt. We have money in the bank. Put two and two together: no CEO would take the helm of a company if it didn�t have at least a year�s cash in the bank."

In fact, Miller said he expects the fourth quarter to be cash-flow positive, way ahead of his own expectations. He declined to share actual numbers.

"No CEO would take the helm of a company if it didn�t have at least a year�s cash in the bank."

--V. Miller Newton, Netkey CEO

Real business

Newton said Netkey is wrapping up the first phase of a project with the U.S. Postal Service, and hopes to announce the second phase in 30 days. The postal service is using Netkey software in Kiosk Information System (KIS) kiosks to reach 500,000 employees who do not have access to PCs. KIS will produce and support 310 kiosks under the $4.1-million contract, and USPS has an option for another 300.

Netkey is also on its fourth self-service project with BMW. And the company last month announced a deal with Starbucks Coffee Company and Kraft Foods, Starbucks grocery sales and distribution partner, to engineer and power the Starbucks Interactive Unit, a touchscreen marketing tool designed to give grocery consumers insight on the best way to enjoy Starbucks coffee at home. The unit will be featured in about 4,000 grocery stores per year.

Mendelsohn said, "Netkey has had some key wins already, particularly in the area of HR with business partner, KIS. Miller Newton has an incredible track record. We�ll just have to watch, wait and see." KIS would not comment on changes at Netkey.

Netkey Manager Bob Esposito said last month during The Kiosk Show in Long Beach, Calif., "We may have had a quarterback change, but we�re still Netkey. We�re just not going to get bogged down in onesies that take resources. We grew 32 percent last year. We needed an executive to get us out of the boutique mindset."

Target markets

Retail is one area in which Newton sees potential. "Target won�t put any devices in their stores without my platform," he said. "Retail has been an early adopter of self-service. They�ve realized that, in the search to offer a better customer experience and reduce costs, self-service plays a role."

As for the HR market, Newton cited analyst firm, The Aberdeen Group�s study of CIOs that shows HR self-service among the top technology priorities.

"The good news is that we�ve had the best year ever. The tough news is that, when you grow, you have to make changes."

--Alex Richardson, Netkey founder and executive vice president of business development

Tough decisions

Of course the changes at Netkey haven�t come without some pain -- in the form of lost jobs. Newton said his restructuring actually has yielded the net increase of two new positions at the company. He will not talk about how many people have left Netkey in the last month.

"The first restructuring was about realigning resources and beefing up on the professional services side. We are getting ready to announce a 2,000-device digital-signage deployment. When you shift to large deployments, senior project management experience is a key," Newton said.

"Candidly, we�ve put the next level of talent in existing spots. It�s about addressing gaps in the management infrastructure."

Said Alex Richardson, Netkey founder and now executive vice president of business development, "The good news is that we�ve had the best year ever. The tough news is that, when you grow, you have to make changes. It�s no different from any other company."

Added Mendelsohn, "[Newton] is bringing in his own team. That happens all the time."

This month Newton named Pete Steiner vice president of sales. Steiner is responsible for direct and indirect sales and expansion of Netkey solutions and services within existing and new markets, according to a news release.

Newton said, Steiner "is a superstar at creating and managing a sales organization." Steiner did not respond to requests for an interview.

Steiner brings more than 20 years of sales, marketing and business development experience to Netkey. He was previously vice president of sales at mGen Inc., a provider of training and learning software solutions. Prior to joining mGen, Steiner was senior vice president of sales at Monster.com, a provider of online recruiting services and Newton�s previous company.

Steiner built and led Monster's sales organization and strategy, where, over a three-year period, revenue grew from $300,000 to $40 million annually and the sales force expanded from two to 73 professionals.

Newton said growth won�t stop at sales. "Our next growth wave will be in product development. We�re injecting the department with steroids."

And what about the role of Richardson, who is still a board member? Newton said, "We have not announced any formal changes regarding Alex. He is still extremely active, obviously, at the board level and at the Miller level."

And it�s business as usual for Newton, who has met with Netkey customers about his plans.

"We have met with all of our marquee clients and the response has been extremely favorable that we are taking the company to a new level. There has been no negative feedback in the marketplace. Customers see this as strengthening of an already strong company."

Posted by Craig at 07:13 PM

October 01, 2003

Industry Veteran Joins Self-Service Leader Netkey to Drive Sales Growth

Industry Veteran Joins Self-Service Leader Netkey

10-01-2003 --

BRANFORD, Conn. - Oct. 1, 2003- Netkey Inc., a provider of management software for self-service kiosks, digital signs and other remote devices, today announced the appointment of Pete Steiner as vice president of sales. In his role, Steiner is responsible for direct and indirect sales and expansion of Netkey solutions and services within existing and new markets.

\"Pete\'s proven track record in successfully leading the sales efforts of several of the country\'s fastest-growing technology companies makes him the clear choice for Netkey,\" said V. Miller Newton, CEO of Netkey. \"We believe he brings the relevant experience, strategic thinking and customer focus that will help Netkey reach the next level as an internationally recognized leader for management software solutions for kiosks and self-service.\"

Steiner brings more than 20 years of sales, marketing and business development experience to Netkey. He was previously vice president of sales at mGen Inc., a provider of training and learning software solutions. Prior to joining mGen, Steiner was senior vice president of sales at Monster.com (NASDAQ: MNST), a leading provider of online recruiting services. Steiner built and led Monster\'s sales organization and strategy, where over a three-year period revenue grew from $300,000 to $40 million annually and the sales force expanded from two to seventy-three professionals.

\"This is an exciting time to join Netkey,\" said Steiner. \"This company has a growing roster of blue-chip companies and is poised for excellence. My primary objectives will be to continue to grow the market by helping businesses increase sales and reduce costs through the use of the Netkey software platform.\"

Netkey provides a scalable and flexible software platform for the development, operation and management of networks of self-service kiosks, digital signs and customer and employee-facing terminals. Capabilities of the Netkey software platform include remote monitoring, content scheduling and delivery, system security, central administration, and reporting and analysis.

In addition to his position at Monster, Steiner served as senior vice president of sales at Dice, Inc., an online recruiting service for technology professionals, and was also executive vice president of Lavastorm Technologies, a provider of revenue assurance software to the telecommunications industry. Steiner has also held various sales and marketing roles with companies including Engage and Hewlett Packard.

About Netkey
Netkey, Inc. is the premier provider of management software for extended self-service. Netkey software helps companies grow sales and increase worker loyalty by reducing the cost and complexity of delivering customer and employee facing services through kiosks, dedicated computer terminals, and digital signs. Netkey customers include America Online, BMW, Borders Books and Music, Fidelity Investments and Publix Super Markets. The company holds three U.S. patents for its self-service technology. For more information on Netkey, please contact the company at 1-800-443-7924, via e-mail at [email protected], or visit Netkey on the Web at www.netkey.com

Contact:
Robert Ventresca
Netkey
(203) 483-2888
[email protected]

Posted by Craig at 06:57 PM

Digital Photography Kiosk Report Now Available!

KNO - KioskNews.Org: Digital Photography Kiosk Report Now Available!

Summit Research Associates, Inc., the leading consulting firm devoted to the kiosk and self-service industry, is proud to announce the publication of Kiosk Industry Sector Report - Digital Photography, their first report on one of the fastest-growing sectors in the kiosk arena. This sector has enormous potential. Why?
� In 2003, more digital cameras will be sold than film cameras
� Consumer digital photography is already a $1B business
� Less than 4% of all digital pictures are ever printed
� 80 percent of all digital photos are printed at home but the cost of consumables is high and the print options are limited

This report examines the current status and opportunities for growth for these units that are benefiting from the rapid acceptance of digital cameras. More than a dozen of the world's leading photo kiosks were tested, using a methodology designed to provide the most level playing field. Each kiosk tested was evaluated as a Case Study and includes pictures of the unit itself along with an example of the user interface. The same test pictures-employing the same storage medium-were used at each kiosk and compared for output quality. A number of charts are included covering the leading digital storage media accepted, the types of peripherals used, the most popular editing features and the leading print options. Almost every photo kiosk manufacturer is represented in this report. They include Kodak, Fujifilm, Sony, Agfa, Pixel Magic Imaging and Konica.

Digital photography kiosks represent an area of enormous promise. But two critical questions must be answered: If you build it, will they (the customers) come and use it? And, just as important: If they come, will they be able to produce prints of their digital pictures? This report provides valuable insights into these issues, along with recommendations for maximizing revenue while minimizing the time spent at the kiosk.

The Case Studies are evaluated using Summit's extensive Photo Kiosk Evaluation Checklist, which presents an overview of each kiosk project. It includes descriptions of, the enclosure, signage, user interface, peripherals, digital storage media accepted, print options available, image editing capabilities and any special features that make this kiosk stand out. A detailed evaluation of the kiosk-both positive and negative-follows the checklist featuring pictures of the unit and a sample screenshot of the user interface.

Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. The Opportunity
III. Research Findings
IV. Testing Methodology
V. Evaluation Checklist and Descriptions
VI. Digital Photography Kiosk Case Studies
Agfa
Applied Science Fiction
Fujifilm
Kodak
Konica
Lucidiom
Noritsu
Olympus
Photo-Me
Pixel Magic Imaging
Polaroid
Sony
TouchPoint Solutions
VII. Appendix


Table of Figures
Figure 1. Leading Storage Media Used in Photo Kiosks
Figure 2. Print Options Offered in Photo Kiosks
Figure 3. Leading Editing Options Offered in Photo Kiosks
Figure 4. Leading Features Found in Photo Kiosks
Figure 5. First Test Picture
Figure 6. Second Test Picture
Figure 7. Photo Kiosk Evaluation Checklist
Figure 8. Agfa e-box
Figure 9. Agfa e-box Editing Interface
Figure 10. Applied Science Fiction DigiPIX Image Station
Figure 11. Applied Science Fiction DigiPIX Specialized Editing
Figure 12. Fujifilm Freestanding Aladdin Unit
Figure 13. Fujifilm Instructions for Printing all Pictures
Figure 14. Kodak PictureMaker PictureMaker Unit at Wal-Mart
Figure 15. Kodak PictureMaker Print Size Options
Figure 16. Konica Digital Input Station
Figure 17. Konica White Border Option
Figure 18. Lucidiom Touch Prints Unit
Figure 19. Lucidiom Payment Options
Figure 20. Noritsu CT-1 Digital Camera Terminal
Figure 21. Noritsu Print Selection
Figure 22. Photo-Me Digital Photo Kiosk
Figure 23. Photo-Me Print Enhancement
Figure 24. Pixel Magic Imaging iStation 100 Media Choices
Figure 25. Pixel Magic Imaging iStation 100 Images and Output Options
Figure 26. Pixel Magic Imaging iStation 200 Editing Options
Figure 27. Pixel Magic Imaging iStation 200 Customer Options
Figure 28. Polaroid Instant Digital Prints Kiosk
Figure 29. Polaroid Selection Options
Figure 30. Olympus True Print Kiosk
Figure 31. Olympus Print Style Options
Figure 32. Sony PictureStation at Kinko's
Figure 33. Sony PictureStation Media Choices
Figure 34. TouchPoint Solutions quickPIX Digital Photo & Film Processing Center
Figure 35. TouchPoint quickPIX Fun Stuff Editing Options

You might also be interested in our consulting services (including general workshops and briefings on the kiosk industry; strategic planning; as well as application, interface, usability and content evaluations.) Please contact me if you are interested or if you have additional questions. For further information on Summit Research Associates, please visit our Website, www.summit-res.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Warm Regards,

Marta Mendelsohn
Director of Marketing
Summit Research Associates, Inc.
7728 Warbler Lane
Rockville, MD 20855-1034 USA
www.summit-res.com
[email protected]

Phone: 301-670-0980
Fax: 301-670-1006
Phone (Europe): 34-93-659-37-68

Posted by Craig at 06:55 PM

September 30, 2003

Partners - New 15in LCD Touchmonitor

October 2003 - Elo TouchSystems, Inc., the global leader in touch technology and a business unit of Tyco Electronics, has announced a new 15in Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) touchmonitor that features the company�s CarrollTouch infrared touch technology.

Elo TouchSystems Introduces New 15in LCD Touchmonitor with Infrared Touch Sensor

Provides exceptional clarity and durability for desktop and kiosk applications




October 2003 - Elo TouchSystems, Inc., the global leader in touch
technology and a business unit of Tyco Electronics, has announced a new
15in Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) touchmonitor that features the
company=92s CarrollTouch infrared touch technology. The new 1520L monitor,
an enhanced version of Elo's popular Entuitive 1525L 15in LCD
touchmonitor, is available with serial connectivity and safety agency
approvals for sale worldwide. The 1520L with CarrollTouch infrared touch
sensor is targeted toward retail pointofsale (POS) and kioskbased
pointofinformation (POI) applications where customers will benefit from
both its increased brightness and clarity and durability provided by the
1520L=92s solidstate components with no wearout mechanisms.


Clear, Bright and Sharp

"We chose to add Elo's CarrollTouch infrared sensor interface to
the popular 1525L because it provides one of the highest rates of light
transmission in the market =97 up to 100 percent, based on filter option =97
so there is no compromise of image quality or colour purity," says
Mike Sigona, Elo's European marketing manager. "The 1520L with
CarrollTouch infrared touch sensor is the perfect choice for a publicuse
environment such as retail POS and kiosk POI. And infrared optical touch
sensor technology means the monitor is virtually calibrationfree,
providing a stable, driftfree operation for a touch response that=92s
always accurate. Whether freestanding on a store counter, wallmounted or
kioskbased, the 1520L with CarrollTouch infrared touch sensor offers an
attractive display that provides a bright, clear, sharp and colourful
image."

Added Protection and Sealability

The Entuitive 1520L desktop touchmonitor includes a specially
designed stable base that can be bolted down, side controls that can be
locked out in public, clean cable routing and a locking hinge to ensure
protection in hightraffic environments. It meets VESA mounting standards,
which allows complete flexibility for wall or polemounting
configurations. The elegant design of Elo's 1520L touchmonitor includes
digital onscreen display (OSD), and two builtin onewatt
speakers.


About Elo TouchSystems

Elo TouchSystems, Inc., global leader in touch technology, is a unit
of Tyco Electronics. Elo develops, manufactures and markets a complete
line of touch products that simplify the interface between people and
computers in both publicaccess and employeeactivated applications.
Founded in 1971, the company is headquartered in Fremont, California,
with manufacturing sites in the US, Europe and Asia. Elo's main regional
offices are in KesselLo, Belgium and Yokohama, Japan, with additional
sales and technical support offices worldwide. For more information on
Elo TouchSystems' products and services, call +3216352100 in Europe or
visit our web site at
www.elotouch.co.uk.


About Tyco Electronics

Tyco Electronics is the world's largest passive electronic components
manufacturer; a world leader in cuttingedge wireless, active fibre optic
and complete power systems technologies; and is also rapidly developing
extensive networking and building technology installation services. Tyco
Electronics provides advanced technology products from over forty
wellknown and respected brands, including Agastat, Alcoswitch, AMP, AMP
NETCONNECT, Buchanan, CII, CoEv, Critchley, Elcon, Elo TouchSystems,
M/ACOM, Madison Cable, OEG, OneSource Building Technologies, Potter &
Brumfield, Raychem, Schrack, Simel and TDI Batteries.


Information on Elo TouchSystems from: Nadia Vandeweyer, Elo TouchSystems,
Diestsesteenweg 692, 3010 KesselLo, Belgium  Tel: +32 16 35
2125  Fax: +32 16 35 2101, email:
[email protected]      web:

www.elotouch.co.uk


Information on Tyco from: Peter Ferris, Tyco International Ltd. 
Tel: +1 2124241366  Fax +1 6422828554  email:
[email protected]


Press Information (UK): Tim Jennings, Marshall Jennings PR Limited,
Wyvols Court, Swallowfield, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1WY, UK  Tel:
+44 (0)118 988 0288  Fax: +44 (0)118 988 0388, email:
[email protected]       web:

www.mjpr.com


CarrollTouch and Entuitive are trademarks of Elo TouchSystems, Inc. All
other products and company names referred to herein may be trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark
holders.


Posted by Craig at 04:45 PM

Partner: NetShift recognized


NetShift recognized

Netshift has made the top 10 in the Sunday Times Arm Tech Track 100 in the South East region. NetShift has also been listed 43 in the national ranking as a result of impressive sales figures which have increased 93% a year from �477,000 in 2000 to �1.8m in 2002. Details, click here.

Research company Fast Track compiles the annual listing of the fastest growing, UK-based unquoted technology companies, ranked by growth in sales over the last two years, in this case between 2000 and 2002. The league table and full research report are also published on www.fasttrack100.co.uk

NetShift is the world�s leading supplier of self-service software and remote management technology delivering custom applications and off-the-shelf solutions for self-service devices. NetShift�s current customers include Vodafone, BP, Hewlett Packard, Easyeverything and P&O.

Nigel Seed, Chairman and CEO of NetShift comments: �We are delighted to be included in the tech track 100 list. Our listing recognises our success in supplying software and services to a wide variety of clients including those in the retail, leisure and government sectors. Thanks to our proven record of providing innovative solutions and the commitment of our employees we continue to enjoy similar growth this year as well.�

This year�s Sunday Times ARM Tech Track 100 was published in the 28th September issue of the Sunday Times.


For further information, please contact: Zoe Brunsden, Marketing Co-ordinator, NetShift, Kennet Side, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5PX, UK.
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 568800 Fax: +44 (0) 1635 568850
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.netshift.com

Posted by Craig at 03:40 PM

September 12, 2003

Swecoin Printers

We carry several printers by Swecoin and product brochures for all are available.

Brochures for Swecoin

  • 5250 -- 80 mm. Very reliable. Smaller form factor. Maximum diameter paper roll is six inches. Parallel interface.
  • 7200 : higher resolution 80mm and 112mm (4.4 inch paper width). Does not fit in KT-110.
  • 8200 : wide thermal printer (8.5 inch). Also called A4 in Europe. Parallel interface. Takes 8 inch roll.
  • ttp1020 : 58mm. Fast printer (100mm/sec). Loop presenter. parallel or USB.
Posted by Craig at 03:38 PM

September 02, 2003

KIS Partners

KIS partners are Best-In-Class and together with KIS provide a large portfolion from which to choose the solution which is best for you.

Partners include (but are not limited to): Netkey, Touchpoint, InfoTouch, MEI Global, Airpath, Elo TouchSystems, 3M Microtouch, and others.

Posted by Craig at 05:03 AM