Best system to cannibalize?

[feeple]

I use a simple POS system I've written to run charity fundraisers. Currently, I use complete PCs and lug around CRTs (up to five stations to a given location on a given day) and would like something a little more lightweight / compact / consolidated. My peripherals (scanner/printer) require two serial ports for each station.

Whose POS terminals would you cannibalize/reconfigure to take the place of my PCs? How cheap could it be (I presently do this pro-bono)?

I've looked into thin-clients but would rather have something that looks like the register at your local Starbucks (though likely more archane looking). Any ideas would be helpful.

Site:

http://www.feeple.com

Location: SF Bay Area

 

[buck2506]

If you haven't already look at Dell. They offer some small form factor pc's with a lcd monitor. The pc sits in a cradle on the back of the monitor stand makes for a nice small tidy package.

Have you considered building your own pc's? This might be a good option if you only use the pc's for the fundraisers (only a os and your software). And building your own means you can standardize on one set of hardware. Take a look at Newegg.com and Mwave for component prices.

I would defenently look at upgrading to lcd monitors.

 

[feeple]

Remember, my payment for this is a pat on the back.

I guess I'm looking to do it even more on the cheap than that. If I could get something self-contained for <$200/station, it would be ideal.

Site:

http://www.feeple.com

Location: SF Bay Area

 

[Wildbar]

You can pick up used terminals (Micros and others) on ebay for next to nothing these days. They have touchscreens, hard drives and network cards. Might work for your needs. Maybe pick one up for $25 and see what you can do with it.

 

[feeple]

Which Micros models would you try? I've been looking at the 3700...waiting for the right price. Other recommendations?

Site:

http://www.feeple.com

Location: SF Bay Area

 

[MRBRENT]

Look for used Javelin wedges or Lc's on ebay. Touch screen with 2 or 4 serial ports, cash drawer ports on the wedge. Not real fast but run win95 and 98 well.

 

[feeple]

Excellent! Thanks for the suggestion, I will.

Site:

http://www.feeple.com

Location: SF Bay Area

 

[feeple]

THANKS, mrbrent for suggesting the LC! It's exactly what I needed.

I bought 2 Javelin LC units today. $75/ea. The touchscreens are a little worn, but still work fine.

I've written a chimp-simple barcode-based POS system for use with it. Not user friendly nor robust yet, but simple nonetheless.


Site:

http://www.feeple.com

Location: SF Bay Area