This Credit Card/Point-of-Sale (POS) application description compares a traditional hardwired solution to MDS TransIt™ wireless data network alternative. GE MDS is a world leader in wireless data networking solutions with applications in the SCADA, telemetry, telecommunications, and on-line transaction processing markets.

The requirement for both systems is to interconnect several remote POS terminals. A common configuration for credit card verification is illustrated in the traditional wired system, where the terminals access a host computer through a controller using PSTN as the communication media. A remote controller is needed to manage a group of POS terminals. In addition, end-to-end modems are required, as well as dial-up lines or leased lines to facilitate data verification and approval with the host computer.

TransIt is a cost-efficient solution that requires fewer resources and improves customer service.

Correct Solutions for your Applications:

The response time obtained from a TransIt solution is much less than a dial-up line, because no dialing is required. In addition, with the TransIt wireless solution, it is not necessary to use the telephone lines of the business. TransIt offers improved wireless communications that do not impact the overall communication requirements of your organization. Plus, TransIt supports the VISA protocol.

MDS TransIt uses a Network Management System (NMS) to effectively control and monitor each component on the TransIt network. It provides a complete profile of the system, fault management, system configuration, and performance management and system security.

TransIt Wireless Network Advantages

• Reduced cost-of-ownership, no ongoing private line cost
• Business-rated reliability, ISO 9001-certified
• TransIt's architecture supports redundancy
• Ease of integration -TransIt is compatible with standard protocols and offers the most comprehensive suite of protocols
• Rapid deployment - enhances revenue potential
• Excellent flexibility to incorporate both licensed and license-free (spread spectrum) radios in one integrated system
• Efficiency -TransIt operates on a single frequency, allowing you to double the number of networks running on existing frequency pairs, or cut in half the expense to acquire frequency pairs
• TransIt offers a complete family of radio platforms (licensed, 200 MHz -960 MHz and license-free, 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz)
• Reduced hardware requirements eliminate the need for a host controller, all modems, and a POS server
• TransIt NM-100 Master Stations support SDLC or X.25 protocols for host connectivity
• Improved customer service — verification is more efficient (no waiting in lines)

This application note is also available in PDF format.