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  • The Acclaimed mPOP® Hybrid mPOS Solution Now Includes Bluetooth Connectivity

    The Acclaimed mPOP® Hybrid mPOS Solution Now Includes Bluetooth Connectivity

    Enjoy flawless connectivity with the latest mPOP® model, the POP10CBi, featuring Bluetooth capability alongside USB-C.

    Somerset, NJ – July 17, 2024 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point-of-sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proudly releasing their newest addition to the mCollection®, the mPOP model POP10CBi. Star’s mPOP (mobile point of purchase) remains the industry’s number one hybrid POS solution that combines a cash drawer and printer peripheral into one simplified and stylish system.

    With the POP10CBi, Star offers convenient Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing the flexibility of direct iOS connectivity while also supporting Windows and Android devices. This compact and fully integrated peripheral is ideal for tablet- and mobile device-based POS (mPOS) systems.

    Connect your preferred tablet or mobile device, and the POP10CBi transforms into a fully unified POS system. It’s compatible with all major operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS) and works with any supported POS or mPOS software, allowing retailers the freedom to use various platforms. With Apple MFi certification, the POP10CBi allows a direct USB-C connection with the iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod Touch®, enabling it to charge your iOS device while data is transferring. This convenient method uses the same charge cord included with the iOS device. Enhancing functionality, the POP10CBi has USB-A and USB-B ports for connecting external devices or peripherals, such as an optional 2D barcode scanner.

    The complete mPOP line combines a two-inch thermal receipt printer with “drop-in and print” paper loading and a unique, functional Flat Bill till. The till, featuring a 4-bill and 4- or 6-coin slot design, provides easy currency storage and management with the same small footprint. As an added option, Star Micronics also offers the mUnite EZPOS tablet display stand, fitting any mPOP® perfectly.

    The functions and connectivity of the mPOP make processing customer transactions smooth and hassle-free for small shops, cafes, florists, food trucks, and more. With multiple exit options for enhanced cable management, it complements any countertop or on-the-go area for a visually appealing POS system no matter where you do business. Aesthetically modern and elegant, the mPOP provides the ultimate POS solution for the new face of mPOS.

    Schedule private demos with Star representatives by contacting sales@starmicronics.com.

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    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, labeling, secure cash management, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Establishing Your LinkedIn Professional Brand

    Establishing Your LinkedIn Professional Brand

    In this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, “Building Your Personal Professional Brand on LinkedIn,” host Kate Orara delves into the essentials of crafting a compelling professional presence on LinkedIn. As Partner Development Manager at Star Micronics, Kate brings her expertise and passion for personal branding in the retail technology channel industry to provide actionable insights for professionals at all levels.

    This quick take episode focuses on three key strategies for leveraging LinkedIn to its fullest potential. Kate shares her top tips for optimizing your LinkedIn profile, curating engaging content, and networking strategically to build and maintain a robust professional brand.



    Listen to the New Episode Now

    Enhance Your Professional Presence with Practical Tips

    Listeners will learn how to make a solid first impression with a well-crafted LinkedIn profile, including the importance of a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a captivating summary. Kate emphasizes the significance of sharing valuable industry content and engaging with your network to demonstrate expertise and build credibility.

    Whether you’re looking to attract potential employers, clients, or collaborators, this episode offers the tools you need to stand out on LinkedIn. Kate’s expert advice is tailored for both novice and experienced LinkedIn users, making it easy to implement these strategies today.

    Subscribe and listen now to gain the knowledge you need to elevate your LinkedIn game!



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    Loving the podcast? Subscribe now, and let us know what you think by leaving a review!

    Stay up-to-date on all things Star, don’t forget to follow us on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.



    Podcast Playlist on YouTube

    The Rising Stars Podcast

    Immerse yourself in the world of point-of-sale (POS) with the Rising Stars Podcast by Star Micronics, hosted by industry pro, Kate Orara. Twice a month, we explore the fascinating journeys of innovators and businesses navigating the challenges of POS technology’s rapid pace.

    In every episode, Kate Orara, Star Micronics’ Partner Development Manager, discusses emerging retail technology trends and strategies with global industry giants. She’s spent her entire career meeting all the right people, and now listeners everywhere can benefit from this vast network of channel gurus.

    Always leading and always innovating, Star Micronics, a pioneer in POS and customer experience technology for over 60 years, welcomes you to join us in shaping a brighter future in the retail, hospitality, and cannabis industries.

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    Explore the Star Blog

  • Star Micronics Expands Label Printing Portfolio with the Launch of the TSP143IV SK

    Star Micronics Expands Label Printing Portfolio with the Launch of the TSP143IV SK

    The TSP143IV SK repositionable linerless label printer is a groundbreaking addition to Star’s lineup, offering high-performance labeling in response to rising industry demand.

    Somerset, NJ – December 15, 2023 – Star Micronics, a leader in point-of-sale (POS) technology, is proud to announce the launch of the TSP143IV SK Thermal Linerless Sticky Label Printer. This latest addition to the renowned TSP100 series marks Star Micronics’ continued expansion in the rapidly growing label printing market.

    The TSP143IV SK is designed to meet the increasing demand for versatile and eco-friendly labeling solutions across various sectors, including food and beverage, delivery, takeout, and laundry services. It’s the smallest desktop label printer on the market, and its introduction comes at a time when the industry is witnessing a surge in the need for efficient labeling solutions.

    Key Features of the TSP143IV SK Printer:

    • Eco-friendly Printing: The TSP143IV SK uses repositionable, linerless sticky labels, reducing waste and offering more labels per roll. It also includes a margin reduction function with automatic font adjustment to further save paper.
    • High-Speed Printing: Capable of printing at speeds of up to 180mm/s, ensuring fast and reliable label production.
    • Advanced Connectivity: Features include Android Open Accessory (AOA) support for simultaneous power and data transfer, powerful USB-C connectivity, and Wi-Fi (WLAN) connectivity.
    • Compact and Stylish Design: Its sleek profile is not only aesthetically pleasing but also the most compact and space-efficient linerless sticky label printer on the market.
    • Cloud Ready: Compatible with the Star Micronics Cloud Services platform for value-added support features, including real-time device monitoring and Label Builder label customization, available to software developers and business merchants.

    Cost-Efficient and Future-Proof Solution

    The TSP143IV SK represents a cost-efficient solution for businesses looking to enhance their labeling processes. Its linerless technology and high-speed printing capabilities provide a significant return on investment by increasing efficiency and reducing operational costs.

    “Star Micronics is excited to expand our label printer offerings with the TSP143IV SK. This printer is a testament to our commitment to delivering an innovative printer that is space-saving, more environmentally sustainable, and more economical to our customers. We recognize the growing need for effective labeling in various industries, and the TSP143IV SK is our response to that demand.”

    Christophe Naascz, Global Director of Business Development at Star Micronics

    For businesses seeking a user-friendly, versatile, and reliable labeling solution, the TSP143IV SK from Star Micronics is the clear choice. Embrace the future of printing and optimize operations with this exceptional linerless sticky label printer.

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    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • What are Connected Workstations & Why Are They Beneficial?

    What are Connected Workstations & Why Are They Beneficial?

    In today’s fast-paced business environment, every bit of operations efficiency is gold. Even if your business is only half a step ahead of the competition, it’s better than being a quarter step behind. This is why all retail and hospitality business owners need to consider connected workstations. Having a connected workstation can make a substantial difference in the productivity and efficiency of your store. 

    But what exactly is a connected workstation, and how can it benefit your small business? 

    What are Connected Workstations?

    Connected workstations are a collection of devices and peripherals, such as computers, printers, scanners, and other hardware, that are interconnected and can communicate seamlessly. These devices are typically connected to a network, whether that’s a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), or a wireless local area network (WLAN), and can share data and resources.



    Create a Connected Workstation Now

    Why are Connected Workstations Beneficial to Businesses?

    Connected workstations offer several benefits to businesses, including:

    • Increased Productivity: With a connected workstation, employees can access and share resources easily, allowing them to work more efficiently and collaboratively. This can lead to increased productivity and faster completion of tasks.
    • Improved Workflow: A connected workstation can streamline business processes and workflows by automating tasks and reducing manual intervention. This can result in a more efficient and cost-effective workflow.
    • Cost Savings: A connected workstation can help businesses save money by reducing hardware and software costs. By sharing resources such as printers and scanners, companies can avoid purchasing multiple devices, which can be expensive.
    • Enhanced Security: A connected workstation can also improve security by providing centralized management and monitoring of devices and applications. This can help businesses protect against security threats and reduce the risk of data breaches.

    Increase Your Chance For Success

    In summary, connected workstations can provide several benefits to businesses, including increased productivity, improved workflow, cost savings, and enhanced security. By adopting a connected workstation setup, businesses can work more efficiently, boosting overall performance and ultimately leading to increased success and growth.

     

    If you’re interested in setting up a connected workstation for your business, be sure to check out our “Connected Workstation Guide: 5 Easy Steps” ebook for simple instructions on how to get started. It’s perfect for those in the retail, hospitality, and cannabis industries.


    How To Create a Connected Workstation in 5 Easy Steps ebook by Star Micronics.

    How To Create a Connected Workstation in 5 Easy Steps

    Connected workstations are perfect for modern-day hospitality, retail, and restaurant businesses, offering a unique setup to optimize workflows.



    Download Now

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  • Offer Complete POS Hardware Setups & Boost Your Reseller Business

    Offer Complete POS Hardware Setups & Boost Your Reseller Business

    In the fast-paced world of retail, where efficiency, ease of use, and customer experience are key, providing a cohesive POS solution can give your reseller business an unparalleled edge. As a VAR in the POS industry, your mission extends beyond merely supplying hardware – it’s about crafting exceptional customer experiences that drive success for your clients.

    This is where offering comprehensive POS and self-service hardware setups from a single manufacturer becomes your secret weapon. Let’s delve into the multi-dimensional benefits this approach offers to your business and ultimately sets you apart in the bustling POS market.

    The Advantages of Providing a Unified POS Hardware Solution

    White mPOP with 1D/2D barcode scanner by Star Micronics

    Streamlined Compatibility

    By offering your customers a complete POS or self-service hardware solution from a single manufacturer, you’re providing them with a seamless setup and installation experience. With everything made of compatible components, your customers will also spend less time dealing with mismatched technical issues and more time focusing on their business.

    Easier Maintenance and Support

    When you provide a unified POS hardware solution, your customers benefit from maintenance and support that’s simplified. With a single point of contact for all hardware, it’s easier for you to manage the relationship with the manufacturer and provide exceptional support to your customers.

    Consistent Customer Experience

    Offering a complete POS hardware solution from one manufacturer ensures consistent customer experience across the board. A cohesive design easily gives off a professional brand appearance, and a similar look and feel across all touchpoints promotes familiarity and ease of use.

    Increased Sales Opportunities

    Bundling POS hardware from a single manufacturer can lead to more sales opportunities for your reseller business. By offering a comprehensive solution all in one, you can upsell additional hardware components and accessories, increasing your overall revenue.

    An Added Advantage with Star Micronics

    The complete point-of-sale (POS) suite in black by Star Micronics.
    Star Micronics offers printers, scales, scanners, tablet stands, and more

    As a value-added reseller (VAR) or ISV in the POS industry, you understand the importance of providing your customers with the best solutions to meet their needs. Offering complete POS and self-service hardware setups from a single manufacturer has too many benefits to ignore and can set you apart from the competition.

    Star Micronics has the complete POS hardware solution perfect for VARs and ISVs in the retail, hospitality, and cannabis industries. From receipt, label, and kiosk printers to cash drawers, barcode scanners, and tablet stands, Star manufactures it all, and with the same top-quality you’ve come to expect.

    But there’s another major benefit to partnering with Star Micronics:

    The Empower Partner Program: Stay Competitive

    The Star Empower Partner Program is designed to help resellers like you succeed in the competitive POS market. By partnering with Star Micronics, you can take advantage of numerous benefits, including:

    • Access to a comprehensive product portfolio, ensuring you have the right solution for every customer
    • Exclusive promotions and incentives, increasing your earning potential
    • Dedicated support and training, giving you the tools and knowledge to succeed

     

    By providing your customers with complete POS and self-service hardware solutions from a single manufacturer, you can grow your reseller business and set yourself apart from the competition. Join the Star Empower Partner Program today and start reaping the benefits!

    To learn more about the Star Empower Partner Program:



    Contact Star Now

  • Star Micronics CloudPRNT: Exploring a New Era of POS Technology in Retail and Hospitality

    Star Micronics CloudPRNT: Exploring a New Era of POS Technology in Retail and Hospitality

    The digital transformation of the retail and hospitality industries has been in full swing in recent years, driven by the adoption of innovative technologies that better streamline operations and satisfy consumer expectations, particularly with omnichannel and online ordering. One such technology that has garnered attention is Star Micronics’ CloudPRNT, which is redefining the landscape of point-of-sale (POS) systems.

    This article takes an in-depth look at CloudPRNT, its features, and its potential implications for the retail and hospitality industries.



    Find Your Cloud Printer

    CloudPRNT: The Technology Unveiled

    CloudPRNT is a cloud-based printing technology developed by Star Micronics, a company specializing in POS, customer engagement, and self-service hardware solutions. At its core, CloudPRNT enables POS printers to communicate directly with cloud-based servers for remote printing capabilities.

    This direct server connection negates the need for traditional local network configurations, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient setup. Because of this, any Star printer with CloudPRNT technology allows business owners to utilize omnichannel and online ordering software.


    CloudPRNT technology by Star Micronics enables Star printers to print from cloud-based software.

    One crucial aspect of CloudPRNT technology is server storage. Instead of storing print jobs in the printer, the data is stored on the server. This approach prevents data loss if a printer were to fail, offering an added layer of data protection.

    Moreover, CloudPRNT eliminates the need to manage IP addresses or custom firewall/tunneling rules at the local site. By leveraging the power of the cloud, CloudPRNT removes the need for local network connections, streamlining the installation process and reducing overall costs.

    Benefits of CloudPRNT

    1. Increased Operational Efficiency

    By facilitating direct communication between the POS device and the cloud server, CloudPRNT minimizes potential bottlenecks in the transaction process. The result is faster processing times and reduced downtime, which positively impacts the overall customer experience.

    2. Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

    Cloud-based architecture, such as that used by CloudPRNT, offers seamless scalability for businesses as they grow and their POS requirements change. The technology’s compatibility with a variety of devices and platforms also ensures that companies have the flexibility to choose solutions that suit their specific needs.

    3. Improved Data Security

    Data security is a critical concern for retailers and hospitality providers. CloudPRNT’s reliance on secure cloud servers for data storage and processing minimizes the risk of data breaches and protects sensitive customer information.


    Discover the power of Star Micronics' industry-leading point-of-sale (POS) technologies designed to revolutionize business operations in this free ebook.

    Star Micronics Industry-Leading Technology

    Find out what Star’s innovative printing technologies can do for your business success with this free ebook.



    Download Now

    Industry Implications of CloudPRNT

    While CloudPRNT is just one example of the innovative technologies shaping the retail and hospitality industries, its potential to redefine POS systems is noteworthy. Online ordering is growing, with more consumers coming to expect it as the years go by. This will require all POS devices to one day have cloud-based capabilities.

    As businesses continue to explore and adopt new solutions, it’s essential to always keep an eye on the evolving landscape of POS technology and consider how these advancements could impact overall operations and customer experiences. Success in the retail and hospitality sectors requires a comprehensive approach to POS management. Businesses must remain open to investing in the right tools and strategies to stay competitive.

    As CloudPRNT and other emerging technologies continue to make their mark, the future of the retail and hospitality industries promises to be both exciting and transformative.

    Interested in integrating with Star Micronics?



    Contact Integrations Now

  • 3 Reasons Why ISOs Must Transform Into More Than Merchant Service Providers

    3 Reasons Why ISOs Must Transform Into More Than Merchant Service Providers

    Independent sales organizations (ISOs) and member service providers (MSPs) are companies that have developed partnerships with certain financial institutions to provide services to merchants. In the past, this was enough. The market wasn’t as competitive, and business models were simple and effective.

    That has all changed, however. ISOs can no longer survive in the current market just selling merchant services. In order to survive and thrive in an ever-changing industry, ISOs must provide comprehensive market solutions, for example bundling point of sale (POS) systems and add-on services like mobile and online ordering.

    Partnering with an independent software vendor (ISV) allows an organization to bundle merchant services with other critical software solutions and hardware systems and sell them as a package deal to customers. This newer, more flexible business model is necessary in order to get ahead.

    Credit-Card-in-Hand

    Here’s Why: The Market is Growing Too Competitive

    In the past, it was common for ISOs and MSPs to reduce their rates in order to get more business. This was a smart move, as it allowed them to beat out the competition. Now, however, the market is much more competitive, oversaturated with ISOs and MSPs competing with one another for a limited pool of clients. Low rates, if that’s all you can offer, aren’t enough on their own to win out against the competition—it’s no longer a realistic option. If rates continue to get lower and lower, the market won’t be sustainable.

    A better option would be to provide additional software and services that are highly-coveted by your clients. Technology solutions like POS or add-on services with integrated payments offer major benefits to your clients. The ability to stay with one provider for both technology solutions and merchant services is appealing to business owners, who often find it difficult to manage so many separate accounts with multiple providers.

    ISOs are Getting Sold Around—Credit Card Companies and VARs

    New payment providers are bundling their software solutions with integrated payments and selling directly to end-users. To compete with this, ISOs must do the same. Rather than letting this drive them out, ISOs can capitalize on this by partnering with software integrators or ISVs that have already partnered with their payment service of choice.

    By partnering with an ISV, you can integrate payments and solutions and sell them as a bundled solution. What’s more is that you can have your merchant services bundled and sold through the ISV’s network of dealers, and you can act as a dealer within the ISV’s network. Whether you sell the bundled solutions yourself, or they are sold through a dealer, you will be reaping profits.

    You Must Remain Agile or You Will Become Obsolete

    The landscape of the industry is consistently changing. ISOs that are locked into the same business model they’ve used for years will end up being edged out by more agile organizations that are able to adapt to the changing needs and growing demands of clients. In essence, ISOs must provide more value to survive.

    Because you can no longer remain competitive just by reducing rates, you need to provide additional value beyond payments, and extend your offerings into a portfolio of solutions that are designed to help your clients overcome other business challenges. Not only will this allow you to bring on new clients, but it also unlocks the potential to sell deeper into existing accounts.

    Financial-Solutions

    To Do This:

    • Take a consulting role: Your clients look to you for guidance and expertise. Discuss their individual business needs and the
      challenges they face, and guide them towards solutions that help them overcome these challenges.
    • Offer solutions and services: Provide payment-embedded POS systems, online ordering solutions, and other consultative services. This can include assistance and guidance on things like marketing, or solutions for loyalty and gift card
      program management.
    • Consider support services: Many don’t have the time to manage, update, and troubleshoot technology on their own. Often, they don’t have the in-house resources necessary to solve issues quickly enough to prevent significant downtime and profit loss. Offer comprehensive support and services, which will increase uptime for your clients and help them stay productive. These services can be offered by your ISV or payment partner.

    To learn more about each tactic, download our full eBook, “3 Reasons why ISOs Must Become More than Merchant Service Providers.”

    Person-Using-Tablet

    How Star Can Help

    Star Micronics maintains a vast array of partnerships with ISVs. This allows ISVs and all the dealers in their channel to include Star Micronics hardware in their bundled solutions. Our hardware integrates with 90% of all POS software in the marketplace, as well as the latest cutting-edge technology to keep customers ahead of the competition.

    Our experts have extensive knowledge in the following markets:

    Leverage our expertise to determine the technology solutions your clients are looking for, and we can help you offer the right products and services to meet their needs. Star Micronics provides bundled peripherals and accessories with a sleek, modern aesthetic for POS, as well as marketing and consultation support. By partnering with Star Micronics, you can increase your portfolio, your customer satisfaction, and your profits.

    To discover the rest of our tips and take your ISO business to the next level, download the full eBook, “3 Reasons why ISOs Must Become More than Merchant Service Providers.”



    Download eBook

  • How to Create the Perfect POS Solution for Your Fitness Center

    How to Create the Perfect POS Solution for Your Fitness Center

    A fitness center is a challenging environment for point of sale (POS) systems. There are staff schedules, members to track, classes to register for, and different areas of the facility that may need retail POS functionalities but don’t have the counter space to spare.

    Owners and managers who want to create the perfect POS solution for their fitness center can build it with the right components and applications. There are a wide range of technologies and POS hardware solutions that can help you elevate your fitness center to the next level.

    Free Download: POS Software and Systems Buyer’s Guide.

    Scheduling and Membership Management

    Downloadable applications for scheduling and member management are popular because they require little upfront investment, update frequently, and typically utilize the hardware you already own. This affordable alternative to traditional, on-premises POS systems keep information secure and make it easy to create schedules and maintain client records, even when you’re not on site.

    However, many web-based applications have printer connectivity issues.  A platform-agnostic print data relaying application is a popular technology solution used to remedy this problem. You’ll want to find a low-cost, versatile solution to cloud/web-based printing that allows you to generate high-quality printing for your fitness center with professional, crisp graphics.

    Solutions for Off-Site or Outdoor Fitness Classes

    Fitness center owners who host off-site events or outdoor fitness classes need to have receipt-printing capability for customers paying for retail products, classes or services. For this reason, you’ll want to find a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-enabled printer. These portable receipt printers can range from compact models to more robust options, and at price points that suit any budget.  Choose a portable receipt printer that is small, light, and can easily be carried outdoors and used to print invoices, labels, receipts, and other documentation.

    Space-Saving, Cost-Effective Solutions

    Fitness centers aren’t cash-heavy operations, so many gym owners don’t feel the need to shell out big bucks for a full POS setup. But for a select few areas that handle cash — for example, a juice bar, babysitting, or when paying for guests or special services — an ergonomic solution for tablet POS that combines a cash drawer and printer peripheral is the ideal solution. Select a unit with a fully integrated design that works with the tablet or mobile device of your choice, so you can have a mobile solution without compromising space, quality, or functionality.

    39650111-e1574803841207
    The Star Micronics mPOP is the perfect modern, compact point of sale solution.

    Quick and Easy Connections

    Fitness center owners who choose popular iPad and iPhone POS solutions have demanded increasingly mobile and connected receipt printer solutions. Since gyms tend to be heavily soundproofed with electronic equipment or other signal blocking materials, you may struggle with connectivity.

    TSP650II-e1574803858349
    The first AirPrint-certified receipt printer, the TSP654II.

    Choose a printing solution from a line of printers that was created to take care of connectivity problems. For example, consider the TSP654II. This printer was the first-ever AirPrint® certified receipt printer on the market, meaning it prints via iOS devices easily and without driver installation. On top of its compatibility, the TSP654II also is capable of printing 60 receipts per minute and features swappable interfaces.

    The Star Micronics mC-Printers are another great option for a connected gym. The sleek, cube-shaped printers are available in 2″ and 3″ models, and boast Bluetooth, USB, Lightning, LAN, and CloudPRNT connectivity options.

    Gym owners looking for printing solutions for fitness centers should explore Star Micronics’ lineup of hardware and technology applications. Whether you are looking to add printer connectivity, mobile POS, or off-site functionality, Star has a variety of options that will help you add the capabilities you need at an affordable price.

    Built-In Marketing Tools

    Printing receipts is great, but why not kill two birds with one stone and market to your fitness center members at the same time? Star Micronics PromoPRNT, a value-added, cloud-based marketing tool, lets you do just that. PromoPRNT uses existing Star receipt printers to print custom promotions directly on the bottom of receipts., You can easily log on to the cloud dashboard and design promotions from templates, boosting customer engagement and retention. Promotions can advertise sales, special events, loyalty programs, and much more. Learn more or sign up today!

    Need more guidance building out your ideal fitness center point of sale system? Contact us today!

  • Why Bluetooth Low Energy is the Best Option for Mobile Printing

    Why Bluetooth Low Energy is the Best Option for Mobile Printing

    People most commonly think of Bluetooth as the wireless technology that allows them to connect a mobile device to a car or an earpiece. Bluetooth has given rise, however, to a newer generation of wireless technology – Bluetooth low energy (BLE) – which was first introduced in 2011. Today, BLE is the best option for mobile printing and other devices that require short bursts of connectivity.

    In order to understand why BLE is perfect for all mobile printing needs, it’s important to know the difference between Bluetooth and BLE. Bluetooth connectivity is designed for devices like wireless headsets and speakers, mobile phones, and is ideal for streaming applications such as Pandora or Netflix. In comparison, Bluetooth low energy (also known as Bluetooth 4.0) is exactly what its name says: low power consumption wireless technology.

    How does BLE work?

    Bluetooth and BLE both operate on the same 2.4 GHz ISM band. Unlike regular Bluetooth that uses a lot of power, BLE stays in sleep mode until a connection is initiated with a mobile device. The connections are short bursts because the data is traded quickly. Bluetooth low energy devices’ energy consumption levels are so low; one device can run on the same battery for years. Obviously, Bluetooth low energy isn’t going to work for Netflix, but its’ perfect for devices that only need to exchange data quickly and intermittently, like a mobile printer.

    Who can use BLE devices?

    BLE is perfect for devices that don’t need to stream large amounts of data continuously. This universal-low power wireless standard makes it easy to connect any product to a smartphone or tablet. BLE is the wireless technology used for personal fitness devices (like Fit Bits), as well as for monitoring sensors and mobile printers in taxi, rideshare, and delivery applications.

    Where can you use them?

    Bluetooth low energy mobile printers are small and light, and can easily be carried by servers in restaurants, delivery drivers, and workers in intermodal facilities and warehouses. They can be used to print invoices, labels, receipts, and other documents.

    Star Micronics has several BLE-enabled printers ranging from compact models that measure only a few inches and fit into a pocket or apron, to more robust options all at affordable price points. Star’s mobile printers are perfect for indoor/outdoor use, field service and restaurant environments where they could get wet or dropped. These devices also come with an external power cable so they can be charged anytime, anywhere, even on the road.

    Easy to use, even for BYOD workplaces

    BLE printers are compatible with a large installed base of mobile phones, tablets, and computers. Star’s line of mobile printers is easy to use with any Apple iPad® or iPhone® BLE device and doesn’t require pairing. There’s no limit on the number of devices that can be connected to the mobile printers, making it the ideal solution for a BYOD (bring your own device) workplace. Employees don’t need to hunt for “their” tablet or mobile device; they can grab any equipment to complete the task at hand. Star’s mobile printers are also compatible with other operating systems, including Windows and Android.

    BLE connectivity is the perfect option for mobile printing. These compact mobile printers are energy efficient and cost-effective for restaurants, rail yards, airports, and delivery services that need to print on-the-go receipts, labels, and create invoices. Learn more about Star Micronics’ SM-L200 and SM-L300 BLE portable printers.