Category: Product Updates

Star Software Update: Introducing the CloudPRNT SDK
Welcome to the Star Software Update, the regular series of blog updates where Star’s Integration Team informs you about the latest important Star Micronics software updates.

In this edition:
- Introducing the CloudPRNT SDK! Now it’s even easier to integrate your favorite CloudPRNT features
Read on to learn what this month’s update entails.

CloudPRNT SDK

Release Date:

Already released, on November 11, 2019.

What is CloudPRNT?

Star CloudPRNT is a REST-based protocol which allows web servers to remotely control and receive events from Star point of sale (POS) peripherals which are CloudPRNT-compatible. CloudPRNT enables server-side control of document printing, barcode scanning, keyboard input, display update, and other peripherals (such as scales) depending on model.

CloudPRNT is suitable for remote printing applications, such as kitchen delivery order printing, warehouse pick ticket printing, etc., where low latency is not strictly required. It is also suitable for lower latency applications, such as traditional POS, with full peripheral control.

This can be very useful for web-based applications, but can apply to any thin client-style environment. CloudPRNT can also simplify the installation, setup, and daily usage, as it eliminates the need to manage IP addresses or custom firewall/tunneling rules at the local site.

In addition to simplifying connectivity, CloudPRNT provides a mechanism to allow client and server to negotiate compatibility and capability information. This allows a server to format its output appropriately to fit the client device.

At this time, several Star models are available with CloudPRNT compatibility:
- TSP654II, TSP743II, TSP847II, SP742, with HI0x interface board fitted
- mC-Print2
- mC-Print3
About the SDK

CloudPRNT is an openly documented JSON/REST-based HTTP protocol, and therefore it is not necessary to have an SDK in order to implement a CloudPRNT-compatible service.

CloudPRNT servers can be created using any server-side technology that can be used to implement web services. Many server-side technologies are used such as PHP, Node.js, ASP.Net, ASP.Net Core, JSP, Python, Lua, and more.

In order to provide maximum benefit to developers, this SDK is not a CloudPRNT server implementation (although sample servers are included), but a set of helper functions, that can be extended as needed and incorporated into as many server-side systems as possible.

SDK Helper Features

This SDK provides functions to assist with:
- Status decoding
- Print job media format negotiation
- Print job conversion, so that the server may generate print jobs in a single media format, which are converted in case that format is not supported by the client device
SDK Integration

For integration purposes, the SDK provides the following:
- .Net API: A .Net Standard 2.0 compatible library, which can be installed via NuGet into any .Net 4.6 or later, and .Net Core 2.0 or later project. This API provides job format conversion, status decoding, and ready-made classes for serializing/de-serializing CloudPRNT JSON messages.
- CPUtil: A stand-alone command line tool that can be integrated with any server-side development system that can invoke local processes. This tool can be provided as native binaries for Linux x86, Linux x64, Linux Arm, Mac OS x64, Windows x86 and Windows x64 servers (it is not necessary to install the .Net Framework or .Net Core runtime). environments in order to use it.
- Sample Projects: Examples of very simple CloudPRNT servers, implemented with a variety of server-side technologies. These samples serve as both examples of implementing the CloudPRNT protocol and how to integrate either the API, or cputil in each environment.
- Star Document Markup: A simple, unified printer markup language that can adapt to any Star printer regardless of emulation, print width, or print method. It is a higher-level language that abstracts away the need to know printer-specific escape sequences. It does this by providing easy to use tags for various POS printer functions such as cut, alignment, image printing, and text formatting. Using the document markup system provides a balance between full bit-image based printing, and plain text output, while being easier to use than printer-specific commands. In order to take advantage of the markup language you must use it in conjunction with cputil.
Next Steps

Developers interested in the CloudPRNT SDK should reach out to the Star Integration Team to discuss the integration process specific to their development environment.

Please click here to learn more about the CloudPRNT SDK.

Contact Star Integration Now
November 26, 2019
The Ultimate List of Must-Have Cannabis POS Hardware

The cannabis industry is booming – and it’s expected to continue doing so. According to Grand View Research, the global legal marijuana market is expected to reach $66.3 billion by the end of 2025, and each year brings new legalization across the world.

Whether you’re in the business of opening a cannabis business yourself or are looking to provide cannabis point of sale (POS) solutions to your customers, it’s important to understand the critical role cannabis POS hardware has and how to determine which products are right for your business.

Why Star for Cannabis?

Before we dive into the list of must-have cannabis POS hardware, let’s explore Star’s qualifications in the cannabis industry, and why you can trust our knowledge in the space.

Star is the top POS hardware provider in the cannabis industry. A true one-stop shop, we provide all the hardware solutions a dispensary could need, from front of house dispensary sales to labeling and weighing product during curation. Additionally, Star has integrations with approximately 85% of all cannabis POS software on the market today.

The Star team has a distinct understanding of the need for cannabis dispensaries to keep extremely detailed records –including inventory and movement of the product. We also understand that cannabis dispensaries tend to have a very clean and modern aesthetic, and have designed our products to fit that sleek standard.

Must-Have Cannabis POS Hardware

Now that we’ve covered Star’s qualifications and position in the cannabis industry, let’s get started with the ultimate list of must-have cannabis POS hardware. It’s important to note that while Star offers an entire portfolio of cannabis POS hardware, we don’t want to box anyone in, and this list can be referred to as a vendor-neutral guide, as well.

Receipt Printers

Receipt printers are extremely important in the cannabis market. When it comes to cannabis, proof of legal purchase is key – and there’s no better way to provide it than with a receipt printer. In some places, like Canada, it is illegal to possess cannabis deemed illicit, and without proof of purchase, all cannabis is assumed to be illicit. Carrying that illicit cannabis could result in a $5,000 fine or a five-year prison sentence! In the US, laws vary greatly by state and must also be carefully obeyed.

Along with providing proof of purchase, it’s important to note that depending on your region, receipts must also contain other information, like store name and address, product category/name, and the appropriate tax code/identifier.

Star’s Pick: mC-Print3

When you choose a sleek, modern, and connected printer, like the Star mC-Print3, legality and stylishness coexist to strengthen your brand.

Click here to learn more about the mC-Print3.

Label Printers

Next on our list is another kind of printer: the label printer. An important part of seed-to-sale tracking, printed labels have an important role in the entire cannabis production and retail process. Seed-to-sale tracking is a key requirement in cannabis regulatory models, and refers to the process of tracking plants and their byproducts from planting all the way through to the plant’s sale. Star is proud that its label printers are used by many cannabis ISVs for proper labeling during this process.

Star’s Pick: TSP743II

Label printing is made easy with the Star TSP743II, which features fast printing speed, high reliability, web and cloud connectivity, and more.

Click here to learn more about the TSP743II.

Custom Cannabis Labels

As mentioned above, labels are incredibly important for the cannabis industry. Star currently offers cannabis labels pre-printed with official, state-required universal symbols. These pre-printed cannabis labels are available in various sizes for all recreational markets.

Click here to learn more about Star’s media.

Scales

Yet another critical piece of cannabis POS hardware is the scale – but not just any scale will do. First, you must ensure the scale you are considering is legal to use in your state and NTEP-certified. Being certified means that the scales are ensured to charge the correct amount for the product being weighed. Another great feature to look for is a scale that is integrated directly into the POS. Why? Reduced risk of human error that is associated with standalone scales that cannot integrate with the POS.

Star’s Pick: mG-Scales

All three scales in the mG-Scales series are NTEP-certified and offer software support for Windows, iOS, and Android, making the process of adding a scale to an existing system a simple process. They are certified to sell cannabis in Washington, Alaska, and California, and come with a waterproof and dust-proof cover. Each scale has the ability to connect through three types of interfaces including Bluetooth BLE, USB, and Serial. The scales can be powered through an outlet or by battery to allow for portable use.

Click here to learn more about Star’s mG-Scales.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

That’s where Star comes in. CDG proudly integrates its software tools with a variety of Star hardware including the all-in-one mPOP®, TSP654IISK linerless label printer, Value Series Cash Drawers, and more.

Download Brochure

Cash Drawers

Chances are you’re aware that the cannabis industry is currently predominately powered by cash. While marijuana is legal in many parts of the country, it remains illegal under federal law, which means dispensaries’ access to credit card processing options is slim. Thus, a reliable, high volume cash drawer is key!

Star’s Pick: Star CD3-1616

A part of the Star Value Cash Drawers line, the CD3-1616 is affordability meets performance. With a size of 16” x 16”, this cash drawer can accommodate a high volume of cash, is made of durable steel, and is available in black or white to match the existing POS. The CD3-1616 can accommodate Canadian and United States currency types, and includes a bottom exit cable.

Click here to learn more about Star’s CD3-1616.

Scanners

Scanners are an important part of the entire seed-to-sale process, from back-end warehouse operations, to scanning products at the point of purchase. Important features to look for are connectivity options and a design/color that matches the existing POS, if applicable.

Star’s Pick: 1D/2D Imager

These scanners are available in black or white, feature USB connectivity, include the cable, and more.

Click here to learn more about Star’s accessories.

PromoPRNT

Just like other businesses, cannabis dispensaries need to advertise, but what sets them apart is that they must adhere to strict advertising laws. For example, in multiple states including California and Colorado, over 70% of cannabis advertisement audiences must be over the age of 21.

An easy way to ensure marketing efforts are being communicated only to the intended audience is by printing those promotions on your receipts. With Star’s cloud-based PromoPRNT tool, dispensaries can create custom promotions from templates which increase customer engagement and retention, and can be used to promote sales, new products, loyalty programs, and more.

Click here to learn more about PromoPRNT.

Tablet POS Stand

As we discussed above, dispensary aesthetics are extremely important, not only from a branding and customer experience perspective, but also to legitimize the business to outsiders and newcomers. A great place to tie in style is at the POS, and an easy way to do that is by incorporating a sleek, space-saving POS stand into your arrangement.

Star’s mUnite tablet POS stand could be right for you. Made to be used with any iOS, Android, and Windows tablet or touchscreen computer, the mUnite features universal VESA mounting, hidden cable management, and is meant to be used with the mC-Print3, mPOP^TM, and TSP143III/TSP654II. Note: device, enclosure, and printer not included.

Click here to learn more about the mUnite.

Kiosk Printers

Dispensaries are sometimes limited to how many people they can allow inside at one time because budtenders need to be able to pay special attention to customers, and make sure they are recommending the right products. Some dispensaries are using kiosks to allow waiting customers to pick out what they want on screen, take the slip to the budtender, and simply just collect and pay for their items.

Star’s Pick: SK1-311

The SK1-311 kiosk printer is the best of the best. Compact and lightweight, it features a fast printing speed, supports receipt, ticket, or label media, and has many available accessories to choose from. An added bonus, the SK1-311 is available with StarPRNT emulation, meaning easy integration of kiosk solutions into any environment already featuring other Star printers.

Click here to learn more about the SK1-311.

Final Words

At Star, we’re proud to help dispensaries become more compliant in their operations. This compliance helps to change the perspective on the industry as a whole, getting everyone one step closer to federal legalization, and legal credit card payments. And of course, it is important for cannabis customers to receive printed receipts of their purchases to prove that their marijuana was purchased legally, and to receive applicable promotions.

We look forward to continuing to lead and innovate in the cannabis industry by developing sleek, feature-packed products designed to make every aspect of a dispensary’s operation streamlined, legal, and fruitful.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

The cannabis industry has become one of the fastest growing markets. Here’s how resellers can take advantage.

Download eBook

November 19, 2019
Choosing the Appropriate Kiosk Printer: A Comprehensive Guide

Self-service technology, including kiosks with kiosk printers, continues to increase in popularity in a wide range of vertical markets. Retailers of all types, as well as quick-service restaurants, gas stations, parking lots, casinos, telecommunications companies, banks, transportation providers, and other organizations are implementing these solutions. According to a recent study by Technavio, the self-service market is estimated to reach $18 billion by 2020.

What’s more, consumer demand for access to kiosks is growing. For instance, a survey by InRetail revealed that 69% of shoppers are more likely to make purchases from stores with kiosks, than from stores that do not have them.

However, capitalizing on the self-service trend and consumers’ affinity for kiosks in any application — retail or otherwise — necessitates strategic kiosk printer selection. Choosing the right kiosk printer is a matter of understanding the business, the business environment, and customers. It involves careful assessment of the range of feature options. This guide presents a roadmap for selecting the kiosk printer that best suits the needs of an operation and its clientele.

Discover all of Star Micronics’ Self-Service Kiosk Solutions.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

Top 3 Key Considerations

The road to finding the right kiosk printer starts with a few key considerations. Here at the top three; find out the rest by downloading the full free guide now!

Size

In most applications, space for the kiosk — and the kiosk printer — is at a premium. For example, in a typical retail or hospitality environment, the area in which the kiosk is installed is not sufficiently large enough to accommodate a unit with a bulky peripheral. Therefore, you will want to look for printer options configured as “open frame” printing mechanisms. There should be no unnecessary casings that increase the unit’s size and occupy space that may be needed for other components to make the kiosk more user friendly.

Use Case

One of the most common mistakes in selecting a kiosk printer is designing the actual kiosk before the printer and other accessories have been chosen. To ensure that the kiosk printer really satisfies the requirements of your business, think first about the use case and its parameters. For instance, if the kiosk will be installed in an environment where transaction volume is high, and thousands of receipts will be printed daily, you may need a kiosk printer that accommodates very large rolls of paper. However, many kiosk printers have a slender design and cannot support these large rolls, or necessitate the purchase of a special attachment at an additional cost.

Customer Experience

A kiosk allows businesses to interact directly with customers, and provide high-caliber customer service, all while decreasing wait times. To kick things up a notch, you can select a kiosk printer that can support graphical printing at a high speed. This allows you to offer coupons, special promotion options, product information, and other materials that customers can print out on the spot, increasing their engagement level with your establishment, and cultivating repeat business.

Must-Have Kiosk Technologies

Here are the top three kiosk printer technologies and accessories that you will find essential, depending on the application (get the full list in our guide):

Presenter

A presenter increases security and supports customer privacy by ensuring that receipts are delivered only to the right person; if forgotten, they remain inside the kiosk where unauthorized parties cannot access them.

The presenter also offers other benefits that make it worthwhile. Perhaps most importantly, the presenter prevents paper jams from occurring if receipts are inadvertently left in the printer. This, in turn, decreases the incidence of operating interruptions that cause customer service delays, and have a negative impact on the customer experience.

What’s more, with a presenter, there is no opportunity for receipts or other collateral to fall to the floor if it is not delivered to the intended recipient. The end result is reduction in litter, and a cleaner-looking store, restaurant, or other business environment.

Bezel

The bezel is an alternative to the presenter. Typically positioned between the kiosk slot and the printer, it acts as a guide
to push paper out of the kiosk. If the best kiosk printer for your application is not designed to accommodate a presenter, or there is another reason why a presenter would not work with a particular kiosk printer model (e.g., space constraints), a bezel is a viable solution.

Paper Status Alerts

Kiosks are typically left unattended for extended periods of time. However, you’ll need to know immediately when a kiosk printer requires more paper. Select a kiosk printer that displays alerts when it is low or entirely out of paper.

Looking for more tips on key considerations and must-have technologies, and information on how to source your kiosk printer?

Download Brochure

November 14, 2019
Star Software Update: Peripheral Usage for mC-Print (WebPRNT) and Scale Data Output Utility
Welcome to the Star Software Update, the regular series of blog updates where Star’s Integration Team informs you about the latest important Star Micronics software updates.

In this edition:
- Peripheral Usage for mC-Print2 and mC-Print3 (WebPRNT)
- Scale Data Output Utility
Read on to learn what each update entails.

Peripheral Usage for mC-Print2 and mC-Print3 (WebPRNT)

Release Date:

This update was released on October 2, 2019.

What’s Included?

WebPRNT Browser has been updated to support the mC-Print2 and mC-Print3 when using a USB connection. Now you can use Bluetooth or USB!

In addition, both printers can now use their peripherals with WebPRNT and WebPRNT Browser. Now customers have the flexibility to choose a wired or a wireless connection when using the mC-Print Series with WebPRNT. Peripheral support includes Star’s 1D and 2D barcode scanners, as well as the customer line display.

Scanners are often used in point of sale (POS), while line displays are more commonly used in grocery, as well as self-service. A good example of this is a frozen yogurt shop displaying the price and weight for the customer at checkout.

Next Steps

Customers wanting to use the mC-Print Series with a USB connection should update the WebPRNT Browser app through the Google Play Store.

To use the peripherals, please update the printer’s firmware to V2.1. Firmware can be updated through Stars mC-Print Utility, also available on the Google Play Store.

Scale Data Output Utility

Release Date:

The tool was released on September 30, 2019.

What’s Included?

The scale data output utility is a tool for Windows customers and developers alike to easily read scale input without complicated software. This is the first release, so the version number is 1.0.

For software that do not directly integrate with a scale, this tool can be used to read the weight and copy it directly into a text box into the POS software.

Potential industries that can take advantage of this update include cannabis, frozen yogurt, jewelry, deli, candy shop, bulk fruits/nuts in a grocery store, and more.

Next Steps

No firmware update is needed. To download the tool, please visit the Star Global Support Site.

Contact Star Integration Now
October 22, 2019
POS Scales: What You Need to Know
Thinking of adding or replacing a POS scale in your store (or product offering line)? Scales are used in a variety of businesses, including: cannabis (production and dispensaries), grocery/deli, jewelry, yogurt shops, spice shops, pharmacies, candy/chocolate stores, coffee shops that sell beans by the pound, and more. They’re important for shoppers and business owners alike, ensuring the correct amount of goods is being sold – no more, no less – at the correct price.

There are a couple important things to keep in mind when it comes to POS scales. First, all scales are not created equal – to get the most out of your investment, you need to carefully align your scale to your business use case. And second, you need to have your scale(s) certified, and calibrated and maintained by a certified service company.

Does that sound daunting? Don’t worry – below we’ll teach you how to choose a POS scale, as well become informed on scale regulations in your state.

Download Now: Scale Buyer’s Guide

How to Choose a POS Scale

Accuracy

First and foremost, it’s important to choose a scale that aligns with the product that will be measured. The below scales offer an option for nearly any business:
- The mG-S322: This scale is accurate down to the hundredth of a gram, and is used in highly sensitive realms, like pharmacy and cannabis. Included with the scale is a windshield for even the most demanding scientific environments. It is legal to use in all states where cannabis is legal.
- The mG-S1501: This scale is really the jack of all trades. It’s a versatile scale which measures down to the tenth of a gram, and also has four other units of measure. If you’re not sure which unit you will be measuring, this scale can adapt. Also, it is legal in some states for cannabis but it can only measure in certain amounts of weight.
- The mG-S8200: In the market for grocery, deli, or frozen yogurt? This is your scale! The mG-S8200 is a conventional scale that can weigh goods up to 18 pounds, but can also measure down to the gram.
The Star mG-Scales Series

Connectivity

Next thing to consider? Connectivity options. Look for a scale that comes with multiple interfaces, like serial, USB-B, and Bluetooth BLE (all three of Star’s scales come with all of these options). For legacy POS, make sure a serial interface is also present (again, Star’s scales have that).

Having a variety of connectivity options all on the same scale is important because you know you won’t need to replace the scale anytime soon, and you can maximize your return on investment (ROI). Running a legacy POS but want to move toward a more modern POS? Having a serial interface can help you easily swap your old scale out without purchasing any other hardware. Plan on moving to a tablet-based Bluetooth connection in the future? Your scale is ready whenever you are, and BLE can provide you with a low-energy portable option.

Software Support

Next on your checklist is software support. A good rule of thumb is to make sure your scale supports Windows, iOS, and Android. Having this support helps you prepare for the future of retail, where everyone uses a tablet instead of a PC. And you guessed it: all three of Star’s scales support all three software.

Power Options

When it comes to power, you need to ask yourself, “Where will my scale be used?” A traditional power supply is great for traditional brick-and-mortar stores, with standard POS.

However, it’s a good idea to choose a scale that also comes with a battery option, like Star’s. A battery-operated scale is a great choice for farmer’s markets, food trucks, and more, because while typically businesses need to bring a generator to power their POS, with a battery-operated scale they no longer need to. Some extra benefits that a battery-operated scale can offer is a clean, wire-free footprint, and the ability for software to still work even in the case of a power outage.

Important POS Scale Regulations

State-Specific Regulations

Now on to the fun important stuff. It’s extremely important to remember that nearly every state requires a State Certified Technician do scale installation, calibration, and registration.

So how do you get started? First thing’s first: contact your local Weights and Measures office to get information and first steps on how to get your scale ready for use legally.

State requirements can range from only getting the scale inspected after installation, to requiring you to file a request to have a certified installer come to your store to calibrate and lock your scale, followed by a Weights and Measures employee coming to examine the scale and issue a one-year seal (if it passes the examination). In those cases, if the scale fails the examination, a technician must return, redo the process, and then the scale must be re-examined. Long story short, do not try this yourself – be sure to choose a trusted technician! Our Scales Support webpage can help you find a nationwide partner.

Registration

In most states, registration with the Weights and Measures office needs to be done by a certified company. This registration usually expires each year, and gives the Weights and Measures office permission to come and test the scale without notice. If the scale fails the test the store can be fined, so be sure to use a certified company for all of your scale registration, calibration, and maintenance needs.

Calibration

Again, in the vast majority of cases, calibration should be completed by a certified company. Not only will choosing a certified company give you peace of mind, it can also save you serious money. To legally calibrate the scale, extremely precise weights, called F1 Class weights, must be used. These weights can cost nearly $5,000 and need to be kept in a special box with records of usage, maintenance, and more. Why go through the hassle of owning the weights yourself when a service company already has them?

Maintenance

For proper maintenance, a service company should be used once a year to ensure that the scale is still properly calibrated. Hiring a service company for maintenance gives store owners ease of mind that everything is working properly.

Star’s NTEP Certification

Star is proud to offer NTEP-certified scales – which means all three of our scales are legal for trade. In fact, when the scales were first released, Star was the first company to meet the new 2019 NTEP certification! Again, be sure that whatever scale you choose is NTEP-certified, or else it is not legal for trade.

How to Start Planning Your POS Scale Project

Ready to jump into your scale project? It’s best to start planning as soon as possible, so you know what process lies ahead. As a quick summary:
- Choose a scale with the accuracy you need,
- Choose a scale with future-proof connectivity options,
- Choose a scale with flexible power options,
- And be sure to stay compliant with your state’s requirements by working with a certified service company to register, calibrate, and maintain your scale.
Visit Star’s Scales Support webpage to browse certified nationwide partners, as well as state-specific requirements.

POS Scales
October 10, 2019
3 Reasons Why Star Cash Drawers are the Perfect MMF VAL-u Line Replacement
If you’re looking for MMF VAL-u Line® replacement cash drawers, you’ve come to the right place. Star Micronics is so much more than a printer company, and cash drawers are an integral part of our product line.

Our Value Series cash drawers, including the CD3-1313 and CD3-1616, are the ideal replacement for MMF VAL-u Line cash drawers for a variety of reasons: they are an exact replacement for the VAL-u Line drawers, they work with both Star and Epson printers, and they’re feature-packed and ready to pair with your point of sale (POS).

Here are the 3 reasons Star’s Value Series cash drawers are the ideal MMF VAL-u Line replacement:

1. Exact Replacement for VAL-u Line Cash Drawers

Simply put, the Star CD3 Value Series cash drawers are the perfect replace for the VAL-u Line because they are the exact replacement for the VAL-u Line! That’s right: our CD3-1313 and CD3-1616 have exactly the same features and looks as the VAL-u Line. You won’t be able to notice any difference! Can’t get a better replacement than that, can you?

2. Works with Both Star and Epson Printers

Although Star manufacturers printers, we understand that not everyone who is looking for a cash drawer necessarily uses a Star printer, as well. For that reason, our CD3 Value Series cash drawers work with both Star and Epson printers.

3. Feature-Packed and Ready to Pair with Your POS

On top of all of the VAL-u Line features you know and love – which our Value Series has to a T – Star cash drawers also offers the below features:
- Available in black or white coated finish to match your existing POS (white finish includes drawer front, as well)
- Bottom exit cables included
- Ideal for either standard amount of cash capacity, or high-volume cash capacity
Meet Your New Cash Drawer

CD3-1313
- 13 x 13 standard size
- Cost-effective
- Exact replacement of MMF VAL-u Line
- Durable steel construction and black or white coated finish
- Printer driven interface with bottom exit cable (cable included) – works with Star and Epson clone printers
- Dual media slots
Learn More About the CD3-1313

CD3-1616
- 16 x 16 robust size
- Robust storage, high volume
- Exact replacement of MMF VAL-u Line
- Durable steel construction and black or white coated finish
- Printer driven interface with bottom exit cable (cable included) – works with Star and Epson clone printers
- Dual media slots
Learn More About the CD3-1616

Star / MMF Comparison Chart

Star also proudly offers the Choice Series and Max Series cash drawer lines. Click here to browse all Star cash drawers.

Cash Drawers
September 13, 2019
WebPRNT vs. CloudPRNT: What’s the Difference?
When designing a software product, whether it be a point of sale (POS), online ordering, or reservation system (or more), deciding which printing mechanism technologies to use is very important. Star is happy to help, and offers solutions for both web-based POS and cloud-based POS (WebPRNT and CloudPRNT, respectively). While both technologies enable printing from a server (local or cloud-based), there are many differences between the two, and specific use cases for each.

Below, we explore the basic differences between the two technologies, when to use each, and which Star products feature these technologies. If you have any further questions, please contact us and a member of our team will assist you.

Important Note: All current CloudPRNT-capable printers also support WebPRNT.

Click here to download a full comparison document.

All About WebPRNT

To support customers building web-based POS applications, Star developed WebPRNT, which provides a multi-platform solution to print directly from various devices including PCs and tablets via a web browser.

To use, simply embed JavaScript samples from Star’s SDK package into your HTML file, and you can control your Star printer. WebPRNT is the perfect solution for web developers.

Pros
- WebPRNT SDK is JavaScript-based and is very familiar to web developers
- Supports a wide variety of printers including Bluetooth printers by using WebPRNT Browser
- Once initially coded, WebPRNT can run anywhere with a browser
Cons
- Users must know the printer’s IP address
- Need to set up an SSL certificate
WebPRNT is available on Star’s mC-Print3, mC-Print2, TSP654II, TSP743II, TSP847II, and SP742. Click here to learn more.

Download WebPRNT Spec Sheet

Exploring CloudPRNT

CloudPRNT is a technology that enables printing directly from a server, usually in the cloud. This device-agnostic method of printing separates the printing technology from the device triggering the print job, making it perfect for web-based software solutions where there is no device on the same network as the printer (and many other scenarios).

Here’s an example of how CloudPRNT works: By integrating CloudPRNT, a web-based POS solution could generate print jobs seamlessly and without a print dialog from any browser, on any device, running any operating system since the print job is coming straight from the cloud. Online ordering and bring your own device (BYOD) solutions are also a perfect match for CloudPRNT since the device triggering the print job doesn’t have to be on the same network or connected directly to the printer.

Another benefit of CloudPRNT is that it simplifies print job queue management since it allows management to occur centrally on the server instead of on each individual device. This makes for a robust print management solution in environments with multiple printers such as restaurants.

Last but not least, CloudPRNT printers periodically poll the server with its status looking for new print jobs rather than pushing the print job from the cloud to the printer. This means that the user doesn’t have to worry about the IP address of the printer, making for easier hardware management and support. The user also does not need to manage SSL certificates on the printer as is required with WebPRNT when printing from secure sites.

Pros
- CloudPRNT protocol is platform- and programming language-agnostic
- The printer and the person initiating printing can be in different physical locations (remote printing)
- REST-based architecture
- No need to set up SSL certificates
- All communication is done through one unified URL
Cons
- Requires a reliable internet connection
- Cannot print when network/internet is down
CloudPRNT is available on Star’s mC-Print3, mC-Print2, TSP654II, SP742, TSP743II, and TSP847II. Click here to learn more.

Download CloudPRNT Spec Sheet

Contact Star Integration Now
September 12, 2019
6 Compelling Reasons Developers Should Choose the StarPRNT SDK
Constantly evolving technology requirements and the need to stay competitive is enough to keep any programming and development staff busy 24/7. But instead of forcing you to write pages of new code to integrate your products or systems with Star Micronics printers, we’ve created StarPRNT SDK, a software developer kit that eliminates additional complexity in a way that is unmatched by competitors’ solutions. StarPRNT SDK reduces development time, costs and eliminates the need to study different programming manuals and write pages of code for full-feature support.

The StarPRNT SDK was developed to facilitate the integration of any Star product by making the process as seamless as possible. StarPRNT SDK gives developers all the tools they need at their fingertips to integrate Star’s printer lineup with your application without the heavy workload. In short: Every Star Micronics printer, One software development kit.

Learn more about the SDK now in our free eBook.

There are six specific advantages the StarPRNT SDK has over software development kits that are offered by competitors:
1. Support every Star Micronics product
2. Built to be developer-friendly
3. No need to worry about printer commands
4. Additional support for Star Micronics’ peripherals
5. Provides flexibility with programming language
6. Star Micronics provides development support with the SDK through the Software Partner Program
Work with a Company that Supports Your Business

Designed with the needs of software developers in mind, the Star Micronics’ StarPRNT SDK gives you all of the tools you need to integrate your software with Star’s line of printers and peripherals — moreover, we give you the tools to help the process run more smoothly and cost-effectively so you can improve the bottom line.

Star provides you with a line of industry-leading products including printers and POS peripherals and an SDK that makes it easy to develop software that enables your customers to use our products in ways that are most beneficial to them.

And Star adds the value of support from our development and marketing teams to ensure your partnership with us is profitable.

Contact Star Integration Now
August 29, 2019
How to Celebrate Earth Day Every Day with Star Micronics
Earth Day is upon us! Established in 1970, the holiday aims to educate people around the globe about environmental issues. This year Earth Day falls on Monday, April 22, but did you know you can give back to the environment every day using your Star Micronics technology? Read on to learn about the many ways we strive to preserve the earth while supplying top notch point of sale (POS) solutions.

Star Printer Environmental Profiles

Star puts forth great consideration into manufacturing safe and environmentally friendly products. Each printer model has an Environmental Profile featuring information on its usage safety, hazardous chemical substances, ecology considerations, and more.

Paper Reduction

Paper usage is a receipt printer’s largest negative burden on the environment. Taking this fact into consideration, Star designed ways to reduce the severity of receipt paper’s ecological impact while maintaining user comfort and familiarity. Here are some examples of how:
- Reduced Top Margin: The top margin is the white space starting from the paper’s top edge down to the first line of printed text. In the past, typical receipt printers had top margins ranging from 11 to 15 mm, resulting in lots of unnecessary waste over time. Realizing this, Star defined the default top margin size of the TSP143III to 3 mm and made the feature available on other printer models in our lineup. The result? Conserving between 8 to 12 mm per receipt without any effort or adjustment from the retail shop or restaurant owner!
- Receipt Length and Width Compression: Many Star printers enable retailers to reduce the size of their receipts without requiring any modification to existing POS software. Store owners have the ability to compress receipts horizontally, vertically, or both ways, for maximum paper conservation. Reduction of both vertical and horizontal space can reduce receipt size by a total of 75% without compromising image quality.
- On-Demand Printing: Each day, cashiers provide receipts for small purchases, most of which are immediately discarded. The TSP143III addresses this wasteful situation by offering an intuitive option to print the receipt – or not – with no modification to existing POS software. Should the customer wish to not have the receipt printed, the cashier can simply hit the “No” button to skip the print job. The transaction data can then be automatically saved into a journal which allows the store or restaurant owner to browse past transactions, reprint receipts, and more. (Please note some countries ban transaction reprinting or logging, so this feature may not be available in your country should such a law exist).
- Digital Receipts: What better way to reduce paper waste than with digital receipts? With Star Micronics Cloud Services, end users may provide digitized receipts in a fast, free, and secure way using any Star receipt printer.
Energy Efficiency

Although the cost to power a receipt printer is quite small, business owners can still benefit from Star’s energy efficient solutions. By using a Star receipt printer, businesses can save on electricity and add to their green efforts without making a large investment or changing company operations.

Star is proud to be ENERGY STAR-qualified! An international standard for the promotion of energy efficiency, the ENERGY STAR qualification is a highly respected achievement for any product. In order for a product to obtain the qualification mark, it must meet strict energy requirements set by the government.

Sustainable Packaging

To further reduce negative impact on the environment, Star has adopted environmentally friendly packaging techniques, including:
- Recyclable Packaging: Every Star printer ships in a recyclable cardboard box which can be easily dismantled and folded. The TSP143III took this initiative a step further by featuring the removal of polystyrene and Styrofoam packaging. These components were replaced by the same recyclable cardboard (which protects products from damage just as well).
- Electronic Manuals: Star provides an electronic user manual on the installation CD included with most printer models. The manual, along with other documentation including setup sheets, installation guides, and FAQs, are available online for download.
Environmentally Friendly Manufacturing

Star continually monitors and conforms to international laws and standards, obtains certifications, and investigates new ways to make our products safe for people and the environment. Some environmental initiatives Star has taken include:
- ISO 14001 Conformity: Star’s main printer manufacturing locations conform to the ISO 14001 international standard.
- RoHS Compliance: All Star printers are RoHS (Restriction of use of Hazardous Substances) compliant. RoHS restricts the inclusion of certain hazardous substances in electronics manufacturing.
- WEEE Compliance: All Star printers have earned the WEEE (Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment) marking. WEEE mandates the proper disposal and recycling processes of electronics equipment.
- Environmental Activity Reporting: A yearly Environmental Report is published and posted on Star’s corporate website.
- Green Procurement Guide and Survey Issuance: Star created a Green Procurement Guide, which is distributed to all suppliers and enables Star to mandate and monitor the exclusion of particular materials during manufacturing processes.
- BPA–Free Paper Rolls: Star is proud to provide BPA-free, premium grade printer paper rolls. Authentic Star paper rolls are easily recognized by the Blue Core.
Recycling Practices

Star strives to be eco-friendly every step of the way and encourages its customers to follow local standards for recycling electronics. Please note the disposal process for desktop printers, portable printers and batteries varies from country to country. Please refer to the appropriate measures mandating the disposal method of the country in which your printer is used.

Encourage Others to Go Green

Last but not least, one of the best ways to “do your part” when it comes to improving the environment is to encourage others to do the same! Business owners can use PromoPRNT, a value-add tool that prints custom promotions on receipts, to encourage its customers to use reusable bags, recycling product packaging, and more.

Looking to learn more about Star Micronics’ environmentally friendly technology? Click here to browse Star’s hardware products.
April 16, 2019
Star Micronics Scales: For More Than Just Cannabis
When you think of Star Micronics scales, you might think of cannabis retail use cases. To be fair, our mG-Scales series – including the mG-S322, the mG-S1501, and the mG-S8200 – is authorized to sell cannabis in Washington, Alaska, and California. But did you know that Star Micronics scale uses extend way beyond cannabis? Star’s mG-Scales boast the the following features:
- NTEP certification, which is required for all U.S. retail sales
- Included water- and dust-proof cover
- Software support for Windows, iOS, and Android
- Bluetooth BLE, USB, and Serial interfaces
- Can be powered through an outlet or by battery, enabling portable use
Download the Free Scale Buyer’s Guide.

Star Micronics scales are great for cannabis retailers – but check out six other industries that are also a perfect match for our scales:

1. Delis

As every grocery shopper knows, deli items like meats and cheeses are almost always sold by weight. Many large-scale delis, such as those in grocery stores, use specialty scales that are high-performing and large in size, but come with a hefty price tag. On the contrast, smaller delis don’t need such a big footprint, and most importantly, they need a more affordable integrated scale option. Star Micronics scales fit that bill perfectly, with their compact design, affordable price, and protective and easy-to-clean cover.

2. Candy Stores

Because many candies are sold in bulk and high-end candies, such as truffles, are sometimes sold by weight, scales are a must for candy retailers. With their bright and modern design, candy stores are also a perfect environment for sleek, tablet-based point of sale solutions – but there aren’t a lot of scales on the market that can integrate with tablet point of sale. That’s where Star Micronics scales come in to play: our scales’ Bluetooth connectivity – combined with iOS and Android software development kits (SDKs) – enables them to work easily with modern tablet-based solutions. How sweet!

3. Spice Shops

Like candy, spices are also generally sold by weight and with certain spices like saffron costing up to $10,000 per pound, it’s extremely important to accurately weigh them. Star Micronics scales combine high accuracy with a small footprint – perfect for a spice shop! Our scales also have the ability to be battery operated, meaning that items like spices can be sold at a farmer’s market with no power – without sacrificing accurate measurement.

4. Jewelry Stores

Speaking of expensive items, Star Micronics scales are a great match for jewelry stores. Jewelry is another high cost-per-weight industry, and precious metals and gems must be measured extremely accurately. Star’s most sensitive scale, the mG-S322, can measure to 0.01g accuracy and the units can be switched to carats for measuring materials like diamonds. And thanks to the scale’s included glass enclosure, air movement doesn’t move the jewelry or affect measurements.

5. Frozen Yogurt Shops

Taking a step back to modern, sugary industries, frozen yogurt is another business category where tablet-based point of sale is becoming very popular, making it critical to have an iOS/Android-compatible scale, like Star’s. Additionally, frozen yogurt shop counterspace is at a premium, making Star scales’ small footprint a must. In terms of actual measurements, Star Micronics scales can measure in ounces, the industry’s most popular unit of measurement, and with lots of potential for messiness in the shop, the scales’ protective and easy-to-clean covers certainly come in handy.

Star’s TSP800IIRx Thermal Printer is also perfect for pharmacies

6. Pharmacies

Candy is delicious and jewelry is beautiful, but in the pharmacy industry, accurately measuring items can be a matter of life and death. In fact, there’s no industry where it’s more important to reliably measure to a high degree of accuracy. Connectivity to software is also important, as measurements are often validated by software to reduce errors. Star Micronics scales have all of that and more – they also include a counting function that’s useful for counting pills. And with an accompanying pharmacy thermal printer, Star is truly one of the most functional, reliable, accurate options on the market for pharmacies.

Looking to up your retail scale game? Learn more about Star Micronics scales now!
February 7, 2019