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in magnetic card reader allows fans to order directly from their seat. The order is radioed to
the kitchen, filled and delivered right to the seat. Payment by credit card is made,
authorization obtained over the radio network and on to the next fan! The system is so quick,
additional kitchen space was added!
§ Swedish Railway who introduced “the first computerized conductors in the world”
equipped with a hand held computer and an Extech Mini Serial Printer enabling passengers to
purchase their ticket on the train. A magnetic card reader, integrated right into the printer
means the passenger can pay by credit card as well as cash. The magnetic card reader is set to
read tracks 2 and 3 simultaneously, decode the data and transfer it to the hand held computer.
Extech Data Systems — Ten Years On
EXTECH Data Systems nowadays designs and manufactures battery operated, portable printers
for portable and mobile computing applications. Powerful micro-controllers on highly integrated
circuit boards manage all the features supported by the printers. Custom firmware and printer
designs are provided to meet a wide range of application requirements including special graphics,
simultaneous read of dual track magnetic cards, datalogging, etc. The user may choose impact or
thermal print heads. A full range of communication interfaces is available: serial (RS232),
parallel (unidirectional and bi-directional), infrared IrDA or ASK), and magnetic card reader. All
data interfaces are DOS and Windows compatible. Integration with hand-held computers, PDAs,
pen computers and notebook computers is easily accomplished by OEMs and their system
integrators.
The printers may be operated from a battery pack or from an AC power adapter. Battery
operation provides up to 2 hours of continuous print time - more than sufficient for a normal
shift’s work. A fast charge circuit fully charges the battery in 90 minutes. The high impact plastic
housing encloses easily loaded, single or two-ply paper rolls. Connectors are placed for wearing
comfort and to minimize exposure to the elements. Membrane switches with bright LEDs are
easily reached when worn on a belt or placed on a desk. Typical applications include field sales,
field service, meter reading, route accounting, ticket issuance, and more. Recent product
developments include:
§ Series 2000 (updated impact printer range) and Series 2000T (new thermal printer range).
The new products incorporate a larger paper roll, a new IrDA wireless communication
system, an improved battery charging system, large memory and a new body housing with
built-in belt clip
§ Built-in magnetic card reader version especially suitable for field applications where
payment is preferred at the time of service delivery. Mobile point of sale applications
(EPOS) can also benefit from use of this new printer. Integration with wireless systems
makes credit card authorization possible (EFTPOS)
§ Introduction of alkaline battery powered option for increased portability
§ Introduction of new printers with data logger capability
