The Green Sheet Online Edition
November 11, 2014 • 14:11:01
Tablet empowered merchants
Harbortouch recently introduced the Echo POS system. Designed to combine the power and functionality of a traditional POS system with the simplicity and sleek design of a tablet-based system, Echo POS is now part of the company's free POS system program.
"In recent years, there has been a lot of attention surrounding tablet-based mPOS systems," said Jared Isaacman, Chief Executive Officer at Harbortouch. "However, we have started to see a backlash against these tablet systems as merchants realize their limitations. These systems utilize underpowered consumer hardware and have limited software functionality, both on the front-end and back-end."
He noted that one such area of limitation is the reporting capabilities offered by many tablet-based systems. "The Echo software includes all of the front-end and back-end features businesses need," he said, adding that Harbortouch designed the module-based software to be scalable and to allow businesses to reveal or hide features based on the complexity of their operations.
Another reason for merchant disenchantment with tablets is lack of support. "Most of these tablet systems are developed by startup companies who don't have experience in the industry or have the ability to adequately support their customers," Isaacman said. "Merchants can't afford to wait for someone to get back to them if their system has a problem or they need additional training for new staff." Harbortouch pointed out that it provides 24/7 customer support and extensive training.
Additional Echo features include:
- All-in-one design to fit compact merchant spaces
- Brushed aluminum finish for maximum durabilityLarge 13.3-inch screen for optimum visibility
- Swivel base for customer on-screen signatures
According to Harbortouch, the Echo model utilizes hybrid cloud technology to provide real-time reporting and redundant backup should an Internet connection temporarily shut down. Additionally, the system deploys the proprietary HTNET encrypted wireless technology at the merchant's location, which makes it more reliable and secure than traditional Wi-Fi, Harbortouch noted. 
Whether you want to upgrade your POS offerings, find a payment gateway partner, bone up on fintech regs or PCI requirements, find an upcoming trade show, read about faster payments, or discover the latest innovations in merchant acquiring, The Green Sheet is the resource for you. Since 1983, we've helped empower and connect payments professionals, starting with the merchant level salespeople who bring tailored payment acceptance and digital commerce tools, along with a host of other business services to merchants across the globe. The Green Sheet Inc. is also a proud affiliate of Bankcard Life, a premier community that provides industry-leading training and resources for payment professionals.
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