Epson Announces New POS Processor Module; Allows Grocery Retailers to Select the Ideal Combination of Processing and Printing Power

Business Wire, Feb 23, 1998

TORRANCE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 23, 1998--Epson, a leading supplier of transaction-processing hardware for point-of-sale (POS), debuted its new IM-515 processing module at the Marketechnics show in Los Angeles Monday.

The IM-515 module is a state-of-the-art retail computer designed to be combined with any of Epson's TM printers to form the core of a powerful, open-architecture POS system.

For example, when paired with the TM-H5000II thermal/impact printer, the resulting NT-H50000II intelligent terminal provides grocery retailers with the high-performance processing power to run sophisticated software applications and drive the advanced printing capabilities required in the checkout lane.

"The value of Epson's open-architecture POS solutions lie in the retailer's ability to mix and match processing and printing capabilities to create the best system for their business needs," said Bud Weist, director of marketing, Epson.

"For example, the NT-H5000II provides grocery retailers the power to manage 'behind-the-scenes' programs, such as customer- transaction analysis and sales tracking, while simultaneously improving customer service with faster check-out, clean receipts and customized coupons."

Open Architecture Supports Business Requirements

The NT-H5000II is a software-independent terminal so retailers have the freedom to choose operating systems that meet their individual business needs such at Windows 3.xx, Windows 95 or Windows NT. Additionally, the NT-H5000II's open-architecture design allows retailers to take full advantage of client/server networks, company intranets and even the Internet.

With the NT-H5000II, retailers can run software programs that track stock, accommodate electronic-payment systems and facilitate frequent-shopper programs.

"Retailers who integrate to open-architecture products will have the flexibility to react to change as it happens, while protecting their investment," added Weist.

Processor Flexibility

Retailers can select from either Intel Pentium or AMD processors to meet their specific application requirements. For example, a retailer may select a high-performance Pentium MMX 233MHz processor to support at-station employee training or product advertising.

Additionally, this power and flexibility allows retailers to run a variety of off-the-shelf software programs to help them implement focused-marketing efforts such as customer-specific promotions and simultaneously run a variety of security-system programs without slowing customer check-out time.

The IM-515 module features 128KB flash ROM, six expansion slots, up to eight serial ports, two USB ports and advanced configuration and power interfaces that allow it to expand with the retailer's business needs. It is housed in a compact, Epson Cool White casing that measures 9.69 (W) by 11.89 (D) by 4.57 inches (H).

Printing Power

The TM-H5000II printer is the ideal partner to the IM-515's powerful processor. The TM-H5000II's high-speed printing (37.6 lines-per-second) raises checker productivity and significantly shortens customer check-out time. Beautiful custom graphics, stored in the printer's nonvolatile memory, can be printed on the thermal receipt, allowing retailers to send a powerful message to customers.

The receipt portion of the printer can also print coupons and high-quality bar codes for promotional and returned items. With a maximum of 88 characters, the wide slip can be used for printing multiple part forms, the face of customer checks, and the endorsement on the check.

The optional MICR reader provides added security for retailers to avoid accepting fraudulent checks. As always, Epson products offer high reliability for maximum checkstand uptime.

Offered though Epson's designated sales and distribution channels, the NT-H5000II is available now and carries an MSRP starting at $2,323. For more information on Epson POS products and configurations, call 310/787-6300 or visit Epson's Web site at www.pos.epson.com.

Epson offers an extensive array of image-capture and image-output products for the consumer, business and graphic arts markets. The company is also a leading supplier of a diverse line of component, system and electronic device products.

Founded in 1975, Epson America Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency. Epson America has headquarters in Torrance. -0-

Note: Brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

CONTACT: Epson America Inc., Torrance

Janette Reynolds, 310/782-5161

janette_reynolds@ea.epson.com (e-mail)

or

Base One Marketing

Julie O'Brien, 310/792-1877

jobrien@base1.com (e-mail)