Samsung and SAM4s Cash Registers

SAM4s has release 4 new models 3 more coming soon

2012-01-12T14:42:00.001-08:00

SAM4s has recently released 4 new cash registers and are about to release 3 more. One of the greatest features found on all 7 of these registers is that they all have an SD card slot allowing you to back up and restore a program in case of failure as well as upgrade the ROM version of your register. There are many other features in these new machines as well. If you are looking for a new Cash Register you will want to check these new and soon to be new models.

SAM4s continues to be the leading force in Cash Registers for small and medium business.

New SAM4s Cash Register Models coming soon

2011-08-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

SAM4s will soon be releasing 7 new models. These new models have some great features and continues a trend that SAM4s started by coming out with new feature rich cash registers that people are asking for! With these new models they are leaving everyone else in the dust! The Cash Register Guys has posted some information of all of the new models coming soon.

All of these registers have an option for credit card interface, SD Card to save and load programs, larger buttons and more.

SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-07-21T15:58:00.000-07:00

We were told today that Sharp was going to discontinue two of it's popular cash register models. No word yest if they will be replaced with new models or just going away for good?

SAM4s continues to lead the industry with new models and powerful features while the other name bramd cash register companies are retreating. SAM4s is talking about new models coming out very soon and I for one can't wait to see what models they come up with. Stay tuned......

SAM4s SPS-2000 cash register / POS System

2011-06-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

SAM4s SPS-2000

The SAM4s SPS-2000 is easily configured to meet the needs of various table service, quick service and retail applications. It supports a full complement of POS peripherals, including printers, a comprehensive kitchen video system (KVS), POS scales, scanners, order confirmation board and connects to a back office or remote PC for polling and program maintenance.

Applications:

Table Service: Casual Dining, Family Style Restaurants, Bar/Restaurants
QSR: Sandwich, Bakery, Pizza, Coffee, Taco, Hamburger, Ice Cream
Retail: Specialty Foods, Specialty Gourmet, Deli's, Liquor, Beer/Wine, Gift Shop

Options:

Credit Card Interface
Kitchen Video
PC Interface
Kitchen Printer
Bar Code Scanner

Compare the SAM4s SPS-530 and the Sharp UP-820F Cash Registers

2011-06-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

When the UP-820F register was released I thought it would kill every other high end cash register. It was ahead of its time and full of features. I could not have been more wrong about that. Not long after the UP series was released SAM4s introduced the SAM4s SPS-500 series which is made up of the following models

The release of the SPS-500 series quickly killed of our sales of the Sharp UP line and we began selling many more of the SPS-500 series. Here are a couple of the huge differances that we like more in the SPS 500 line.

USB ports
CF Slot for memory expansion ($75.00 for SAM4s Memmory $400.00 for Sharp)
Keyboard Port
SPS 500 series less expensive
7.1" Color Touch Screen

The SPS series is the best cash register we have ever seen. To beat this machine you will have to go to a much more expensive POS system.

Credit Card Terminals for SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-06-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

Yes there is a credit card terminal that interfaces to SAM4s Cash Registers. Our company has installed hundreds of them across the country with great success. When you integrate a terminal with your cash register you will make more money by speeding up your lines, making fewer mistakes, reducing fraud, and other benefits. We can consult with you about interfacing a Credit Card Terminal for SAM4s Cash Registers

Wireless Kitchen Printers

2011-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Often we are asked about wireless Kitchen Printers and if we reccomend any of them. Our answer used to be no but we have now tested and started selling a bluetooth adapter that works great with SAM4s Cash Registers and Kitchen Printers. We have not yet tested them on any Sharp Cash Registers but I don't see why they would not work as well as the SAM4s registers do.

The cost is about $250.00 for the adapters plus the cost of the printers. Sometimes this is less then the cost of installing cable in a difficult situtaion.

Cash Register Interfacing Scales

2011-05-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

Many SAM4s cash register can interface to scales to make ringing up items sold by weight much faster and accurate. Two models of scales even allow weight and sales by the ounce instead of 10ths of a pound. The SAM4s ER-650 and an ounce scale from CAS or Avery Berkel make a great Yogurt Shop Cash Register

There are a couple places that offer the Cash Register Interfacing Scales from CAS and Avery Berkel Electronic Scales

Low Cost SAM4s Cash Register

2011-05-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

SAM4s has a two new models of low cost cash registers. The SAM4s ER-180 and the ER-180T. Both have multiple departments and do all the normal cash register functions like Sales Tax, Change, X, Z, etc. The 180 uses bond paper and the 180T uses Thermal paper. There are a few other tiny differances.

SAM4s ER-180T Cash Register

Cash Registers for Liquor Stores

2011-05-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

There are several good cash registers from SAM4s and Sharp that are great for Liquor stores however one stands out. The SAM4s SPS-520R and SPS-530R both are the best Liquor Store Cash Register on the market today.

With the abilty for a large PLU file, a keyboard port for programming or optional software, SD port for back up and transfers, barcode scanner port and more make this machine the best choice.

Cash Register with Credit Card Terminal

2011-05-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

This is one of the popular questions we get. Do you have a cash register with a credit card terminal and the answer is Yes we do. SAM4s makes many cash registers that offer integrated credit card and gift card payments.

The SAM4s registers that interface use a Datacap Twin Tran to accomplish the integration. When you interface you will speed up transactions while increasing security. You won't be sorry for making the switch

SAM4s SPS-500 Cash Register

2011-05-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

The SAM4s SPS-500 series of cash registers include 4 different models. All program the same and have the same features other then the prnter differances. Here is the differances between the models.

SAM4s SPS-520R features a raised keyboard and a two station printer
SAM4s SPS-520F includes a flat keyboard with a two station printer
SAM4s SPS-530R with a signle station printer that uses 3 1/8th" Thermal Printer and raised keyboard
SAM4s SPS-530F with a signle station printer that uses 3 1/8th" Thermal Printer and Flat keyboard

The raised keyboards are designed for retail stores and the flat keyboards are best suited for restaurants of all kinds however any of them will work just up to your personal preferance is all.

SAM4s SPS-520F Cash Register

SAM4s Cash Register Credit Card Interface

2011-03-07T15:57:00.000-08:00

Most SAM4s cash registers support Integrated Electronic Payments also known as Credit Card Interface

Choosing Interfaced Payments allows you to process a credit, debit or gift card purchase in one step using your SAM4s electronic cash register. Transactions will be processed quickly, conveniently and securely speeding up lines and serving more customers in less time.

Integrated Credit Card Payments require an optional DataTran appliance. Dial, IP, or IP with dial backup terminals are available to greatly simplify deployment. Some DataTrans include a magnetic Card Reader and some require a card reader to be installed on the cash register
Most end-user sign up with Mercury Payment Systems and the Cash Register Guys who can provide fast, affordable, simplified deployments and complete merchant services, including free gift card processing programs.

Check them out and see how they can help you keep more of your profit.

SAMs Cash Registers ?

2011-02-17T11:17:00.000-08:00

People often refer to the SAM4s line as The SAMs Cash Registers but the correct spelling of the company is SAM4s. I can't remember the meaning of the name but it does have a nice meaning.

SAM4s registers used to be markets by Samsung

SAM4s ER-5215M Cash Register Programming

2011-02-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to How to Program a SAM4s ER-5215M Cash Register

This is a great cash register that programs pretty easily. This register also can interface to a PC and with a Credit Card terminal made by Datacap

Scanning cash register system under $600.00

2011-02-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

SAM4s does have a cash register that includes software and you can combine with a bar code scanner all for under $600.00 and it will allow you to have an inventory of 10,000 UPC's. Not bad for an entry level commercial Grade Cash Register.

Here is a SAM4s ER-285M Barcode Scanning Bundle

SAM4s Cash Registers with Graphic Logo Ability

2011-01-31T15:58:00.000-08:00

Many but not all SAM4s Cash Registers support Graphic Logos instead of just the standard text logo. Black and white or monochrome artwork is required and it needs to be pretty small. You will also need an interface cable that does not come with the machine and the utility software which is often free is often not included in the register box.

here is a list of SAM4s models that have this feature

SAM4s ER-285M
SAM4s ER-380
SAM4s ER-380M
SAM4s ER-390M
SAM4s ER-5200M
SAM4s ER-5215M
SAM4s ER-5240
SAM4s SER-7000
SAM4s SER-7040
SAM4s SPS-520 FT
SAM4s SPS-520 RT
SAM4s SPS-530 FT
SAM4s SPS-530 RT

By the way anything with an M on the end of the model number indicates that machine has an Integrated Credit Card option however not all machines that interface to credit acrd payments end in an M for example all the 500 series Interface to Credit Card Payments.

SAM4s SPS-530 RT Cash Register

2011-01-28T11:52:00.000-08:00

There are 4 model numbers in the SAM4s SPS-500 series and they are pretty simple

If there is a 20 in the model number then that machines features both a receipt and journal printer. If there is a 30 in the number then that machine has a single 3 1/8th thermal printer. The FT models have flat keyboards for restaurants and the RT means Retail or raised key (Tactile) better suited for a store that enters prices or UPC's at the register

Program your SAM4s ER-5215M Cash Register Tax Rate

2011-01-25T15:57:00.000-08:00

Here is how you program the tax rate on his SAM4s ER-5215M cash register. Easy task when you have the programming manual. In the manual this is on page 90. But here is a quick guide to programming tax on the SAM4s ER-5215M cash register. In this example I'm going to set tax rate 1 at 8.5% in a simple flat rate tax NO GST and NO VAT like most states sales taxes are set up. If in doubt make sure and check with you state department of revenue of the rate and type of sales tax you should be collecting. Check with your own CPA or bookkeeper as well!

OK here goes

Key To P (program mode)
Enter 8.50000 Press "Tax Shift 1" Press "Cash"

Your done, make sure and turn the key out of P to R and test!

Couple quick notes lets say you wanted to change Tax Rate #2 not 1 then replace "Tax Shift 1" with the "Tax Shift 2" button if Tax 3 then use Tax Shift 3, if tax 4 then use Tax shift 4. Pretty easy huh!

If you tax was 8% your first entry would be 8.00000 or 9.25% it would have been 9.25000 again pretty easy huh!

Keep in mind THIS DOES NOT MAKE A DEPARTMENT OR PLUS TAXABLE IT SIMPLY SETS THE RATE. You must program the tax status of a group or PLU to make it taxable or not and that is a different post!

remember do this at your own risk. If you need help seek out a cash register company but be pre-pared a few bucks for their help!
Thanks

Electronic Journal in SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-01-24T16:28:00.000-08:00

Electronic Journals (EJ) have replaced the traditional journal or audit tape in traditional cash registers. The way the EJ works is that it stores the transactions in memory instead of printing them on the internal audit tape like older registers.

Keep in mind this has nothing to to with your sales report. The old journal tapes and now EJ's are an AUDIT tape or record not a sales report. Even if you new cash register has an EJ you will still get your traditional X and Z reports (sales reports)

With the old school audit tapes when you had a balancing issue or massive over ring to resolve you would open the printer cover and start going through the printed audit tape or journal tape (same thing) until you spotted the problem. The EJ works in a similar way other then it prints to memory as you go rather then paper. So when you need to look into the audit tape to resolve an issue you have to print out the EJ and look at it. After it is printed it it exactly like the traditional audit/journal tape. Some registers allow you to print portions of the EJ to the screen of the register (if it has a screen) instead of printing it out.

There is one HUGE difference between between an old school physical audit tape and an EJ. A physical tape is limited by the size of the roll but when at and end the register in most cases prompts the user to change the paper. We the EJ has limits by the amount of memory in the cash register and it adjusted by programming in most cases. An EJ is sized by number of lines. So for an example a single item sale is about 7 lines (depending on the make and model of the cash register) you would have a line for date and time a line for register # Transaction # Cashier#, a line for the item and price, line for subtotal, line for sales tax, line for total, maybe a line for amount tendered and another for change. So a 2 item sale would be about 8 lines. So most registers when the EJ limit is reached the machine will start overwriting the oldest entries of the EJ. Some machines can be prompted to warn the cashier and prompt if the EJ should be printed, some machines have an option of stopping the cashier and forcing the cashier to print the EJ.

I recommend taking your Z every end of day and if the Z is good ignore your EJ and let it overwrite! But think about it before you start using your register. With some registers once you allocate that memory you may not be able to alter it without making changes you may not want to make in the rest of you program.

No one think I can tell you for sure is no one can tell you how long an EJ will last etc cause it all depends on the amount of items, number of sales etc! Every business is different. Your SAM4s Cash Register Expert can help you more

SAM4s SPS-2000 POS System

2011-01-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

SAM4s SPS-2000 Cash Register

Many people think the SAM4s SPS-2000 is a cash register and they often call me and ask what software they can load on it or rather what software DO THEY HAVE TO LOAD. The answer is NONE! The SPS-2000 is self contained and is not a computer. It is a ROM based cash register with a large touch screen and modular componets like cash drawer, printer, etc.

ROM based systems tend to last longer then computers because there are no moving parts, no operating system, can't get a virus etc etc.

Check it out and I'll bet you like it. Three great places to buy this register

SAM4s Cash Registers and the Cancel Key

2011-01-20T12:09:00.000-08:00

SAM4s Cash Registers

Almost all SAM4s Cash Registers have a feature called Cancel which can be a very handy function. It wipes out a transaction before payment like it never happened with the push of one button. No of course you sure want to watch employees use of this feature to ensure ity is not being abused. Liek always look at your Z tapes to monitor use of this feature. This feature only works pre payment in the case of post payment you will still need the void mode or return function.

The cancel key can bu turned off, placed in Manager Control, or removed from the keyboard on most machines.

What is the differance between the SAM4s ER-5240M and the SAM4s ER-5215M

2011-01-19T15:48:00.000-08:00

SAM4s ER-5240M

The 5240M and the 5215M are nearly the same machine. The big differance is in the number of maximum groups each register can have. The model number says it all. The SAM4 ER5215M can have 15 groups but comes out of the box with only 5 while the SAM 4 ER- 5240M (pictured) can have 40 groups abd comes out of the box with 15 double size group keys.

Both registers support credit card interface with a Datacap Twin Tran, both support bar code scanning, and both have polling and programming software available both free and for fee!

These two cash registers use the same thermal printer and feature both a receipt and journal tape of 2.25" thermal paper.

Both models are heavy duty and commercial grade. Metal cash drawer with a hard plastic insert that is very long lasting. Both program and report alike and I think you could use either manual with either machine.

Supplies for the SAM4s ER-5200M

2011-01-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

The SAM4s ER5200M uses thermal paper rolls in both the receipt and journal printers. Even if you don't issue a receipt you should have the paper installed and you wuill be able to use the receipt copy feature in case a customer does ask for one. I think it is law in most states that a customer must be given a receipt of some type if they request one.

Bond paper rolls WILL NOT work in the SAM 4s ER-5200M. This register also does not need an ink ribbon as it uses thermal paper. This machine also will use the large roll of paper, don't wast time with the 80' or 150' foot rolls, get a 200' to 230' foot roll.

Click here for supplies for the ER5200M like the paper and keyboard covers or click here for another source of supplies and service for the SAM4s ER-5200M

The SAM4s ER-180 and 180T are they the same?

2011-01-13T15:36:00.000-08:00

At first glance you would think the ER-180 and the ER-180T are the same with the exception that the 180T has a thermal printer. We though so for sure but while looking closer we saw several more important differances.

Here are the differances

Feature                          180                           180T
Departments                  Same                         Same
PLU's                            100                           500
Clerks                           4 Max                       10 Max
Receipt Messages     NO                           Programmable
EJ                                 NO                           2500 lines

So no they are not the same other then the printer. Granted most people buying little machines like this will most likely never use the features but it does surprise me! Maybe it is a typo on the printed material from SAM4s?

SAM4s Cash Registers and DVR Text Interfaces

2011-01-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

SAM4s Cash Registers

We get this question all the time, can my DVR interface to my SAM4s cash register? The simple answer is maybe! Here is the problem there are hundreds of DVR systems on the market today. I can only speak for one of the hundred plus systems and that is the Talon DVR system for which the answer is YES for most models. The other part of the question I can answer is that all most all SAM4s Cash Registers can interface to DVR systems however keep in mind I did not say all DVR systems or your DVR system! YES the SAM4s can export the required information via a serial port now the question is can my DVR system use it?

So now that you know almost every SAM4s can get the data out it is up to your DVR company to tell you not the cash register dealer. We have people call every week and we try to explain this and they ask us to come out and connect their cash register to their Brand X DVR system. Most cash register dealers like us can not do this and that is a question for your DVR people not us. The SAM4s registers that I know can export teh data needed are.

ER-650
ER-650R
ER-5215M
ER-5240M
ER-5240M
ER5200M
SPS-520R
SPS-520F
SPS-530R
SPS-530F
SER-7000
SER-7040
SPS-2000

You will have to have an available serial port on your register in order to connect it to a DVR system.

So before you buy your DVR system ask them is your SAM4s register on their list of approved registers? If not don't call a register dealer they won't know! If your DVR dealer can't tell you then find another DVR dealer. I have worked with many that have a list of registers by model number that they work with and the required cable and the setting! Those are the DVR dealers you want to work with!

Hope that helps and remember to do your homework before you buy!

What Happened to Samsung Cash Registers

2011-01-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

We do not get this question as often as we used to but a few people still remember and or use Samsung Cash Registers. So here is the story as related to me. Samsung marketed cash registers all over the world for years. Samsung never made the cash registers they sold however few people knew that or probably cared. Sometime ago for what ever reason Samsung decided to get out of the Cash Register Business. The company that had always made the Samsung Cash Registers I guess was given the option of purchasing the rights or maybe they did not have to buy anything not sure but anyhow they started marketing the Cash Registers they always made for Samsung on their own and came up with the name SAM4s. Yes the name SAM4s has a meaning however I have forgotten it but I blogged about it several years ago and a person from SAM4s commented and educated me on the meaning. I know it is like Strong, Silent, etc etc It was nice and strong sounding sorry I can't remember.

This was a great move because SAM4s has taken the line and made it GREAT. I think SAM4s is running away from the pack and setting new standards for Cash Registers in Functions, Features, Options and pricing. The only distributor for SAM4s Cash Registers is CRS who also opertates a small retail dealers ship as well.

Even though SAM4s is really running over everyone else in the industry I hope some competition remains and stages a come back. As great as SAM4s has been I think history has proved nothing good comes out of a monoply of the market!

Keyboard Covers for SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-01-10T13:55:00.000-08:00

There are three sites I know of that sell the silicone or plastic keyboard cover for SAM4s Cash Registers. Keeping a cover on your machine can protect it and prolong the life of your machine. Some machines require a cover such as the restaurant style machines with flat micro motion keyboards. Most keyboard covers seem top range in price from around $20.00 to upwards of $40.00 or so. Here are the top sites on the internet for Keyboard Covers

Don't wait until you can no longer see through your cover or worse you are using the machine without one and someone spills a soda of coffee right on you machine! We see it everyday where a low cost keyboard cover would have saved you the cost of a replacment machine. It is almost not if you will spill something on your register more like when and how much!

Changing Sales Tax on a SAM4s Cash Register

2011-01-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Well it is that time of year again when the sales taxes across the country are often raised! Here are a couple good SELF HELP resources for SAM4s Cash Registers. These sites have some manuals posted and even some tips on programming sales tax

These sites offer some free items as well as they might be able to help over the phone for a fee. (don't expect them to help you for free unless maybe you bought your cash register from them and even then it may not be free)

Credit Card Interface with SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-01-06T15:51:00.000-08:00

Cash Register to Credit Card Interface with Datacap

Datacap makes devices that connect your cash register to your credit card processor and takes the old manual entry credit card machine out of the loop. When you intergrate your cash register directly to credit card processing you will be able to speed up transactions, greatly reduce errors, reduce fraud and make you more money. Here are a couple places that have the Datcap devices. The first one offer the Datacap Twin Tran with SAM4s and Sharp cash registers and the second one also offers Datacap Modems that interface with credit card sand gift cards

Where should I buy my SAM4s Cash Register From

2011-01-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

Try and buy your SAM4s Cash Register from Factory dealer not just a mass merchandiser that sells all kind of items on the web. Below we have listed two good discount dealers on the net that work only in cash registers and offer support if needed. Sometimes you may have to pay for that support but it is available. If you buy from some ACME internet reseller they may not know a cash register from an iPod! Call first and question them. Do they know anything about the cash registers? Is their main business selling cash registers or ink jet printers? Do they provide support?

Here are two great places to buy:

These resellers offer all the SAM4s registers and support each one of them as well as repair and offer supplies. These resellers can also offer Value added items like Cash Register Credit Card interface, Kitchen Printers, Kitchen Video Systems and other options.

Free Programming tool with select SAM4s Cash Registers

2011-01-04T15:17:00.000-08:00

Now some select SAM4s Cash Register models include a FREE Programming Software Tool. With this free software users can edit and or create the program and store the the cash register program. A cable will still be needed which you can buy (or make your own) to interface the cash register into the computer.

The following models come with the free software:

reports can not be taken with the free software. Support is available for the software on a pay as needed basis.

2011-01-03T11:07:00.000-08:00

SPS 520R and SPS 530R Features

We often get asked what the limits of the SPS 520R or SPS 530R. Keep in mind that to max out UPC’s or PLU’s you have to have the max optional memory. With the max memory we still could not tell you how many UPC’s or Guest Checks you could have because the memory is shared much like a computer. A computer’s hard drive is sized by GB not how many items it can hold this cash register (like most) is the same. However with the maximum memory installed this machine can have a lot of UPC’s andPLUS and guest checks.

With maximum memory installed you can have up to:

Remember it is shared so it does not mean you can have the max of each but rather what the max is of each if enough memory!

Up to 60,000 PLUs*
Up to 999 Clerks*
Up to 99 Groups*
Up to 9,999 PLU Status Groups*
Up to 200 Key Link Menu Screens*
Up to 32 Registers per Network*
Up to 4 Hard/Soft Check Files*

* With Optional Expanded Memory

Also please not that the memory and features for the SAM4s SPS-520R and 530R are exactly the same as the SAM4s SPS-530F and 520F registers. The only differance is the F models have flat keyboards not raised!

44mm Paper for Cash Registers

2010-12-07T13:44:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for the old standard 44mm Receipt Paper for Cash Registers the Cash Register Guys have it and ship all over the country. They also stock all the standard and hard to find ink ribbons and rollers as well.

What is the SAM4s SPS-500 Cash Register Series?

2010-11-15T16:05:00.000-08:00

SAM4s SPS-520R Cash Register

The SAM4s SPS-500 series Cash Register including models:

The 500 series from SAM4s is one of the best if not the best selling cash registers on the market today. People always want to know what the difference are between the different models. Below is the explanation

The R in the model number indicates a raised keyboard. This style of tactile keyboard in most often asscoitated to retail stores.
The F in the model number tells you the model features a flat keyboard designed for food service.
A 520 has both a receipt and journal printer and uses 2.25″ thermal paper
A 530 has only one printer which uses 3 1/8″ thermal paper designed for a guest check or large receipt

So to recap R stands for raised and is for retail, F is for flat and is for restaurant. The SPS 520 has two on-board printers, and the SAM4s SPS 530 a large 3 1/8th" thermal single station printer.

Hope that helps.

The New SAM4s ER-180T Cash Register Released

2010-10-29T15:21:00.000-07:00

SAM4s release two new registers today. The ER-180 which I talked about before but this post is for the SAM4s ER-180T cash register. The register features a thermal paper printer, 16 departments and looks great in black! Check it out on the Nation's Cash Register Super Store The SAM4s ER-180T Cash Register

SAM4s ER-180T Cash Register

The New SAM4s ER-180 Cash Register has been released

2010-10-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

Exciting times for us Cash Register Geeks because SAM4s has released a new register. The SAM4s ER-180 Cash Register which is a very simple entry level commercial cash register

For more information on it please look here SAM4s ER-180 Cash Register

SAM4s ER-180 Cash Register

SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register Review

2010-10-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

SAM4s ER-265

The SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register is loaded with features and in it’s price range is a great value.

This is a great little machine. I do not recommend where you will be doing a large amount of 10 key entry because of the flat restaurant style keyboard. If you use preset buttons it is a killer machine! Very small and low profile. If you have a busy liquor store or gas station probably not the machine and you should step up a few models.

I see this machine working best in counter service restaurant, Bars, Night Clubs, Snack Bars, fairs, sports arenas and more. Best place to buy the SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register

Flat, Spill-Resistant Keyboard
Fast Thermal Printer
15 Department Keys
1,000 PLUs
Automatic Tax Calculation
Real Time Clock – Hourly Sales Reporting
Financial and Cash In Drawer Reports

Low-Cost, Entry-Level 7" Graphic Display Pole Display for SAM4s Cash Registers now available

2010-10-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

Almost all of the SAM4s Cash Registers can interface to the new graphical display that allows you to advertise while displaying the customer their sale. The display will rotate a series of end-user uploaded images on 2/3rd of the display while the remaining 1/3 is showing the sale. See the above example. This display connects to the cash register through serial port with the supplied cable. You will have to program the register to work with the display. This works with the following registers

ER-285M
ER-380M
ER-390M
ER-5115II
ER-650 Series
ER-5200M Series
SER-7000 Series
SPS-2000
SPS-500 Series Hybrid ECRs

This display allows you to run a series of jpg images from the SD card provided. Promote specials, suggest add-ons. Like popular drive-thru order conformation boards, display the entire order for confirmation. Promotes accuracy; reduces fraud. You can see this for sale at the SAM4s Cash Register Super Store

Liquor Store Cash Registers

2010-10-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

We sell cash registers all over North America and three of the registers that we install in Liquor Stores more then any other makes and models are:

SAM4s SPS-520 Cash Register

SAM4s ER-285M Cash Register

SAM4s ER-650R Cash Register

There are several reasons these registers are so popular in liquor stores. First off is cost compared to the number of features you get. Second is the easy set up and programming of any opfthe three of them. Third is the great support available. Fourth would be the wide amount of affordable options and add ons for these registers.

The SAM4s SPS-520 is the more sophisicated of the three listed. The SAM4s SPS-520 has several great features that set it apart. First is a built in 7" color touch screen, on board printers, keyboard port, USB port, menu driven programming and even more.

The least expensive but with a huge bang for your buck is the SAM4s ER-285M Register. It is a tiny machine but it comes standard with 10,000 UPC's, serial port, SD card Slot and free upload download software. All this for around $300.00

The SAM4s ER-650R is right in the middle. The ER-650R has a better display the the ER-285M, also includes 2 serial ports, lead through menu driven programming and reporting, memory expansion slots and more!

All three of the above cash register can integrate to Credit Card Payments and Gift Card Payments. All three can interface to a computer and all three feature thermal paper printers.

Check them out, you won't be sorry.

The SAM4s SPS-520 Cash Register

SAM4s ER-650 in the US Virgin Islands

2010-09-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

The other day I sold and shipped a few SAM4s ER-650 Cash Registers to a resort in the US Virgin Islands. Talk about a delivery I would rather make in person!

The ER-650 is so easy to use that we do ship them all over and end-users are able to configure them on their own or with limited help.

There is not a machine in it's class that can hold a candle to the SAM4s ER-650 or 650R

Can my SAM4s Cash Register also be a credit card terminal?

2010-09-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

I get this question all the time “Can my SAM4s cash register process credit cards?” The answer is yes it can. If you have a good SAM4s commercial grade cash register then you can add a Datacap device to it and turn your cash register into a credit card terminal.

When you add a Datacap to your SAM4s Cash Register it makes credit card transactions much more secure, faster, and with fewer errors. The Datacap also will allow your cash register to accept your own private label Gift Card program which is Money in the Bank!

Datacap devices are the only product that allow cash registers to become credit card terminals that I'm aware of. Beware of someone telling you your cash register can interface to a standalone credit card terminal because they do not know what they are talking about and just telling you anything so you will sign the contract!

Cash Register Advice for Sharp Cash Registers and SAM4s Cash Registers

2010-09-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

A new blog was launched that offers free advice on Cash Registers including SAM4s Cash Registers and Sharp Cash Registers

The best cash registers on the market today hands down are the SAM4s SPS-520 and SPS-530 series

2010-09-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

SAM4s has a produced a hit with the SPS-520 and SPS-530 series cash registers. These machines are true Hybrid between cash registers and POS systems. Features include

Color Touch Screen
Easy and affordable add-on memory
USB port allows user to produce a back up file
Keyboard port for entering descriptors
Optional Graphic Rear Display
Credit Card Interface
Gift Card Interface
Scale Interface
PC Interface
Kitchen Printer Interface

The models include

Cash Register Support for free?

2010-05-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

A new site is up and running that offers limited free support tools like manuals and tips for SAM4s Cash Registers Give them a try when you are looking for cash register support.

New Discount Site for Sharp Cash Registers

2010-03-10T16:26:00.000-08:00

A new website is now open offering great discount pricing on Sharp Cash Registers They offer all the commercial grade Sharp Cash Registers at great prices and offer cash registers with Credit Card and Gift Card Interfaces.

What is right for you a Cash Register or Point of Sale System?

2009-11-04T15:10:00.000-08:00

So you are about to open a new business and are facing hundreds if not thousands of decisions that need to be made quickly.

So let me help on this one. Should you use a cash register or POS system? Well lets get a few things out of the way first. Rather POS or Cash Register the first job of either of these is still security, second is efficiency.

Another big factor in this decision is whether your business will be owner operator or will you rely on managers and other employees? If owner operator a cash register will often make more sense then an expensive POS system. You are there all the time, you are running the cash register so why not use a simple register!

However owner operator or not, if you plan on keeping a real inventory, tracking in and out and what should be on the shelf, do not try and use a cash register. If someone tells you a cash register can do this, well technically they are correct, realistically they are DEAD WRONG! If they are telling you that, it is not real world, it is theory! How do I know, well it has been our family business for 30+ years! We have seen everything tried! And tried a few ourselves until we got tired of hitting our heads against the same brick wall. So to summarize YES a cash register and software combo is capable of inventory control, but would you choose a hot air balloon to travel across the country or a commercial Jumbo Jet? Both will get there, but only one is efficient!

Be honest with yourself about keeping inventory or not. Yes it is possible, yes it is a good practice, yes it takes 10+ hours a week if not more for most small stores! We have had thousands of small stores as customers of the years and we have seen it all. Most of these thousands did not keep a live inventory, and a handful did! We have had successful customers from both schools of thought! Bottom line here is be real with yourself. PC based or Register Based inventory takes time each and every day or week, a computer does not equal magic!

Myself I would do an inventory system if possible but again IF POSSIBLE! If you decide on an inventory control system first buy a computer/software based POS/Inventory control system like Keystroke, or RMS for retail, or Digital Dining if a restaurant. Next step you will need to set aside 20 to 40 hours of your time to plan your work and work your plan. YOU WILL NOT INSTITUTE AN INVENTORY CONTROL PROGRAM DURING THE COURSE OF BUSINESS! Do yourself and your loved ones a favor and carve out the time to do it before you are in the trenches of the retail or restaurant battle!

OK so maybe inventory is not for you, you just want to ring up sales by category and have the register compute tax and change and a daily report of what you sold right. Should this be the case with you opt for a commercial grade cash register like those from Sharp or SAM4s. Using a cash register does not mean you can't have security or good record keeping because you can. Should you decide on going home or heaven forbid go on vacation make sure you are following some basic security principles found in all decent commercial grade cash registers. Please look for some of my other post on how to stay secure using a simple cash register.

So I hope this was of some help to you! Follow this link If you are looking for a Cash Register

Cash Register News

2009-10-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

Well yes it may be a little booring to those of you not in the Cash Register business but it has been an exciting couple of months for those of us in the Cash Register industry.

First off all there are two new models of cash registers from Casio that comes with a credit card interface for both credit and debit transactions. These registers are being offered for FREE when you sign up for United Bank Card for Merchant Services. Your can find both models for free at these links Casio TE-1500 and Casio TK-1550

Second bit of cool news in the Cash Register world is the new models of Samsung Cash Registers or I should say SAM4s Cash Register as they have not been called Samsung for quite awhile now. The new models are the SAM4s SPS-520 and the SPS-530 cash registers. They are a hybrid created by combining classic cash register features and new state of the art touch screen technology. This is one of the most powerful and scaleable registers I have ever seen. Check these links if you are looking for a good price on the SAM4s SPS-520 and the SPS-530

SAM4s SPS-520 Cash Register

2009-07-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

So the wait is over! The SAM4s SPS-520 series has been released. What a cool machine this register is. This cash register features a standard cash register keyboard and a touch screen. The best of both worlds is found with the SAM4s SPS-520 Series.

The SAM4s SPS-500 series is comprised of several models.

The SAM4s SPS-520rt which is a raised keyboard register with a two station printer. The cashregister is designed for retail stores and includes options like bar code scanner and credit card interface
The SAM4s SPS-520ft comes with a flat keyboard designed for all types of restaurants. Plenty of options like Kitchen Printers, Kitchen Video, and Credit Card Interface
The SAM4s SPS-530rt is just like the 520rt except it comes standard with a single station 3" printer.
The SAM4s SPS-530ft is also just like the 520ft keybaord except is has the single 3" thermal printer instead of the dual station found on the 520ft.

The SPS-500 series is priced right, and has very affordable options.

SAM4s ER-650 vs the SAM4s ER-5200M Cash Register

2009-04-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

Often times we speak to people that are puzzled about which register to buy. The question is often in regards to which is better; the SAM4s ER-650 or SAM4s ER-5200M Cash Register.

There is no easy answer to that question as they are both great cash registers designed for restaurants. However there are many difference. So lets explore which one has the best features for you. Below I try to point out which machine has the better feature in important categories.

Keyboard: No doubt the ER-5200M has a much bigger keyboard at 117 item buttons.

Display: With question the ER-650 kills the ER-5200M in this category. The 650 features an 8 line LCD display that makes operating and programming much easier.

Printer: Well this one is a toss up depending on your needs. The ER-5200M features a two station printer with both receipt and journal tapes. The ER-650 only has one tape. If you want a journal you use the electronic journal feature. Both machines printers are high speed thermal printers.

Cash Drawer: A draw! They are both the same. 5 bill 5 coin

Kitchen Printer: Features I think the ER-650 wins this feature. Although they can both have a kitchen printer the ER-650 makes better use of modifiers and add-ons

Rear Display: A Draw! They are the same

Credit Card Interface: Draw! Both cash registers interface with Datacap credit card interfaces and Gift Card Interface

Computer Interface: Draw! They both interface to two different computer to cash register software packages

Inter-Register Communications: The ER-650 takes this category hands down. The ER-650 features standard register to register communications that allow program downloading and report consolidation. The ER-5200M does not have this feature

Scale Interface: Draw! They both have it.

Bar code Scanner: Interface Draw! They both have it.

Quick Books Interface: Draw! They both do it using PC Poll Software

DVR Interface: Draw! They both interface to several DVR systems like the Talon DVR

Window Buttons: The ER-650 wins this one. With the ER-650 you can program up to 8 buttons that are windows of items. So maybe you have a sandwich button, you press the sandwich button and a list of up to 8 items pops up in the display, you then choose which item you want by number or by scrolling up and down. Not used often, but when needed it is a powerful feature!

Order Review on Screen/Display: Another win for the ER650, you can review your entire order on the display. The ER-5200 has no such feature you would have to look at the tape.

Selective Voiding via The Display: Again the ER-650 takes this one. The SAM4s er650 has the 8 line LCD display that makes that feature possible.

Programming Ease: Well the ER-650 takes the cake when it come to being easier to program then any other cash register on the market, not just the ER5200M. Not at all that the ER-5200M is hard to program it is just that the 650 is made much much easier because of the display. I have had customers program the machine without ever opening the manual

OK, I know the ER-650 won a few more categories then the ER-5200M, but look at the keyboard size and the fact that the ER-5200M has both receipt and journal. Just those two items can push the 5200M to the best choice.

SAM4s Cash Registers and Credit Card Interface

2009-03-09T16:03:00.000-07:00

Interfacing your credit card payments into you cash register is not only a good idea but it is very affordable these days. The number one reason to interface your cash register and credit card payments to to avoid mistakes in tendering sales amounts in the credit card terminal after the cash register. As an example lets say you ring up a sale on your cash register and it totals $19.49 and your customer hands you a credit card for payment. Know you have to re-enter the $19.49 into the credit card machine. Problem is that is is very easy while in a hurry to enter that amount as $1.49 or 9.49 or $194.90 and in the rush no one notices. Don't believe me? Well then go back and match the sales in your cash register that were paid to the charge button to the amounts on your credit card machine. If you do any volume at all you will find some glaring mistakes. The larger your average ticket the larger your mistakes.

So when you interface your credit card payments in your cash register you can not short change the cash register. The register automatically inserts the sale amount the credit card is be to be authorized for. Yes it is possible for you to enter an amount less then the amount and the cash register will let you do that, BUT the cash register still won't completely finalize the sale until the amount is paid for in total whether by cash, or credit. This keeps your clerks from making those mistakes or at worst they notice right then so they can fix it.

So here is a great source for SAM4s Cash Registers that do credit card interface and here is a link to Datacap Systems who make the credit card interface device that works in SAM4s Cash Registers as well as Sharp and Casio Cash Registers

Receipt and Journal

2009-02-11T14:53:00.000-08:00

OK, we get this questions over and over regarding cash registers. What is a receipt and journal?What is an audit tape? What is an Electronic Journal?

So lets tackle the Receipt and Journal printer and Audit tape first

What is a receipt and journal? Well seems like a stupid question, but I guess if you are brand new to cash registers maybe you don't know. A receipt is a receipt paper that prints out the transaction to give to the customer. Right everyone knew that! The journal is the 2nd paper tape in a cash register that prints and stores the detail in the register. The journal is often called an Audit tape. The Journal or Audit Tape prints every entry as they happen. It is great to have when you need to research a problem with balancing, solving a overage/shortage, and the like. Normally it will print as you go and wind itself up on a take up reel in the machine. Most people never look at the audit tape, they just take it out and store it for years. They do seem to be seldom used but very useful when needed. Most cash registers these day are not being built with both a receipt and journal (R/J). The common phrases for this style of printer are @ station printer, R/J printer, and Receipt and Journal Printer.

There are machines that will use two ply paper to accomplish a receipt and journal printing. The top copy exits the machine for the receipt and it is usually white, the second or bottom copy remains in the machine and winds up on a take up reel or spool. The 2nd copy or bottom copy is the Audit Tape or Journal Tape. The 2nd copy is almost always yellow or canary in color. It is most often referred to as 2 Ply W/C. This practice is not as common as it was in the 80s and early 90s as the paper is more expensive.

OK, what is an Electronic Journal (EJ)

Well the Electronic Journal commonly referred to the EJ is a method of keeping an audit tape (see above if you don't know what an audit or journal tape is) with a register that only has one tape also known as a single station printer. The EJ is RAM Memory based in the register. Rather then print every transaction on a paper based journal or audit tape. Now when you need to see the audit tape or journal you print the E/J on the receipt tape, or in some machines you can view on the display. Pretty cool and does not waste paper. Again most folks never look at their journal tape and they just take up space in a closet somewhere! However that is not the end of the story! Registers can not store the E/J forever and most can't store more then a day of two worth of business if your store is a busy place. So most registers will overwrite the EJ as it fills oldest to newest. And the one biggee possible problem with an EJ is what happens if your machine dies after a busy day before you have taken reports? Well in that case you are up the creek without a paddle. There will be nothing other then your memory to recreate your sales figures. This would not be an issue with a hard printed journal tape!

But rest easy because modern machines very rarely ever fail completely! It does happen but so does lightning (ok you do have a better chance of your machine dieing then being hit by lightning) but you get the point. Modern machine do not fail nearly as often as machines from a decade ago!

Also keep in mind more stores and restaurants use computer based POS systems these days instead of cash registers with an R/J So that means they are using an EJ on a hard drive. Cash Register memory is more reliable then a hard drive!

Hope all that rambling helped!

Datacap Credit Card Interface with SAM4s Cash Registers

2008-11-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

OK, I get this question weekly. Can I interface my credit card terminal to my cash register. The answer is yes if you have the right credit card terminal. You must have a Datacap credit card terminal. The Datacap products are the only credit card device I know of that interface to cash registers.

So the Datacap products are not the traditional credit card terminal you are probably thinking of. The reason for that is that the Datacap products must have the cash register to work. Unlike the traditional credit card terminal Datacaps have no printer and no keypad as it uses the cash registers. Here is a picture of on of the standard Datacap terminals

As you can see it has not keypad and no printer. It does however have a serial port that connects to the cash register and a phone jack or Ethernet port to connect to either the phone line or the Internet. Yes this can process high speed over the Internet.

So once you have this connected to the cash register you can just put it under the counter and forget about it. Everything credit card related will now happen at the cash register. Once you ring up a sale and press the charge key of the cash register you will be prompted to swipe the card, you swipe the card, the cash register passes the info to the Datacap, the Datacap connects to the credit card network and approves or disapproves the transaction and give the info to the cash register, which then prints the information out on its receipt tape for the customer to sign. All this happens in just seconds and it really a fast process. At the end of the day you can batch for the cash register or have your service set up to auto batch in the middle of the night.

So why would you want to interface a cash register and credit card terminal? The three biggest reasons are speed, transaction accuracy, and security. How and why are explained here

You do not have to re-enter the total of the sale into the credit card terminal thus saving time.
You do not have to re-enter the total into a credit card terminal and make a big mistake (happen all the time) for an example often times a sale of lets say $19.99 could easily be entered as $1.99 and no one will notice. When interfaced to a cash register this can not happen.
When interfaced you can not run a credit card transaction without ringing up a sale. The helps prevent theft to the business owner and card holder. What happened in the past is a cashier would use the merchant copy of a credit card slip and manually enter the credit card number of the last customer and run it for what ever dollar amount. They then take that dollar amount out of your cash register. When you run the end of day your receipts will still match you sale totals. You would have no idea a cashier just stole from you customer until your customer calls with the credit card fraud.

Learn more about Datacap here and find our more about Datacap terminals and Cash Registers here

Cash Registers in Tacoma

2008-11-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

National Business Systems Inc. (NBS) has been serving Tacoma, Seattle, and the greater Puget Sound Area of Washington State for over 36 years now. NBS's products include Sharp Cash Registers, SAM4s Cash Registers, Digital Dining Restaurant, Aldelo Pro, Microsoft POS, Microsoft RMS, and paper and ink ribbons for all types of Cash Registers and POS printers.

So go to NBS for the best Cash Registers in Tacoma

Samsung Cash Registers

2008-11-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

So many people ask me about Samsung Cash Registers and where did they go. They did not go anywhere, just the name changed.

While Samsung marketed their cash registers they never made them. They were always made by someone else. So Samsung for whatever reason decided they did not want to sell Cash Registers any longer. So the company that always made them in the first place decided to take them to market themselves and began to sell them as SAM4s. I have no idea why they choose a goofy name like SAM4s but I'm sure they have their own reasons.

So bottom line, same great cost effective cash registers, different goofy name. Check them out here Samsung Cash Registers whoops I meant SAM4s Cash Registers

SAM4s ER-285M and ER-265M Cash Registers with Free Software

2008-10-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

So I heard some sites are charging customers for the software that comes FREE from the manufacture for the SAM4s ER-285M and the ER-265 Cash Registers.

The Cash Register Guys give you the software for free when you buy the register from them. You still have to buy the cable of make your own, but that is still a savings of $99.00 compared to some of the sites that are gouging customers for software that is really free, shame on them.

So to buy a SAM4s ER-285M or SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register check the Cash Register Guys, they treat you right.

POS Systems In Seattle

2008-10-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

If you need a POS System in Washington State look no further then National Business Systems, Inc. POS Systems and Cash Registers in Seattle

They are a full service Cash Register and POS System Dealer offering SAM4s Cash Registers, Sharp Cash Registers, Keystroke POS, Microsoft POS, Microsoft RMS, Digital Dining, Aldelo, and more.

SAM4s ER-650 Interfaces

2008-10-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

We get a lot of questions regarding the different interfaces available for the SAM4s ER-650 and ER-650R Cash Registers. If you don't know the differance between the two models the ER650 and the ER650R is that one has a flat keyboard for a restaurant (650) and the other is a raised keyboard designed for retail (the 650R) other then that they are the same machines

So the interfaces are many, however the available ports are few. The Samsung ER-650 and ER-650R only have two serial ports and no option for more. So keep that in mind that yes the machine can have a bunch of stuff connected it can only have two of them at the same time. So here ya go for the list of interfaces I know of

PC (SAM650 and SAM650i and PC POLL)
Kitchen Printer
Bar Code Scanner
Kitchen Video
DVR Text Inserter
Coin Changer
Pole Display
Liquor Dispenser
Guest Check Printer
Scale
Credit Card Interface (High Speed and Dial)
Gift Card Interface
Pin Pad Interface

There may be a few more but I don't think so.

SAM4s ER-5115-II Cash Register

2008-09-25T15:51:00.000-07:00

With an affordable plain paper dot-matrix printer the SAM4s ER-5115-II electronic cash register now features a fast reliable Epson M-U420 receipt/jounral printer with easy-to-use single-line validation.

Compatible with popular RS-232C options.
Program Save/Load PC Utility
2 station, 9 pin bi-directional dot-matrix printing.
15, expandable to 40 programmable departments.
1,000 price look-ups (PLUs) with stock counter.
Cash, check, and 2 charge tendering keys.
Four clerks or cashiers.
12 character department, clerk, and PLU descriptors.
21 character, 6 line programmable receipt message.
3 menu levels.
5 macro keys.
Transaction cancel
Food stamp sorting and tendering.
Gallonage calculation.
Add check or tray subtotal.
Hash departments.
Daily sales report for 31 days.
Validation.

Here is a website that offers the best price on the SAM4s ER-5115II Cash Register

SAM4s ER-5215M Cash Register

2008-09-25T15:07:00.001-07:00

The SAM4s ER-5215M is a cost effective ECR with built-in flexibility to serve a wide range of retail applications. It features an adjustable two-line alpha-numeric LCD screen and a traditional raised key keyboard with 5, 10 or 15 NLU keys. NLUs access PLU memory and function as traditional departments

The SAM4s ER-5200M series electronic cash registers feature separate integral receipt and journal thermal printers that print wide 2-1/4" (58mm) receipts at an amazing 13.3 lines per second. Print and store logo, or place any custom black/white graphic image at the top and/or bottom of the receipt

Polling Software For Your SAM4s Electronic Cash Register
SAM Series Communication Software enhances your Samsung/SAM4s electronic cash register providing unprecedented point-of-sale convenience. You'll be able to quickly spot trends and react to changing business conditions.

Optional SAM Communication Software Polling Software For Your SAM4s Electronic Cash Register will Collect cash register reports from the convenience and privacy of your office.
Backup the considerable data in your cash register. Keep a current backup of your cash register program and more.

Options Includes

Credit Card Interface
Gift Card Interface
Scale Interface
Barcode Scanner Interface
Computer Interface

Here is a link for the best price on a SAM4s ER-5215M Cash Register

SAM4s ER-285 Cash Register

2008-09-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

The SAM4s ER-285M is a very cool register. Although it has a flat keyboard it really is a good machine for a retail store that want bar code scanning. Capable of thousands of UPC's and including software the machine at it's price level can't be beat. It is a commercial grade machine featuring serial ports, optional credit card interface, gift card interface, scale interface, DVR interface and more. Here is a link for the best price on the SAM4s ER-285M Cash Register

SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register

2008-09-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

So the SAM4s ER-265 is a great little cash register. Very low profile and small foot print. Not a real big keyboard, but not a big price for it either. Includes fast thermal printer and locking 5 bill 5 coin cash drawer. This machine is a good choice for fast food and bars that don't want to itemize evey drink or menu item. Pretty easy machine to program but not as easy as the SAM4s ER-650 is. Here is a link for the best price on the SAM4s ER-265 Cash Register

The ER-265 also has free software for the machine, you have to buy or make a cable to interface though.

SAM4s Cash Registers

2008-08-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

SAM4s makes a great line up of commercial grade cash registers. From entry level registers to high end feature rich POS terminals. The most popular model they have is the SAM4s ER-650, which is a very powerful and affordable cash register. The current model line up includes

SAM4s ER-150
SAM4s ER-265
SAM4s ER-285
SAM4s ER-290
SAM4s ER-350II
SAM4s ER-380M
SAM4s ER-390M
SAM4s ER-650
SAM4s ER-650R
SAM4s ER-655II
SAM4s ER-5115II
SAM4s ER-5215M
SAM4s ER-5240M
SAM4s SER-7000
SAM4s SER-7040
SAM4s SPS-2000

Most of the SAM4s Cash Registers can interface to:

Computer
Integrated Credit Card
Pin Pad
Scale
Coin Changer
DVR Surveillance
Kitchen Video
Kitchen Printer
Integrated Gift Card
Barcode Scanner

One real nice thing about SAM4s compared to other brands is that they make the options affordable. A couple good spots to buy these online are SAM4s Cash Registers from The Cash Register Guys and SAM4s Cash Registers from POS Estore. Both also carry supplies and offer support.

SAM4s Cash Register Keyboard Covers

2008-06-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

The CRG's have SAM4s Cash Register Keyboard covers and Samsung Cash Register Keyboard Covers for almost every model. Prices start at about $20.00 and up. A great investment for the protection they provide.

Check out SAM4s Cash Register Keyboard Covers and Samsung Cash Register Keyboard Covers

SAM4s SER-7000 vs. SAM4s ER-650

2008-06-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

So a lot of people asked what the difference is between the SAM4s SER-7000 and the SAM4s ER-650 Cash Registers

Both are great cash registers but are like apples to oranges in many regards. Both are designed for all types of restaurants. Following I will try and point out the biggest differences

SAM4s SER-7000 Features
On Board Thermal Printer Yes, two station
Flat Keyboard Yes, 160 key positions
Display Yes, Multi-Line LCD
RS232 Ports Yes, 4
Inter-Register Communications Yes, 32 machines max
Shared Kitchen Printer(s) Yes
Shared Guest Checks Yes
Forced Modifiers Yes
Window Buttons Yes (every key)
Memory Expansion Yes 4 chips max
Time and Attendance Yes
PS/2 Keyboard Port Yes

SAM4s ER-650
On Board Thermal Printer Yes, single station
Flat Keyboard Yes, 98 key positions
Display Yes, Multi-Line LCD
RS232 Ports Yes, 2 max
Inter-Register Communication Yes, 8 machines max
Shared Kitchen Printer(s) NO
Shared Guest Checks NO
Forced Modifiers NO
Window Buttons Yes Max 8
Memory Expansion Yes 2 chips max
Time and attendance Yes
PS/2 Keyboard Port No

So there are more differences, but here are the highlights. The SAM4s SER-7000 Cash Register is better when you need more then one register and you want them to share a kitchen printer. The SER-7000 has a larger keyboard, a two station printer, and does forced modifiers which work very well with Kitchen Printers.

If you only need one register and don't have a large menu and want forced modifiers for a kitchen printer the SAM4s ER-650 is a great choice.

The are both great cash registers and very easy to program and use as cash registers go.

Credit Card Interface with SAM4s Cash Registers

2008-06-10T12:55:00.000-07:00

So many people ask me about interfacing credit card payments to SAM4s Cash Registers. Integrated Credit Card Cash Registers have been around for some time now. Many of the SAM4s Cash Registers have an optional Integrated Credit Card Feature.

There is only one company that I know of that makes a credit card terminal that interfaces to a Cash Register. That company is Datacap Systems. Their products include the Datacap 162SL 162ML, IPTran, No Load Twin Tran, and the Autoload Twin Tran. The Datacap products are not like traditional credit card terminals, they only work when interfaced to a Cash Register.

The Datacap device connects to a serial port on the SAM4s Cash Register. When connected the cash register will print the credit card draft on its printer, and of course you use the 10 pad of the cash register for all numeric entry.

When you Integrate Credit Card Payments to Cash Registers you can make more money by reducing 10 key errors because the cash register will already know they amount of the sale. Also it can eliminate fraud because credit card transactions must be registered in the cash register before the credit card can be processed. This will keep cashiers from running a credit card without ringing it up in the cash register, which is often how cashiers steal cash from the till. Also it is often used by stealing cashiers to run a customers card again after they leave and remove cash from the till.

Integrated Credit Card Payments often times are faster then using a cash register and a standalone credit card terminal. Again because there is no reason to re-enter amounts, and when you use a high speed Datacap the transaction could take as little as 4 seconds.

Many SAM4s Cash Registers can also interface to several Gift Card programs when you already have the credit card interface.

Click here to learn more about Interfacing Credit Card Payments to SAM4s Cash Registers with Datacap Terminals.

SAM4s ER-650 Cash Register

2008-06-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

The SAM4s ER-650 also known as the Samsung ER-650 is one of the best cash registers ever made. This little machine is the most powerful and easy to use cash register I have seen in 20 years.

The LCD display makes this machine so easy to use and program. I could program this machine without a manual just by following the prompts on the display. Much of the programming is fill in the blanks.

The ER-650 has many options that make it even more powerful. The options include credit card interface, gift card interface, kitchen printer, computer interface, coin changer, scale, dvr interface, bar code scanner, kitchen video, and maybe a few more.

Ok what are the drawbacks? Well there are a few. The machine comes with and has a max of 2 serial ports so you are limited to two options. The machine can not share a kitchen printer with another ER-650 even though it has built in IRC. Even in an IRC network the ER-650 can not share guest checks. There are a few more drawbacks, but keep in mind the price. If you need the few features not found you can move up the model list to the SER-7000

Here is a link for the best place to buy the SAM4s ER-650 Cash Register

Samsung and SAM4s Cash Registers

2008-06-03T15:29:00.000-07:00

SAM4s Cash Registers (formerly known as Samsung) are fantastic cash registers. They range in price from a $250.00 ish to $2000.00 SAM4s registers include many feature that are options in other makes. The options they do offer are affordable and much more cost effective then some other register makes.

Two of the best sources for SAM4s Cash Registers are The Cash Register Guys and Point of sale estore both sites offer the entire line of SAM4s Cash Registers as well as service and support.

The way I understand it is that Samsung never made cash registers but had them made and marketed under their name. However Samsung decided to get out of the Cash Register biz for some reason. So when they did the company that always made the Samsung registers (sorry I can't pronounce their name or know how to spell it) decided they wanted to sell the cash registers directly. So they decided to name the line SAM4s and market the same cash registers and new models worldwide. I don't know where they got the name as it is horrible, but the machines are great! They have been coming out with new models and features and very good prices! So bottom line Bad name, great products!