Honeywell reinvents, expands scanner capabilities
Fort Mill, S.C. — Honeywell has introduced a next generation scanner said to offer retailers improved label reading properties and increase checkstand throughput.
Dubbed the Stratos 2700, the bioptic scanner is equipped with hybrid architecture that incorporates both laser and Honeywell’s industry-leading imaging technology. The device allows cashiers to quickly and easily scan virtually all bar codes, from traditional 1-D barcodes to 2-D bar codes found on the screen of a mobile phone, with a single device and will help to reduce checkout loss.
The hybrid platform allows retailers to maintain quick throughput performance while greatly expanding the scanning capabilities of standard bioptic scanners to read damaged, 2-D and mobile codes. Honeywell also offers a cost-effective migration path for easy upgrades in the field to meet future point-of-sale needs through the installation of various software and modular hardware plug-ins, including imagers and scales.
To help reduce checkout loss, the Stratos 2700 incorporates an LCD display in the vertical portion of the device. When combined with an off-the-shelf camera, it creates an effective monitoring system that can, at a very reasonable cost, provide retailers significant value by reducing items that are forgotten or missed in the under cart area. A live video feed positioned to be observed without obstructing the cashier’s view provides surveillance of bottom-of-basket items, reducing store loss without impacting the POS system and IT infrastructure.
“To minimize retail scanning inefficiencies, including costly software and feature upgrades and checkout loss, our hybrid platform provides speed and accuracy, top priorities for our customers,” said Taylor Smith, director of product management, Honeywell Scanning & Mobility. “The Stratos 2700 enhances the checkout experience for in-store customers, cashiers and IT support with a quicker, more accurate checkout process and a wide selection of add-ons and applications to address future needs.”
Stratos 2700 scanners and connected devices can be managed and upgraded from one remote location with Remote MasterMind, potentially saving a mid-sized retailer more than $250,000 per year based on four software upgrades. Additionally, integrated Checkpoint and optional Sensormatic Electronic Article Surveillance antennas for tag deactivation can further reduce shrink loss at checkout.
The Stratos 2700 is compatible with Honeywell’s TotalFreedom 2.0 development platform, providing retailers with increased flexibility and simplified customization of software and features, without the need for host system modifications. It will begin shipping January 2013.