What is the difference between a POS System and a cash register?
To many people, a point of sale system and a cash register mean the same thing. These terms actually differ in some ways although they could have similar functions.
Point of sale or POS, also called checkout, is the location on the store where sales transaction occurs. It may also refer to a computer terminal or the hardware and software used to record sales.
A cash register, on the other hand, is a mechanical or electronic device used to calculate and record sales transactions, provided with a cash drawer for storing cash, and usually equipped with a small printer to print sales receipts. More expensive cash reqisters may also be provided with barcode scanners, and other contraptions.
Trivia: The main purpose for inventing the cash register was to eliminate employee theft, so it was originally called the Incorruptible Cashier.
In the past, dedicated cash registers were the standard equipment used in recording sales transactions. With the introduction of the microcomputer or personal computer (PC), however, these are now being replaced with general purpose computers installed with POS software.
Basically, these are the distinguishing features of the two systems:
1) A cash register is a device that could be mechanical or electronic, depending on its design. A POS system is a product of computer technology, so it has never been a mechanical device.
2) An electronic cash register is composed of integrated parts built up to function as a single unit. A POS system consists of separate devices that are connected or wired to a computer.
3) An electronic cash register is usually controlled by a firmware (software embedded on a chip on the mainboard of the cash register). A POS system uses a POS software installed in a computer hard disk, so it can be replaced at will by the user.
4) A cash register is a dedicated device, and can only be used for the purpose of its design. A POS system uses a computer that can be used for many other purposes.
Many of today's electronic cash registers have features that are similar to POS systems. This is probably why many people now find it hard to distinguish a cash register from a POS system.
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Which version of DMS Point of Sale is right for my business?
Why should I prefer a DOS-based POS software like the DMS Point of Sale?
Why is DMS Point of Sale priced so unbelievably low?
What is the difference between a POS system and a cash register?
Can I also use a thermal printer to print sales invoices?
How can I use the software if my computer does not have a printer port (parallel port)?
If I need to reinstall the software because of certain program errors, do I have to pay the 10% license renewal service fee?
Can we request for a demo?
If something goes wrong with my installation, how are you going to address the problem?
If I install the software in another computer, do I have to pay for a new license?
What happens to my data if I fail to obtain the license on time?
Can you modify the program for us if we need additional features?
I want to sell your products. How do I become a reseller?
I prefer a complete POS system package that includes hardware, software, system setup, and user training. Can you give me a cost estimate?
I am interested in your product, but I am too far from your branches. How could I use your software, and what if I encounter a problem with my POS system?
I want to view my POS data while outside the store. Is it possible to do it through the Internet?
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