A reliable internet connection is essential for businesses. It's not a luxury anymore. If the internet goes down in a shop, EFTPOS stops, and that often affects half the business's trade.

Here are some valuable lessons about choosing the right Internet Service Provider (ISP) that I have learnt from my personal and business experience, both personally and from my many clients Australia-wide.

1. Internet Speeds: The Need for Speed

Today in business, slow internet is just not going to cut it. Here's what I've found works best:

**Minimum speed: Aim for a download speed of at least 25 Mbps; this is the bare minimum for basic operations today.

• Suitable range: 50-100 Mbps for most small businesses. This range allows for multiple devices and more demanding tasks.
• Video conferencing: If you're planning on Zoom calls (and who isn't these days?), you'll want to be on the higher end of that range. 100 Mbps gives a smooth experience even with multiple video calls happening simultaneously.

Today, high-speed internet for business is a positive plus.

2. Reliability: The Backbone of Business Internet

Reliability is so important when it comes to business internet. A dropped connection can mean lost sales and frustrated customers. Today, EFTPOS stops often. Many clients have lost half a day trading just over that! So what I suggest is:

Ask around

Chat with neighbouring businesses about their experiences. When I moved to a new location, the cafe next door saved me from making a big mistake by warning me about their unreliable ISP, whose local cable was causing them many problems.

Check reviews

Look at Google reviews, but be smart about it:

- Aim for providers with ratings around 4.2 stars. This sweet spot often indicates a reliable service with realistic customer feedback. I am wary of perfect 5-star ratings—everyone has terrible reviews; if I see no bad reviews, I think they're scamming me.

- Read what people say about their average response times. The faster, the better for your business.

- Focus on recent reviews—last month's feedback is more relevant than last year's. ISPs can change quickly, for better or worse.

Uptime guarantees

I will discuss this in another post. I would not take these Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with guaranteed uptime too seriously. They're often more about marketing than actual service quality.

3. Data Limits: To Cap or Not to Cap?

Unlimited data plans are becoming more common and often cost the same as capped plans. My advice?

-  If you need more clarification about your usage, go unlimited. It's better to have too much than too little.

- If you're on a tight budget, a capped plan might work, but be careful. I once exceeded my cap and faced a bill triple my usual amount!

- Look out for hidden fees or charges for exceeding data limits. Read the fine print! Some providers slow your internet down rather than charge extra if you exceed your limit.

Pro tip: Look at your current usage; it should give you a clear picture of your needs and help you choose the right plan in the long run.

4. Price and Fees: Balancing the Books

We're all watching our bottom line, especially in retail. Regarding internet costs: -Research first, then set a realistic budget based on your business needs.

- Remember, the cheapest option is only sometimes the best value.

-The dearest is only sometimes offering the best service; one of my clients took one of the biggest ISPs to court for lousy service. That one was certainly costly.

- Consider the cost of downtime. A slightly more expensive but reliable service can save you money in the long run.

- Business internet providers tend to be dearer but claim to be better. I am not convinced that they are better.

5. Customer Service: Your Lifeline When Things Go Wrong

Good customer service can be a lifesaver when your internet goes down. Here's what to look for:

- 24/7 availability is becoming rare, but it's gold if you can get it.

- Multiple support channels: Phone, email, and chat options give you flexibility. Even today, with chat and emails, I often prefer phone support.

- Local support: A physical store nearby can be a huge plus. I've had a problem with my internet, which the modem could have caused. As I was with an Optus reseller, I grabbed the modem and went to my local Optus shop. They tested it, told me it was faulty and sold me a new modem. I was up and running in an hour!

6. Technical Support: The Devil's in the Details

When it comes to tech support, not all ISPs are equal. Make sure you understand:

- What's covered in their support package? Some only cover connection issues, not device problems.

- Do they only support their modems? You could have a problem if you do not use their modem. I once spent hours troubleshooting a connection I used, only to find out my ISP didn't support the business-grade router I was using. Always clarify these details upfront!

- Are there limits on the types of issues they'll help with? For example, some won't assist with Wi-Fi setup or network configuration.

- Do they offer on-site support for complex issues? It can be invaluable for serious problems.

7. Local Availability

Having a local presence can be a game-changer.
They can quickly replace faulty equipment without waiting days for a new modem to arrive by post.

8. Scalability: Growing with Your Business

Your internet needs will change as your business grows. Look for an ISP that:

- It offers a range of plans you can easily switch between. I started with a basic plan and upgraded three times as my business expanded.

- Look at the business NBN plans first to give you an idea of what to look for.

- Allows you to your grade or downgrade without penalties. Flexibility is key in the ever-changing retail landscape.

- Provides business-specific plans that can grow with you. Features like static IPs or multiple lines might become necessary as you expand.

- It offers add-ons like additional data or speed boosts, which is nice.

9. Connection Type: Choosing Your Digital Highway

Connection Type

The two leading players in Australia are NBN and 5G. Here's my take:

NBN is generally more reliable for business use and will probably be the best internet for small businesses. I've found it to be more consistent, especially during peak hours.

5G: It has great speeds but can be less consistent. I have clients who use 5G and often have problems when it rains. It's improving rapidly, though, and might be the future.

Starlink: I have a client who uses this. It has excellent speeds, but it's dearer. It is good.

Tip: Check what type of NBN is available in your area. Some regions use wireless NBN, which can be less reliable than fibre.

10. Contract Terms: Flexibility is Key

When it comes to contracts, shorter is often sweeter. Be wary of long-term contracts with hefty termination fees. One of my clients had to pay to exit a three-year contract early. Know what you're committing to. Pay attention to automatic renewal clauses and price hike conditions. Look for contracts with a satisfaction guarantee or trial period. You have a safety net if the service doesn't meet your expectations.

11. Bundled Services: More Bang for Your Buck?

Many ISPs offer package deals. These can include, among other things, a small business phone and broadband deals.
-If you need these services, the bundle can save you money.

12. Security: Protecting Your Digital Assets

In all my years, I have had only one client complaining about it. Most Australian ISPs take security seriously.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

A solid internet connection is the foundation of modern business. Take the time to choose wisely.

As we approach the end of the financial year, many people are now considering upgrading their point-of-sale (POS) systems. There are sound financial reasons for many to do it now. Besides, this is the time of year when people start to look at the following year. If so, you're likely debating the merits of a computer with an i7 processor or the more powerful i9.

Let's face it: no one likes slow transaction times, long customer waits, inventory management headaches, or lost sales due to outdated technology. So, let's explain why this decision matters for your POS setup and how to make the right choice!

POS Systems and the Power of SQL

Your POS software is more than just a fancy cash register. Behind the scenes, it relies on a database system that uses a system (SQL) to store and manage all your information – think of your product details, current inventory, supplier records, and sales history. The faster and more efficiently your computer can process your instructions, the smoother your POS experience will be.

Massive Databases: POS Systems have large databases

Complex Queries: A modern POS System does use very complex calculations 

Time: No one likes to use a slow computer. Neither the operator nor the customer who is waiting for you to do the transaction

All things being equal, the more powerful i9 is better than the i7. But things are never equal. 

Budget Conscious: i7s deliver excellent value for the price.

People's feelings: No one likes using old technology

My pros and cons

1. i7 vs. i9

   •  i7:
     • Pros:
       • Cost-effective: Core i7 CPUs are often more affordable.
       • Suitable for most general computing tasks, including SQL queries.
       • Good balance of performance for everyday use.
     • Cons:
       • It will be slower when handling extremely large or complex SQL databases
   • Core i9:
     • Pros:
       • Exceptional performance: Ideal for demanding workloads
       • More cores and threads: Better multitasking capabilities.
       • Larger cache for faster data access.
     • Cons:
       • Dearer

2. SQL-Specific Considerations

   • Query Execution Speed:
     • Core i9’s additional cores and higher clock speeds can significantly improve SQL query execution times.
   • Parallel Processing:
     • Core i9’s multithreading capabilities allow it to handle multiple SQL queries simultaneously.
   • Data Loading and Indexing:
     • Core i9’s more extensive cache benefits SQL database data loading and indexing tasks.

Don't Forget the Rest!

No matter which you choose, make sure your system also has the following:

• Speedy Storage: An SSD (or, even better, an NVMe SSD) will make a massive difference in overall system speed.
• RAM:  Get fast RAM and a decent amount. Don't skimp here.
• Fast network: One can often speed up your systems by putting in modern network cards

The Verdict

Investing in a faster computer can save time and less frustration if you run a busy retail store with extensive inventory or complex reporting needs.

If you want to compare different computers, click here.

Let us know, and we will provide tailored advice!

Today, in retail, speed is so important. A slow point-of-sale (POS) system costs you time, money, and customers. The most successful solution now for speed is upgrading your network. We can turbocharge your POS System performance to get more speed.

Your Network: The Backbone of Your POS System

Picture your network as the highway system connecting all the parts of your POS Software system. Like a highway, a strong network lets information zip back and forth without slowdowns. If your network is old, outdated, or suffering under too much load, your speed will go down, and you and your customers will feel it.

A Consumer Report study found:

That customers were willing to wait for 13 minutes, but disturbingly found Almost two-thirds said they would wait two minutes or less and 13% said that "no wait time is acceptable."

Upgrade Your Network Cards: The Game-Changer

Modernizing your network cards is one of the most powerful ways to speed up your POS. Think of these cards as the traffic cops directing data on your network. Older cards can get overwhelmed, creating digital bottlenecks. Newer models offer:

• Wider Roads (Higher Bandwidth): More data can flow simultaneously, making transactions lightning-fast.
• Security Checkpoints: The latest protection protects your data from cyber threats that could crash your system.
• Smooth Sailing: Updated cards work better with the latest POS software and hardware, meaning fewer compatibility headaches.

Don't Forget Windows Updates!

Just like you keep your store looking its best, keeping Windows updated is super important for your POS. Updates aren't just about security– they also fix bugs, boost performance, and ensure your system plays nicely with all your devices. Think of it as a regular tune-up for your POS!

Upgrade Teamwork: Network + Windows

Upgraded network cards and up-to-date Windows are the absolute dream team. That's when you get the smoothest, fastest system possible. Imagine a super-efficient highway with the best traffic control working together – now your POS data can fly!

Watch Out for Outdated Cables

Your cables play a surprisingly important role in your network's overall health. Outdated network cables frequently become damaged, worn, or lack modern technology, slowing down your POS System. If your store still uses older cables, they could be causing bottlenecks that slow down your POS. Upgrading to newer, more robust cables can make a noticeable difference in speed and stability.

Real Businesses, Real Results

Here's what other retailers are saying about network upgrades:

• "Our system was constantly lagging, especially when it got busy. After upgrading, we're processing sales way faster. Customers are happier, we're happier!" 
• "Keeping customers moving fast was a big worry. The new network features and Windows updates have made our system run even better."

The Bottom Line: Your POS Can Be Amazing

Don't let a slow network hold you back! By investing a bit of time and attention into modernizing your network cards and keeping Windows updated, you'll unlock the full incredible power of your POS software. Say hello to blazing-fast transactions, super-satisfied customers, and a business ready to take off.

Ready to Upgrade Your POS Performance?

• Check Your Network Cards: Need advice on what upgrades make sense? We're here to help!
• Get Those Windows Updates: It's easy and makes a big difference.

Let us know how we can help you achieve lightning-fast POS performance!

Let us talk about boosting your efficiency with the speed you need.

As a retailer, you're always busy with tasks in your store. Technology updates might not seem key, but modern laptops give great perks that can change your daily work. In a typical work meeting, we all sit around a table with our laptops open.

Let's Talk Laptops

Laptops are everywhere for a reason! Here's the lowdown on what you need to consider:

Limited Upgrades: Unlike desktop computers, there's less ability to swap out internal components in a laptop. Usually, what you buy is what you get.

Warranty: Warranties today are often really good on laptops. Still, there is one big problem: opening your laptop to upgrade it yourself could leave you without warranty protection if something goes wrong.

Speed is King: Modern laptops are much faster! Recently, we upgraded a client from an i7 to an i9 model. The speed boost was clear – a report that used to churn away for 35 seconds on their older laptop i7 now finishes in just 20 seconds on the new i9! 

Computer Noticeability: Don't think speed boosts are too small to notice! Humans are quick – we can perceive changes on a screen within a few hundred milliseconds. You will see the difference. If it's like 15 seconds, as above, you, the customer you're talking to, and everyone else will notice the delay.

The Power in Your Hands

The right modern laptop puts so much power at your fingertips as a small business owner:

Portability: With a laptop, your work goes wherever you do – home, meetings, supplier office to check your sales figures and allows you to work from anywhere, e.g. a cafe.

Reliability: Newer computers mean fewer glitches, less downtime and headaches.

Enhanced Customer Experience: No one likes waiting on a slow computer! A snappy machine lets you serve customers faster, keeping lines moving and everyone happy.

Ready to Make the Leap?

If you need a tech update, get in touch! We can help you find the perfect modern laptop to streamline your small retail business and give you a competitive edge.

As a retailer, you need to keep records for years. Government regulations, legal needs, or even access to old customer data are all important! I sometimes had to access very old information just for commercial reasons 20+ years ago.

Now, have you thought about how long your digital records will last?

Sadly, the hard drives and discs we use aren't built for centuries like those old carvings archaeologists up to today. Let's look into long-term storage so you make the right choices.

What Lasts, What Doesn't, and How to Make it Better

• Cloud storage: Theoretically, it lasts forever, but there will be issues.
• Magnetic Tapes to the Rescue? These can, under ideal conditions, last a long time, but few of us actually have the specialised equipment. Besides, it's often a pain to use.
• Old fashion Hard Drives: Most work for about 3-7 years, although a lucky few last longer. For them to keep storing, you need to use them; otherwise, they deteriorate after about two years. 
• SSDs: Most SSDs won't outlive their 5-10-year warranties and, if left unused, will deteriorate faster than old-fashioned hard drives to refresh the data system
• Optical Discs: Please aim for quality; write-once media like Verbatim Gold have more extended longevity, and the cheaper ones have much less; for CDs and DVDs, you are looking depending on the type for 5 to 100 years. When I went to the Verbatim website and looked at their warranty here, I noticed that they only give two years, which does not include a data retention guarantee. The courts may have something to say about that, but few people want to have to argue this in court.

Most people today, when looking at very long-term storage, look at DVDs today as they are both convenient and economical if so: 

Protecting Your Precious Data on CDs and DVDs:

It depends on three main factors:

1) Have more than one backup. I would argue that you do not have a backup if you only have one backup. These two backups should be stored in different places so that if anything happens to one location, the other is safe elsewhere.

2)  You need good quality DVDs. There are good reasons why they are a bit dearer. This comes from a Canadian government study, which you can find here.

3) Environment matters!

Pick a place 

• Cool & Dry: Store items at around 20°C with about 40% humidity. Heat and humidity are the silent killers! This can be a problem as we often go above this in summer. Do you have a cellar? Avoid garages or attics where temperatures can swing wildly!
• The Dark Side: Store discs in cases out of direct sunlight. I put a sealed plastic bag over them.
• Peace & Quiet: Avoid putting the discs where they will be moved or dropped.

Cloud Storage

As the limitations of physical storage have become increasingly apparent, cloud storage emerges as a compelling solution for preserving your digital legacy. In theory, entrusting your data to a reputable cloud provider can overcome many of these problems.

Pros:

• Accuracy: Today, many Cloud storage providers offer an astonishing rate of accuracy in their storage capacity. One I saw doing an online search offering 99.999999999% (that's 11 9s!) data durability. That far exceeds the reliability of any physical media.
• Dispersed storage: Many Cloud providers will keep your data in many different geographically dispersed data centres, thus ensuring redundancy and resilience.
• Easy access: Your data is available on-demand from any internet-connected device, anytime, anywhere.

Cons:

• Cost: Generally, it costs, although many, like Google and Microsoft, do have a limited free plan.
• Future uncertainity: Considering the period of time we are looking at here, a cloud provider could go out of business, change its policy and who knows what.  
• Policy: Some cloud providers, e.g. Google, state that they "reserve the right to delete an inactive Google Account and its activity and data if you are inactive across Google for at least two years." So every two years, you have to go into your account to say hey, this account is still active. Its not a big ask but its not entirely setup and forget.
• Remembering passwords: Cloud accounts work through account names, passwords, and increasingly mobile numbers. Over the next 10 to 20 years, how will you remember these details? Will you have the same mobile number then? If someone else has access to your account and passwords then they also can get your data. 
• Control: In an overall sense you do lack control.
• Privacy concerns: Be aware of potential changes in data privacy laws or a provider's terms of service. Although few of my clients has an issue here now, the privacy laws are slowly turning to the idea that much data businesses stored must be held in Australia, not an issue now but who knows in 10 to 20 years. 

Still today Cloud storage does offers a tempting solution for long-term record keeping.

Summing up:

Overall my preference would be to burn two copies of my business records into a good quality DVD. Put them in my business records in a safe place in my house in a box as here

and put somewhere in a safe spot in my house. I would then put on a free sevice like Google a copy which I could access anytime, anywhere.

Want to get your data storage sorted? Contact us for a free consultation!

This issue divides us from one of our competitors: computers that are cooled by air or water. So it comes up a lot now.

Picture the scene: You are busy, everyone is going flat out, and your computer is being hammered. Suddenly, your computer goes dead. You all have to wait until the computer cools down so you can use it. This scene happens all too often now. Is it time to rethink how you cool your computers? Let's break down your options, focusing on what matters most to your small business.

A short time ago, we had a client whose computer often went dead. He waited awhile, and it worked. We had to send out an engineer. The engineer had to go to the shop, buy a cooling system, repaste the chips, and install a new cooling system. It was about half a day of work, and there was no computer in the shop while it was being fixed.  

Heat Is the Enemy

Modern Point of Sale (POS) systems are incredibly sophisticated software packages. Your computer is going flat out, and almost all the energy will end up as heat. This heat is onto some expensive, tiny, and delicate circuits. Too much heat will eventually damage these circuits. If you are lucky, the computer defences will shut down the computer before it does too much damage. Generally, your computer slows down, crashes, or in time will damage parts. In a computer, typically, only one part gone is enough to render it useless. That's where cooling comes in and comes in two main groups - air and water.

Air Cooling: The Tried-and-True Option

The Basics: Air cooling uses fans to blow hot air away from your computer's components. Think of it as a super-powered version of blowing on a spoonful of hot soup.

Pros

• Cheap: The most affordable cooling option.
• Easy-peasy: Installation is a breeze, and usually, you don't need to worry about maintenance beyond an occasional dusting.

Cons

• That noisy fan: They can get loud, especially when your system is under strain (like during peak hours). Many people report physical ear pain, and there have been workers comp cases over it. 
• Bulky: Big air coolers take up space, which often means a bigger case. The computer needs to sit in many shops in small places, and it's a problem fitting a computer in many places AS IS.
• Dust: Air coolers need a dust-free environment, and air-cooled computers need regular cleaning inside. 
• It may not be enough: It's not as efficient. Sometimes, if your shop is very hot or you are really busy using, especially if you are using advanced software, you can find out that your air cooling might not keep up.

Water Cooling: The Powerhouse (with a Price Tag)

Basics: Think of it like a tiny version of your car's radiator system. Water loops through your computer, soaking up the heat and carrying it away to be cooled.

Pros

• Handles the heat: Perfect for high-performance POS setups or sweltering environments.
• Quiet: Quieter than big air cooler fans.
• Fancy looks: Many people today want nice-looking cases to enhance the appearance of their shops, so they may need water cooling.

Cons

• Pricey: They do tend to be dearer.
• More to manage: They need more attention. While rare, they do get leaks, which could be disastrous.

So, Which Is Right for Your Small Shop?

• Need it simple and cheap? Air cooling is likely a good fit.
• Is the POS system always flat out? Water cooling might save your sanity (and your hardware).
• Do you hate noisy computers? Water cooling would be a worthwhile investment.
• Want a sleek setup? Water cooling delivers that modern, futuristic vibe.

A Few More Things to Consider:

• Your Store's Environment: If your hot shop puts more strain on any cooling system.
• Staff Comfort: Noisy fans are a pain, especially during long shifts. Over an extended period, some computer noise starts stressing me out. 
• Maintenance: Do you have the time for the extra upkeep water cooling needs?

Testing your computer

If you are worried about the temperature on your existing computers, I suggest downloading a temperature-checking software, CoreTemp. This is one of the best temperature tools for computers. You can get it here. Now let it run for a bit and see what it says the temperature is for each of your computer cores. If you see what they are

Recommended CPU Temperature Ranges

This gives you one core, but you can get all of them from the hidden icons at the bottom right.

Here are some general CPU temperature guidelines:

• Below 60°C - Temperatures are average. No action is needed.

• 60-70°C is an acceptable range for a computer running.

• 70-80°C unless you are doing a lot of work on the computer and then only for a short time, it would be too hot

• 80-90°C - Too hot! Take steps to improve cooling immediately.

• Above 90°C - Danger zone. Risk of throttling or damage. Act now!

Need an Expert Opinion?

Overall, doing the pluses and minus, we feel that air-cooled is better. Still, if you are unsure, there's no shame in asking for help! Contact our experts, who can give you a personalized recommendation based on your needs.

Summary: Air cooling is cheap but noisy. Water cooling: powerful but pricey.

Barcode scanners today are incredible in speed and accuracy. On average, we calculate that manually entered data has a 1% error rate. Barcode scanning cuts that down to 1 error in 10 million scans! This translates to massive time and money savings for retailers.

But did you know your old barcode scanner could be costing you customers?  

In this guide, I will discuss the pros and cons of the existing CCD and laser scanners vs. the newer camera scanners, which will soon be available in bulk, so you can make the best choice for your store's needs.

Before I start, I should say that the camera scanners are really CCD scanners on steroids. They are like giving an old CCD scanner a superhero upgrade! They can read virtually any barcode, no matter how blurry or beaten up, and even scan stuff right off a phone.

The Barcode Scanner Basics

Let's start with the two main existing categories:

• Tried-and-True: Laser and CCD Scanners These have been around for ages, and with good reason. They're specialised tools that excel in certain areas:

  • Laser Scanners

    • Lightning-fast, super accurate, and can handle even crummy barcodes.
    • Many models scan from a distance, which is great for heavy items.

  • CCD Scanners

    • They're more budget-friendly
    • Generally better than laser scanners for close-up scanning of good-quality barcodes.
    • They often have trouble reading damaged labels or wet items like a Coca-Cola bottle directly from the fridge.

Since they're both small, they are great for stores with limited counter space.

Most have trouble reading barcodes on phone screens,

They are designed to work with the basic 1D barcodes. Soon, we are expecting that some products will switch from 1D barcodes to more complex barcodes. When this happens in bulk will be when the problems come. 

• Camera-Based Scanners 

  • These can read virtually any barcode (1D, 2D, QR codes, etc.) easily 
  • Scanning from phone screens is good.
  • Can be used with self-checkout, mobile coupons, and inventory checks with a simple photo snap.
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Often slower
  • Often have issues in low-light situations
  • Need more training to get used to them.
  • It's still pretty experimental; most shops that use them only use them for some types of scanning.

Scanner Showdown: Which Model is Right for You?

Here is my breakdown to help you decide:

• Volume is King: If you have a busy store, laser is the fastest.
• Going Digital: Want customers to use mobile coupons, streamline returns, or consider self-checkout? Camera-based is the only way to unlock these customer-pleasing features.
• Budget Matters: Tight on budget? CCD is the cheapest way to go. 
• The future: Camera-based tech, as it keeps evolving, will replace CCD and laser, but not anytime soon. 
• Omnichannel or Not: Camera scanners can now do everything, while CCD and laser scanners generally cannot. 

The Bottom Line: It's All About Your Needs

Only get camera scanners if you have a need that CCD and lasers cannot do.

Chat with us, your point-of-sale (POS) provider, and we can tailor a solution just for you!

Ready to take your small business to the next level? Ask us for the best scanner options for your shop – your customers (and your bottom line!) will thank you.

Are you tired of your POS devices dying halfway through a busy shift? As a point-of-sale (POS) software company, we know that having reliable batteries is important. In this guide, we'll share real-world examples to help you make your battery last longer.

Common Battery Myths

These misconceptions can drain your battery power faster than you think – let's set the record straight!

• Myth 1: Ignore those manufacturers battery limits

  • Reality: Battery makers set those charge and discharge limits for a reason – to make your battery last longer! Pushing those boundaries may shorten its lifespan. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for best results.

• Myth 2: Charge It While You Use It for a Faster Top-Up

  • Reality: This might shave off a few minutes, but it's not worth the risk. So do not do it. Devices produce heat, and so does charging the battery and together, they make more heat. Think of charging like a relaxing break – your device will thank you!

• Myth 3: Off-Brand Chargers? Sure, Why Not?

  • Reality: Official chargers are made and tested for your device – so they're designed for your device. Off-brands might work, but they could damage your devices. If you must use an off-brand, run it on a slow charge. 

• Myth 4: Slow and Steady Harms the Battery

  • Reality: Nope! Slow charging is kinder to your battery, putting less stress on it. A slow charge setting is the way to go if you charge overnight.

• Myth 5: Leave It Plugged In, It's Fine!

  • Reality: Big no-no! This isn't just about wasting energy. Power surges occur anytime, and the longer it is plugged into your device, the more likely a surge can hit your device. Charge up when needed, then unplug for a longer-lasting battery. 

• Myth 6: All batteries degrade and are soon useless

  • Reality: Yes, all batteries do degrade, but generally, it's only a few percent a year. At a 2 to 3% loss a year, a battery in 10 years still, in theory, holds about 78% of its charge. That is often more than you need in one session. We have sold units that are 20 years old and still going fine.

• Myth 7: Drain It, Then Charge It to the Max

  * **Reality:** That worked for old-school batteries, but today's prefer a little snack-like top-ups. With modern batteries full draining and recharging can stress them out and shorten their life.

The Environment Matters: Heat, Cold, and Shelf Life

• Feeling the Heat (and Cold): Extreme temperatures are your battery's foes! Heat speeds up degradation, while cold zaps capacity. Store your devices in cool spaces, and don't let them bake in hot cars.

• Batteries Have a Good Shelf Life: Good news! Modern batteries hold their charge well. Charge them up and have them ready to go. You do not need to scramble at the last minute. After extended use, I put them aside overnight to let them cool down, Charge them the next day, and then store them until needed.

Conclusion

Look after your batteries and they will keep your devices going a long time.

What you will notice is that if your computer is running slowly, and we or someone else gives it a preventive maintenance service, it now runs faster. Temperature is a common reason for this happening.

What happens here is that one or more of your computer's cores which are the brains of your computer overheats. Once a core goes over its maximum temperature, the computer slows it down. This is to avoid causing permanent hardware damage. Your computer, which is an i9 starts running like an i5, an i5 like an i3 etc. What is happening is to try to prevent damage, it slows down. It can get worse than this as nothing in a computer likes high temperatures.

So let us discuss the signs of overheating, methods to check your computer's CPU temperature, and troubleshooting tips to improve cooling and prevent heat buildup. 

Signs Your Computer May Be Overheating

Generally speaking, if your computer is running too hot, you will see things like:

>Slow performance - This is the most common sign.

>Loud fan noises - The fan often will be spinning at high speeds to remove heat

>Random crashes - Suddenly, your computer just stops working. You turn it off for a while, and it works like normal.

>Video on the monitor suddenly looks bad, this can be very serious as video cards are now some of the most expensive parts of computers today.

Don't ignore these warning signs!

Testing your computer

If you are worried about the temperature, I suggest downloading a temperature-checking software, CoreTemp. This is one of the best temperature tools for computers. You can get it here. Now let it run for a bit and see what it says the temperature is for each of the cores. If you see that they are

Recommended CPU Temperature Ranges

This gives you one core but in your hidden icons at the bottom right you can get all of them.

Here are some general CPU temperature guidelines:

• Below 60°C - Temperatures are normal. No action is needed.

• 60-70°C is an acceptable range for a computer running.

• 70-80°C unless you are doing a lot of work on the computer and then only for a short time, it would be too hot

• 80-90°C - Too hot! Take steps to improve cooling immediately.

• Above 90°C - Danger zone. Risk of throttling or damage. Act now!

Computer CPU cooling

If your computer is running too hot, there can be many factors as to why; here are some points:

Clean Out Dust Buildup

It could be that dust has built up too much in the computer. This is a common problem in POS Systems, which work in dusty environments. The dust blocks the air coming in and as a blanket covering the computer parts, causing overheating. If so, clean up the dust. 

Thermal Paste

The thermal paste that protects the cores may need to be reapplied. This actually requires technical skill to do this, do not do this unless you know what you are doing.

Core came out

The cores may be loose, and sometimes they need to be pushed in again this requires some technical skill to do.

Cooling System

It may be that your cooling system has degraded or is not big enough; they may need to be replaced. Often today, cheap computers are sold with cooling systems that are too small.

Computer position

It could be where your computer is placed.

> The area could be too hot.

> Another problem is that it may obstruct airflow - if the cold air cannot get inside the computer, it cannot cool.

In this case, a simple movement may do wonders for your computer. 

Next step

Now, if it is still a problem, what will need to be looked at next is the cooler installation and the thermal paste. For most of us, this needs professional help. 

High CPU temperatures lead to poor computer performance and can seriously damage components. Keeping a close eye on your processor's heat levels is essential for preventive maintenance.

Don't let the heat take down your computer!

Stay cool!

I doubt we can get more high-tech Point-of-Sale units with the Black Friday sale prices from our supplier much longer. They have proven extremely popular because they are so fast, elegant, and easy for staff to operate, and they create a streamlined point-of-sale solution.

This has become our customers' favourite All-in-One system, as it conveniently bundles everything you need into one clutter-free touchscreen terminal.

What is an All-in-One POS System?

An all-in-one POS unit combines your hardware and software in one integrated machine. You see them today in most modern shops and restaurants. 

I took some pictures of the unit. Once you see them, I am sure you will be impressed with the small footprint on the counter.

Benefits For Your Business

You will love the real benefits they get from this all-in-one system:

1. Convenience

One of our clients told me "With just one machine instead of a mess of wires and gadgets, managing my sales counter is so much smoother."

2. Space-Saving

These units have a small footprint to free up valuable counter space for merchandising.

3. Ease Of Use

The intuitive touchscreen interface means minimal staff training.

4. Customer Experience

Another of our clients told me that this "new POS is lightning fast so I don't keep customers waiting. This seems to make them happier." 

5. Cost

As I said, all-in-one units are very competitively priced, still on special, making them a wise investment. I doubt with our inflation, these will be at this price for much longer.

Perfect For Your Shop

This integrated POS conveniently bundles everything into one good-looking unit for faster transactions and happy customers.

Learn more! Contact us for a your perfect all-in-one system.

This computer is the most popular with our customers now for their POS System.

This upgrade to our new computers will solve many headaches for you.

Key Benefits of these computers

- Small Footprint: On the front counter, it takes up as much room as a monitor. 

-Big screen: These ones are 17 inches, which is excellent for those people who find it hard to read small writing on the screen.

-Customer display: A nice big customer display that is free with the unit

- Touch Screen Capability: It has a touch screen, yet costs the same as a regular monitor. When processing on the checkout, a touch is much faster and more natural.

- Looks modern: An outdated computer monitor sends a terrible message to your customers.

- This thing in the middle is a powerful computer that effectively takes no space on the counter. It's an i5 with plenty of RAM.

- Cost Savings: If you priced out a monitor, customer display, and computer separately, there would be substantial savings versus this all-in-one unit.  

- Durability for Shop Environments: The computer is designed to withstand the harsh, dusty, and dirty conditions typical of a shop environment.

Reliable Customer Support

Of course, getting value from your investment comes with great support.

• 24/7 technical support - We know this equipment, so we can often quickly troubleshoot any issues. In truth, we have had very few with them.

• Hardware warranty - 1 year warranty is included.

Our customer support team has your back so you can focus on running your business, not troubleshooting POS problems.

Let us know if you are interested in learning more here.

Recent Microsoft updates have caused some issues with our POS software and some other software for a few customers. It is a known problem by Microsoft here. For some reason, it is now starting to appear.

If you are experiencing problems problems with your POS Software, don't panic! Here is some troubleshooting you can do to get your POS system back up and running smoothly.

Restarting Your Server

A simple restart is often all that is needed to clear up software issues caused by these updates. Follow these steps:

• Close any open programs on your system
• Shut down the server computer completely
• After 1 minute, restart the server and let it boot up fully
• Try using the POS software again - the issues may be resolved!

Restarting your server essentially clears any memory errors or software conflicts that the updates may have caused. It's a quick first step to try before investigating deeper issues.

Contact Our Support Team

If restarting your POS server doesn't fix the problems you've been experiencing, please reach out to our customer support team immediately.

Our support reps can troubleshoot further, analyse your system logs, and identify what precisely in the Microsoft updates is causing conflicts. We can then provide targeted solutions to get your POS software connecting correctly again.

Let us know if you have any other questions! We're here to help.

Some people do not switch off their POS System computers. They run them 24/7.

In my opinion, this is not a good practice.

Why You Should Restart Your POS System Weekly

Using point-of-sale (POS) systems during regular business hours and restarting the POS computers weekly can keep things running smoothly. While it causes a brief downtime, the overall benefits make it an intelligent maintenance routine.

The Benefits of a Weekly Restart

Restarting Windows-based POS systems weekly provides several performance and stability advantages:

• Install updates - Windows can check for and install important OS and security updates. Keeping things patched prevents issues.

• Clears out temp files - Temporary application files and caches are deleted, freeing up disk space.

• Frees memory - Programs with memory leaks are reset, freeing up RAM. This prevents sluggish performance.

• Resets connections - Network connections, ports, and sockets are refreshed. This can fix odd connectivity issues.

A reboot clears out any digital cobwebs and lets your POS system start with a clean slate. I recommend this as a general best practice for any business system.

When to Schedule the Restart

The best time to do it is between Tuesday and Thursday; this is because if something goes wrong, you can help.

Often you can stagger the restart if you have multiple computers, so they aren't all offline together.

The Temporary Downtime is Worth It

The downtime from a reboot is usually brief - just 5-10 minutes. While inconvenient, the performance and stability gains outweigh this small window of being offline. It's a smart tradeoff for any business.

Adopting a weekly restart routine is an easy way to keep your POS system running optimally. Combine it with other IT best practices, and your point-of-sale environment will stay healthy for the long run.

Today people are paranoid about data leaks as data breaches continue to get media attention. It seems now daily, just yesterday, we found out that what was reported as 320,000 people in Latitude finance is now includes almost 8 million people. So we now have the largest-known data breach of a financial institution in Australia. 

Millions of Australian and New Zealand customers have had their records stolen in a cyber attack on Latitude Financial, including up to 7.9 million driver's license numbers and 53,000 passport numbers, making it the largest-known data breach on a financial institution in Australia. Today a data leak can have serious repercussions; besides harm to a company's reputation. Today there can be considerable financial losses from legal consequences. As such, people are taking strong measures to avoid such incidents.

So what happens today as computer equipment is replaced and we have the old stuff to worry about?

More than reformatting a hard drive is required to ensure confidential data cannot be retrieved. This is because of what we call data remembrance.

It is a real worry; a study from MIT here showed that data remembrance is a real threat here. In this study, 158 disk drives were purchased through eBay. 29 of the 158 drives purchased didn't work at all, and of the rest 117 (91%) of the drives contained old data that could be recovered and read.  91% is a lot.

What I found interesting is that in the sensitive information retrieved from the disk drives were detailed personal and corporate financial records, medical records, and personal e-mails such as love letters and pornography. This sort of stuff, if you go in front of a court today, could cost heaps. This is why people realise today the importance of completely erasing confidential data before disposing of hard drives.

Just reformatting a hard drive is not a secure data destruction method because of data remembrance of sensitive information. If you want to stop data remembrance, you need to either use specialised software to do a data wipe or physically destroy the hard drive. 

The advantage of specialised software is that you can still have an asset, the hard drive to sell. The problem is just how good the data wipe is. Much software available today claims to permanently destroy data on the hard drive so that it cannot be retrieved or reconstructed. How good it is, I cannot say.

Now there are three options our client has. In order of security from least to best

The specialised software I like which gives good results is ccleaner.

Partial clean.

Often the computer cannot be reformated as the new owner will need it to use the computer. If so, delete everything that may be a security problem. Make sure it is all your documents; some can be very embarrassing. 

Then run ccleaner > disk wiper. It has the option to delete everything in free space. Select that with a complex wipe and at least three passes. That will shred everything that is deleted. If someone can crack that, they are very good at this. 

Wipe the hard drive

If you can wipe the whole hard drive, go into Drive wiper and select a complex three or 7-pass wipe. On a modern hard drive, it can take a long time. 

Physical destruction

Yet, more is needed by some, and they demand that we physically destroy the hard drive. The argument is that an old hard drive isn't worth much, and it is not worth the risk.

Physically destroying a is undoubtedly the most secure method to destroy its data. 

If you destroy your hard drive physically, it is vital to do so correctly. A strong mallet will work. If so, I recommend putting the hard drive in a strong bag because of flying fragments before banging it. We used a canvas bag, put the hard drive in it, and smashed it.  Then we put part of the remains of the hard drive in one bin and the rest of the pieces in another bin. It works well for us as two different waste disposal companies collect these bins.

Summary

> Data leaks can have serious repercussions, including financial losses and harm to a company's reputation.

> Confidential data can still be there after reformatting a hard drive due to data remembrance.

> Specialized software or physical destruction should be used

> Physically destroying a hard drive is the most secure method.

Recently, a client brought an almost new computer, it was claimed, but it turned out to be an old computer. Interestingly the client himself is very computer knowledgable, and he was fooled.

So it led to a discussion here on how to determine the age of a computer. It turned out to be quite tricky. Unlike cars, few computers have a manufacture date stamped on them. Plus, most computers should be better described as an assembled date rather than the manufactured date.

Invoice date

My client did it by looking at the invoice date. It was not right. Also this is not easy as people often do not have this documentation. The other problem is that the date of sale only sometimes corresponds to the age of the computer. Some computers sit in a warehouse or a store for long periods unsold. This is particularly true if they have been sold on a computer sale. There are good reasons why computer sales often have good prices. This can be, at best, a good guide, but that is all.

Inspection of computer

You can also try looking at the label on the back or side of your computer to determine its age. Once you have the model number, you can search online to discover the initial release date of that computer.

You can note the computer's serial number and contact the manufacturer's customer service. Their representative should be able to provide information to you on when this model was in production and an estimate of when your computer was built. That is the only definite way I can think of.

BIOS date

Probably the quickest way to determine the approximate time your computer was initially assembled is from the BIOS date. What you can do is check the system information in Windows. To access this type "system information" in the start menu's search bar, run it, and a window will pop out showing you details about the computer, including the BIOS Date.

What you will get is

This will only work if the computer has not updated its BIOS from the initial installation and the BIOS was new at the assembled date.

Windows settings

Going into windows setting > about, it will tell you the version of Windows and when Windows was installed. Again its a guide no more as a new version of windows may have been installed on that computer

Summing up

It is not easy to find out. These methods, at best can only help.

Having said this, it's important to note that the age of a computer is not always an accurate indicator of its performance or lifespan. An older computer that has been well-cared for often functions perfectly for many years. New computers that are lemons are not uncommon, either.

The Effect of Slow-Running computers on Business Activities and Income

In the current business climate, speed counts. It results in decreased customer satisfaction, reduced productivity, and missed deadlines. People do not wait. If your computers run slowly, they will leave. People do not wait, and they will go. Additionally, employees' stress and frustration may rise due to sluggish technology. No one wants to work on the old junk that is slow.

There are several reasons for your computers running slowly.

People's perception.

Firstly it is perception are rising as computer technology advances. What they see is the constant stream of new computer models and upgrades that have entered the market at lower prices. So we see a demand for faster performance for faster and more powerful computers with higher specifications. Once these new computers start spreading, people demand that these computers do more.

Plus customers think little of a business today running old computers. I do not think much of a business image if I see this monitor in use.Noah in the ark, had something better.

Software

The software market has also been affected by ongoing advancements in computer technology. As the computers increase in power and time, your software can do more, improving over time; this gives you more features and options. This increased functionality means the software requires more resources. The software code needs more resources like memory and processing power to run. The reports get better, the software gets better, and the wait time increases.

Information (Data)

The amount of data we store on our computers grows over time as we use them more. Think of this five people working on a computer for a year are entering a lot of information. As your computer's data grows, its performance begins to suffer. What was a good computer now, in a few years, often cannot handle the workload. This is why on old computers, you must to manage your data by deleting old history by archiving old data, to maintain your computer's responsiveness and speed. Only by doing this, you can guarantee that your computers will continue to be productive.

The absence of routine software and hardware maintenance

Unfortunately, dealing with this issue can be challenging.

Attempting maintenance tasks like updating drivers or cleaning your registry can be risky. Attempting to resolve such problems often results in more harm than good. So we always have clients that call us with a significant problem because someone did some maintenance on their system. Systems have suffered considerable damage or become unusable. Then even if fixed, there is always the possibility that an extra issue unrelated to this issue arises. Because of this, many experts are reluctant to do maintenance tasks to avoid being held accountable for any problems that might arise later that were not their fault.Also today operating systems like Windows have evolved and now include many automated maintenance routines. Without requiring any of your time or effort, these features can aid in maintaining the smooth operation of your computer. This is why it is rare today for significant speed increases to be possible by doing routine maintenance.

Security software

This needs its own section. Computers need protection from malicious software, including viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware. These harmful programs are becoming more sophisticated. So today, security software needs to consume more processing power making it harder for older computers to keep up with their demands. Nothing we can do about this as, unlike other software, you need the most up-to-date security software. This ensures that it is compatible with the most recent threats and can safeguard your computer. As a result, older computers experience significant sluggishness, making efficient use difficult. Nothing we can do as these malicious programs can cause damage.

Preventing Slow-Running Technology

Often some simple hardware changes can result in faster speeds. Moving the faster computers where they are needed often is a significant speed increase.

If you are buying new equipment, do proper planning and research to guarantee that you buy equipment and programming that meet your business requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sluggish technology can impact revenue and business operations.

The Need for Faster Internet Speed

Nowadays, the internet is a necessary component of nearly every business. You must select an internet that is both fast and dependable if you want your business to operate as smoothly as possible.

NBN vs mobile

More people are getting faster internet as the switch from copper to fibre continues. Yet, despite improvements, Australian speeds are still average.

Many people cannot get NBN; some, amazingly, are in big cities. We assist these individuals with mobile data via 4G and 5G, with varying degrees of success. In most cases, mobile internet costs are higher. Nor are they dependable. Something goes wrong with the tower, and they die. Often the problem can only be fixed once the ISP support team is working. What is fustrating is that your ISP usually has to go to the Telstra or Optus Tower support team; this sometimes means the internet is down for a day. Another issue is that current usage, traffic and rain impact speed.

Some advantages of speed and dependability

Since many services you use today are connected to the internet, you can only serve your customers if you have access to the internet. I've had clients whose EFTPOS failed, forcing them to turn away customers. The internet is required for many software packages to function. You can only use them if there is the internet.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize that the faster you work, the more you can do. It is a waste of time to wait for the internet. It is time-consuming and stressful; Despite your readiness, you cannot work.

Slow speeds are detrimental.

Check Your Speed

A quick speed test can help determine if your current connection is adequate for your needs. A broadband download speed of 40 Mbps (megabits per second) is the minimum standard quoted for modern businesses. But to get a complete picture of its performance, you must test your speed at various times throughout the day. Many people have speed problems at some times of the day.

A good speed test and comparisons are available here

Fixing Slow Internet Speed

There are many reasons why your internet speed could be faster. If you see the numbers above and think it's slow, you should talk to your ISP to see if it's a problem with your ISP or your plan.

In other instances, it might be an issue on your end, a lousy modem, a broken network, a bad connection, etc.

Conclusion

It is crucial to get the best internet possible in today's world. Businesses today need access to fast and dependable internet.

Are you in the market for a new point-of-sale (POS) computer screen?

If so, look at the latest models of POS monitors here. See, they are lower. 

Why do you ask?

Being lower, they have a lower centre of gravity so, making your POS computer screen more stable and less prone to falling over.

Consider this

Imagine someone accidentally bumps into the counter. Without a stable POS computer screen, it's easy for the screen to tip over and so suffer damage. Not only is this frustrating for you, but it can also disrupt business operations and lead to costly repairs.

A POS computer screen with a lower centre of gravity is less likely to tip over in the event of accidental bumps. This is because the lower centre of gravity increases the support base, making it harder for the screen to tip over. 

This is why many current POS monitors are built low and squat. 

Another advantage is that as these are also less likely to wobble or move around, they help reduce eye strain and improve overall comfort, as an unstable monitor can cause your eyes to constantly readjust to the changing position, leading to fatigue and discomfort. Conversely, a sturdy monitor will stay in place, allowing you to maintain a consistent focus and reduce the strain on your eyes.

This can also help improve your posture. It can lead to neck and back pain if you constantly reach or lean forward to see a wobbly monitor. 

In summary, they can positively impact your ergonomics, helping you feel more comfortable and reducing strain on your eyes and body while using the device.

Work tip

Ensuring your POS computer screen is securely fastened to the surface to prevent accidental tipping.

Murphy's law, it will go down at the worst possible time.

When is the worst possible time in retail? Christmas, when it will be challenging to get a tech to fix your computer and you will be busy.

Give all your computers a test run now. Make sure it all works.

Also, ensure you have enough computer consumables, e.g. receipt rolls, ink, etc. 

Make sure your backups are working. Worst case, your computer is replaceable, but your information is not without a backup. With a good backup, we often need to replace the computer, and you can be back up and running in a day.