Touch terminals reduce the Christmas rush

Hobert Computing and Sonopress have introduced new media browser terminals for the European retail sector using capacitive touch screen technology developed by 3M Touch Systems.

Hobert Computing and Sonopress have introduced new media browser terminals for the European retail sector using capacitive touch screen technology developed by 3M Touch Systems.

The terminals aim to relieve the stress of the pre-Christmas rush by providing consumers with a fast and convenient method of acquiring more information and prepurchase knowledge during the buying process of multimedia goods such as CDs and DVDs.

The introduction of the media browser terminals in retail stores is currently underway with a total 470 already installed in Europe alone.

Reiner Hobert, owner of Hobert Computing and developer of the media browser terminal commented: "Our success is largely due to the quality and resilience of 3M Touch Systems' capacitive touch screen technology".

"We deploy the MicroTouch ClearTek touch screen technology in our media browser as its robustness is perfectly suited for this application and it also offers exceptional touch accuracy".

The media browser terminals are positioned next to CD and DVD racks and consist of a monitor with an integrated 6.4in capacitive touch screen, a scanner-driven console and a headset.

To operate the customer simply takes the prospective CD or DVD purchase from the rack, holds it under the scanner with the barcode facing sideways up, puts the headset on and embarks on the interactive experience.

When appraising a CD, the customer uses the touch screen for volume control or to skip to the next track.

When previewing a movie or music DVD, the touch screen will display the relevant trailers.

All CD and DVD titles are fed into the system locally in the respective store, but are stored and managed centrally by Sonopress in Gutersloh, Germany.

Hobert Computing selected 3M's capacitive touch screens largely for their robust design, guaranteeing high performance in tough environmental conditions.

Lloyd Cole, European Marketing Manager, 3M Touch Systems, commented: "Young consumers, in particular, are notorious for desiring hands-on experimentation with the latest technology or gadgetry".

"The all-glass construction of our capacitive touch screens provides increased durability against surface damage, including scratches caused by abrasives, chemicals or vandalism".

"The glass screens also ensure a bright and clear display enabling simple and efficient use".

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