Navigation:  Contents >

Hardware Recommendations

Previous pageReturn to chapter overviewNext page

Please note that these are general hardware minimum specifications and we make no guarantee that they’ll be suitable for all users. There are many factors that determine the overall performance and reliability of our software and you should consult with a qualified IT person before making any equipment purchases or upgrades.

Scenario: Single Workstation running a POSitive software product and hosting the SQL Server

Modern Processor (multi‐core)*, 4GB RAM (8GB Recommended) and 1920x1080 screen resolution (see below). Also, Microsoft SQL Express 2014** or higher is recommended.

Scenario: Single or Multiple Workstations running a POSitive software product and with dedicated separate SQL Server

Workstation(s):
Modern Processor (multi‐core)*, 4GB RAM (8GB Recommended) and 1920x1080 screen resolution.

Server:
Modern Processor (multi‐core)*, 8GB RAM*** (or more) and 1280x1024 screen resolution. Also, Microsoft SQL Express 2014** or higher is recommended.

Storage
For maximum performance, consider 10,000 or 15,000 RPM hard drives, SSDs, and/or striping.
Screen Resolution
Recommended: 1920 x 1080 for optimal display of all program screens. Minimum: 1280 x 1024. Note: Lower resolution touch screens may be used for specialized sales register applications, but they will not be able to properly display all features of the program.

BACKUP Solutions
There is no auto‐backup in a POSitive software product, so you must set this up separately. Whatever you use must be able to backup the SQL database and the POSitive software product directory. We recommend using POSitive Backup, which will automatically backup your data everyday and store it in a secure, off-site location. Please contact our sales department if you would like to learn more.
There are other options, such as mirroring hard drives or setting up redundant servers, you may want to consider if the operation of your POS system is critical. Discuss this with your dealer or POSitive support.
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7 (Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate), Server 2008, Server 2008R2, 8** (Professional or Enterprise), 10** (Professional or Enterprise) and Server 2012** are supported. All current service packs should be installed. Microsoft “Basic”, "Home", “Starter”, and “RT” operating systems are not supported.

* For example, Intel Core i3, i5, i7 series, or AMD A and FX series. We do not recommend the use of Intel Atom or AMD Z, C, or E Series processors.
**Older versions of SQL Server are supported, but we recommend using the latest version for optimal performance.
***This recommendation should be adequate for up to 10 users.

POS Hardware

Most standard point of sale equipment can be used with POSitive software products; however some interfaces or models may not be compatible. For example, devices that use the OPOS standard are not compatible. Also, hardware manufacturers may change or discontinue formerly compatible devices at any time. So, please check with your dealer or POSitive support before using any POS hardware you are not familiar with.

Barcode Scanner

POSitive only supports keyboard and HID USB interface barcode scanners. Most brands including Honeywell, Motorola, Datalogic, Unitech, POS-X. To test the device, open Notepad or a word processor, and scan an item barcode. If the SKU appears then the device will work with POSitive.

Magnetic Stripe Reader (Non-EMV applications only)

Most brands including IDTech, Magtek, Logic Controls, POS-X, Unitech. To test the device, open Notepad or a word processor, and “swipe” a credit card. If the number appears then the device will work with POSitive.

Scale

NCI – Weightronix and CAS brands have been tested. Scale must be PC compatible and be used in conjunction with a “keyboard wedge decoder” which can be either hardware or software.

Portable Data Collector

Windows Mobile devices, or any other device that is capable of saving a ASCII or CSV file to a computer.

Receipt Printer

Most brands including Epson, Samsung, Star, POS-X, Ithaca. As a guideline, most receipt printers that support Epson ESC/P commands will work.

Label Printer

Many brands including Zebra, Samsung, Datamax. The exception is Barcode Blaster.

Cash Drawer

Any cash drawer connected to a compatible receipt printer, most serial drawers connected to a COM port and most USB drawers that support a virtual COM port, such as Logic Controls.

Pole Display

Logic Controls, Partner Tech, POS-X, Epson. Other brands capable of emulating CD-5220, UTE or Epson may also work.

Touch Screen Monitor

Most brands.

Tablets

A tablet running Win 7, 8 or 10 should be able to run POSitive software in touchscreen mode.  You can create a touchscreen at a desktop station optimized for the screen resolution of the tablet.  Then assign a specific station to the device and launch POSitive in touchscreen mode (employee ID will trigger touchscreen).