Application Architecture
For such applications as described above, each warehouse and retail store needs to install an industrial PC (IPC) as a controller hub at each location. These controllers are connected to a central server at the back office, sharing the same product data files, so that information updates can be synchronized for real time consistency. In addition to supporting barcode scanners and data storage and transmission, the IPC controllers at retail locations can be used to develop additional applications. For example, the deployment of an electronic shelf label systems, which uses small wireless plastic modules installed on shelves or other fixtures in place of traditional paper labels to display prices and other information—such as discount—on LCD or LED screens as controlled from a back room. This is particularly efficient in a grocery environment—especially that of a large retail chain which often needs to administer thousands of price changes on a regular basis.
For such applications as described above, each warehouse and retail store needs to install an industrial PC (IPC) as a controller hub at each location. These controllers are connected to a central server at the back office, sharing the same product data files, so that information updates can be synchronized for real time consistency. In addition to supporting barcode scanners and data storage and transmission, the IPC controllers at retail locations can be used to develop additional applications. For example, the deployment of an electronic shelf label systems, which uses small wireless plastic modules installed on shelves or other fixtures in place of traditional paper labels to display prices and other information—such as discount—on LCD or LED screens as controlled from a back room. This is particularly efficient in a grocery environment—especially that of a large retail chain which often needs to administer thousands of price changes on a regular basis.
