iOS and Android Bluetooth Solutions - Peripheral Devices
By: Sergio - 3/7/2014

I'll often work with a software developer or company that needs a solution for apps to work with peripheral devices using Bluetooth technology. Typically iOS and Android applications that run on Tablet or Smart phone devices often come across limitations with peripheral devices. Let's face it, a USB scanner wont work, a USB Printer, or printer-driven Cash drawer wont interface with a tablet device either. What to do?

Fortunately there are some solutions out there which will fill that void.

Scanners

Bluetooth scanners that pair directly to tablet/PDA/Phone devices are the most common. A few include:

Motorola CS3070

Opticon OPN2002/2005

Unitech MS910/912

While there are others, all will work in pretty much the same way. You pair the scanner up with your device as referred to on the manual, and start scanning. No specific app required, the scanner typically takes over your pop-up keyboard without bringing it up and enters the barcode number in whichever field your cursor is on.

Printers

Mobile Bluetooth printers will be the most common in this case,  offering only Bluetooth or wifi options. Often times an appilcation will support one or more printers. The customer will have to check on compatibility with the developer of the application to see which printer it supports. For developers, SDK (software development kits) are available through the Manufacturer. Popular Options include:

Epson Mobilink TM-P60II

Datamax-O'Neil Apex 2/3/4

Samsung/Bixolon SPP-R200II/300/400

Other brands such as Star Micronics and Citizen also have reliable mobile printing solutions.

Alternative options include your typical desktop thermal receipt printers with Bluetooth Connection, popular lines like the Epson TM-T88V series and Star TSP600 are also available.

With some applications you can also print to a standard receipt printer that is connected to a Wireless Router.

Cash Drawers

There is an option with APG cash drawers for Bluetooth connectivity, these are exclusively used with specific apps or developers needing a way to emulate a printer's normal kick option to pop open a cash drawer, bypassing a receipt printer all together.

Other alternatives include a manual cash drawer, or a printer-driven cash drawer connected to a standard receipt printer on a Wireless Network Router as mentioned above.

In conclusion, there are many options available to developers and end-users alike. My advice is to check with the developer of the application you are using for Point of Sale, for compatibility with any of these products. And if you are a developer, get in touch with us.

iOS and Android Bluetooth Solutions - Peripheral Devices By: Sergio - 3/7/2014

Recent Posts By Sergio

iOS and Android Bluetooth Solutions - Peripheral Devices
By: Sergio - 3/7/2014