How does the scale integration work in RetailVista?

RetailVista has the ability to integrate the cash register with scales. Currently, scales that use the Herbert CL1 protocol, Mettler Toledo SICS, and Digi type A and B are supported. It is strongly recommended to test a scale that needs to be integrated in advance. Many scales seem to support alternative protocols, so it is possible that a scale from a completely different brand is still supported in RetailVista by selecting a different protocol.

Scales may only be connected to a PC (at least in NL and UK) if a specially certified POS version is used. NedFox annually certifies a specific POS version with the NMI (Dutch Measurement Institute). Due to the costs of this certification, these POS versions have a different license and pricing structure than a standard cash register. The consequences of a certified version are that a number of additional legal obligations will arise, such as displaying weight dimension and currency information on the receipt. It is also important that a 'hash' (checksum) calculation is determined for the entire software. Any possible change in the software results in a different checksum. The original checksum with which the software is certified by NMI is stated on the NMI certificate. An entrepreneur who uses a certified POS version receives this NMI certificate from NedFox, which must be available for any government inspections.

A small disadvantage of a certified POS version is that it is not possible to make a quick bug fix/correction on such a cash register. Every minuscule change in the software leads to a different control number calculation, which no longer matches the NMI certificate. As a result, the software is no longer considered certified and this will have consequences during a possible inspection by the retailer.

The scale integration is designed with the assumption that the scale is exclusively used for weighing a product. The weight is read and RetailVista converts it to the unit price.

In RetailVista, a scale must be specified at the POS terminal. Scales can be created through the scale maintenance screen. Settings such as baud rate may vary per type of scale and can even differ on an individual basis. It is important to request this information from the customer or manufacturer.

For a product, it must be indicated that it is a weighing product, and in the sales unit information, the sales unit of the product must be indicated. If, for example, 1Kg is specified, the gross selling price is considered as the price of 1Kg. With this information, RetailVista can convert the weight from the scale into a final selling price.

Once a product on the scale is scanned at the POS, the scale integration screen is launched and contact is made with the connected scale. If the scale is unreachable, the product cannot be sold. This is one of the requirements imposed by law on a POS system that is connected to a scale. The weight from the scale is continuously displayed on the weighing screen. Once the scale is stable, it is possible to accept the indicated weight and add the product to the transaction.