TNS enables EFTPOS & ATMs to operate over broadband

Stuart Corner
Sunday, 11 October 2009 09:47

IT Industry - Strategy

Transaction Network Services is launching a new broadband EFTPOS and ATM network service in Australia called TNSLink that, it says, will significantly reduce day to day operational costs associated with retail EFTPOS and ATM terminals by allowing them to be connected via any broadband Internet access service.

According to TNS, most integrated point-of-service (POS) cash registers, currently connect to financial institutions via PSTN lines or dedicated leased lines, such as Telstra's ISDN service or Telstra's Digital Data Service, which is being phased out. (Telstra plans to withdraw the service on 31 December 2009).

TNSLink uses industry-standard SSL and IPSec VPN encryption. TNS says that future enhanced options may include end-to-end managed broadband, along with integrated high-speed 3G wireless for primary or back up purposes for ATMs. "This solution utilises the same reliable TNS backbone network as the recently released TNS FusionPoint Lite service that removes the need for dedicated PSTN dial-up lines for EFTPOS and ATMs," TNS said.

TNS claims that TNSLink "also provides many additional features including transparent usage plans, 24x7 monitoring and management, and potential for significant performance improvements through the use of broadband.

Jennifer Stibbard, TNS senior vice president, Asia Pacific, said: "According to the ACMA, more than 95 percent of Australian businesses, including retailers, already have access to broadband for functions such as store email, inventory management and phone calls. Retailers are able to increase POS efficiency, deliver value-added services, such as card loyalty programs, and reduce their expenses by leveraging broadband for EFTPOS and ATM services using our secure TNSLink solution."