Step 1 - Setting up ootpik
Welcome to ootpik!
These pages will explain how to set up ootpik. Use the links on the left to guide you through each piece of hardware you may have, and how to install ootpik point of sale software.
System Hardware Diagram
The following diagram will give you an overview at how your whole system might connect up.
OFFICE
Somewhere in the back of your business you'll have your internet Router, you may also have a back office Computer for administration, and you might use a Full-page Printer for reports, or a Label Printer for printing labels.
- Router - this is typically set up by the company that provides your internet. All your computers and printers need to connect to it with Cat5 wiring, which is typically run by an electrician. We recommend running an individual Cat5e or Cat6 line to each individual computer and printer.
- Computer - we recommend using entry-level iMacs for office administration, everything you need is in the box
- Full-page Printer - any Mac-compatible printer will work. We recommend using one with ethernet or wireless capability so you can print reports from any computer.
- Label Printer - DYMO label printers work best on the Mac and are easiest to find labels for (check with you local office supply store). They connect via USB to your computer.
STATION
Every station starts with a Computer, and a Touchscreen. You can optionally add several peripherals.
- Computer - we recommend using an entry-level Mac mini, connected to your router via Cat5 ethernet wire
- Touchscreen - we require a touchscreen that supports a 1366x768 resolution will connect to your computer with both a USB cable and a DVI or VGA cable. Requires a software driver to work.
- Receipt Printer - your Epson TM-T88-series printer does NOT connect to your computer, it will connect to your network router via Cat5 ethernet wiring.
- Cash Drawer - your cash drawer must connect to the receipt printer's Drawer Kick port via a special cable that looks similar to a phone cable.
- Card Swiper - connects via USB to your computer, there are two kinds:
Credit Card Swiper - Must come from the company that processes your credit cards.
Customer Card Swiper - A non-encrypted swiper used for ootpik's built-in loyalty or gift cards. - Barcode Scanner - connects via USB to your computer.
- Customer Display - connects via USB to your computer. Requires a software driver to work.
- Weighscale - uses a serial cable that must be converted to USB via a Keyspan USA-19HS adaptor. Keyspan adaptor requires a software adaptor to work.
Kitchen/Bar
Receipt printers are used as ticket printers for your food and beverage order tickets.
- Ticket Printer - Epson TM-T88-series receipt printers connect via Cat5 ethernet to your network router
Mobile
Smartphones and iPads can be used by staff, management, and customers for various functions.
- Mobile Devices - connect to the wireless network broadcast from your network Router