Safety, Disconnecting, Connecting

vThe device has a hardware problem.

The ªReliability: Tape drive recovered from xxx soft errorsº message displayed by the Streaming Tape Drive Utility is a normal message unless the number indicated by xxx is high. The number can exceed several hundred if the tape is full (contains 4 GB of data). To determine if the number is high, divide the number into the number of MB of data on the tape. Within the hardware speci®cation, you can have up to 10 soft errors per 1 MB of data.

If the Streaming Tape Drive Utility logs a W660 B4/S055/E010 message, it is used for statistics and does not necessarily indicate an error.

If the Streaming Tape Drive Utility abends with read errors or if the number of soft errors becomes higher than normal, trying cleaning the tape drive. See ªCleaning the Tape Headº on page 23 for instructions.

Safety

Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication cables is hazardous. To avoid shock hazard, all cables should be disconnected before the store controller cover is opened and connected only after the store controller cover is closed. The power cord must be used with a properly grounded outlet.

Disconnecting

To disconnect your equipment:

vTurn all equipment OFF.

vFirst, remove power cord from outlet. (In the United Kingdom, by law, the power cord must be disconnected after the telephone line cable.)

vRemove signal cables from receptacles.

vRemove all cables from devices.

Connecting

To connect your equipment:

vTurn all equipment OFF.

vAttach all cables to devices. (In the United Kingdom, by law, the telephone cable must be connected after the power cord.)

vAttach signal cables to receptacles.

vAttach power cord to outlet.

vTurn equipment ON.

Chapter 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting 25

4690 specifications

The IBM 4690 is a renowned point-of-sale (POS) system that has been pivotal in the retail and hospitality industries since its introduction in the late 1980s. Notably associated with IBM’s family of retail hardware and software solutions, the 4690 has transformed the modern retail environment, providing a robust platform for transaction processing and inventory management.

One of the main features of the IBM 4690 system is its powerful software architecture. Designed to efficiently handle high transaction volumes, it integrates seamlessly with various peripheral devices such as barcode scanners, receipt printers, and payment terminals. The system's user-friendly interface allows staff to process sales quickly and efficiently, enhancing the overall customer experience.

In terms of technology, the IBM 4690 operates on a proprietary operating system that supports a variety of programming languages, allowing retailers to customize applications to meet their specific needs. This flexibility not only streamlines operations but also enables retailers to implement specialized services such as loyalty programs and promotions. The hardware is designed for durability and reliability, essential in high-traffic retail environments.

Another significant characteristic of the IBM 4690 is its robust reporting capabilities. The system provides comprehensive sales reports, inventory analyses, and customer insights, all of which are essential for strategic decision-making. This analytical power helps businesses identify trends, forecast demand, and optimize stock levels, ultimately leading to improved profitability.

Furthermore, the IBM 4690 is known for its strong security features. By utilizing advanced encryption technologies and compliance with industry standards, the system helps protect sensitive customer data and payment information, ensuring a safe transaction environment.

The longevity and adaptability of the IBM 4690 system underscore its value in the retail sector. Even with newer technologies emerging, many businesses continue to rely on the robust functionality and proven performance of the 4690. With ongoing support and upgrades, the system remains a reliable choice for retailers looking to enhance their operational efficiency while delivering excellent customer service.

In summary, the IBM 4690 stands out due to its feature-rich software, durable hardware, robust reporting and analytics, and stringent security measures. These characteristics make it an indispensable tool for retailers aiming to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.