VenueSumo hardware recommendations

POS hardware device recommendations

VenueSumo’s POS system runs through a web browser, making it compatible with most devices that have a stable internet connection.

To ensure optimal performance and a smooth user experience, we recommend the following minimum hardware specifications:

POS Terminal Device

To run Venue Sumo's cloud based POS, we recommend that you use a device that has a:

Operating system: Windows 10 or later
Processor: Intel Core i5 or higher
Memory: 8GB RAM memory or more
Storage: 1 x 128 GB (HDD/SSD) storage or higher
Display: Touch screen, with minimum screen size is 1024 x 768 in portrait mode. Screen size +11-inch screen
Construction: Durable construction for high POS style usage
Mountable: Able to be mounted in sturdy terminal stand and ideally locked

Recommended POS Devices:

The Advantech UPOS-211 POS-211 is an all-in-one point-of-sale (POS) system that features a small footprint and dual-hinge design, making it ideal for countertops and limited-space installations.
The HP Engage 1 Essential Cel 8GB/128GB, 14 Inch POS Terminal. The system has a durable screens and stand that is build for the needs of retail and hospitality POS.
The Posiflex XT5315 is a high-performance POS terminal featuring a 15-inch touchscreen display, fanless architecture for silent operation and sharp design.
If you don't want to use an all-in-one, another option is the Microsoft Surface Pro as a versatile device for optimal performance for most venues. Its touch screen interface complements our POS user interface, facilitating efficient operations. Furthermore, the inclusion of a physical keyboard greatly enhances tasks such as searching for booking names or numbers, as well as creating new party or group bookings. The incorporation of the Windows operating system on the Microsoft Surface Pro is preferred, as Windows offers superior customizability, especially in configuring thermal printers. It's worth noting that the VenueSumo POS can also function as an optional full screen Kiosk application on Windows devices. NOTE - The latest version of Windows 11 ARM is causing printer compatibility issues due to the absence of the plug-and-play (PnP) service, essential for many printer drivers to function. Users report that various drivers, including thermal printer modesl fail to print. These issues seem to be reported by new Microsoft Surface Pro users who purchased newer models after September 2024.
Should you opt for an alternative to the Microsoft Surface tablet, VenueSumo's POS system remains compatible with iOS and Android tablets, or even traditional computers without touch screens if those devices are more accessible. If you decide to use a tablet, there are many 'tablet stand' options in various sizes and colours.

Optimal 'Check in' or 'Tab' Device

Our customers also use either an android tablet or ipad for floating POS terminals. They’re good for checking in parties or running a tab at a party so the host can place an order and add it to the tab if you decide you want to run that way.

Internet connection

We recommend a fast and reliable broadband connection with 5G backup to connect to VenueSumo. For optimal performance, please ensure your internet has:

A minimum download speed of 100 Mbps; and
A minimum upload speed of at least 50 Mbps.

These speeds are recommended to ensure smooth operation of our cloud-based POS and payment network. If your venue has multiple POS and payment terminal devices, higher bandwidth may be required to maintain optimal performance.

Note: Slow internet connections and limited upload speeds can significantly impact POS performance. Mobile internet options, such as 4G or 5G, often have higher latency and may experience frequent disconnections. While 5G is suitable as a backup, it should not serve as your primary connection.

Additionally, weak WiFi signals, especially in larger venues, can reduce performance. For optimal reliability, Ethernet connections to each POS station within your venue are recommended.

You can test your intenet speed here - https://www.speedtest.net/

Web browser recommendation

For optimal performance, we recommend using the following browsers:

Google Chrome (latest version); or
Microsoft Edge (latest version).

While our Point of Sale (POS) and back office systems are compatible with all browsers typically, these provide the smoothest experience. Safari and Firefox are also suitable alternatives if Chrome or Edge are not available.

VenueSumo is compatible with iOS and Android tablets, or even conventional computers with non-touch screens.

Thermal receipt printer

There are many models of thermal printers on the market.

VenueSumo recommends selecting a printer that includes an Ethernet port for network connectivity, as it ensures greater reliability, faster data transmission, and more stable performance in a busy POS environment. While some printers offer WiFi capability, we generally do not recommend WiFi printing due to potential issues with signal interference, network instability, and slower response times—especially in venues with high traffic or complex network setups. A hardwired Ethernet connection significantly reduces the risk of printing delays or dropped jobs, helping ensure seamless and uninterrupted service.

Recommended Thermal Printers

Epson TM-M30II
- Compact and modern design, ideal for front-of-house setups. Supports Ethernet, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity with seamless POS integration.
Epson TM-T88VII
- A high-performance model ideal for high-volume environments, offering fast print speeds and excellent reliability.
Star Micronics TSP654II
- Durable and versatile, with support for Ethernet, USB, or Bluetooth configurations.
Bixolon SRP-350III Ethernet
- Compact and reliable, often used in hospitality and retail; supports multiple interfaces and offers excellent print quality.

Note: To manage print jobs with network-connected printers, at least one Windows PC must be available on-site to run a third-party application called PrintNode.

Alternatively, if the printers and their drivers are installed directly on individual POS terminals (Windows-based), PrintNode can be easily installed and run locally on each terminal without any issues.

Cash draw

There are many cash drawer models on the market – they will generally all do the same job. Just ensure it has an Rj11 or Rj12 port which will connect to your thermal printer.

The ‘24V Cash Drawer 5 Note 8 Coin Slot VPOS EC410’ is an example of a suitable cash drawer.

POSBOX EC-410 Cash Drawer

Barcode scanner (optional)

If using a barcode scanner to scan QR codes from customer booking tickets.

The ZEBRA SCANNER KIT DS2208 2D-SR USB BLK STAND works well.
The ‘2D Bluetooth Wireless Barcode QR Code Scanner IS-5700DB ‘ works well for both QR and 1d barcodes.

Payment terminals / EFTPOS

*To be determined based on your provider. Please contact VenueSumo before purchasing any payment terminals to ensure it can integrate with VenueSumo.

VenueSumo currently integrates with (as at September 2023):

Linkly (works with all major Australia bank terminals - check if your terminal model is compatible with Linkly); and
VenueSmart.

Tablet Stands

VenueSumo recommends investing in a sturdy and reliable tablet stand that can support your hardware.

There are lots of tablet stands on the market, however we recommend browsing Bosstab's selection of tablet stands:

https://www.bosstab.com/au/tablet-stands

Back Office device

VenueSumo's Back Office dashboard can be accessed with any device that has an internet connection.

The Back Office dashboard is mobile responsive and can viewed from mobile devices.

POS hardware suppliers

Australian clients - Retail Care (https://retailcare.com.au/) are familiar with VenueSumo's POS setup and can speak to you on the needs of your venue to provide package pricing for your hardware.