TranAct, an NCR Corp. reseller, is working to automate services at scrap yards.
According to a news release, TranAct soon expects to enhance its offerings with the first U.S. deployment of NCR’s new two-dimensional barcode-reading technology for ATMs.
The TranAct Cash Payment System enables a secure and automated process for paying customers who bring materials to a scrap yard for recycling. The system uses magnetic-striped cards and an NCR ATM, removing the need to rely on cashiers to handle and manage cash. Management at scrap yards gains added accountability in currency management and customers access the ATM located at the site for immediate payment.
“Much as it did within banks, the use of an ATM self-service system by scrap yards has also helped break down the traditional glass window barriers and subsequent physical security traditions that had grown up around this industry,” said Brian Pilla, NCR’s director of financial marketing in North America. “The use of an armored cash-in-transit courier to replenish the ATM means cash never touches an employee’s hands. This reduces attendant costs and cash shortages, while offering a secure environment for employees.”
A database, still image and video record are maintained for each transaction, increasing security and allowing for follow-up research when necessary.
The 2D barcode readers will eliminate the need for scrap yards to issue plastic cards to their customers for onsite payment redemption, NCR says. Instead, customers will receive a printed receipt that includes an encrypted barcode that can be read by the scanner-equipped ATM.
The new 2D technology also is touted for being more difficult to copy than a regular mag-stripe. The 2D version, which is more scrambled in appearance than the common vertical lines of traditional barcodes, can also hold more information.
“We recognized that scrap metal is typically purchased from peddlers who require payment in cash,” said Ken Gruber, founder and president of TranAct. “About 10 years ago, we started supplying ATMs to the yards and enabling payment via a magnetic-striped card. The barcode reader, redundant cash dispensers and coin changers offer a wide variety of advantages previously not available.”