ASI and Toshiba Collaborate on Wireless POS System for Restaurants

Orlando, Fla. – ASI, a software design firm located in Silver Spring, Md., and the Computer Systems Group (CSG), a division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., announce they have signed an agreement to collaborate on a project to introduce a new generation of wireless handheld POS systems to the foodservice industry. By bundling ASI’s patented Write-On Handheld™ software application with Toshiba’s wireless capable Magnia® Z310 server and Pocket PC e740 with integrated 802.11b wireless connectivity, Toshiba and ASI are setting the stage to completely revolutionize order taking in full-service restaurants with a turnkey out-of-the-box solution.

“ASI is delighted to be working with Toshiba,” said ASI CEO Alex Malison. “Toshiba’s e740 Pocket PC and Magnia® Z310 provide the perfect vehicle for ASI’s patented Write-On Handheld application. We are confident that this bundled package will be a big hit with our clients looking to join the wireless revolution.”

After 12 months in development and six months in beta testing, ASI announced the commercial release of the Write-On Handheld software technology in May of 2002. The Write-On Handheld is a patented* wireless handheld POS system that is set to revolutionize order taking in full-service restaurants. Unlike competitive products that use a cumbersome touch-button approach, the Write-On Handheld is built on handwriting recognition to create a simple POS system that works just like a pencil and pad. Waiters use the Write-On Handheld to quickly write down orders, then instantly send the order to the kitchen right from tableside utilizing 802.11b wireless technology. Managers use the Write-On Handheld to do everything from printing checks for waiting customers to viewing the status of all open orders to viewing real-time sales reports to receiving alerts when employees near overtime. Presently, the Write-On Handheld is installed in 13 full-service restaurants across the country, with that number increasing every week. From California to Florida to Long Island, N.Y., restaurant owners from across the nation are enjoying the convenience, increased productivity and quick return on investment the Write-On Handheld delivers.

“Our goal is to provide the hospitality market an affordable and powerful wireless solution that when combined with leading software, like ASI’s simple and intuitive Write-On Handheld, will enhance service to their customers, expedite operations and grow their business,” said Oscar Koenders, vice president product marketing, Toshiba Computer Systems Group.

ASI is the choice of restaurateurs who seek to build their business and take charge of their lives. With software created to facilitate a multi-store chain as well as any independent restaurant, ASI’s flagship product, Restaurant Manager, has integrated modules for table service, quick service, delivery and bars and is the simplest comprehensive POS system to install, provide training on and use. ASI’s software takes the work out of work and makes life more manageable for the hospitality industry. ASI has always set itself apart from the competition with an emphasis on user-friendly design and system stability. The company’s approach to the Write-On Handheld interface continues in this tradition.

ASI was founded in 1987 and specializes in point-of-sale and management software for the foodservice industry. ASI offers its software products through a network of 200+ Value Added Resellers across the continental U.S., Canada, Europe and Asia. In areas where ASI does not have a local VAR, its products can be purchased directly from the company by calling (800) 356-6037.

Magnia is a registered trademark of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. Write-On Handheld is a trademark of ASI. All specifications, software, prices and availability are subject to change. Reseller prices may vary. All rights reserved. The ASI software is bundled with the Magnia Z310 Wireless Mobility Server under license from ASI, which is solely responsible for all warranty, service support, quality and other issues relating to the Write-On Handheld software.

* U.S. patent, # D464,361