Authentication and Accounting - AAM

Introduction
The Authentication and Accounting Module (AAM), is an optional product that works in conjunction with other EnvisionWare products to provide a variety of special services related to accounting and user validation. AAM is a set of TECHNOLOGY FEATURES plus the tools to create a database. In other words, AAM provides special capabilities for other products that are dependent on a centralized database. AAM does not include a database, it builds a database with "free" or open source products. Depending upon the size of your library, you may choose between two different AAM database "backends." It is important to note that the database used with AAM is simply a data repository. EnvisionWare does not depend on the database for core functionality. The database does not contain any scripts or triggers.

Components
• AAM Database Administrator — creates a database structure in Microsoft Jet (Access-compatible) format or in a MySQL database. It provides import and export utilities, SQL queries, and a method of creating and managing groups and individual users. The Administrator operates in an Admin mode to do all of the above, and a staff mode to create and modify users.

• AAM User Account Manager —a tool used by staff to add or deduct funds for a user, or in self-service mode a different interface permits a user to query his or her account balances and deposit funds into the account using a credit card (with eCommerce Services) or cash (using a vending device or Network Add Value Station).

• Web Query for AAM— a set of scripts that run on a web server to provide self-service or staff access to a variety of built-in reports including cash reconciliation, user account queries, daily transaction reports, and many others.

The rest of the functionality is built into the individual products that take advantage of the AAM database.

What Does it Do?
One example might be a campus or a small library that owns an ILS (Integrated Library System) that cannot support SIP. The institution may wish to create users in an AAM database and use that database to validate users for the above products.

Another more common use is service as a repository of payment accounts. In most cases, we have no control over the actual validating authority database (such as a patron or student database). As such, we can validate against those sources but we cannot write financial transactions back to those systems. For this application we create a repository for funds accounts and link the data to a common user ID (barcode or student ID) which is the key for the AAM database and the ILS.

A third use is service as a central repository of data. LPT:One (print management), PC Reservation (time/access management), and BarcodePlus (account-based copier control) can write data to the AAM database which serves as a central repository of information. Advanced-level administrators can then create reports with common reporting tools for statistical analysis.

Why Access or MySQL?
Because we believe in choice, flexibility, power, and low cost of maintenance.

Access format databases are free to create and many reporting tools make it easy to create custom reports. Access is a powerful database format, particularly for single user or single building databases which is how it is used in most cases.

MySQL is free for educational institutions which includes libraries. It’s powerful and easy to use. More importantly, it’s cross platform so you can install it on the operating system of your choice: Windows, Linux, UNIX. HP-UX, Solaris, and more. Some ILS vendors actually build the AAM structure into the primary patron server. There are no EnvisionWare components, scripts, or processes that run on an AAM database; it is used only as a data repository. For more information, visit www.mysql.com.

MySQL is used by Nokia, Scholastic, Yahoo, Associated Press, Facebook, Adobe, Wikipedia, del.icio.us, and hundreds of thousands more.

Coin/Bill Acceptor - CBA

OVERVIEW
The EnvisionWare Coin/Bill Acceptor (CBA) is a versatile, universal coin-op that accepts bills/notes and coins for copy and print payment. What sets this system apart is its ability to simultaneously control copy functions while interfacing to a Print Release Terminal, Fine Payment Client, EnvisionWare Self-check, or AAM User Account Manager. Most coin-ops are designed to EITHER control a copier or provide print control but not both.

The universal dual functionality saves you money because you can use a single coin-op to perform two functions. Further, a dual purpose unit saves valuable floor space. Mount the system on the included non-tip stand, bolt to the wall, or use the Copier Security Housing which also controls access to the paper drawers.

The CBA is supplied with a standard serial or USB cable to interface to your Print Release Terminal or EnvisionWare kiosk (Launch Command Kiosk Edition). An optional cable provides the customized interface for your specific copier so that you can control copy functions.

Built for a global market, the CBA can be ordered for the following currencies: US, Australia, Canada, Euro, Pound Sterling, Hong Kong, Brazil, Mexico, and others. Power supplies are shipped appropriate to the destination address.

FEATURES
• Provides change
• External serial port
• Multiple prices
• Electronic meters
• Includes serial or USB cable
• ADA Height
• Stand included
• Freight included
• 1 year warranty
• Next day parts
• Optional copier cable

PHYSICAL
36”H x 12” W x 18” D( at base). 60 lbs.

 

 

 

Network Add Value Station (NAVS)

EnvisionWare's Network Add Value Station provides centralized locations within each building where patrons or students can add money to their library deposit account. Deposit accounts can then be used to pay for printing, copying, fines, and other library or campus services.

In the photo to the left, the patron scans his library card under the barcode scanner and then enters his PIN on the touchpad. The display shows the current balance on the library deposit account. Bills may be inserted to add value up to the maximum permitted by the library's policy. When the transaction is complete, the system prints a receipt showing the amount deposited and the patron's new balance.

The funds are now on deposit, permitting patron use of the existing barcode-based library card as a payment card.

Staff can use the web-based cash reconciliation reports to reconcile funds on deposit.

The NAVS is secure, and designed for 3rd party cash collection. One key opens the cabinet for servicing (large paper roll replacement). A different key removes the locking, high capacity bill stacker. A third key unlocks the bill stacker for cash removal.

The unit measures 24" (610mm) H  x  24" (610mm) W  x  12" (305mm) D and is made of 14 gauge cold rolled steel.  It's secure, attractive, and virtually indestructable.  The rear door mounts to a wall with 6 bolts/anchors and the entire unit swings out on a concealed hinge for service.  The system is powered by a 120/240V 50-60 Hz power supply with protected cable lock, and a 15 ft Ethernet cable.  The standard model includes the BarcodePlus Keypad, 4x20 Display, Integrated barcode scanner, Present kiosk receipt printer, and universal bill validator with stacking cassette and dual locks.  An option can be added to accept coins.  Multiple currencies are supported.

The EnvisionWare hardware is designed for centralized management and maintenance. Units can be diagnosed locally at the machine, remotely at the library's IT department, or centrally at one of EnvisionWare's support centers.

The NAVS works in combination with the BarcodePlus Terminal Engine which is a required software module that manages all NAVS units and all BarcodePlus Ethernet Terminals that are connected to copiers.

	Watch the Patron Experience
	Click on the above link to watch a short movie illustrating the path taken by a book in a central easy process for adding $1.00 to a user's account. (This file suitable for ISDN or 56K links).

Track 2 Reader

Track 2 Reader for Credit Cards

EnvisionWare provides hardware components to complement the powerful software applications designed by EnvisionWare for libraries. A Track 2 reader or swipe reader is used by libraries and campuses for credit card reading in conjunction with EnvisionWare eCommerce Services™. Credit cards can be processed by user entry on a keyboard (on-screen or PC keyboard) or by swiping the card with a Track 2 reader. A Track 2 reader is built into the OneStop Full-Service Kiosk. It is also built into the POS keyboard supplied in the Staff Transaction Station (STS) Accessory Package. If you want a reader for stand-alone use, at an All-In-One, Launch Command Kiosk, or other library computer hosting the EnvisionWare Fines Pay Client (a component of eCommerce Services), then the EnvisionWare Track 2 reader is the perfect choice.

The EnvisionWare system is a wedge-style reader which means that data is fed to the keyboard using traditional wedge technology.  The reader acts as another device that inputs data by impersonating the keyboard.   The swipe reader connects to the USB port of your PC.

Model 800-6601-xxx   Magnetic Card Swipe for BlackBoard and Credit Card - USB Reader

USB Powered - no external power required.
Compatible with any PC/Terminal with USB connection
Reader - Cable - Keyboard Emulation
Guaranteed for 1,000,000 passes with ISO standard cards

What is Track 2?

Track 2 is the physical position of the magnetic stripe on the back of a card. Commercial credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and others, conform to the Track 2 standard. Your credit card number is written onto the magnetic stripe of a credit card. The Track 2 device reads the numbers encoded on a credit card as the card is moved or swiped through the reader. The swipe reader makes it easy to enter the credit card number instead of typing on a keyboard. The data on a magnetic stripe is not encoded just as the visible number is not encoded.

Credit cards differ from stored value (copy card) systems in that stored value cards encrypt the data so that it can only be read by the special reader designed for that card. Because stored value systems read encrypted data including account balances, site codes (the unique identifier for your library or institution), and perhaps other information, and because data is WRITTEN repeatedly to the card and not simply read like credit card applications, motorized readers must be used for those applications. Generally speaking, when using a swipe reader, the purpose is generally for reading an identification number. The dominant use of this simple technology is the credit card industry.

BlackBoard

The BlackBoard system is part of BlackBoard Commere Suite. It provides a campus-wide financial management solution for colleges and universities. BlackBoard is one of the most versatile and highly respected campus card systems available.

BlackBoard provides an API and a certification program for vendors like EnvisionWare, so that our systems can be integrated with the BlackBoard Smart Card. This assures you that all EnvisionWare products are 100% compatible with the BlackBoard system. Colleges around the United States are using EnvisionWare products on BlackBoard campuses.

Click here for more information about the BlackBoard Transaction System.

_{BlackBoard, BlackBoard Transaction System, and Blackboard Commerce Suite are trademarks of Blackboard, Inc.}

3rd Party Payment Systems

Vending/Payment system manufacturers provide the protocol and a device for testing and certification. Upon successful completion of development and testing, the manufacturers provide a list of compatible device model numbers based upon the results of our testing of a single unit. Please note that you should check with your hardware manufacturer to verify compatibility with your equipment since there are variations in firmware and custom modifications from some vendors that may impact the list of models shown.

EnvisionWare
Coin, Bill, Smart Card, Credit Card
609-2001; 609-50xx; 609-55xx; 609-1015
EnvisionWare Track 2 Card Reader for use with BlackBoard.

Jamex
Coin, Bill, Magnetic Stripe, Smart Card, Receipt Printer, Copier Controller
6552-JPC; 6557-JPC; 6552-70-JPC; 6557-70-JPC; 6552-75-JPC; 6557-75-JPC; 7114-JPC; 8157; 2400

ITC Systems (ACT)
Coin, Bill, Magnetic Stripe, Smart Card, Credit Card
ACT 350; 355; 7010; 7020; 7025; 7035
ITC 1015; 1018; 5010; 5020; 5010-1019; 5020-1019; ITC-2015; ITC 5210x; ITC 5210x-105; ITC 5220x; ITC 5220x-105

Debitek
Magnetic Stripe, Smart Card
DCT; MoneyClip

3M (LibraryGuardian/GuardiaNet)
Smart Card
Swifteye

Intercard (iTeam, TRACSystems)
Magnetic Stripe
AS 3400

Cardatis (TRACSystems)
Magnetic Stripe
TC 11

E-Danyl (Schlumberger Sema, Danyl)
Magnetic Stripe, Smart Card
D/5000; TS/5000

S.E.M.
Coin, Bill
9500; 8500

SmartCentric
Campus Card
SmartCity®

Hecon
Quick-Key Print Controller

DAC
Magnetic Stripe

XCP, Inc. (IPSI)
Coin, Bill, Magnetic Stripe
5512; 5513; 5516; 5521; 5571
5572; 5573; 5578; 5812; 5871

Additional Interface Development
The LPT:One system architecture is designed to be expandable. If an interface is required for a device that you do not see listed on this page, please contact your reseller or an EnvisionWare Regional Sales Manager for details on ordering the interface development for your device.