AT&C Cellular-International Wireless POS
On February 24, 1997, The Green Sheet interviewed Mike Baldwin, Vice President and COO of AT&C Cellular, Inc., regarding their products and services, which we feel are unique in the industry. Our interview follows.
GS:
AT&C has designed a state-of-the-art wireless POS device, to which markets does your product apply?
AT&C:
The design of AT&C's technology has taken into account the varied needs of many different industries, including Limousine, Taxicab, Tow Truck, Airport Shuttle, Trains, Busses, Food and Product Delivery, Law Enforcement, Plumbing, Carpet Cleaning, and virtually any mobile business environment where POS for either products or services may be required. Using the device is simple, as AT&C is the only company to incorporate both message display and audible voice prompts that easily guide a person through the operations of the unit. AT&C's technology utilizes a direct connection to either CrossCheck, for check guarantee, or the card processor for live authorization, normally under 10 seconds. AT&C's device processes both checks and credit cards, offering the lowest processing rates possible by fulfilling the two most critical requirements. First, a magnetic swipe of either credit card, prepaid debit card, or driver's license; and second, a two-part printed receipt with authorization code for customer signature, or the optional miniature receipt printer.
GS:
AT&C's device seems to be a perfect product for the ISO industry. Are there any additional products or services which could be bundled with the sale of your product?
AT&C:
The ability for mobile vendors to accept credit cards, checks, or prepaid debit cards opens up a whole new possibility for these companies to sell prepaid services. In addition, AT&C's technology also incorporates a card-activated cellular pay phone for customer use in transportation industries. Used as a pay phone, the clients can make local, roaming, or even international calls, and have them billed accordingly directly to their credit card or prepaid debit card through utilization of AT&C's real-time billing. The vendors earn a large share of the gross airtime revenue for promoting use of the payphone. In industries where remote vehicle location and tracking would be beneficial, AT&C integrates a Rockwell( GPS (Global Positioning System) device. If remote activation of vehicle functions would be required, AT&C has also developed a VI-1 (Vehicle Interface module) which can be wired to a vehicle's power door locks, starter, fuel pump, etc. With all of the additional functions beyond a POS device, there are tremendous opportunities for internal fleet management, or to be utilized in conjunction with a service provider for concierge services, routing drivers to destinations, dispatching emergency vehicles to a disabled vehicle's location, and much more.
GS:
What means of marketing and distribution does AT&C plan on using?
AT&C:
AT&C Cellu-lar, Inc., is currently in negotiations with many companies interested in the distribution of its products, including Rogers Cantel/AT&T Canada. AT&C sees a great opportunity within North America for direct placement of their product through the ISO industry, direct sales, and industry organizations where their members would benefit from the capabilities of AT&C's technology.
GS:
What other markets are there for your technology, both domestically and worldwide?
AT&C:
There have been many requests for utilizing AT&C's device as a public payphone in remote regions where it is not feasible to install and maintain land-based telephone lines due to problems with weather conditions or inaccessibility. Some of these applications would be in Asia, where seasonal storms destroy land-based lines; or for temporary locations for special events.
GS:
What alliances have AT&C struck with transaction processing companies, and how would a vendor qualify for the benefits associated with the use of your product?
AT&C:
AT&C is currently certified through Global Payment Systems/National Data Corporation for linking directly to their system for authorization. Check guarantees are processed through CrossCheck Inc., offering the highest level of vendor protection at the lowest rates available. At present, vendors would be required to pass the normal business qualifications required for these services before using the services.
GS:
What are some future products and goals for AT&C Cellular, Inc.?
AT&C:
AT&C Cellu-lar, Inc. remains a developer and manufacturer of wireless technology products, and is currently working on a handheld version of their current product, with numerous additional enhancements and applications. They are currently seeking parties interested in a strategic alliance with AT&C and investment for future expansion. Additional information can be received from AT&C's website or by contacting AT&C by E-mail or telephone.
Website: http://home.earthlink.net/~atc_cellular/index.html
E-mail: atc_cellular@earthlink.net.
Phone: 714-997-9714.
Fax: 714-997-9388.
