Input Control
Introduction
Input Control refers to the various elements and mechanisms that allows a user to input data into a Point of Sale (POS). These controls are essential for various operations, such as entering item numbers, quantities, or customer information during a transaction.
An input control might be a text box where a cashier types in a product code or a numeric keypad for entering the amount of cash received or a drop down for selecting a fulfillment plan or a button to submit a transaction.
These controls ensure that the data entered is accurate and consistent, which is crucial for the smooth functioning of the POS system. These controls are designed to be user-friendly and minimize errors. This ensures that the data entered is accurate and consistent during POS transactions.
Some prominent examples of input controls in a Point of Sale (POS) are listed below:
Text Boxes:
Where users can type in product codes or customer information.
Numeric Keypads:
Used for entering quantities or amounts.
Dropdown Menus:
Allowing selection from predefined options, such as payment methods.
Buttons:
For actions like submitting a transaction or applying a discount.
1. Steps to create an Input Control
The steps to create an Input Control are explained below:
Step 1. Navigate to Home > Retail. Then under the POS Interface & Controls section click on the Input Control shortcut.
This should take you to the Input Control List View screen.
Step 2. Click on the Add Input Control button in the top right corner. This will open the New Input Control screen. All the settings pertaining to your Input Control can be configured from this screen.
Fill in the details on the New Input Control screen including the mandatory fields. Click the Save button to save the changes and exit the screen. The screenshot below depicts a Smart Input Control.
2. New Input Control Screen Explained
The various fields in the Input Control screen are explained below:
Control ID
Specify the Input Control ID. A Control ID is a unique identifier assigned to an input control element. Input controls are components within the POS interface where users enter data, such as item numbers, quantities, or customer information. The Control ID ensures that each input control is uniquely identifiable and can be referenced or manipulated programmatically within the Point of Sale (POS). For example, in a POS, you might have an input control for entering the item number for a sale. The Control ID allows the system to recognize and process the data entered into this specific input field.
Control Name
Specify the Input Control Name. A Control Name is a unique identifier assigned to an input control element. This name is used to reference the control within the POS system's code, allowing developers to manipulate and interact with the control programmatically. For example, if you have an input field for entering a product's barcode, the Control Name might be something like 'barcodeInput'. This name helps the system recognize which specific input control is being referred to when performing operations such as validation, data retrieval, or user interface updates.
Input Type
Select the Input Type from the drop down list. An Input Type specifies the kind of data that an input control is designed to accept. This helps the POS system determine how to handle the input and what kind of keyboard or input method to display. Some of the common input types are listed below:
Text:
For general text input.
Number:
For numeric input, often used for quantities or prices.
Date:
For date selection.
Month:
For month selection.
Email:
For email addresses.
Select:
For valid and consistent data selection.
Password:
For password fields, where the input is masked.
Search:
For search queries.
Search With Autocomplete:
For real-time suggestions as the user types.
For example, if an input control is set to the "number" input type, the POS system might display a numeric keypad to the user, making it easier to enter quantities or prices.
Background Color
Choose the Background Color using the color pallet. The Background Color refers to the color that fills the background of an input control element. This can be customized to enhance the visual appeal and usability of the POS interface.
Label
Text Font Style
Select the Text Font Style from the drop down list. Text Font Style refers to the customization of the text's appearance within input controls. This includes various attributes that define how the text looks, such as:
Font Family:
The typeface used (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman).
Font Size:
The size of the text.
Font Weight:
The thickness of the text (e.g., normal, bold).
Font Color:
The color of the text.
Font Style:
Additional styling such as italic or underline.
Text Font Size
Specify the Font Size in pixels (px) or points (pt). Text Font Size refers to the size of the text displayed within input controls. This attribute is crucial for ensuring that the text is readable and fits well within the designated space.
Points (pt):
A traditional unit of measurement in typography, where 1 point is equal to 1/72 of an inch. This unit is often used in print media.
Pixels (px):
A digital unit of measurement, where 1 pixel corresponds to one dot on a computer screen. This unit is commonly used in web design and digital interfaces.
Text Font Color
Choose the Text Font Color using the color pallet. Text Font Color refers to the color of the text displayed within input controls. This attribute is important for several reasons:
Readability:
Ensures that the text is easily readable against the background color of the input control.
Visual Hierarchy:
Helps to highlight important information or differentiate between various types of data.
Brand Consistency:
Allows the POS system to align with the retailer's branding by using specific colors.
For example, a POS might use a dark font color on a light background for better readability, or use brand-specific colors to maintain a consistent look and feel.
Mandatory
"Mandatory" refers to fields or input controls that must be filled out before a transaction or process can be completed. These fields are essential for ensuring that all necessary information is collected. Some of the key points are mentioned below:
Required Fields:
Users cannot proceed without entering data in these fields.
Validation:
The system checks for the presence of data in mandatory fields before allowing the next step.
User Guidance:
Often marked with an asterisk (*) or highlighted to indicate their importance.
For example, in a POS system, fields like "Item Code," "Quantity," and "Payment Method" might be mandatory to ensure that the transaction is processed correctly.
Bold
Bold refers to a formatting option used to highlight or emphasize certain text elements on the screen. This can be particularly useful for:
Important Information:
Making critical information like total amounts, discounts, or alerts stand out.
User Interface Elements:
Enhancing the visibility of buttons, labels, or instructions to improve user experience and reduce errors.
Data Entry Fields:
Highlighting fields that require user input or attention, ensuring they are easily noticeable.
This helps in creating a more intuitive and efficient interface for users, ensuring that key information is easily accessible and reducing the likelihood of mistakes during transactions.
Italic
Italic refers to a text formatting option used to slant text to the right. This can be useful for:
Emphasizing Specific Information:
Italics can highlight certain details, such as promotional messages, special instructions, or terms and conditions.
Differentiating Text:
It helps distinguish between different types of information, such as product descriptions versus prices or regular items versus special offers.
Improving Readability:
Italics can make certain text elements more visually appealing and easier to read, especially in dense interfaces.
Using italics effectively can enhance the user interface by making important information stand out without overwhelming the user.
Read Only
Read Only" refers to a setting or attribute applied to certain fields or data elements that allows them to be viewed but not modified by the user. This can be useful for:
Protecting Critical Data:
Ensuring that important information, such as transaction IDs, timestamps, or system-generated totals, cannot be altered.
Maintaining Data Integrity:
Preventing accidental or unauthorized changes to key data, which helps in maintaining accurate records.
Guiding User Interaction:
Clearly indicating which fields are for informational purposes only, thereby reducing user errors and improving the overall user experience.
By setting fields to "Read Only," a POS can enhance security and reliability, ensuring that essential data remains consistent and trustworthy.
Label Position
Label Position refers to the placement of text labels relative to their associated input fields or controls. This can significantly impact the usability and efficiency of the POS interface. Common label positions include:
Top-Aligned:
Labels are placed above the input fields. This is often used for forms with limited horizontal space and can improve readability.
Left-Aligned:
Labels are positioned to the left of the input fields. This layout is common in POS systems as it allows for a compact design and can be quickly scanned by users.
Right-Aligned:
Labels are placed to the right of the input fields. This is less common but can be useful in specific design contexts.
Inline:
Labels are placed inside the input fields as placeholder text. This can save space but may reduce readability once the user starts typing.
Choosing the right label position can enhance the user experience by making the interface more intuitive and reducing the likelihood of errors during data entry.
Keyboard Icon
Keyboard Icon typically refers to an on-screen icon that, when tapped or clicked, brings up a virtual keyboard. This is particularly useful for:
Data Entry:
Allowing users to input text, numbers, or other data directly into the POS system without needing a physical keyboard.
Accessibility:
Providing an alternative input method for users who may prefer or require a touch interface.
Space Efficiency:
Saving physical space by eliminating the need for a bulky keyboard, which is especially beneficial in compact or mobile POS setups.
The keyboard icon enhances the flexibility and usability of the POS, making it easier for users to interact with the interface in various environments.
Control Panel Settings
Control Panel Settings refer to the configuration options available to customize and manage the behavior and appearance of the POS interface. These settings can include:
Input Controls:
Adjusting how data entry fields behave, such as setting default values, input validation rules, and formatting options.
User Interface Customization:
Modifying the layout, colors, fonts, and other visual elements to enhance usability and match the branding of the business.
Access Permissions:
Defining which users or roles have access to specific controls and settings, ensuring security and proper workflow management.
System Preferences:
Setting preferences for system behavior, such as default language, currency, and regional settings.
Hardware Integration:
Configuring connected devices like barcode scanners, receipt printers, and card readers to ensure seamless operation.
These settings allow businesses to tailor the POS to their specific needs, improving efficiency and user experience.
Input Search Type
Input Search Type refers to the specific method or criteria used to search for data within the system. This can include various types of searches, such as:
Text Search:
Allows users to search for items, customers, or transactions by entering text keywords.
Barcode Search:
Enables searching by scanning a barcode, which is particularly useful for quickly finding products.
Filter-Based Search:
Uses predefined filters to narrow down search results based on categories like date, price range, or product type.
Advanced Search:
Combines multiple criteria, such as text, date ranges, and filters, to provide more precise search results.
These search types help users efficiently locate the information they need, enhancing the overall functionality and user experience of the POS
Search Sequence (Template)
Use the Search Sequence (Template) to manage and control the settings pertaining to your Search Sequence. Search Sequence refers to the order or hierarchy in which search operations are performed to retrieve data. This can include:
Priority of Search Criteria:
Determining which search criteria are evaluated first. For example, a POS might prioritize barcode searches over text searches.
Sequential Search Steps:
The specific steps followed during a search operation, such as checking the local database first, then querying an external database if no results are found.
Fallback Mechanisms:
Defining what happens if the initial search criteria do not yield results, such as expanding the search to include broader criteria or alternative data sources.
By defining a clear search sequence, a POS can optimize search efficiency and accuracy, ensuring that users quickly find the information they need.
Advance CSS
Use the stylesheet language (HTML or XML) to control the layout, colors, fonts, and overall appearance of the Input Control.
Caption Advance CSS Style
Caption Advance CSS Style refers to the advanced styling applied to the captions or labels of input controls using CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). This allows developers to customize the appearance of these captions beyond the default styles provided by the browser or the POS software. Advanced CSS styling can include changes to:
Font properties:
such as size, weight, and family.
Color:
including text color, background color, and border color.
Spacing:
like margins and padding around the caption.
Alignment:
positioning the caption relative to the input control.
Effects:
such as shadows, gradients, and animations.