ROI Adds Java to AS/400 Credit Card Processing
The newest release of
ROI Corp.'s (Woodstock, Ga.) AS/400 credit card processing system marks the first time Java has been integrated into the product. Version 7.0 also brings with it a new name, ROI JavaCard, reflecting the important role Java plays in enhancing the offering.
Previously known as ROI Card, the new ROI JavaCard middleware application processes real-time credit card and check transactions for point-of-sale and order-entry applications. JavaCard, which requires OS/400 V4R2 or higher, supports merchant providers through a standard dial-up line or a high-speed link.
Along with adding Java, ROI Corp. has added a number of features and enhancements to JavaCard. "This is one of the biggest releases ever," says Rob Bruderer, director of technical operations for ROI. "We're now in total control of the transaction from start to finish."
Although all types of companies can use ROI JavaCard, Bruderer says retail and mail order are the two biggest markets.
In the past, there were three options for AS/400 users to process credit and check transactions. The first involved using a device such as Veriphone or Xon terminal for authorization, which meant each transaction had to be keyed into the AS/400. The second was to key the transaction into the AS/400 and have the application software pass it to a PC or other device that then passed it to the service provider. The third alternative was to have the AS/400 application pass the transaction to AS/400 middleware, which then processed the transaction with the service provider.
Now, there is another option, as ROI JavaCard eliminates all third party hardware and software involved in the transaction, giving customers a quick and less costly alternative. "ROI JavaCard now supports all service providers," Bruderer says. "In the past, we were limited by what service providers the third party supported."
ROI JavaCard is certified directly by all service providers and performs ongoing certification as the service providers update their requirements, allowing customers to get the lowest possible rate. "We used to have to rely on third parties to have the latest specifications," Bruderer says. "When they didn't have the latest specifications, customers were charged a higher price."
Along with eliminating third-party hardware and software, ROI JavaCard also offers customers other cost-effective options. Customers can now send multiple transactions at the same time instead of dialing up each transaction separately. It can also send checks and credit cards at the same time.
According to Bruderer, all the enhancements and new features will result in ROI JavaCard processing the transactions an average of four seconds faster.
A basic ROI JavaCard license is $5,995 for a VisaNet only, non-upgradable implementation. An ROI JavaCard license that can be upgraded to add functionality starts at $8,995.