"Michael Kennedy" wrote in message
...
Okay, that sounds like a good explanation of what it did, but why were all
of the network connections to the cash registers token ring type 1
connectors. They were all plugged into a hub which went to 2 Pentium 3
netfinity servers. The netfinity servers had the IBM POS system on them
for controling the cash registers. One server was just a backup (as far as
I know)and the other was for for any cash operations. They both had
identical software on them and could both peform the same things.

What I can't believe is how much they wanted for the netfinity servers.
$500 each! You can buy one on ebay for $150 easy.


Well Token Ring was the IBM corporate network solution (and still is in some
areas) for almost 20 years. The MAU or TR hub then worked just like an
other network hub. A second (backup) server is very likely -- who wants to
shutdown a retail store because the POS server is down !! (Actually happen
in 1980s with some penny pincher buyers or procurement offices) -- after
first hardware failure -- many were looking for new work.

Within the retail world - they likely can petal this as used retail POS
equipment and command a premium (especially if the OS is still loaded) -
remember that the users/businesses are largely non-tech oriented - its a
black "mystery" box.

gb

gb