1. Can I use my existing security access card?
Yes. EPnet does not write to the card, it only uses the card as an ID, just like the access system. This means any access card and technology can be used, without alteration or addition, including cards already issued.
2. How do I initialise cards?
If EPnet is linked to the security system, the cards are automatically initialised when they are issued at reception or the security desk. There is no need to initialise them in catering at all.
3. Does EPnet work with other card technologies or just magnetic stripe and Mifare?
The unique proposition of EPnet is that it will work with a broad range of identity technologies. That includes magnetic stripe and Mifare, of course, but also possible are proximity devices, proximity tags and biometric recognition. Whatever your system, EPnet will work with it without altering it in any way or disrupting your business during installation.
4. What if a card is lost?
There is no money on the card, so if it is lost the money is not. The Manager simply deletes the card from the account, at the computer and adds a new card to the account. This automatically reprogrammes every till, vending machine and Loader, without leaving your desk.
5. Will the system be able to convert to Euros?
EPnet can be run as a dual currency cashless system allowing Sterling and Euros to be used.
6. How can I check a user’s balance to show them it is correct?
With all terminals connected to the system a full and complete audit trail is available at the touch of a button, including Loading, vending sales and till sales.
7. Can I use credit cards with EPnet?
Yes, EPnet can be loaded with money direct from bank credit and debit cards using an internet enabled PC, 24/7 from anywhere in the world.
8. Does EPnet allow Salary Sacrifice?
EPnet is ideal for administering an HMRC approved Salary Sacrifice system.
9. Can EPnet be configured as a credit account as well as a debit account?
Both are possible. A debit account is almost universally used in staff catering. Hotels which secure a booking against a credit card imprint will be able to use EPnet in credit mode, with guests paying the bill on departure. Hostels on the other hand will, most likely, prefer debit mode. It is even possible to run credit accounts for some users and debit accounts for others within the same system.
10. In debit mode, how can I add credit to my account?
There are several different ways of achieving this. Payment may be made at a central admin point either by cash, cheque or credit card. Alternatively, users may credit their account using a cash loader located on the premises. In some businesses, payment is made by payroll deduction or salary sacrifice. Accounts may even be credited online 24/7 using a credit or bank debit card.
11. Will EPnet give me comprehensive Management information?
With all the vending machines, tills and Loaders networked to the EPnet system, all management information is available in real time at the manager’s PC. Comprehensive reports are available at all times. Reports include daily/weekly/monthly and annual reports, with VAT incl. & excl.
12. What happens if the network goes down?
EPnet terminals are able to continue operating, should a network failure occur.
13. Is it fast?
EPnet does not write to the card. This makes it even faster than "cash on card" type cashless systems. The card is never held in the reader, allowing any queue to keep moving.
14. How do I programme my tills and vending machines?
All equipment connected to the EPnet system is programmed centrally and live from the managers PC. Even changing the price of coffee in the vending machines is carried out without leaving the office.
15. How many stock items can be accessed from the till?
The EPnet touch screen till can access up to 392 stock items per screen and up to 99 screens. A total of 38,808 items.
16. How do I keep EPnet up to date?
Owners of EPnet systems are offered an annual software support agreement. This includes free upgrades to ensure their systems are kept up to date with the latest standard features.
17. Does Quintus have its own installation and training staff?
Yes, we have our own trained staff to carry out the installation and training work. The training is normally carried out over a period of time before the system goes live. We also ensure we have a presence on site for "going live day".
18. What else does Quintus make?
Quintus Systems Ltd makes the EPnet cashless payment system. We specialise only in our own products. EPnet is at the heart of two other systems we manufacture, Maxibar and Points to Golf.
19. Do the major catering companies use EPnet?
Yes, EPnet is operated on a number of sites by Aramark, Avenance, Baxter & Platts, Compass, Directors Table, Eurest, Just Deli, Restaurant Associates, Sodexho, Sutcliffe, and BaxterStorey.
20. Can EPnet replace hotel in-room bars?
In-room bars are an expensive way to provide guests with refreshment. EPnet is at the heart of another Quintus product, Max-eBar. These are centralised merchandisers strategically placed throughout the hotel selling alcohol, snacks and a variety of other lines. They are operated by the guest’s room key with the cost of the purchase being added to the room bill.
