+44 (0) 161 942 7850
SJ has been improving on-board services including collecting fares by whatever method of payment the traveler finds most convenient. Previously, tickets could only be purchased at railway stations and ticket offices, often causing irritation for customers when stations were closed and resulting in the loss of revenue.
The solution was to establish what Christer Kohler, Project Manager for SJ in Malmo, describes as "the first computerized conductors in the world". They are equipped with a Psion Workabout handheld computer and an Extech Mini Serial Printer with integrated magnetic card reader so that passengers can pay for their tickets on the train, by cash or credit card. The magnetic card reader is set to read tracks 2 and 3 simultaneously, decode the data, and transfer it to the handheld. At the end of the shift the conductor transfers the data stored in the Workabout to a central computer system via a modem.
Tony Nyd, the SJ executive responsible for on-board data explains, "The facility for infrared connection between the handheld computer and Extech's printer eliminates awkward cables. Extech was selected as the printer solution because of its experience with Psion equipment and the printer features including the integrated card reader, as well as Extech's willingness to implement special requirements for battery monitoring."
The greatest benefit of the mobile POS system has been providing passengers with a better, and more flexible service when buying their tickets; especially overnight travelers who can obtain a ticket even when their station is closed. SJ has also benefited from improved information about their customers, an increase in fare revenue, and less handling of cash because of the card reader system. Nils Twede, a Malmo train conductor, says:"The whole system is very light and easy to use. Our customers certainly appreciate this new service."
