Direct Dispenser control by AUTOGAS.

Ever wonder why the dispenser manufacturers don’t use their pump interface modules (PAM or PIB devices) to interface their own POS to their pumps?  We know why…  AUTOGAS® has experience with both the direct interface to dispensers and to dispenser manufacturer provided control interfaces.   Hands down, the best interface is a direct interface, since it eliminates latency (slow down) and improves accountability.  AUTOGAS® wrote its first direct interface to electronic dispensers over 25 years ago!  We then put a stand alone card reader on the fuel island, coded the system to accept Credit and Debit cards and created the first retail automated fueling system at a C-store.  In 2005, this innovative concept earned AUTOGAS® a spot on USA Today’s Top 25 Inventions of the past 25 years! AUTOGAS® simply knows how to communicate with electronic dispensers.

The open platform software architecture, comprised of modules written in object-oriented C++, allows for flexibility in configuration and the ability to leverage PC technology advancements to provide the retailer with cutting edge software. Multi-tasking, multi-threaded, event-driven software delivers real-time performance in a demanding environment, facilitating fast, reliable transaction processing. Remote upgrades and diagnostics allow for lower cost of support and maintenance. Supported operating systems are Windows XP and Windows Embedded for Point of Service (WEPOS).

AUTOGAS® Fuel Controller from Altametrics is a complete fueling solution for petroleum and convenience store retailers. It is a modular product that supports the major United States fuel dispenser manufacturers: Gilbarco and Wayne, along with their island card readers. Its flexibility allows retailers to take advantage of a wide array of features:

Our XML journals provide sales data, meter alerts for meter totals which do not match expected values, and theft detection for dispensers which return online with a variance from the last known meter total.  In addition, dispenser flow rate can be monitored.  If the established flow rate is not achieved, an alert is published in the XML file which can be used by the station operator to resolve any fuel flow issues which could include filters, sub pumps, and/or plumbing.

The Island Card Reader (ICR) interface provides built-in credit and debit card acceptance at the dispenser.  Graphics support allows the retailer to display a custom logo at the fuel dispenser.  In addition, graphics can be used to replace any screen, if the retailer so desires.  Soft keys to the left or right of the display can be used, if the ICR is equipped with such keys. 

The ICR interface also provides remote diagnostic support of the communication channel with credit card data masking built in for security purposes.  Visa PED support for debit transactions is supported for those devices that include Visa PED capable keyboards. 

For customers who choose to prepay inside the store, our ICR interface can provide a receipt at the island for credit card transactions.  If items were purchased inside the store and the customer dispenses the full amount preset on the dispenser, a receipt can be printed which includes the actual amount dispensed as well as the items purchased inside the store. Eliminating a trip inside the store to retrieve receipts, and thereby reducing the number of customers waiting in line, is just another example of AUTOGAS® listening to our customers and providing the most efficient system possible by ensuring fast fueling transactions.

Receipt paper status is reported to the AUTOGAS® Point of Sale enabling store employees in keeping the printers at the island serviced and full of paper.  AUTOGAS® Fuel Controller supports customized receipt printing at the island for retailers who are interested in promoting items in the store and enhancing customer loyalty.

Dispenser can be automatically activated for post fueling payment. Car washes and fuel additives can be sold at the island through the use of the Fuel Controller’s robust interface. Fuel supplies can be managed through the Fuel Controller’s interface to tank monitor devices.

By far, the AUTOGAS® Fuel Controller maximizes your investment and allows for seamless integration of your fueling needs.