Diners take swipe at credit-card fraud
Soon diners not only will have their meals brought to them, but also a cash register of sorts. A hand-held device called TableSwipe makes it possible for servers to complete credit- card transactions at the table, without the card leaving the owner’s possession. Using software developed by Centennial-based Communication Transaction Solutions Inc., TableSwipe is a 1-pound device – the size of a TV remote control – that can process credit-card and debit-card payments over a secure wireless network. “Our solution eliminates credit- card fraud from ever happening in the restaurant,” said Wayne Steiger, president and chief executive for Communication Transaction Solutions. “We’ve brought the most critical piece of the dining experience to (the customer). You never let your plastic leave your hand.” TableSwipe was tested earlier this year at Damon’s, a restaurant in Westerfield, Ohio. Steiger said the company is holding discussions with several casual dining chains to install TableSwipe.
Bodybugg details daily exercise
Keeping track of exercise can be difficult. Many devices provide only a crude measurement. The Bodybugg is an attempt to create an activity monitor that people can wear during most of their waking hours. Developed by the Apex Fitness Group and BodyMedia, the Bodybugg straps on the arm and, according to BodyMedia, is “larger than a matchbox, smaller than an MP3 player.” The device collects a range of body measurements, and the data are uploaded to your computer, which then sends it to BodyMedia. Computers there analyze the numbers and create a variety of charts. The Bodybugg will be sold only as part of a package of training sessions at fitness centers.
