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Encore Networks Reports M2M Cellular Router Certification for ATMs [Professional Services Close - Up](Professional Services Close - Up Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Encore Networks announced that EFX Corp. of Clearwater, Florida, a payment processor for ATMs, ACH and Card Issuing, has certified Encore's C2C cellular-based remote access router to link ATMs to EFX's data centers. According to a release, a Machine-to-Machine (M2M) cellular data service replaces leased data circuits or dial-up analog lines at significantly lower cost while providing higher reliability and greater flexibility. "The C2C cellular router replaces a dial-up POTS phone line directly, with no change to the ATM's modem," said Scott Harper, Vice-President of Product Management for Encore Networks. "It also includes an Ethernet LAN connection for the next generation ATM upgrade or to provide additional services." Legacy leased lines were considered secure enough on their own. Dial-up calls were treated similarly. However, on a radio link or over the Internet there is a potential threat of interception. To keep transactions private, the C2C encrypts messages using either Secure Socket Layer (SSL), the same method used in Web commerce, or the latest IPsec (IP Security) protocol. Bonnie Dalrymple, EFX's VP of Business Development noted, "We are pleased that the Encore C2C line of wireless routers has passed our rigorous test regimen and is fully certified to connect to our payment processing network. EFX accepts this form of data connection from Verizon's 3G network without any change in configuration at the ATM." Encore's C2C contains a modem that behaves identically to the central-site modem that an ATM calls. The ATM itself cannot detect the change in service. As a router, the C2C offers many remote management and security features such as a firewall, address filtering, and alarms if equipment is changed or a line is disconnected. EFX is a Payment Processor that manages financial transactions originated at the ATM. The service routes information to the end customer's bank or credit card network. By employing this service, the Independent Sales Organization (ISO) that operates the ATM needs only one upstream connection to accept all debit cards. Cellular connectivity appeals to many ISO's because wireless service allows them to set up an ATM quickly and to move it freely, independent of wireline service. Inherent mobility of cellular service permits temporarily locating ATM's for special events. When equipped with the optional Power Failure Alert (PFA) network notification, the C2C provides short-term backup power ensuring that it can report the power outage to a central monitoring point. More information: http://www.encorenetworks.com ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) (c) 2012 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |