Checkpoint Systems Introduces New DiscMate-TM- Solution for Digital Me

    Business Editors

    THOROFARE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 20, 2005--Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP), the industry leader in library solutions, announced its new DiscMate(TM) solution, a simple-yet-revolutionary system for securing and circulating CDs and DVDs. Previewed for the first time at the American Library Association's 2005 Midwinter meeting at Boston's Hynes Convention Center, DiscMate is compatible with any library automation system and offers even more significant benefits when paired with Checkpoint's RFID-based Intelligent Library System (ILS).
    DiscMate includes new one-piece cases for security and display and Standard Unlocking Units for use at circulation desks. There is also an Intelligent Unlocking Unit that works with the ILS and provides the never-before-available option of allowing patron self-checkout of CDs and DVDs while maintaining security.
    CDs and DVDs are the fastest growing collections in libraries today and are in high demand by patrons. Previously, librarians had to remove a separate locking bar from the case to check out a CD or DVD for a patron. Librarians have been seeking an efficient alternative to the two-piece cases with locking bars because they require time to process and physical effort by library staff. Re-securing CDs and DVDs upon their return to the library was also a labor-intensive, time-consuming process for librarians for these high-turnover items.
    The DiscMate Standard Unlocking Unit and cases provide an easy-to-use format for librarians to unlock and resecure their valuable digital collections. The cases have fully integrated, tamper-proof locks; librarians simply pass the case through the unit to open it for a patron wishing to check out CDs or DVDs. Upon return to the library, the case is again passed through the device to lock it.
    "Our new one-piece case for CDs and DVDs makes previous cases obsolete," notes Doug Karp, General Manager, Checkpoint Systems ID Products Group. "The old cases with the separate locking bar were difficult to lock and unlock. We are offering a simple solution for libraries using any circulation system - and we've put an end to librarians' struggles with the separate locking bar. The time it takes for a staff member to open or resecure the new cases is literally seconds."
    When developing DiscMate, Checkpoint also sought to create a solution to increase the efficiency of self-checkout stations, allowing more patrons to use the stations and minimizing the burden on library staff. Previously, CDs and DVDs could not be checked out without a visit to the circulation desk. When used with the RFID-based Intelligent Library System, Checkpoint's new DiscMate solution now offers patrons the ability to check out CDs or DVDs on their own, without any assistance from staff.
    "Many patrons prefer using self-checkout stations because they are quick, easy and widely accepted as the standard today," explains Karp. "The fact that they could not check out CDs or DVDs at a self-checkout station was frustrating, because it meant they had to wait in line for assistance."
    In an ILS-equipped library, patrons will now simply take CDs and DVDs to a self-checkout station and pass them over the indicated area to register the loan and update the library's records. A reader within the station verifies that the materials are in the correct case and have been properly checked out. When the information is confirmed, the screen prompts the patron to place the case into the DiscMate Intelligent Unlocking Unit. Easy instructions on the screen guide the patron through the unlocking process, while integrated RFID readers within the system ensure that only correctly checked out materials are unlocked. Missing item or items in the wrong cases are also identified during this process, which takes little more than a few seconds per item.
    To further enhance productivity, libraries can choose to purchase DiscMate cases embedded with RFID tags, which will save labor for library staff by eliminating the need to apply the tags at the library.

    About the Intelligent Library System(R)

    The Intelligent Library System (ILS) from Checkpoint Systems is a revolutionary technology designed to enhance the library experience for both patrons and staff. Driven by advanced RFID technology, the ILS boasts individual self-checkout, allowing patrons to check out materials on their own using self service kiosks located throughout the library. The system dramatically speeds up the library checkout and return process, protects items from unauthorized removal from the library and reduces materials handling time by as much as 75%.

    About Checkpoint Systems, Inc.

    Checkpoint Systems, Inc., a multinational company, is a pioneer in the development of RFID technology for libraries and other industries. Founded in 1969 as a library security
    company, Checkpoint is the top provider of RFID technology to libraries and has a leading share of the RFID library marketplace. Checkpoint is also the world's leading provider of radio frequency (RF)-based shrink management solutions to the global retail industry, including over half of the world's top 200 largest global retailers. The company, which has a presence in more than 80 countries, also markets laser and thermal printers and CCTV systems designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs and provide value-added solutions for customers across many markets and industries. For more information, visit www.checkpointlibrary.com

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CONTACT: Checkpoint Systems, Inc. Glenda Laudisio, 800-257-5540 x 2411 glenda.laudisio@checkpt.com or TowersGroup Scott Sunshine, 212-354-5020 scottsunshine@towerspr.com or Andrew Healy, 212-354-5020 andrewhealy@towerspr.com

KEYWORD: NEW JERSEY INDUSTRY KEYWORD: HARDWARE SOFTWARE RETAIL TELECOMMUNICATIONS PRODUCT SOURCE: Checkpoint Systems, Inc.

Copyright Business Wire 2005