Internet Cafe Billing Software... HELP!!!!

[jivan]

I'm going crazy. I've tried so many...

Hopefully someone can advise a simple low cost solution...

All I require is a simple prepaid timecode system, one that prints on a receipt.

Example -

The client wants a 30 min time block, pays their money, the operator selects the time block and a receipt is printed with a code, the client goes to any machine and enters the code, 5 mins before the end the client gets a warning, he could go buy another code which will then give him extra time without the computer closing. The system tells the operator how much money has been taken for the day.

Cyber leader is the best but R7000, Internet Caffe process is too slow as requires generating, most require printing codes in advance on A4 which then requires inventory checks. Is there a simple solution to a problem that is turning my hair gray.

 

[AzharK]

I've used Internet caffe and it works great - you dont have to print codes - from a central server / pos you can unlock the specific pc for the specified duration

have u tried it ?

 

[Nod]

http://cyborg.sourceforge.net/index.html.en
http://openkiosk.sourceforge.net/index.html

 

[VonPickle]

You could take a look at CCautoSoft or even CafePilot

I have used the latter a few times and found it rather easy to use and setup.

Also, Zencafe may be worth a look, it's a Linux distro put together with an internet cafe in mind.

 

[jivan]

I should mention that it's all Windows XP

 

[Nod]

I should mention that it's all Windows XP

The Linux solutions, I have listed, have Windows clients available too.
I see that "OpenKiosk" is charging for the Windows Client though.
CybOrg is all free, clients for Windows and Linux included.

 

[jivan]

Thanks for the info

CCautoSoft has been the best for it's cost, $169 for unlimited computers (but a little complicated for staff).
Cafepilot is free but seems to require printing in advance which will then involve inventory checks.
Openkiosk... looking at it now. Will it issue a single code?
Cyborg... too complicated for me.

 

[Nod]

Openkiosk... looking at it now. Will it issue a single code?

From the documentation:

In addition to prepaid access numbers for walk-in customers, OpenKiosk now supports member accounts. This is useful for sites that has large base of regular users who wish to use the services of your network regularly. Member accounts have the advantage of reusability, personalized passwords, and bonus incentives.

 

[jivan]

Openkiosk, like CafePilot, requires printing the codes out in advance. This is something that I'm trying to avoid as it add complications, i.e. missing vouchers, used vouchers, requiring investigations.

 

[VonPickle]

Actually the vouchers are only printed when a user requests it in CafePilot. No need to keep anything in inventory, just generate a list of codes for the day/week and print when needed. The user then inputs the code on the PC.

 

[J0n0]

Ever tried Cyber cafe pro?

www.cybercafepro.com

 

[jivan]

Ever tried Cyber cafe pro?

www.cybercafepro.com

I nearly responded to your question with "of course" as I've been to their site many times, the last time about a week ago. But everything happens for a reason so I thought I'd have one more look.

Can you believe it.... Version 6 is just out and it's free, I nearly fell off my stool. I tested a trial version 5 which worked great however the actual version was too expensive. I was even given a pirate version but as anything stolen (including software) brings negative karma to your life I would not use it and was therefore looking for something cheaper.

Thanks to all of you for your great advice. If I'd put up the question here earlier I may have got a lot fewer gray hairs from the process.

 

[Vaaljapie]

Antamedia if you are a windowzz fan. If not use Mikrotik.

 

[AzharK]

any idea if it works on Win 7 ?

 

[suPerb0b]

If you are prepared to make your server Linux, give Hotcakes/YFi a go: http://sourceforge.net/projects/hotcakes/
Its meant for prepaid (and postpaid) hotspots, but should work fine for what you want. It free and the developer is extremely helpful.

 

[jivan]

I'm testing CCP6 on a Win7 netbook and it's working fine. It states that it's Win7 compatible. Going to install it on my XP test setup now.

 

[mandisi87]

thanks people its my 2nd time and found you charts usefull, i still need help though.

thanks people with your discussion, i found it very helpfull and now atleat i know what to get my new internet cafe, also i still though need more help, if any of you guys are willing to help please i'll appreciate.
Thanks

 

[mandisi87]

Can guys anyone of you recommend any other softwares for a Newly Internet Cafe?

i'll try all the billing softwares you recommended but i seem to like Open Kiosk one.

So if any has any help please do so. and i still need assistance with navigation of this site, i've just joined now after i saw your discussion guys.