Abstract: An interface module is provided for a sales processing system that facilitates the integration of a payment system and external systems with the sales processing system. In one implementation, the interface module includes a first interface configured to support a first protocol for communication with a sales processing module of the sales processing system, a second interface configured to support a second protocol for communication with a payment system, and a third interface configured to support a third protocol for communication with a transaction system for external services. The interface module further includes a controller operable to control routing of messages between the first, second and third interfaces, and reformatting of the messages in accordance with the first, second and third protocols, respectively.

Abstract: System for handling of refunding of value-added tax to a consumer who has purchased goods in a foreign country includes a central database and first terminals, placed in shops) connected to the system. The first terminals include equipment for entering purchase data. The system creates electronic checks on the basis of the data, and includes information carriers intended to be carried by the purchaser. Personal details, such as name, address and passport number, are stored on the information carrier. An identifying reference is stored on each carrier and the system has computer programs for linking the reference and electronic checks for the person's purchases, and for storing the checks together with their references in the database. Second terminals are provided with equipment for gathering the references from the information carriers of consumers.