Abstract: A distributed computer network is disclosed for use with a general purpose computer having a communications port and capable of running applications software for controlling the network. The distributed computer network includes a master controller having first and second communications ports, the first communications port of the master controller for operatively communicating with a general purpose computer. The distributed network further includes one or more input/output controllers, each having a first communications port for operatively communicating with the master controller and a second communications port for serially communicating with one or more peripheral devices. The peripheral devices are connected together in a serial daisy chain configuration. The master controller communicates with the input/output controllers via a multidrop RS-485 network bus.

Abstract: A point-of-sale system freely configurable with a plurality of peripheral input devices. The system includes a general purpose computer with an input port for receiving data. An electronic interface is coupled to the input port and readily connectable to the plurality of peripheral input devices for transmitting data from the plurality of peripheral input devices to the computer input port. The plurality of peripheral input devices can be selectively connected and disconnected from the electronic interface, the electronic interface maintaining a continuous dialogue with the computer during the connection and disconnection of the plurality of input devices.