Abstract: A clustered system of data-entry terminals includes a plurality of physically separate data-entry terminals coupled to a communications link in a cluster. Each of the terminals includes a programmable digital processor for transferring data and programs over the communications link. Each of the terminals further includes entry devices and display devices for communicating information between an operator and the programmable processor.

Abstract: A standalone point-of-sale terminal in a unitary physical package has input/output devices for communicating transaction data between the terminal and an operator, and also has a cash drawer. These devices and a direct-access storage are controlled by a programmable processor which executes low-level routines from read-only addressable memory and serially replaceable high-level applications programs from read/write addressable memory. Both applications programs and transaction data are stored on a single non-volatile, removable storage medium.

Abstract: A reconfigurable clustered system of data-entry terminals includes a plurality of physically separate data-entry terminals coupled to a communications link in a cluster. Each of the terminals includes a programmable digital processor for transferring data and programs over the communications link. Each of the terminals further includes entry devices for communicating information between an operator and the programmable processor. At least two of the terminals are media terminals further including a storage for containing both data from the terminals and programs for all of the terminals in the cluster. Selection circuitry is provided to designate any one of the media terminals as a primary media terminal, such that all other terminals in the cluster, including others of the media terminals, exchange both data and programs with the primary media terminal.