The Telepanel Millennium PLUS price and information network typically displays both the product price and the unit price on an LCD module mounted on the store shelf edge, in front of the product. With up to 16 scrolling screens, and full alphabetic capability in each character position, Telepanel's newest electronic shelf label (ESL) is an industry breakthrough, setting the standard for alphanumeric display.

This industry-leading product allows the retailer full integration of multiple merchandising programs and other management applications at the shelf edge, including customer loyalty programs. A radio transceiver base station links the display modules to the same database that operates the store's electronic checkout scanner system. Pricing information is read by Telepanel software and is transmitted to a base station, which then transmits information to the display modules. This provides an accurate and convenient display of information on store shelves.

The Telepanel Millennium PLUS price and information network is comprised of a number of hardware and software components. The part of the Telepanel system that is seen and used by the consumer is the liquid crystal display module (also known as the ESL), which is mounted on the shelf edge, in front of each product. Each display module is capable of digital, two-way radio communication with the base station and control computer. The two-way communications capability allows a retailer to confirm that the relevant display module has received the price change or other information, and that each display module is operational. The modules are powered by a replaceable battery, each with a typical battery life of over ten years, and are attached to the existing shelf edge.

The computer software used by the Telepanel system, the Telepanel software, operates on a microcomputer or equivalent, controls the transmission of information to the display modules, and provides a link to the in-store point-of-sale computer (controls the store's electronic checkout scanner system) and database.

The Telepanel system is capable of communicating with electronic checkout scanner systems sold by Fujitsu-ICL Inc. and NCR Corporation, which collectively hold a substantial majority of the electronic checkout scanner market in North America. Implementation of communication links with other manufacturers' equipment will occur as market conditions require.

The Telepanel system is in-store, network-ready. Telepanel ESL's are easily incorporated into existing in-store communication networks, such as Spectrum 24®, which is offered by Telepanel's business partner, Symbol Technologies. Telepanel ESLs may now be added to the store's existing radio frequency network, extending the retailers' current investment, and simplifying operation and support.

The Telepanel Millennium PLUS price and information network also consists of display modules that fulfill European price display requirements and provide a unique currency price display capability.