Hardware for Your Event

We strongly recommend renting hardware from someone whom routinely supports events (see note). If you choose to use your own hardware make sure you have a volunteer or staff member who is responsible for hardware setup, oversight and tear-down, preferably an IT professional.

Regardless of how you obtain your hardware, we recommend one station for every 50 guests i.e. if you are expecting 200 guests you should have four stations.

One Station

* Laptop with 3 or more USB ports or a USB hub - for mouse, printer, mag swipe.
* Mouse
* Card Reader (purchase and setup info )
* High Speed Laser Printer (w/ USB cable to connect to laptops)

Shared Equipment

* Multiple extension cords (to make sure power strips can reach the outlets)
* Multiple power strips (enough to handle all laptops, printers and switch)
* Networking equipment. All computers must have Internet access.
- Wired: router and/or switch, don't forget cables.
- Wireless: wireless access point and wireless adapters.

Supplies

* Two reams of laser paper (for receipts)
* Pens (for signing receipts)
* Folders (for filing away original bid sheets)

Software

* Printer Drivers, install and test prior to your event!
* Web browser: we recommend Firefox or Safari
Set the browser homepage to your event i.e. http://<yoururl>.tofinoauctions.com/
Place an Icon for the browser on the desktop.

Warnings and Common Pitfalls

1. Setup and test your equipment prior to event day!
The day of the event is the wrong time to be thinking about the details of your hardware.

2. Your tech guru should be present at the event.
Our experience is even if everything is setup in advance, something often goes amiss event night:
i.e. printers stop working, computers fall asleep, a password is needed, etc.

3. Use quality laptops, with newer operating systems.
Make sure they have drivers compatible with the printers and enough USB ports (or USB hub) to handle a mouse, printer, and mag-swipe reader.

4. Make sure that you have the passwords for the laptops.
The instant a volunteer mistakenly reboots, or the power goes out, or . . . and you're down.

5. Verify that your venue has network connectivity.
Network connectivity sometimes is not available during off hours. Make sure it will be there when you need it.
You will often have to arrange with your venue to get a password or access code to use their connectivity.

If you do not understand the terms on this page, providing your own hardware might not be for you.

Your software works with card readers from both Magtek and ID Tech. In our experience Dell usually has the best prices on the swipers. However, you should feel free to purchase them from any reputable dealer.

ID Tech

1. Product Information
2. Purchase from Dell
3. Setup ID Tech readers for your auction software

 

Magtek

1. Product Information
2. Purchase from Dell
3. Setup Magtek readers for your auction software

1. PayPlanner Auction Kit

Up to 4 Magtek Card Readers - $75
Our Magtek card readers are pre-configured for Tofino Auctions Software. No software to load or install - just plug & play!

Mi-Fi Broadband Router - $75
Connect up to 5 wireless workstations with your USB broadband access device from a wireless carrier. Ask us about broadband rentals from Sprint, Verizon, or AT&T.

Wireless Router - $25
Connect up to 4 workstations with a single ethernet internet connection.

Shipping prices vary by location. Overnight and rush orders available.

To order, please email auctions@payplanner.net or call 415-483-1700

2. Northwest Auction Support

Swipers already programmed to be shipped.

Complete Auction Hardware rental and support in the Oregon or Washington area.