Implementation FAQ's

Introduction 

The Rubix vending solution comprises of the following technical elements;

• Vending Machine (Inc. touchscreen computer): Each cluster of vending machines require power and an internet connection.
• Customer Portal: The customer portal is available as a web-based application so only a web browser is required (no software).
• Central data server: In addition to the local database on the machine, all data is stored in our self-hosted cloud database.

Other than power and network, there is nothing for the customer to support. Your local Rubix vending team provides all ongoing support, with the monthly software/data/service charge covering all support, as well as ensuring access to the most current versions of the software and reporting tools. 

Further details about network connectivity and power requirements, along with machine technical specifications and internet browser requirements, can be found in other articles within this knowledgebase 

Below are the frequently asked questions in relation to implementation and operation of a vending solution. 

What do I need to provide in terms of power and network connectivity?

Rubix vending machines are provided with their own power cables (appropriate for the country of deployment) and network cables. It is important that power and network points are available at the machine’s location. Each machine requires its own power however, a cluster of machines in the same area and connected to the same touch screen computer, will share a network connection. Power requirements vary by machine type but typically they all require between 220-240v and draw between 2-3 amps each. The exact requirements (number of power and network outlets) will be confirmed during implementation by your Project coordinator. 

If you require any special consideration in terms of power and network cabling, such as wiring machines into a fused spur or Wi-Fi networking, please speak to your Project Coordinator. 

What happens if we experience a power cut on site ?

Once power is restored, the vending machine and PC will restart and automatically launch the user interface software. The vending machines are configured to re-establish a connection to the remote server and resume full operation without customer interaction.

Can I manage user access to my machines without the need to involve Rubix?

Yes. Designated customers can be given access to our customer portal to create new users, manage existing users and prevent users from accessing vending machines, e.g. if they leave your business. 

Full training on how to manage users will be provided during the implementation process.

How do users authenticate and access the solution?

• Vending machine: Users are typically assigned a default password during pre-implementation and would be prompted to change this on their first login. Passwords need to be a minimum length of four case sensitive, alphanumeric digits. Passwords are stored as an encrypted string within the database and cannot be viewed by anyone (including admins). Three failed login attempts by a user will result in the system automatically disabling the users access for a period of ten minutes at a time before being permanently disabled. Once disabled, a user account can only be re-instated by a Rubix admin. Any user that has not logged in over a six month period will have their access rights automatically disabled. Disabled accounts are automatically deleted after 90 days of inactivity, unless especially requested otherwise by the customer.  We also support a number of passive access methods for example; users can be issued with a Bar Code to access the machine and we also support the use of customers own contactless ID cards/fobs (subject to the technology in use). Again, please speak to your Rubix contact to discuss the best option for your requirements.

• Customer Portal: Customer sign-up and authentication to the portal is handled by a separate, cloud-based, high security identity management service. Users will be sent a one-time use token via e-mail. The token will allow the user to create their profile and set their password and other key information. Nobody other than the user can view or access this information. If a user needs to reset their password, they can do so by clicking the ‘forgot password’ hyperlink from the portal login page and enter their e-mail to receive another single-use token to perform the change.

Please reach out to your Project coordinator, Rubix account manager or local branch if you have any questions about anything contained within this document.