USB-Powered Beacons Enable Plug-And-Play Proximity Functionality To Vending And Amusement Machines

SAN DIEGO -- Gimbal Inc.'s new Bluetooth Smart Proximity Beacon U-Series 5 provides a low-cost, low-maintenance way to add beacon functionality to devices with USB ports, including vending machines.

The Bluetooth low-energy devices can power "proximity-triggered engagements" to an opted-in user's mobile device and for retailers, venues and other beacon-enabled locations to further extend their proximity network.

The U-Series 5 does not have its data lines connected, which means it can safely be plugged into a powered USB port in a computer, point-of-sale register, ATM or other device with no risk of sending or receiving any data.

"The main benefit of the USB form factor is the flexibility our customers now have to enable their existing devices with beacon functionality," said Kevin Hunter, chief operating officer of Gimbal. "Packaging it in a small, battery-free option allows for hassle-free maintenance and makes the solution additionally attractive for large deployments."