Universal Handheld Device (UHD)
Our Solution
How we developed a PoS terminal that could be configured to diverse user needs.
The Result
A rugged handheld PoS terminal that could be configured in a Lego manner to suit the diverse needs of India’s retail environment.
Services
Concept Development
Enclosure Design
Prototype Engineering
Materials Selection
Design for Manufacturing
Tolerance Analysis
Vendor Management
Prototype Liaison
The Story
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In 2010, Bang Design partnered with Intel to create a new category of Point of Sale hardware for India. The Universal Handheld Device (UHD) was built as a modular, user configurable platform centered on an Intel processing spine with a family of attachable retail modules. This allowed merchants to pay only for the functions they needed while giving Intel a scalable architecture for high volume markets.
THE CHALLENGE
Rigid Imports, Limited Flexibility
Imported PoS terminals were expensive and rigid. Small format retailers often had to purchase devices with features they did not use while lacking others they required for daily operations. There was no practical way to customize or upgrade devices. Durability and reliability were also inconsistent in Indian retail conditions.
Intel wanted a design that solved these barriers and expanded PoS penetration in a cost sensitive market.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Modularity Without Added Cost
A modular design could deliver flexibility without increasing cost or complexity. By creating a platform based on a single processing spine and a set of optional modules, each retailer could assemble a device suited to their workflow.
This approach anticipated many ideas later explored in Google’s Project Ara. UHD applied similar thinking to transaction hardware and made the idea relevant for India’s retail environment.
OUR APPROACH
Designing a Hardware Platform
Creating the Modular Architecture
We defined a universal processing backbone that carried Intel silicon, thermal and EMC management, secure pathways for transactions, and physical interfaces for expansion.
Around this core, we developed a family of interchangeable modules including
- Multiple battery options
- Keypads and touchscreen displays
- Barcode scanners
- Thermal printers
- Card reading modules
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Each component could be swapped or upgraded without replacing the entire device.
Collaboration with Intel Engineering
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We worked closely with Intel engineers in onsite sessions during key integration phases and remotely during design iterations. Our team handled internal packaging, antenna placement, thermal considerations, secure routing for financial data, ergonomics, and durability. This kept the UHD aligned with Intel technology requirements and ensured it remained compact and reliable in handheld use.
Designing for Real World Conditions
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The UHD had to operate in crowded counters, dusty markets, humid environments, and survive frequent drops.
Our design work included
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- Structural frames and impact absorbing zones
- Ingress resistant seams and gaskets
- Protected ports and interfaces
- Strategies for enclosure break detection and security shielding
The device was built for uninterrupted field use.
Benchmarking Against Global ODM Devices
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Intel provided access to PoS equipment from Chinese and Taiwanese ODMs.
We benchmarked
- Battery removal and hot swap mechanisms
- Durability of module interfaces
- Display and keypad performance
- Scanner and printer reliability
- Overall user ergonomics for Indian population
This ensured UHD met or exceeded global standards while remaining suitable for Indian conditions.
Visualisation for Stakeholder Alignment
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We created high fidelity renders that showed different configurations, modular assemblies, rugged features, and end use scenarios. These assets helped Intel leadership understand the value of the platform and approve further development.
From Concepts to POCs and Functional Prototypes
Once the architecture was approved, we moved into design for engineering and early validation.
We refined the mechanical structure, module attachment systems, hot swap behavior, and manufacturing considerations.
We then used our prototyping network across Asia to build functional units. Intel teams used these units to validate performance and to evaluate the business case for wider deployment.
Design and Engineering Highlights
- Modular ecosystem allowing custom device builds
- Tamper resistant mechanical design for secure transactions
- Drop resilient structure for demanding retail environments
- Hot swap support for batteries and modules
- Optimized thermal and EMC layout
- Scalable hardware platform for future modules
THE OUTCOME
A Platform, Not a Product
The UHD demonstrated that PoS hardware could be customizable, repairable, upgradeable, rugged, and economically aligned with India’s retail market. Intel gained a clear path to expand PoS penetration with a platform strategy rather than a single fixed device. UHD delivered flexibility without compromising reliability or cost targets.
What We Learned
- A platform approach improves relevance and reduces lifecycle cost
- Modularity can succeed in cost sensitive markets when designed correctly
- Early co engineering shortens alignment cycles
- Physical prototypes remain essential for internal decision making
Take the Next Step
If you are developing a modular device, a rugged handheld platform, or a configurable electronics ecosystem, our team can help you shape the architecture, design the user experience, and deliver production ready prototypes.
Reach out to explore how we can support your next program.