New Wireless Minibar Network At Willard Hotel

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Bartech Systems International, a provider of automated minibars, reported that it has installed a wireless minibar network at the Willard InterContinental Hotel here. Bartechs e-fridges wireless system avoids the cost and disruption of hard wiring the hotel while providing a wireless infrastructure for future service applications, according to the company. The Bartechs e-fridge wireless network connects all of the Willards 341 rooms on 12 floors. Each e-fridge minibar is given an IP address, which allows it to communicate with Bartechs central unit through wireless access points. The result is continuous real-time information exchange between the Bartech refreshment center and the Willards guestroom accounting software or property management system (PMS). E-fridge automated minibar units are equipped with sensors on which product is placed. When a guest removes an item, the system instantly sends a message to the hotels PMS to record the charge. If the item is replaced within a pre-set time period, typically 30 seconds, it is not recorded as consumed, however, hotel staff is alerted to check the product for tampering. The Willard Hotel currently offers wireless capacities to its guests in all public areas. The Willard had been using traditional honor minibars that required the guest or minibar attendants to record product usage.