Good news: you don't need any fancy hardware. Member Splash runs in a web browser, so any computer or tablet with an internet connection works at your front desk. If you're buying new equipment, here's what we recommend.
The must-haves
A computer, Chromebook, or tablet
The front desk device just needs to get online and run an up to date web browser, like Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox. A budget Chromebook or laptop with at least 4GB of memory is plenty.
Tablets like an iPad or Android tablet work too, and they make it easy to point the camera at members for photos and QR codes. If you plan to use a USB barcode scanner or webcam with a tablet, check that it has a USB port or adapter.
A reliable internet connection
Check-in doesn't need fast internet, but it does need a steady connection. Wi-Fi can be spotty at the pool gate, so test it before opening day: stand right where your front desk will be and run a speed test (like fast.com) a few times, at different times of day.
If the signal drops or crawls, here are your options, from easiest to most reliable:
Wi-Fi extender: inexpensive and quick to set up. Fine if the desk is just slightly out of range, but can be less reliable.
Mesh Wi-Fi system: a step up from an extender. A mesh unit placed near a window facing the pool usually gives a steadier signal.
Cellular hotspot or 5G home internet: a great choice if the clubhouse internet is weak or there's no building nearby. Check which carrier has the strongest signal at your pool, and look for a month to month plan you can pause in the off season.
Outdoor access point: the most reliable wireless option when there's a building with internet nearby. It's weatherproof and can cover the whole pool deck, though setup may need someone handy or a local IT person.
Wired connection: if you can run an Ethernet cable to the desk, nothing beats it.
💡 Good to know:
Have a backup. Keep a phone or cellular hotspot set up and tested in case your main connection goes down on a busy day.
Give staff their own network. If members and guests share the front desk's Wi-Fi, it can slow down when the pool is busy.
Don't forget card readers. They need their own Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, so make sure the signal reaches the snack bar too.
Nice to have
A camera
A camera lets staff take member photos and scan QR codes from the Member Splash app with the Scan Code button. The built in camera on your laptop or tablet works fine. If your laptop camera faces the person sitting at the desk, an inexpensive USB webcam you can point toward members makes things quicker on busy days.
A USB barcode scanner
Only needed if your club uses printed barcode cards. Any plug-and-play USB barcode scanner works: scan the card and the member's account loads on the screen.
💡 Good to know: USB barcode scanners can't read the QR codes members show from the Member Splash app. For those, use Scan Code with a camera, or just search the member's name.
Barcode cards
Member barcode cards print on standard business card stock, like Avery perforated business cards. How to generate and print barcodes
A credit card reader
Want to sell guest passes or snack bar items by card at the desk? Card readers connect through ECRYPT and are purchased directly from Preferred Payments. They aren't included in your Member Splash plan, and there's no extra fee beyond the reader itself. Credit Card Reader Setup and Use