You asked, and we searched high and low for a tablet that delivers the robust performance a 24/7 system needs. The answer is the Microsoft Surface Pro — all the running power of a PC, about the size of a piece of A4 and less than 10mm thick, with 10-point multi-touch.

The label printer and scanner are its reliable sidekicks. The printer is thermal, so the only consumable you ever worry about is the labels — and the scanner’s omnidirectional lasers make signing in or out with a barcode a breeze.

For ease of use and security the Surface is housed in a BouncePad case on a flexible neck, so the screen tilts up and down to suit any visitor — whatever their height, or the height of your counter.