Skip to main content

Self-service

ACCELERO allows the creation and configuration of access for self-service devices.

Self-service devices are equipment (usually kiosks) that help operate and issue identifiers for visitors.

Concept​

Self-service allows:

  • Visitors to identify themselves without operator assistance
  • QR Codes to be issued automatically
  • Check-in to be performed autonomously
  • Queue reduction at the reception
  • A modern experience for visitors
Flexibility

Practically any device with a browser can be used: tablets, kiosks, laptops, or desktops.

Device Configuration​

Path: Advanced > Self-service

Create a New Device​

  1. Click "New device"
  2. Configure the required fields
  3. Save the configuration
  4. Note the generated access URL

Configuration Fields​

FieldDescriptionRequired
DescriptionIdentifying name of the deviceβœ“ Yes
ModelDevice model (determines available functions)βœ“ Yes
Authentication keyKey for secure access to the screensβœ“ Yes
Access URLAddress to be accessed in the browserInformational
Use virtual keyboardEnables an on-screen keyboard (touchscreen)No
Capture cameraCamera for capturing photosNo
Enabled browser IDRestricts access to a specific browserNo
Text after check-inMessage for the visitor after obtaining the QR CodeNo

Description​

Identification of the device for internal management.

Examples:

  • "Main Reception Kiosk"
  • "Side Gatehouse Tablet"
  • "Ground Floor Self-service"

Model​

Each model gives access to different on-screen functions.

Available models:

  • Visitor self-service
  • QR Code issuance
  • Other models depending on licensing
Contact Support

Available models may vary depending on the license. Consult the specific documentation or technical support.

Authentication Key​

Key that ensures secure access from the device's browser to the screens.

Security:

  • Generated automatically by the system
  • Can and should be changed manually if there is any suspicion of improper access
  • Works as the device's "password"
Change Regularly

For security, change the key if you suspect unauthorized access to the device.

Access URL​

Address that must be accessed in the device's browser.

Informational field - generated automatically by the system.

Typical format:

https://your-accelero.com/self-service?key=AUTHENTICATION_KEY

Use Virtual Keyboard​

Defines whether an on-screen virtual keyboard will be enabled.

When to enable:

  • Devices with a touchscreen
  • Kiosks without a physical keyboard
  • Tablets

When to disable:

  • Devices with a physical keyboard
  • Tablets with the OS's own virtual keyboard

Photo Capture Camera​

If selected, enables the photo capture function on the device.

Requirements:

  • Camera registered in the system (see Cameras)
  • Camera accessible over the network
  • Compatibility with the device

Typical use:

  • Capture a photo of the visitor during registration
  • Improve security and identification
  • Complement the QR Code with a photo

Self-service device edit screen

Enabled Browser ID​

Restricts access to the screens to a specific browser.

How it works:

  1. Empty field: Any browser can access
  2. First access: The ID is generated and filled in automatically
  3. Subsequent accesses: Only the browser with that ID can access
  4. Different browser: Access blocked

To "release" a new browser:

  • Leave the field blank
  • The next browser that accesses will have the ID filled in automatically

Typical use:

  • Block the use of a "lost" device
  • Ensure a specific kiosk uses a specific browser
  • Additional security

Text After Check-in​

Message presented to the visitor after obtaining the QR Code.

When it is displayed:

  • The visitor obtains a QR Code at a kiosk
  • The visit is still not authorized
  • Check-in is performed automatically
  • The message appears on screen

Example text:

Your QR Code was generated successfully!

Wait for the host's authorization.
You will receive a notification when approved.

Please wait at the reception.
Clear Instructions

Use this field to guide the visitor on what to do while waiting for authorization.

Browser Configuration​

Once the device is configured in ACCELERO, configure the browser of the physical equipment.

For security and usability reasons, configure:

1. Kiosk Mode​

What it does:

  • The browser starts in full screen
  • The user cannot open new tabs
  • The address bar is hidden
  • System commands are blocked

How to enable:

Chrome/Chromium:

chromium-browser --kiosk --incognito https://accelero-url

Firefox:

firefox --kiosk https://accelero-url

Edge:

msedge --kiosk https://accelero-url

2. Silent Printing​

What it does:

  • QR Code printing happens automatically
  • No user confirmation required
  • The default printer is used

How to enable:

Chrome/Chromium:

chromium-browser --kiosk-printing https://accelero-url

Additional configuration:

  • Set the default printer in the system
  • Test printing before going into production
Test First

Always test silent printing before making a kiosk available for use.

Automatic Startup​

Configure the operating system to:

  1. Auto-login: Automatic login on startup
  2. Start the browser: The browser opens automatically
  3. Open the URL: The self-service URL is loaded

Example (Linux with autostart):

# ~/.config/autostart/accelero.desktop
[Desktop Entry]
Type=Application
Name=Accelero Self-service
Exec=chromium-browser --kiosk --kiosk-printing https://url

Usage Flow​

Visitor at the Kiosk​

  1. The visitor arrives at the location
  2. Accesses the self-service kiosk
  3. Enters data:
    • Name
    • Document
    • Company/person being visited
    • Photo (if configured)
  4. The system validates the information
  5. A QR Code is generated and printed
  6. Automatic check-in is performed
  7. A message is displayed guiding the next steps
  8. The host receives a notification to authorize

See Visitor Check-in for details of the authorization flow.

Integration with Check-in​

When a visitor obtains a QR Code but the visit is not yet authorized:

  • The system performs check-in automatically
  • Speeds up the approval process
  • The host receives a notification
  • The visitor waits for authorization
Automation

Integration with check-in is automatic when the device is configured correctly.

Device Types​

Fixed Kiosk​

Characteristics:

  • Permanent installation
  • Large (touch) screen
  • Integrated printer
  • Front camera

Typical use:

  • Main reception
  • Corporate lobbies
  • Event entrances

Tablet​

Characteristics:

  • Portable
  • Touchscreen
  • No printer (digital QR Code)
  • Integrated camera

Typical use:

  • Temporary events
  • Small receptions
  • Mobile installations

Desktop/Laptop​

Characteristics:

  • Conventional equipment
  • Monitor + keyboard/mouse
  • USB printer
  • Webcam

Typical use:

  • Receptions with an attendant
  • Backup for the main kiosk
  • Corporate environments

Best Practices​

  1. Position strategically: A visible and easily accessible spot at the entrance

  2. Signal clearly: Signs indicating "Visitor Self-service"

  3. Provide visual instructions: Stickers/screens showing a step-by-step guide

  4. Test regularly: Validate operation daily

  5. Monitor supplies: Printer paper, connectivity

  6. Have a backup: A plan B if the kiosk fails (manual service)

  7. Train the reception: The team should know how to operate and troubleshoot

  8. Protect physically: Prevent vandalism and improper use

  9. Keep it clean: A clean screen, presentable equipment

  10. Update messages: Adapt texts based on feedback

Security​

Access Control for the Device​

  • Use the browser ID to restrict use
  • Change the authentication key periodically
  • Monitor the device's access logs

Physical Protection​

  • Fix the equipment to prevent theft
  • Use a lockable cabinet/mount
  • Security cameras monitoring the kiosk

Sensitive Data​

  • Configure a session timeout
  • Do not save visitor data locally
  • Always use HTTPS

Troubleshooting​

The kiosk does not print the QR Code​

Causes:

  • Printer offline or out of paper
  • Silent printing not configured
  • Incorrect default printer

Solution: Check the printer, configure silent printing

The virtual keyboard does not appear​

Cause: The option is not enabled in the configuration

Solution: Edit the device and enable "Use virtual keyboard"

Access denied when opening the URL​

Causes:

  • Incorrect authentication key
  • Blocked browser ID

Solution: Check the URL, release the browser ID

The camera does not work​

Causes:

  • Camera not configured in the system
  • Network/connectivity problem
  • Browser permissions

Solution: Check the camera registration, browser permissions

Next Steps​