As we reported last month, some folks are using FreeCCS as a replacement for MacAuthorize. But there’s another alternative, as well.
In March 2001 development ceased on MacAuthorize, a standalone credit card authorization/processing software system from CyberCash. FreeCCS is a free credit card processing system. To use it on the Mac platform, you’ll need a Mac running System 7 or later, any modem that recognizes “AT” commands and is capable of running at 1200 baud, and a valid credit card merchant account with access to the MAPP (MasterCard Automated Point of sale Program) credit card network (or a MAPP-compatible network). MAPP is a general purpose bank processing network supporting a variety of credit cards, not just MasterCard transactions.
However, MCVE from Main Street Softworks “delivers the functionality of MacAuthorize and much much more,” according to CEO Darryl Wright. And an Aqua client will be released this month.
MCVE is a scalable credit card processing engine designed to handle credit card authorizations and transactions that is also certified to support major clearing house protocols. MCVE creates a direct connection from websites or Point of Sale (POS) computers to end credit processors thus minimizing both errors and time associated with modern credit card authorization systems. Additionally, MCVE allows the retailers to retain and distribute current merchant accounts.
MCVE provides a stable and secure system by conforming to POSIX standards and implementing “light weight threaded” processes to speed and protect all transactions. Also, MCVE offers simultaneous support of multiple modems, merchant accounts and processors with minimal CPU usage and maximum efficiency, according to Brad House, lead developer for Main Street Softworks.
It offers multiple processor support and application programming interfaces (C/C++, Perl, PHP, Java) that support IP/SSL/DROP for application connectivity. Among its graphical administrative tools are an Aqua interface configuration and monitoring utilities.