RALPHS TO TEST SELF-SCANNERS

COMPTON, Calif. -- Ralphs Grocery Co. here will conduct a one-store test of customer self-scanning technology.

at accepts cash, credit and debit cards, and dispenses change.

The self-scanning stations feature computer monitors that prompt shoppers through the checkout process, and they can be programmed in several languages.

Officials at Ralphs declined to comment, but a source familiar with the situation indicated that the system would be operational by May. The location of Ralphs' test store was not disclosed.

The system, which operates off industry standard personal computers, was developed by Optimal Robotics, Plattsburgh, N.Y.