Verifone VX520 Manual
For merchants that want to accept credit cards at the physical POS, a credit card terminal is a must-have piece of equipment. Used in combination with payment processing gateways and platforms, a terminal can be easily added to your acceptance arsenal to offer more options and boost sales.
To be clear, we’ll want to distinguish POS systems from terminals here a bit. A full POS system will likely include point-of-sale hardware with credit card accepting components built right in. Major retailers are typical users of these systems, as you’ll notice when you go to the cashier and the terminal is set up for one use: accepting your payment. This system is configured to run the POS software and not much else.
On the other hand, a terminal can typically be connected to a regular internet-based device. This enables you to select other software you might need for back office processes and even still cruise the internet. The terminal itself is just for accepting credit cards, which can be swiped or entered manually.
When selecting a terminal, you’ll want to make sure it has these important features:
1. Fast, reliable processing
2. Security features that come standard
3. Intuitive and helpful design
Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Fast, reliable processing
Speedy processing is a must. You don’t need to be stuck waiting for a lazy processor. Swift transactions are important for every business. Look for terminals that can back up their platform’s performance with measurable success, like time-testing operating systems and more memory to capture more payments. Standard memory is 160 MB on most terminals, but some can offer you much more. Also look for how the terminal connects. Ethernet connectivity is a must.
Security features that come standard
In these days, it’s imperative that you consider ways to protect yourself that go beyond just checking IDs at the POS. Intelligent terminals will have these features already built in. For example, you’ll want to ensure the device is PCI approved and updated with the current PIN security standards. Also, given the coming shift in liability, you’ll want to consider if the terminal is future-proof and EMV-compliant.
Intuitive and helpful design
The terminal should be designed for ease of use. The display and keypad should illuminate for better viewing. The paper door should make it easy to refill rolls. Ports should be carefully placed out of the way so that your counter area is free of clutter when the terminal is in operation. These choices will make the day-to-day process of accepting payments run a little bit smoother.
