POS terminals: what it is, how it works, how it connects, and how to use it

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In the realities of modern trading, a POS terminal is becoming indispensable, but what is it? This is a special piece of equipment that helps you optimize your trading systems. With it, customers will be able to pay for purchases at any time, and business owners will receive funds directly to their current account. This greatly simplifies the work process and reduces the amount of cash in the store's cash register. But this is not all the functions that the technique has. This is a multifunctional device that is used in various areas of entrepreneurship. Let's take a closer look at how this works and what benefits their implementation will bring to the organization.

POS terminal: what it is​

This is a special piece of equipment that helps you optimize your trading systems. With it, customers will be able to pay for purchases at any time, and business owners will receive funds directly to their current account. This greatly simplifies the work process and reduces the amount of cash in the store's cash register. But this is not all the functions that the technique has. This is a multifunctional device that is used in various areas of entrepreneurship. Let's take a closer look at how this works and what benefits their implementation will bring to the organization.

This is the name of accessories that are actively used in trade and other areas of activity. Often it is a device for reading bank cards-it helps customers pay for purchases by bank transfer.

This is also the name of the complex, which will include:

• computer with the appropriate programs;
• scanning equipment for checking codes;
• printer to print receipts;
• card reader.

There is often another variety that will be constantly used – POS systems. In them, everything is presented in the form of separate parts that will be separately connected to one control unit – reading equipment, a part for entering a password. A payment terminal can look like a candy bar or as separate parts of a whole.

Defining concepts​

In stores, any visitor met with these types of Pos terminals. In the first meaning, this is a pin pad or acquiring device that a bank card is attached to for payment. They can read any kind of plastic:

• chip-based;
• magnetic;
• contactless.

In addition, special equipment with NFC function – smartphones, watches and rings-will be able to connect and pay for purchases.

The second type is considered a more extensive concept. In this case, it includes a cash register program, a part with a built-in fiscal recorder, a scanner, and other add-ons. It will be used to:

• generate receipts;
• payment accepted;
• pay for delivery if necessary;
• create reports.

POS terminals and systems: the main differences​

The system variety is a fairly common concept. This is a collection of parts that together make up a complete work area that performs all pre-sales and post-sales tasks. These include:

• the cash register keyboard;
• pin pad (for card processing and password entry);
• screen;
• processor;
• module for sending receipts to the Federal Tax Service;
• a technique for scanning individual codes.

The main difference between the two types of cash register equipment is the location where the FR module will function. If you use the first option, it will be located in the computer case, so the software and PC are purchased simultaneously with the pin pad. In addition, the software will have to be entered in the state register of KKT.

The system does not have such difficulties. This module will be located directly in the FR.

Why do I need POS terminals?​

With their help, you can significantly simplify most trading operations – accept payments, calculate the amount of non-cash, control their security and reduce cash in the cash register.

Such equipment must be configured by all companies that sell goods and services to individuals and other organizations. They are required to keep an open current account.

Among the advantages:

• People can pay for purchases without cash, and you can also cancel the transaction if the customer changes their mind;
• All data about payments made will be stored in memory – so you can track your profit and generate reports.
• Special identifiers are embedded – each employee has their own username and password to communicate with the device, this eliminates shortages, surpluses or other deception on the part of employees.

You can use this product to track your sales volume and remaining inventory. It makes it easier to recalculate and get information about balances.

Operating principle and functionality of the POS terminal​

This technique copes with wide responsibilities that are necessary for the normal functioning of any retail outlet:

• At the time of purchase, the employee uses a special device to read the individual code from the label of the sample being sold.
• If the code is not detected or damaged for some reason, you can enter the name on the keyboard.
• The name, quantity to be sold, and stock balance should be displayed on the screen.
• The buyer can pay by bank card or in cash at will.
• When using a POS system, it becomes easy to make a refund – just scan the receipt and get a refund for the product.
• If the goods are paid for in cash, the cashier can find the change in the cash drawer if necessary – it opens after entering the amount that the customer will give.
• A cashless refund is also possible – After scanning the receipt, follow the instructions on the screen and attach the card to the terminal at the right time.
• The equipment works with a bonus and discount program – this allows you to present a discount to regular visitors in accordance with their loyalty cards.
• This technique is used to open and close cash shifts and generate reports.

Connecting a Pos terminal takes a little time. The device itself performs a limited number of actions without a system:

• accepting payments;
• printing out receipts;
• making a refund;
• creating a non-cash report.

It should be understood that in the absence of an agreement with a banking structure, the presence of pin pads is useless.

Who needs a Pos terminal and what violations exist​

In accordance with the law, businesses with an annual turnover of more than 40 million rubles or 5 million rubles per retail outlet must be forced to establish acquiring. Most small companies were able to choose the need for installation on their own.

In 2017, Federal Law No. 88 obliges the buyer to choose whether to pay for the purchase in cash or by bank transfer. Only organizations that operate far from Internet lines, religious companies, and outlets where printed materials are sold are exempt from this obligation.

For violation of the law, a fine of 40 to 100% of the minimum wage is provided. For refusing to accept cards, the institution can be fined in the amount of 30 to 50 thousand rubles. The sanctions were introduced on 1.01.2015.

Sellers will also be fined. If a retail outlet has the ability to accept payment, but the employee refuses to do so to the client, then they may be fined as an official-from 15 to 30 thousand rubles.

Setting up the POS terminal: operation and device of the device​

After the buyer has expressed a desire to pay with plastic for the purchase of products, you need to provide him with this opportunity. Please note that some models do not accept all types of cards. This is clear from the labels indicating payment systems. For the transaction to be successful, the client must check whether the required amount is available on the account.

The number is read or entered into the computer manually or automatically using the software. The total appears on the screen. After reading the barcodes and entering the number of all purchase items, the seller names the cost of the entire basket.

How to use the post-terminal, algorithm of actions:

• Displays the price to be paid.
• A bank card is inserted, held, or attached.
• A connection is established and a request is sent to the bank.
• Authorization is performed, and the cost of purchased products is reserved.
• If everything went well, "Thank you" appears on the pin pad screen.

The equipment can connect and then issue a refusal to perform the operation. This happens if there is not enough money in the buyer's account, if the PIN code is entered incorrectly several times in a row, or if there is a suspicion that the plastic was stolen.

After making a purchase, the device issues two receipts – the seller keeps one and files it in the daily financial statements for the accounting department. The second one is given to the client. Data that the payment has been made is transmitted to the tax service through the operator.

Types of equipment: where it is used​

Several subspecies are active. If there is direct contact between the selling and buying parties, a simple POS terminal is usually installed and a corresponding contract is concluded. It is suitable for all types of stores, chain establishments, and food businesses. It is most common, and it is not difficult to train employees. Among the disadvantages-you need consumables – a receipt tape, as well as a stable Internet connection and energy saving.

The second type is Internet acquiring. It is used when there is no direct contact between the parties. They are installed more often in areas where remote payment via the online store's website prevails. To buy a product, the customer enters the card details and confirms the payment by entering the code from the SMS or from the back of the plastic.

The last type is mobile terminals. They were created recently and are synced with cell phones via apps. Use it where you need to accept payment away from the point of sale or on the road. This is relevant for courier services, field repair shops, or taxi companies.

Software​

They can only work with specialized cash register programs. You should choose them after you have formed detailed requirements for the work of a particular enterprise. This is necessary for the equipment to work properly in conjunction with the business. To do this, select the appropriate software and additionally configure it, if possible.

In order not to make a mistake and not get software that will function with errors, you should contact Cleverens. The company's employees know which software is best suited for your business.

What should be the cash register software?​

It often looks like air – no one notices it while it's working. But as soon as it breaks down or functions slowly – the entire store stops working.

The most important rule is to choose the software that applies to your format. You should not buy software for a grocery store if you sell clothing. Because he will not be able to cope with the tasks set, and useful abilities will be idle just like that.

Several varieties:

• Food.
• DIY.
• Кафе.
• Fast food.
• Trading.
• Fashion retail.

In addition, it is important to think about further possible changes in the work, increasing the scale of the network. There are types of light, standard and optimum.

How does cash register software differ from logistics software?​

The first type of equipment deals with recording and removing products from the database. This is compatible with the EGAIS system and allows you to sell and clean up the remaining alcohol sold. You can use it to create reports for a day or for one individual sales register, print and run sales receipts, and generate invoices.

Logistics software differs primarily in its interface and the fact that it is difficult to apply it to the cash register area. Its main goal is to optimize processes in the warehouse and in the organization as a whole. You can arrange a mini-recalculation and complete inventory, track where and in what quantity the desired product is located.

Advantages of using a POS system and its selection rules​

The main advantages of this technique are several:

• Increases the company's profit. When the customer can pay in cash or cashless at their choice, the probability of making a sale is much higher than if there is only cash. This helps attract people who are used to paying for services with credit cards, and will expand the circle of potential visitors.
• Reduces the time spent on servicing a single customer. Making a cashless purchase is easier than taking money from a person, finding and counting out their change to the ruble.
• Profit is safe. If there is less money in the cash register and more on the account, the probability of theft decreases. Cash collection will not be needed as often.
• Fewer counterfeit bills, especially large denominations.

Do not install equipment that does not match other devices. In this case, if an upgrade is necessary due to an increase in the flow of customers, you will have to upgrade the entire fleet completely.

How to choose a pos terminal: photos​

It is recommended to search according to the size of the business, its tasks and scope of work. A small store needs software that is radically different from a large restaurant chain. If it is difficult to choose the equipment yourself or there is no time to study all the nuances of various programs and devices, please contact Cleverence. The company's employees will help you choose the right software that can handle the organization's optimization tasks.

What to pay attention to​

When choosing details for a store, you should take into account the nuances:

• The keyboard must be made of high-quality material to withstand constant hours of use.
• The monitor should be purchased so that it is comfortable for the eyes, with adjustable brightness and contrast settings, so that it does not fade out and can withstand up to 24 hours of continuous use.
• It is important to take the time to configure the software and train your staff to interact with the program.

Selection criteria​

When selecting a product, you should start from several key features of the device:

• The connection will be wired or wireless.
• Offline operation or via an available Yandex. Checkout connection.
• How many transactions will take place per day – you need to take into account what kind of load prevails and choose the one that will cope with the amount of work.
• Number of ports – they should be enough to connect a variety of peripheral parts.
• The terminal is a monoblock or a system of separate parts, depending on how organized the workplace is and whether there is enough free space there.

Most popular models​

Among the proven techniques, we can distinguish:

• Spark-TT-2015. Small, budget-friendly, can handle significant amounts of information thanks to the built-in 1 GB memory. If you compare it with others, it weighs a little – 4 kg. You can adjust the monitor. Additional commercial equipment can be easily connected.
• Atol Optima. High performance, 4/2 GB RAM. It weighs 1.6 kg and allows connecting peripherals. It runs on battery power and syncs with Wi-Fi.
• ATOL VIVA Smart 4 GB. RAM 4 GB, weighs 6.3 kg. Corresponds to any product. Contacts with additional information. equipment. Supports up to 5 USB ports.

Connection and configuration features​

First, you need to find and prepare a place where the equipment will stand. There it is necessary to ensure the availability of an outlet and stable Internet. Usually, specialists from the company from which the equipment was purchased come to configure it.

Then you will have to register with the state service that controls the activities of individual entrepreneurs and other organizations. This must be done in order to work in accordance with the law. To register it, you will need to bring a special contract signed with the terminal's sales company.

POS terminal without a current account in the acquiring bank​

Theoretically, it is allowed to use the equipment without open calculation. But in most domestic banks, when receiving the device, the presence is a prerequisite for the contract. This allows you to avoid performing fraudulent actions.