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Small business credit card machines are essential pieces of equipment for any retail or service outlet that is interested in simplifying consumer transactions. These devices give an instant connection for points of purchase and allow the purchase to be interfaced with the store’s credit card processing company.
Small business credit card machines are not all alike, however. Some of these devices can make transactions flow smoothly, but others can somewhat bog down the system. Choosing the right one depends a great deal on the features. There are several merchants a consumer should consider when trying to select the best machine for their purposes.
Size Matters In Small Business Credit Card Machines
Small business credit card machines for point of sale purchases come in a variety of sizes. The sized can range from tiny hand-held devices that do not enable customers to swipe their own credit or debit cards to larger models with big buttons and large displays.
When selecting the size, consider these things:
- Pricing
- Ease of use for consumers
- The amount of available counter space
- The division of labor that will occur, i.e., who will have to swipe the card and what impact this might have on offering speedier checkouts.
Connections Make A Difference
Small business credit card machines can be designed to connect with verification centers in a number of ways. Some are faster than others. The options include:
- Dial-up
- Cable or LAN
- Wireless cable
Ideally, a business will want to take advantage of the fastest available connection to facilitate efficient transactions.
Don’t Overlook Security
Small business credit card machines often come with built security features. Security is important to safeguard transactions and protect customers from theft and fraud. Be sure that the card reader you select offers at least SSL encryption.
Memory Is Important
Credit card machines should have a certain level of memory included to record transactions. If a problem arises down the road, it is helpful to research the transaction. At least a few megabytes is generally suggested. Some readers offer the ability to expand memory as needed.
Receipts Are Worth Considering
When a small business credit card machine is selected, receipts will be needed for customers to sign. There are several options in machines on this front. They include:
- Combination devices with the printer attached to the terminal and keypad
- Separate printers that give clerks control over printing and handling of receipts
Other Features To Consider
There are a number of additional features to consider, they are:
- Battery backup devices
- Back lighting for easier viewing of displays
- Third-party support
- Ability to accept debit and gift cards
Selecting small business credit card machines is not as easy as it might sound. Ideally, businesses should select machines based on not only their pricing, but how well the machine works for the specific function required.
