Terminal Stops Working
If your point-of-sale (POS) terminal has frozen or stopped working, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. However, with some basic troubleshooting steps, you can often quickly resolve the issue and get back to processing transactions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your POS terminal has frozen or stopped working:
Step 1: Restart the Terminal
The first step in troubleshooting a frozen POS terminal is to simply restart it. This can often resolve the issue and get the terminal back up and running. To do this, locate the power button or switch on your terminal and turn it off. Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on again.
Step 2: Check Connections
If restarting the terminal doesn’t work, the next step is to check the connections. Make sure all cables are securely plugged in and that there are no obvious signs of damage or wear. If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure the signal is strong and that there are no interference issues.
Step 3: Check for Error Messages
If the terminal is displaying an error message, take note of the message and look it up in the user manual or online. Many error messages are specific and can help identify the root cause of the issue.
Step 4: Try a Different Payment Method
If the issue is isolated to a specific payment method, try using a different one. For example, if the chip reader is not working, try swiping the card instead. If the issue persists across all payment methods, then it is likely an issue with the terminal itself.
Step 5: Contact Technical Support
If none of the above steps resolves the issue, it’s time to contact technical support. Most POS systems have a dedicated support team that can help you troubleshoot and resolve any issues. Be prepared to provide them with details on the issue, including any error messages or symptoms you have observed. Also, remember to reach out to your merchant service provider (or whatever company you purchased the device from) and not the terminal manufacturer.
Step 6: Reach Out for Help
If steps 1 through 5 aren’t successful, fill out the form below and we’ll attempt to get your information to someone who can help. We can’t guarantee a response, but we will try.