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Choosing a credit card machine can be an overwhelming task for a retail merchant. Today’s credit card terminals offer different functions, price points, and even connectivity. Making the best choice for your company is crucial to avoid future costs down the road. The most popular brands in the market today are Verifone, Nurit, Hypercom, and Omni series.

Here is a breakdown of the different types of credit card machines and their functionality.

Dial Up Credit Card Machine
This is probably the most commonly used terminal in the industry. The credit card terminal consists of basic functions like batch, sales, authorization, refunds, etc. and communicates over a standard phone line. A good example of this would be the Nurit 2085, but newer models are out there.

IP Based Terminal
With the acceptance of high speed internet, a new type of credit card machine has entered the market. Referred to as an IP based terminal, the credit card machine has all the functionality of the dial up terminals, except it communicates over the internet through an Ethernet connection. This frees up your phone line or can replace it all together lowering your costs. If you already have high speed internet at your retail location, then this is the way to go. The VeriFone Vx570 is a great example to start with.

Wireless Credit Card Terminal
These credit card terminals work over cellular networks and allow you to accept credit cards where every you can receive a signal. They are great for in the field transactions or places like trade shows and flea markets. They are far more expensive and bulky then your IP based terminals but depending on your business may be worth the price. Look for the VeriFone Vx610 as a good starting point in this category.

Computer Payment Software
As USB swipers become more accepted, computer based credit card processing is gaining traction. One of the cheaper solutions, a USB Magtek swiper plugs into your computer via USB and allows you to accept credit card payment through an internet connection of some kind. These work on laptops desktops and even some mobile smart phones. They do require some getting use to but in the end are a great alternative to the more expensive credit card machine.

It’s very important to pick a machine that will meet your retail business’s needs today and in the future. Total-Apps can help you choose the right credit card machine for your business. Wanna know more then inquire today!