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!
