Today, having a merchant account through an Independent Selling Organization (ISO) is a reality of selling goods or services. At a time when card payments are fast replacing cash payments, ISOs allow companies to accept the former in various capacities. If your business hasn’t taken advantage of ISO processing, it could be missing out on significant revenue. But to capture that revenue, you may need a machine that processes card payments. Below, we profile five types of card processing equipment that help businesses increase their revenue potential.
Credit card terminals
The best known merchant card processing machine, a credit card terminal is stationed at traditional points of sale (POS). Ideal for businesses that conduct a high volume of in store card transactions, a single credit card terminal can significantly increase revenue. Features to look for in a credit card terminal include:
- Powerful processor (at least 25 bit)
- Fast dial up connectivity
- Multi-application ability
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions,
- Six months of data retention
- Latest EMV security standards
Credit card terminals can be leased or purchased. For businesses that need them long-term, purchasing is more cost effective.
IP terminals
An IP terminal is similar to a credit card terminal, but its Ethernet connection processes transactions faster than a credit card terminal’s dial up connection. IP terminals are ideal for businesses that conduct steady transactions from open to close, or a high volume in a short period of time. Features to look for in an IP terminal include:
- Powerful processor (at least 25 bit)
- Multi-application ability
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions,
- Six months of data retention
- Latest EMV security standards
- Secondary modem
IP terminals use Ethernet as a primary connection method, but a modem is recommended for backup.
Wireless terminals
A merchant card processing machine for businesses on the go, a wireless terminal is a credit card terminal without the wires. Ideal for companies that sell at changing locations, wireless terminals allow businesses to accept debit and credit payments wherever they go. Features to look for in a wireless terminal include:
- Powerful processor (at least 25 bit)
- Multi-application ability
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions,
- Six months of data retention
- Latest EMV security standards
- Secondary modem
If you sell at changing locations, and you currently only accept cash, using a wireless terminal could significantly increase your revenue.
Pin pads
Pin pads benefit customers in two ways: by allowing them to key in a PIN beyond the view of salespeople, and by erasing their PIN number at the end of the transaction. Features to look for in a pin pad include:
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions
- Support of Master/Session and DUKPT hardware
- Removal from holder for confidential PIN entry
- Latest EMV security standards
- Easy integration with existing POS hardware
- Ergonomic keypad for easy PIN entry
Keypads are intended for businesses that conduct PIN based POS transactions.
Contactless payment readers
Contactless payment readers use an embedded antenna to read contactless credit cards or key fobs. They process payment faster than credit card terminals, and eliminate the hassle of swiping. Features to look for in a contactless payment reader include:
- Reading range of at least three inches
- DES / RSA security encryption
- Multi-application ability
- Compliant with PayPass, ISO 14443, FCC Part 15, and EN 301 489-3
- Clear LED indicators
Due to the convenience they offer to customers and merchants, contactless payment readers are increasing in popularity.
AVPS has the equipment you need
At AVPS, we offer payment accounts and payment processing equipment for every card and check processing need. Whether you need in store credit card processing, online credit card processing, or credit card processing on the go, call us today.
Wireless Terminals
For businesses that operate at different locations, wireless terminals offer flexibility by eliminating wires. These terminals allow you to accept debit and credit card payments anywhere, which is perfect for mobile businesses. Key features include:
- A strong processor (minimum 25-bit)
- Multi-application capability
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions
- Six months of data retention
- Compliance with the latest EMV security standards
- A backup modem
Consider a wireless terminal if your business frequently changes locations and currently accepts only cash.
Pin Pads
Pin pads enhance customer security by allowing confidential PIN entry and erasing the PIN at the transaction’s end. They are designed for businesses that handle PIN-based transactions at the point of sale. Features to consider:
- PCI PED approval for PIN-based transactions
- Support for Master/Session and DUKPT hardware
- Detachable for confidential PIN entry
- Compliance with the latest EMV security standards
- Easy integration with existing POS systems
- An ergonomic keypad
Contactless Payment Readers
Contactless payment readers process payments faster than traditional credit card terminals by using an embedded antenna to read cards or key fobs from at least three inches away. These devices are growing in popularity due to their convenience for both customers and merchants. Key features to look for:
- A reading range of at least three inches
- DES/RSA security encryption
- Multi-application capability
- Compliance with standards like PayPass and ISO 14443
- Clear LED indicators
AVPS Payment Solutions
At AVPS, we provide merchant accounts and a variety of payment processing equipment suited for every need, whether it’s in-store, online, or mobile. For all your card and check processing requirements, contact us today.
