5 Tips for Retail Technology Troubleshooting

Technology is a wonderful tool, but it can also be finicky and need troubleshooting from time to time. If you are experiencing more troubleshooting needs than you’d like to admit, you’re in the right place. With years in the industry, our team at Retail Tech Inc. knows retail point of sale and technology systems well, and we can help you troubleshoot with 5 tips for common issues with retail technology hardware.

5 Tips for Common Issues with Retail Technology Hardware

1. Fix Power Problems

Power problems are one of the most prevalent POS system issues and one of the worst. When you have a power issue, your entire system can be down for seconds, minutes, or even hours. While the culprit might be an outdated system, here are a few other tips you can try to fix the problem:

• Use a surge protector
• Get a backup battery
• Replace the current battery
• Routinely check power equipment
• Replace damaged cords and plugs

2. Handle Printer Issues

From paper jams to poor printing to no printing, it’s easy to run into issues with point of sale systems and other tech. If it’s not fixed, there can be huge delays in service and waste supplies while it’s happening. So, here are some tips you can try to handle printer issues:

• Check if the paper roll is empty
• Make sure ink and toner levels are adequate
• Keep an eye out for paper jams or debris
• Clean the printing head and rollers
• Ensure everything is connected properly

3. Smooth Over Card Reader Issues

Oftentimes, it’s easy to assume the problem is with a customer’s card, but if the issue persists for multiple people, you’re probably experiencing card reader issues. If you don’t fix the problem, it can lead to delayed service and customer dissatisfaction. Using these tips, you may be able to solve the issue:

• Ensure that the customer’s card isn’t expired, damaged, or fraud
• Clean the card reader
• Wipe the magnetic strip or chip of the card
• Test card reader connection
• Double-check the settings are in the right place

4. Reduce Network Issues

Network issues are almost as bad as power outages when it comes to point of sale and technology operations. A slow connection, a dropping connection, and network failure all impede normal customer service and slow your business down. By using these network issue tips, you may be able to find a resolution: 

• Ensure internet service provider and equipment is reliable
• Use a secure firewall
• Track network traffic and bandwidth
• Optimize internet operations
• Routinely update devices

Related Read: Top Security Features to Look for in a POS System

5. Solve Display Issues

A flickering, frozen, distorted, or dim screen can impede normal POS operation more than you think. And, unfortunately, it’s also a more common problem than you think. If the issue is drastic enough, it can make using your point of sale or technology system virtually impossible. So, here are a few tips to try to fix your POS display issues:

• Restart your technology
• Secure cable connections
• Update drivers
• Scan for malware
• Upgrade your hardware

Another Troubleshooting Solution to Try

Retail Tech carries a wide variety of new and refurbished POS equipment. We offer installation and staging, POS printer repairs, and more. If you need help choosing a POS system, contact our POS systems specialists for help finding the perfect point of sale solution for your small business.