POS stands for “Point of Sale.” This is the system that your business uses to take money from your customer and provide them with a receipt. Almost all POS systems are computerized for accuracy and convenience.



Essential Parts of a POS System

If you are in the market for a new POS system, you need to know what the basic parts are. Keep in mind that you can buy your POS system as a bundle, with software included, or you can put together your own system by buying the parts separately.

POS Computer – The computer is the most important part of the system. Some POS computers are like PCs that run POS software that you load onto them. Others come with a software program and do not operate like a regular computer.

Cash Drawer – The cash drawer is where you will keep any money, checks, or credit card receipts that you receive. It is connected to the POS computer and will only open when the computer sends it the proper signal. This helps protect you from theft.

POS Monitor – The monitor allows you to see what you are inputting into the POS computer. Many POS monitors are touch-screen enabled, which allows them to be the input device, eliminating the need for a keyboard.

Scanner – The scanner allows you to scan the barcode on the merchandise you are selling. Some scanners are hand held, while others are imbedded into the POS device. The scanner is technically an optional item, since UPC codes can be entered by hand, but using a POS system efficiently without one is almost impossible.

Receipt Printer – The receipt printer is connected to the POS system to allow you to quickly print off a receipt for your customer. In many systems the receipt printer also prints the receipt that the customer signs when paying via credit card.

Optional POS Components

There are other components of a POS system that you may or may not need. If you do need them, they may not seem optional to you, but these are the items that some merchants can do without and still run an efficient store.

Credit Card Terminal/Signature Capture Device – If you intend to take credit cards, you will need a way to read them. Your POS system may have a built in credit card reading option, but if it does not you will need a credit card terminal. You will also need a pin pad to allow your customer to input PIN numbers and sometimes an electronic signature.

Keyboard and Mouse – If you do not have a touch screen on your system, you will need a keyboard and possibly a mouse to input information into your system. These can be specific for your type of store or a traditional PC keyboard.

Customer Pole Display – Customers like to see that their order is being rung up correctly. If they are not going to be able to see the monitor in your setup, consider investing in a customer pole display that shows them a summary of what is being imputed into the system. You may not need this if your pin pad shows a summary of what is being done with the order.

These are the basic components of a POS system, not including the software. As you build your new store, consider which of these parts will be the most helpful. Build a POS system that will be convenient, easy to understand, and efficient. This will ensure that you can complete as many transactions as possible each day.