Smart Terminals Guide
Choose, set up, and use smart payment terminals for in-person acceptance.
What Is a Smart Terminal?
Smart terminals are countertop or wireless devices with touchscreens, app ecosystems, and built-in payment capabilities. Depending on the model and configuration, they may accept chip, contactless, and magnetic stripe payments and often support value-added apps like tipping, loyalty, and reporting.
Choosing the Right Terminal
Consider connectivity (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, cellular), screen size, receipt printing, supported payment methods, and app availability. Countertop models suit fixed-location businesses, while wireless terminals serve tableside or mobile environments. Hardware compatibility depends on processor, gateway, device model, software configuration, and merchant setup.
Getting Started
Once you receive your terminal, connect it to your network, pair it with your merchant account, run a test transaction, and train your staff. ONKORE can help you select and configure the right hardware for your setup.
Before You Order
Confirm the exact model, processor certification, supported card brands and wallets, network requirements, receipt options, and whether the device is purchased or leased. Ask who handles provisioning, warranty claims, and replacement units.
Go-Live Checklist
Confirm approved provisioning, secure connectivity, correct merchant details, staff permissions, test authorization, receipt behavior, and end-of-day reconciliation. Settlement and deposit timing must be checked separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I own or lease my terminal?
Ownership depends on your agreement. Purchasing gives you ownership and no ongoing lease fees, while leasing spreads cost over time. Review terms carefully — some leases auto-renew and carry early termination fees.
Can I use my existing terminal with ONKORE?
Terminal compatibility depends on the device model and processor. ONKORE offers migration assistance to evaluate whether your existing hardware can be reprogrammed or needs replacement. Contact us to check compatibility.
Check hardware compatibility before you buy
Tell ONKORE which device and payment setup you use so our team can review available options.
- Expert guidance
- Transparent pricing
- Terms reviewed upfront