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Merchant services: The advantages of using smart card readers in commerce

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Smart card reader will be a crucial part of most examples of Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) systems. Because of their convenience and security, smart card readers have also revolutionized the way that businesses sell their goods.

Smart card reader will be a crucial part of most examples of Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) systems. Because of their convenience and security, smart card readers have also revolutionized the way that businesses sell their goods.

Is it time to join the smart card revolution?

Smart cards are not exactly the same as old style debit or credit cards. Instead of containing customer information on a magnetized strip, smart cards contain a tiny microchip and processor, which enables contactless payments. They are often used by stores in their loyalty schemes, as they make transactions quick and easy. Smart cards are now used for hundreds of applications across the world. There are cards for storing electricity credit, security keys and membership cards, cards for purchasing food and clothes, for cinemas, sports events and payphones - just to mention a few. However, their major use is now in credit and debit cards (in every country aside from the United States). This means that a smart card reader is vital for modern businesses if they want to take advantage of the cashless economy.

Smart card reader

The huge advantages of using a smart card reader

For most retailers, the major use of a smart card reader will be in allowing for "chip and PIN" transactions. These are now the standard way that goods are bought and sold in traditional shops - and are essential to succeed in the competitive retail environment. As well as being easy to use and secure, using a smart card reader does not produce a long paper receipt - saving costs.

Providing information and making transactions easy

Nowadays, businesses can purchase a smart card reader with USB support, which plugs directly into the firm's network, operating seamlessly with inventory and sales software. Investing in a smart card reader could be a good idea for businesses seeking to create a membership community where payment is stored, or for businesses who need to limit access to members. Such cards are reliable and safe (they are thought to be more secure than magnetized cards). The smart card reader can also be linked directly to customer databases to track purchases and research business practices. The smart card reader has also become increasingly popular with eCommerce businesses, a trend which looks set to continue. With a smart card reader, loyalty points can be stored and directed towards online offers via well-run membership schemes. Online companies can also sell services using "micro-charges" such as individual films or weekly subscriptions, with a low transaction costs. So anyone running an online business should consider the value of a smart card reader.

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