If you are in the retail or restaurant industry, it’s likely that one of the most important equipment and devices in your business is the point-of-sale (POS) system. Choosing and purchasing the best POS system for your kind of business is just half of the battle. To ensure that you get the most out of your investment and that your business doesn’t suffer from problems caused by a faulty POS, everyone in your business needs to know how to properly use and maintain it.
Sure, there are reliable repair companies that can provide you with topnotch Motorola handheld scanner repair, for instance. However, as much as possible, you should be able to take care of your business devices so that they work smoothly each time and last longer. Read on to get some valuable tips for maintaining and keeping your POS system in great condition.
1. Clean the unit regularly.
POS units are typically used and placed in tough and high-stress environments. Handheld units and components are always exposed to germs, grime, and dirt. Desktop units are also susceptible to accumulating dust and dirt.
Over time, these foreign substances can build up and damage the components of the POS system. This is why it’s necessary to keep it clean of dust and dirt. Simple daily dusting can help keep dirt at bay. You can also purchase a cleaner recommended for delicate electronic devices and screens. Wipe the unit down with a soft cloth, which may be sprayed with a gentle device cleanser.
2. Use the equipment properly and as advised by the manufacturer.
It’s important that everyone who is designated to use the POS system or might use it, albeit not regularly, knows how to properly do so. They should be reminded of best practices. For instance, they should use their fingers, not pens, when using a touchscreen system. They should also press buttons as gently as possible. Employees should take extra care not to spill or drop anything on the POS equipment. Ultimately, they must handle the device and its components with care.
3. Restart the POS machine from time to time.
Many POS system owners are not aware that it will help to restart their unit from time to time. As with many different electronic equipment or devices, restarting usually serves as a quick fix to basic system issues. It also helps the POS take that much-needed break. Unfortunately, there are some businesses that keep the POS running 24/7. While it’s not necessary to turn it off or restart it every day or night, doing so at least once a month will go a long way in preserving a POS system.
4. Back up data.
You’ll never know when your POS system will succumb to unnoticed issues. If you want to minimize the disruption that such a scenario could cause, make it a habit to back up data. To do this, consult your manufacturer’s representative or a computer and network expert. They will know the best way to back up your important business data and help mitigate losses caused by a faulty POS.
5. Purge unnecessary data.
Piled up data can overload your POS system. As much as possible, purge old and unnecessary data to free up memory and space. This will keep the POS system running swiftly and smoothly.
Entrust your system to certified technicians.
Should your POS system stop working smoothly along the way, make sure you only entrust its repair to certified and experienced technicians. This will give you the peace of mind that your equipment is in good hands and that it will be repaired according to industry and manufacturer standards.