POS receipt printer: key features

A POS receipt printer is an important element of an integrated POS system for retail shops, food service establishments, and other businesses that print receipts as part of their sales transactions. An efficient printer provides a single-color or dual-color receipt at the end of each transaction, clearly listing the full details of the purchase including items sold, method of payment, the date and time of the sale, and even the name of the clerk or customer service representative.

Using a reliable and efficient POS receipt printer can ensure that sales and transactions are coordinated smoothly so that the purchasing process is efficient for all customers and your staffers.

Key features of a POS receipt printer

POS printers may offer either thermal or standard printing options. Each offers two different levels of print quality and performance. You can design POS printers with the following components and features:

• Drop-in paper loading. A simple way for employees to change paper rolls when the printer is out of paper.
• Multicolor printing. Some POS printers are equipped with dual or multicolor printing to make it easier for different departments to quickly distinguish between different sets of information.
• Logo printing. You can add your company logo to the bottom of the receipt, or highlight special offers on each print run.
• Wall-mount bracket. An essential element for busy work stations or areas where the printer needs to be installed away from potentially hazardous materials.
• Cutter. A sharp blade to enable easy tearing of the paper when the receipt has been printed.

Selecting the right type of POS receipt printer for your establishment may require consulting with multiple vendors to identify your most important needs. In many cases, vendors will be able to offer an attractive price based on other POS components you intend to purchase.

Service and maintenance of POS printers

While the actual POS printer is inexpensive, you will have to make frequent purchases of consumables such as:

• Ink cartridges
• Receipt paper reams
• Toner cartridges
• Cutter blades

POS receipt printers are relatively easy to maintain, but some operational problems may require you to request an on-site repair or contact the vendor to make a replacement. Review the details of your warranty or service agreement to find out what the vendor's policy for maintenance may be before purchasing a replacement printer on your own. If the printer is no longer covered by a warranty, the vendor or manufacturer may extend maintenance or repair services for a small fee.

Get the right POS receipt printer for your business – submit a free BuyerZone request for POS system price quotes today.