The software gets the attention, but a point of sale lives or dies on its hardware. Choose parts that work together and keep working when the power does not.
The core parts
Most shops need the same set.
- A till, tablet or touch screen
- A receipt printer that the software supports
- A barcode scanner if you carry many items
- A cash drawer that opens from the printer
- A card machine from your bank or provider
Plan for load shedding
A small UPS for the till, the router and the printer lets you finish a sale during an outage. Ask the software supplier whether it keeps selling when the internet is down.
Check compatibility first
Confirm every device works with the software before you buy. Buy one set, test it for a week, then roll out to the other tills.