PDQ Machines: Compare Brands and Benefits
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Choosing the right PDQ machine for your business can help you avoid headaches, downtime and customer frustration. Anything which adds to customer waiting times or limits their payment options is likely to reduce your chances of securing repeat custom. Not only this but technological errors can make even the best service seem inadequate and lead to bad word of mouth spreading fast.
In order to maximise your efficiency in processing card transactions and keep customer satisfaction at peak levels, take a little time to consider the various options among PDQ machine. The right choice will help maintain that smile on your customers face as they leave, not turn it into a scowl.
Countertop PDQ Machines
Retailers with a fixed point of sale will probably opt for the simplest of PDQ machines which connects to a landline. Some of the most popular options are:
- Hypercom T4220 – A user friendly chip and PIN machine which downloads software updates quickly, the T4220 is a fairly chunky bit of kit which takes up more space on the countertop than its competitors.
- Ingenico ICT220 – A slenderer unit, handy for when space is at a premium. Not as technologically advanced or user friendly as the T4220 though.
- Verifone VX510 – A hefty, durable unit for coping with high volumes. Large keys, easy to use; can be fitted with privacy shield.
Portable PDQ Machines
Portable terminals are suitable for the hospitality industry where the PDQ machine must go to the customer not the other way around. They communicate with a base station via Bluetooth or Wireless technology.
- Ingenico 930BCC – Uses Bluetooth. Another slender Ingenico terminal. Available with optional contactless technology for the newer breed of swipe cards.
- Hypercom M4240 – Again, Hypercom don’t make small terminals but they are easy to use, durable and this model sports long range Bluetooth for larger premises.
- Verifone VX670 – The VX670 is a mid-size, easy to use unit with a slim paper roll. Its real draw though is its ability to utilise Wi-Fi technology for more reliability over long ranges than that allowed by Bluetooth.
Fully Mobile PDQ Machines
Mobile PDQ machines utilise GPRS or GSM technology to perform card transactions almost anywhere. They’re ideal for use at fairs, exhibitions or trade shows or by a mobile sales team.
- Hypercom M4230 – Uses GPRS/GSM but can also be connected to a base station for dial back-up. In-car charger makes downtime a rarity. Durable and easy to operate.
- Axalto MagIC X1000 – Another chunky unit with an external aerial. Can handle up to 3 SIMs for greater flexibility and has a built in keypad privacy shield.
Whichever type of PDQ machine you opt for, be sure to get several quotes from different suppliers. If you’re looking for a merchant services provider as well as a PDQ terminal, bear in mind that some merchant services companies have deals with particular manufacturers, so you may be limited in your choice.
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