Maksupäätte

Maksupäätte, or payment terminal, is a device used by merchants to accept electronic payments from customers. It can read cards with magnetic stripe or EMV chip, and many models also support contactless payments through NFC, including mobile wallets such as smartphones or smart watches. The terminal typically connects to a payment processor or bank to authorize transactions and may provide a receipt via printing or on-screen display. Maksupäätte can operate as a standalone unit or be integrated with a larger point-of-sale (POS) system.

Types and features vary. Countertop terminals are common in retail and hospitality, while mobile or portable readers enable on-the-go payments. Some devices function as part of an integrated POS solution, exchanging data with the cash register or inventory system. Common components include a keypad or touchscreen, a card reader, a PIN pad, a display, and a printer or digital receipt option. Connectivity options include Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, or cellular networks, and power may come from an AC supply or an internal battery.

Operation and workflow are similar across devices. The customer presents a card or cardless payment method, the terminal reads the data, the customer may enter a PIN, and the transaction is transmitted to the issuer for authorization. If approved, the terminal confirms the payment and prints or displays a receipt. Transactions are typically settled later by the merchant with the payment processor in batches.

Security and standards are central to maksupäätte use. Devices are designed to comply with industry standards such as EMV for card authentication and PCI DSS for data security, with additional protections for PIN entry and data encryption. Ongoing software updates and tamper-resistance are common requirements to maintain security and reliability.