Magnetic stripe readers or magnetic card readers are devices used in interpreting data found on the magnet stripe of a debit, credit or any other payment card that you might be using. The reader works by using magnets to scan code from different cards. To use the card reader you have to slide it through the slot. You can also hold the card near the reader.



There are many benefits that come with having the readers in your business. One of the benefits is that they save you time and effort. In the absence of the devices, you would have to manually put data into your computer but with the readers, in place you have to only slide the card into the reader and you are good to go. The card reader also increases efficiency as you are able to finish recording the financial information fast and continue working.

Types of magnetic readers

There are many types of these card readers that are ideal for different uses. There are those that are ideal for use in retail stores, restaurants, and other vending areas. These aid in processing debit, credit, and gift card payments. There are others that are effective in reading smartcards. These read information in both the smart chip and magnetic stripe. Regardless of the reader that you buy you should ensure that it's of high quality.

Factors to consider when buying a magnetic reader

For you to buy the right unit you need to consider a number of factors that include:

Readability: The units are designed for high or standard volume use. The high volume readers come equipped with components that allow them to live for a long time. They are known for their longer reading channel which ensures that they are able to scan the details in a card on the first pass. In most cases, they are made from metal. Due to these features, they are usually expensive to purchase. The standard volume readers, on the other hand, are not of high quality like the high volume readers. Due to this, they often require an additional pass for them to read your card.



Interface: The readers have three main interface options: serial, USB, and PS/2 keyboard wedge. USB and PS/2 interfaces send information back to the computer as if it was typed on the keyboard. Card readers connected using serial interfaces often require special software in order to interpret data.