If your magnetic card reader isn't reading cards or has stopped working, this can prevent staff logins or loyalty card scanning.
Follow the troubleshooting steps below to quickly identify and resolve common mag card reader problems:
Check the power and connections
Ensure your mag card reader is properly connected to your till system. Check that the USB cable or connection cable is securely attached at both ends. If the reader has a power indicator light, verify it's lit.
Clean the card reader head
The magnetic stripe reader can accumulate dirt, dust, and residue from cards over time. Use a mag card reader cleaning card (available from office supply stores) or gently wipe the reader slot with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
Test with different cards
Try swiping several different magnetic stripe cards to determine if the issue is with specific cards or the reader itself. Ensure the cards you're testing aren't damaged, demagnetised, or expired.
Check your swiping technique
Swipe the card smoothly and consistently through the reader at a moderate speed. Ensure the magnetic stripe is facing the correct direction (usually facing down and toward the reader). Swipe in one fluid motion without stopping.
Inspect the magnetic stripe on cards
Examine the magnetic stripe on the card for scratches, wear, or damage. Cards with damaged or worn stripes may not read properly. Try cleaning the card's magnetic stripe with a soft cloth.
Verify the reader orientation
Ensure you're swiping the card in the correct direction through the reader. Some readers require swiping from top to bottom, others from front to back. Check for directional arrows or icons on the reader.
Restart the card reader and till
Disconnect the mag card reader from your till, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect it. If the issue persists, restart your till system to re-establish the connection and reload the reader drivers.
Check system settings
Verify that your mag card reader is recognised and enabled in your till system settings. Ensure it's configured as the active input device for card reading and that the correct reader type is selected.
Test the reader in another USB port
If using a USB-connected reader, try plugging it into a different USB port on your till. This can help identify if the issue is with a specific port rather than the reader itself.
If your mag card reader still isn't working after following these steps, raise a support case with our team. Provide the following information:
Your mag card reader model and connection type.
Whether the reader shows any indicator lights.
If the issue affects all cards or only specific ones.
Whether the reader worked previously or is newly installed.
Any error messages displayed on your till.
The troubleshooting steps you've already completed.