VeriFone Credit Card Machines

If you have a business, chances are that you will need to accept credit card payments from your customers. However, it can be difficult to decide what brand of credit card terminal to buy. There are several different brands of credit card machines, and which one you choose depends largely on the features you want, the services you hope to receive. One of the companies that manufactures credit card machines is VeriFone.

About VeriFone

VeriFone is one of the premier providers of devices that provide electronic payment. The company began in 1981, and immediately began preparing for the future of electronic transactions. System solutions are a specialty of VeriFone, providing integrated systems for different types of companies. Indeed, VeriFone is one of the largest electronic payment systems providers in the world. In 2006, VeriFone acquired Lipman, another leader in the electronic payment devices field. The acquisition has only made VeriFone stronger.

VeriFone specializes in proprietary operating systems that are encrypted and highly secure. In addition to creating payment devices, VeriFone also develops payment software that can be used online and in virtual terminals. VeriFone strives to keep up with the times, and many of its devices are designed to read RFID cards, smart cards, electronic checks, pre-paid cards and gift cards. VeriFone also offers signature capture devices that cut down on paper used.

VeriFone credit card machines

VeriFone has a number of credit card machines. The company, like Lipman, sells machines that run on Nurit. Additionally, VeriFone offers a number of options including:

• Consumer facing: These machines are designed so that the consumer can enter his or her own information. They are generally located in an easily accessible area. Consumer facing credit card terminals are secure and convenient.
• Contactless: These terminals read cards at a distance. These types of terminals allow customers to use their PayPass cards and other smart cards without having to swipe their cards or key in any numbers.
• Countertop: These sit on the counter, and the cashier uses them. The cashier generally swipes the card, and uses the terminal.
• ECR: An ECR credit card terminal is one that is integrated into the cash register. These are very convenient for the cashier. With these types of credit card terminals, along with most countertop terminals, debit cards are run as credit cards – requiring a signature. A separate PIN pad can be attached to the terminal for transaction in which you desire to enter a PIN.

VeriFone products range in price, depending on the type of credit card terminal you purchase, as well as the kinds of features you desire. Some of the more popular VeriFone credit card machines include:

• Omni 3740: This is a plug-and-play terminal that is very easy to use. The interface is user friendly, and similar to using an ATM. This is an all in one card reader with an internal PIN pad, swipe reader, smart card reader and a thermal printer. This allows you to use an IP connection instead of dialup with you want. This usually runs for between $150 and $250.
• Vx670 Wireless: If you are looking for a wireless that is small and easy to carry around with you, the Vx670 is the way to go. This is designed as a wireless mobile credit card terminal that allows you the freedom to take your business wherever you need to. This is especially helpful for door to door sales, deliveries and sales made at shows. Prices are normally between $250 and $500, but you can find  them for as little as $150 with some retailers. In some cases, though, depending on added functionality, you may pay $800 or more.
• MX830: One of the customer facing options provided by VeriFone. It allows customers to select from an easy to use menu. Additionally, it accepts a variety of payments, including pre-loaded cards and food stamps in addition to more conventional credit cards and debit cards. Prices range from $250 to $450. There are other customer facing credit card machines in the MX series, some costing as much as $1,000, that provide full video capability and interface.

Before you decide on the right credit card terminal for your business, consider your needs, and figure out a budget. Also, you might check with your merchant account provider. Many providers will give you a credit card machine at a discount when you have your services through them.