Card payment machines after the PSTN switch-off
Some older card terminals dial out over a phone line to authorise payments. Newer models usually use broadband, Wi-Fi or mobile data. Knowing which you have avoids a failed payment day.
Decisions to make
How does each terminal connect?
Check the terminal settings or ask your payment provider. A terminal plugged into a phone socket is the one to review first.
Swap the terminal or change its connection
Your payment provider decides which terminals and connection types it supports. Replacement terms come from them.
Plan a fallback
Decide what staff do if a terminal cannot connect, for example a second terminal on a different connection type agreed with your payment provider.
Inventory checklist
- Each terminal, its location and how it connects
- Payment provider and merchant account reference
- Any terminal still plugged into a phone socket
- Card payment volumes at your busiest times
Questions for your supplier
- Is this terminal supported after our line changes?
- Can it connect over broadband or mobile instead, and does that need new settings?
- Is there a cost or contract change to replace it?
- What is the recommended fallback if the connection fails?
Who to involve
Your payment provider or acquirer must confirm supported terminals and connection settings. Keep any payment security requirements they set.
Power cuts and backup
Broadband-connected terminals depend on your router being powered. Mobile terminals depend on battery charge and signal.
Test a real transaction on each terminal after your line is migrated, before your next busy trading period.
This is indicative planning guidance, not certification of safety, compatibility or legal compliance. Digital phone services may fail without power. Safety-critical devices require confirmation and testing by the relevant equipment vendor; an online score or analogue adapter cannot guarantee compatibility.
Where Telappliant can help
Telappliant can review and supply the internet connection your terminals use. Terminal support, settings and payment security remain with your payment provider. Migration dates depend on your provider, so check yours rather than assuming one date.