Point of sale (POS) hardware such as cash registers, card readers, and barcode scanners plays an important role in any retail business. These tools let store workers quickly ring up purchases, take different types of payments, and keep track of inventory levels. However, technology is always becoming more advanced. The POS gear that worked well a few years ago might not be as helpful now. Some signs show it could be time for updated POS hardware in your store. So let’s go over some of those signs to look out for so you know when an upgrade would be beneficial.
Frequent Crashes and System Errors
If your current POS system seems to freeze, crash, or display error messages regularly, it could be a sign that the hardware is getting outdated and unreliable. Over time, internal components like memory, storage space, and processing speed deteriorate which makes systems more prone to glitches. Frequent downtime wastes valuable time that could be spent assisting customers and hurts your business operations. Newer hardware is built to be more stable and less crash-prone.
Slow Performance and Response Times
Outdated POS hardware may run programs and load screens at a noticeably slower speed compared to when you first started using it. Processes like scanning items, completing transactions, and navigating screens could all feel sluggish and unresponsive. This delays checkout times and creates long lines which negatively impact the customer experience. Upgrading to newer systems with more powerful processors and larger amounts of memory will help speed everything up.
Difficulty with Software Updates
As technology continuously progresses, newer versions of essential POS software come out regularly with important features, security enhancements, and technical support. However, aging equipment may not have enough processing power or memory available to adequately run the latest programs. You could encounter compatibility issues when trying to install updates. This forces you to stay with outdated versions that are missing out on helpful innovations. New systems are built to seamlessly support future software releases.
Inability to Adapt to Evolving Payment Methods
Consumer payment preferences are rapidly evolving beyond just cash and credit cards. Contactless cards, mobile wallets, and online/pick-up in-store options are becoming more popular every day. However outdated retail POS solutions may lack the necessary technologies and certifications required to process these modern payment types. This causes your business to miss out on revenue from customers preferring alternative payment methods. Up-to-date POS hardware is equipped to accept all relevant evolving payment protocols.
Higher Costs of Maintenance and Downtime
As POS systems age, parts will need replacing more frequently which increases servicing costs. Things like broken monitors, failing hard drives, dated printers, and other wear-and-tear components all require money to repair or replace. Hardware failures also result in lost revenue during downtime when your business cannot process sales. Overutilized aging equipment may even need to be repaired more often than it’s worth. A new system reduces servicing expenses and prevents revenue-draining outages.
Limited Support from Manufacturers
Electronic manufacturers do not provide ongoing technical support and software updates for obsolete POS models forever. At a certain point, they will discontinue assistance for older hardware products that are no longer in mass production. This means any issues that arise may not be fixed. You’re essentially on your own to troubleshoot without official help from the provider. Newer systems are guaranteed to have manufacturing support available for the lifespan of the product.
Difficulty Integrating New Technologies
As your business evolves, there may come a need to incorporate additional technologies like web-based ordering, loyalty programs, inventory management tools, digital menu boards, and more. But outdated POS systems were not designed to seamlessly integrate these features. Adapting them requires expensive third-party software or modifying the existing system in ways that can cause stability issues. A purpose-built modern system is optimized to effortlessly incorporate new business innovations now and into the future.
Hardware is End of Life
All electronics have a typical usable lifespan before the hardware truly becomes obsolete. After around 5 years, many POS manufacturers will declare their products “end of life” and stop producing replacement parts. Continuing to use end-of-life equipment can pose security risks from unpatched vulnerabilities and result in irreparable failures down the road when crucial components are no longer available. It’s wise to replace systems before support is discontinued.
If you have noticed several of these signs within your own POS hardware, it may be the right time for an upgrade. Hana Retail is an all-in-one POS system that can help modernize your stores’ technical needs. Our solutions are built around powerful and reliable hardware powered by Clover to ensure fast, stable performance for years to come. Sign up for FREE today!
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
