Datacap Logo

Back to Glossary

PIN Pads

A PIN pad (PIN entry device) is a device used in a credit, debit or smart card-based transaction to accept and encrypt the cardholder’s PIN data. PIN pads are normally used with integrated or semi-integrated Point of Sale. The Point of Sale is responsible for taking the sale amount and initiating the transaction.

PIN Pads are not to be confused with stand beside terminals, that are completely separate from Point of Sale systems. Stand bedside terminals require all sales to be manually entered into the terminal. A Point of Sale system cannot communicate with a stand beside terminal.