Cash Registers "If you’re planning to put up a retail business, you need more than a sharp memory and 10 fingers to cope with the challenge." You need a cash register to do the math, store countless product information, and record sales stats which enable you to quickly respond to the changing supply and demand equation from day to day. In short, you need to automate to be efficient.

Exactly what type of hardware your business needs would depend on the volume of sales transactions you expect to make, the number of products you are selling, and the processing requirements that you need to cover, credit card verification, inventory monitoring, etc.

Knowing the extent to which the cash register will be used will allow you to choose the model that's right for your needs.

Cash registers range from simple mechanical devices for holding

cash to sophisticated electronic equipment that incorporate the latest computer software. They can perform multiple functions which include:

	Storage of product codes and prices
	Bar code scanning
	Electronic check acceptance
	Credit/debit card processing
	Security log in
	Sales tax calculation
	Receipt and journal printing
	Inventory tracking
	Electronic coin dispensing

Cash Registers Are Generally Classified Under 3 Categories

1. The Standard Cash Register Drawer

It's the one you commonly see at small retail store outlets selling about 40 products. It's a basic cash drawer type register with a credit card terminal and performs basic mechanical functions like adding up orders, printing receipts, and keeping accurate sales and inventory records. If your business requires you to sell outdoors, such as in flea markets and fairs, there are standard type cash registers that are powered by C batteries.

2. The PC-based System

This state-of-the-art point of sale system is a virtual computer capable of storing thousands of product codes and prices which it instantly recognizes through a built in barcode reader. It is equipped with electronic check acceptance, credit/debit card payment processing, and security log in.

The latest models incorporate touch-screen features for greater convenience. Some also use their own computer software interface instead of depending on the Windows operating system to further enhance reliability. This type of touch screen cash register is ideal for big supermarkets and grocery stores that sell thousands of products and serve hundreds and even thousands of customers per hour.

3. The Self-Service Counter

This type of cash register allows the customer to do his or her own scanning of the bar codes of the items being purchased. Payments in cash can be made by the customer directly through the machine's terminal. In case of credit or debit card payments, there's a PIN pad where customers can input their ATM codes.

How Much Does a Cash Register Cost?

Depending on their features, cash registers can cost from a few hundred dollars to several thousands.

A basic cash drawer type can be available for $150. Cheaper models with a locking metal drawer and the ability to print numeric receipts and sales journals on 2-ply carbonless paper are available for $269.

Some which provide alpha numeric characters, customized receipts, and spill-resistant keyboards can cost around $700.

If you're planning to put up a restaurant, complete POS systems with printer, credit card interface, touch screen, and the ability to let waiters access a customer's check from any terminal can cost around $2500.

Helpful Tip!

If you're a first-time buyer and require a sophisticated point of sale system, look for cash register suppliers that offer free installation and programming support. It will save you a lot of trial and error and help you answer questions to get your cash register functioning at its optimum best.

More information and reviews

• How To Buy A Touch Screen Cash Register For Your Business
  
  Resource for touch screen cash registers - Considerations for your business and where to find the best touch screen tills.
• Why Buy Electronic Cash Registers For Your Restaurant
  
  Which restaurant cash register is best? Check our reviews and information guide.