PCCharge currently supports keyboard wedge, serial port, and USB connectivity. The keyboard wedge connects between the keyboard and the computer, the serial port card reader connects to the computer by a serial port, and the USB connects to the computer using a USB port connection. The type of connection must be configured in PCCharge.
The most common problem that occurs with Card Swipe Devices is that Track 1 and 2 data are not being captured by the device. The device MUST BE configured to read Track 1 and Track 2 data.
When a problem occurs with a card reader, verify the following:
- The card swiper is connected to the computer.
- The card reader's light is on (if the reader has a light).
- The card reader is reading Track 1 and 2 data. Use the correct Swipe Test (see Swipe Test below) and compare the results with the CORRECT format (shown below).
%B4055011111111111^PAYMENTECH^06121015432112345678?
;4055011111111111=06121015432112345678?
Note: The first line MUST begin with %B and end with ? (a question mark). The second line MUST begin with ; (a semi-colon) and end with ? (a question mark). If the format does not match exactly, refer to the documentation for the card reader or contact the manufacturer of the device.
Swipe Test
- Keyboard Wedge or USB - Use this information when the Card Reader is of type Keyboard Wedge or USB - Open a new Notepad text document and swipe a credit card. Use the format above to verify the correct configuration of Track 1 and 2 data. If it's different, the manufacturer of the card reader should be contacted.
- Serial Connection - Use these steps when the Card Reader is connected via Serial Port - Go to Start - Programs - Accessories - Communications - HyperTerminal. Name the Session and click OK. At the bottom of the next screen, click on the dropdown menu and select the COM port at which the device is connected. Click OK. Change the Port Settings to that which is configured in PCCharge for the device - the required settings can be found on the Supported Hardware List (see link below). Click OK. Swipe a card using the reader. Use the format above to verify the correct configuration of Track 1 and Track 2 data. If it's different, the manufacturer of the card reader should be contacted.
VERIFONE PCCHARGE KNOWLEDGEBASE