Testing Your Card Reader
The card reader test verifies that AccuArk can establish a connection to your payment terminal.
How to Run the Test
- Open Program → Machine Configuration
- Go to the Payments & Accounts tab → Hardware Configuration section
- Make sure your card reader type and connection are configured
- Click the Test Reader button
What Is Tested
The card reader test performs a connectivity check based on the connection type:
| Connection Type | What Is Checked |
|---|---|
| Network / IP | TCP connection to the terminal's IP address and port within a 3-second timeout |
| Serial / COM | The configured COM port exists and can be opened at the configured baud rate (default 9600) |
| USB | Returns Pass — USB card readers are managed by their own drivers and are assumed available when connected |
| Bluetooth | Returns Pass — Bluetooth pairing is verified at the OS level |
Supported Reader Types
| Reader Type | Typical Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stripe Terminal | Network / IP | Requires the terminal to be powered on and connected to the same network |
| Worldpay Terminal | Network / IP | Requires the terminal to be powered on and connected to the same network |
| Generic Manual Swipe | USB or Serial | Basic magnetic stripe readers |
Interpreting the Results
- PASS — AccuArk can reach the terminal. This confirms network/serial/USB connectivity but does not test payment processing itself (that depends on your payment processor configuration).
- FAIL (Network) — the terminal is not responding at the configured IP and port. Check that the terminal is powered on, connected to the network, and that the IP address and port are correct. Firewalls may also block the connection.
- FAIL (Serial) — the COM port cannot be opened. Check the cable, USB-to-serial adapter, and COM port assignment.
Important Note
The card reader test only checks that AccuArk can communicate with the physical terminal. It does not process a test transaction. To verify end-to-end payment processing, use the Test Connection feature in System Settings → Payment Processing.