A card reader is a payment method that’s also known as a Chip and PIN machine, PDQ machine or a card terminal. Card readers allow you to accept customer card payments in a variety of different ways.
These devices are debit card readers and credit card readers rolled into one. They work by:
Card machines like these are perfect for businesses of all sizes, providing a range of features that simplify and speed up the payment process. The Clover Flex puts everything you need to take payments and run your business in the palm of your hand – a portable card reader that's ready whenever and wherever you are.
The Clover range features our popular family of card readers: Clover Station Pro, Clover Mini, and Clover Flex. These dynamic Point of Sale (POS) machines are the ultimate card readers for small businesses and are highly effective across a range of sectors.
With cutting-edge payment processing technology, it’s no wonder that thousands of small business owners across the UK use a Clover card reader. Take a closer look at each Clover payment machine to see a full list of features and select the option most suited to your business.
Why take card payments?
Card machines for small businesses play an increasingly important role as they ensure the security and efficiency of many modern-day transactions. All you need is internet connection and you can benefit from an extensive range of features from your POS system.
Fewer customers pay in cash, debit and credit card usage has gained popularity. Therefore, the ability to take card payments has become essential for businesses who want to accommodate for all customers. Being able to process payments without delay and with the assurance that your customer’s data stays secure should also be a priority. That’s where Clover comes in.
With a Clover card reader, you’ll be able to:
From Chip and PIN, to contactless, to mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, Clover POS solutions securely accept all major payment types and keep your customers happy.
Get regular free cloud-based software updates to keep your business running smoothly and securely. Plus, benefit from customisable accessories and apps to drive business growth.
Enhance your business with insights and robust reporting that provide real-time insights into sales and revenue data, as well as customer trends and best-selling items.
Access our unrivalled UK-based support teams to help you with anything from setting up your Clover for your business needs, to support with customisation and troubleshooting.
Compare our Clover card readers and discover the perfect card reader and POS solution for your business.
A card reader reads the data on the card provided (whether it’s inserted for Chip and PIN or swiped/tapped using near-field communication). The full process can be broken down into 4 steps:
1) Authentication: The data that is embedded on the card is authenticated.
2) Verification: The merchant’s payment processor contacts the customer’s card issuer (usually a bank) to verify the card.
3) Authorisation: The card issuer then checks the funds in the cardholder’s account and authorises the payment.
4) Confirmation: Once authorised, a response is sent back to the card reader to confirm that the transaction has been approved.
Most importantly, all the above occurs in a matter of seconds!
Most modern card readers will allow you to either insert your card and then enter your PIN (Chip and PIN), or swipe/tap your card (or mobile wallet) using near-field communication contactless technology.
You may also see or hear a card reader referred to as a card machine, a card terminal, a PDQ machine, or a payment terminal.
If you would like to purchase one of our Clover card readers, or if you’d like further information about any of our products, simply contact our Sales team today.
To get a quote for any of our Clover card readers contact our Sales team today.
If you would like to purchase one of our Clover card readers, or if you’d like further information about any of our products, simply contact our Sales team today.
Yes. A card reader is just another name for a card machine. However, that doesn’t mean that other devices labelled card machines or card readers come as fully equipped and capable like our Clover devices.