Bambora API 504 Error: Transaction Limit Investigation -... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

A 504 Gateway Timeout error indicates the Bambora API gateway did not receive a timely response from an upstream server while processing the request. This often results from server overload, network congestion, or slow database queries, particularly when handling larger transaction volumes. Check token expiration.

Symptoms:

Bambora API returns a 504 Gateway Timeout error specifically for transaction attempts exceeding a defined amount. Successful transactions occur below this amount.

Possible Causes:

1. Server-Side Timeout: The Bambora API server is experiencing a timeout before completing the transaction processing.
2. Database Query Issues: Retrieving or updating transaction data in the database is taking longer than the allowed timeout period.
3. Network Congestion: High network traffic between the retail system and the Bambora API server is causing delays.
4. API Rate Limiting: The Bambora API is enforcing rate limits, and the number of requests for higher-amount transactions is exceeding the limit.
5. Caching Issues: Inconsistent caching of transaction limits is causing timeout errors.
6. Expired API Tokens: The API tokens used to authorize transactions have expired, causing failed requests.

Solution:

1

Check API Status: Verify the overall health and status of the Bambora API through their status page or API endpoint.
2

Review Transaction Logs: Analyze transaction logs on both the retail system and the Bambora API to identify specific error patterns and timestamps.
3

Validate API Credentials: Ensure the API keys and tokens used for authentication are valid and have not expired. Refresh tokens as required.
4

Optimize Request Payload: Minimize the size of the request payload sent to the API by removing unnecessary data fields. Consider the potential for JSON parity issues.
5

Implement Retries with Exponential Backoff: Implement a retry mechanism with exponential backoff to handle transient network issues and server-side timeouts.
6

Investigate Server-Side Performance: If possible, collaborate with the Bambora support team to investigate server-side performance issues and identify bottlenecks.
7

Clear local DNS Cache: Clear the local DNS cache to resolve potential address resolution problems.

Safety Warning:

Ensure safe handling of the POS system during any troubleshooting steps. Unplug the device from the power outlet and network before performing any physical actions. Avoid actions that could generate static discharge (ESD), especially in dry environments.

Prevention:

Regularly monitor API performance metrics, including response times and error rates. Implement robust error handling and logging mechanisms. Ensure that API keys and tokens are rotated periodically. Optimize database queries. Examine API response codes.

Expert Tip:

Use API monitoring tools (if authorized by Bambora) to track response times and identify performance bottlenecks. Pay close attention to the 'Retry-After' header in the 504 response, if present, as it indicates the recommended delay before retrying the request.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the average transaction size experiencing the 504 error?

Provides a baseline value to benchmark the faulty transactions.

•What is the frequency of the 504 errors for transactions exceeding the defined amount?

Defines the issue's impact by providing insights regarding the recurrence of the reported error.

•Has the transaction limit been recently changed or updated in the Bambora API configuration?

Determines if a configuration change on the server side could explain the reported error.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the average transaction size experiencing the 504 error?

•What is the frequency of the 504 errors for transactions exceeding the defined amount?

•Has the transaction limit been recently changed or updated in the Bambora API configuration?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

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Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: