Diagnosing Poynt Smart Terminal keypad issues: potential causes, solutions, and preventive maintenance for secure PIN entry.
Measure using a multimeter to confirm. Replace if out of spec.
Check for cuts, kinks, or exposed wires.
Intermittent issues may point to loose connections or ESD. Consistent issues may indicate hardware failure.
The keypad communicates with the main processor via a serial interface (likely UART or SPI). Signal attenuation due to cable strain or connector corrosion can disrupt data transmission. ESD events, especially in dry environments, can temporarily or permanently damage the keypad controller or the main processor's input pins. Voltage fluctuations from the power supply can also lead to erratic keypad behaviour. Software bugs could also misinterpret the input from the keypad.
Keypad does not register PIN entries. Terminal fails to recognize or incorrectly interprets key presses during PIN input.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic components. Handle the terminal with care, especially in dry environments. Always disconnect the terminal from the power source before cleaning or inspecting cables. Do not use excessive force when connecting or disconnecting cables. NEVER attempt to open the device's casing due to PCI-PTS security measures.
Implement cable strain relief measures to prevent damage to the keypad cable. Regularly clean the keypad with a dry, lint-free cloth. Use an anti-static mat during dry weather to minimize ESD events. Schedule regular preventative maintenance checks to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Try pressing and holding the 'Clear' or 'Cancel' key for 5-10 seconds. Some Poynt terminals have a built-in diagnostic mode triggered by this key combination, which might reset the keypad controller or display error codes. This does NOT bypass security, it only restarts the software.