Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve common POS printer errors by checking the connection, paper, settings, and software of your POS system.

Another main driver of print related support calls is a time discrepancy between workstations. Simplest to hardest troubleshooting print issues should always start with syncing time of all stations on the POS network.

What are the common causes and solutions for POS printer errors?

A POS system is a vital tool for any retail or hospitality business, but it can also cause frustration when it malfunctions. One of the most common issues that POS users face is printer errors, which can disrupt the flow of transactions, receipts, and orders. In this article, we will explain some of the possible causes and solutions for POS printer errors, and how to prevent them from happening again.

1 Check the connection

The first thing to do when you encounter a POS printer error is to check the connection between the printer and the POS terminal. Sometimes, a loose or faulty cable, a power outage, or a network issue can prevent the printer from communicating with the terminal. To fix this, make sure that the cable is securely plugged in, that the power supply is working, and that the network is stable. You can also try restarting the printer and the terminal, or switching to a different port or cable if available.

Add your perspective

Gregg Smith

Program Manager of Information Security Vulnerability Management
Report contribution
Firstly, make sure it's turned on. Secondly, you might have a melted or frayed wired if it's on the hotline, so check all of that. There's also a chance the servers knocked the cables loose behind the server station.

Like
ABDUL RAUF

Technical Support Analyst at Alberta Health Services
Report contribution
Reconnect your receipt printer's power cable and USB cable (if using). Turn on your receipt printer. Reopen the Retail POS app and sign in. Print a test receipt to confirm the refreshed connection.

Like
James N.

Debt Collection Consultant at Regional Business Connections Limited (Narok County Contract
Report contribution
Developers: What could be the Cause of a H10 Android POS reporting, Hardware Failure or logging someone out of the app without the person logging themselves out, What could be the cause of a POS machine printing more than one receipt in a single instance? while the command is to print one single receipt?

Like

2 Check the paper

Another common cause of POS printer errors is paper-related problems. These can include paper jams, low paper levels, wrong paper size, or poor paper quality. To fix this, make sure that the paper is loaded correctly, that there is enough paper in the roll, that the paper size matches the printer settings, and that the paper is not damaged or dirty. You can also try cleaning the printer head and the paper feed mechanism with a soft cloth or a compressed air can.

Add your perspective

Gregg Smith

Program Manager of Information Security Vulnerability Management
Report contribution
Check paper type. You can't use thermal on the hotline as it'll just print black. Size issues are immediately apparent so you'd know about that before you walk away from the unit.

Like

3 Check the settings

Sometimes, a POS printer error can be caused by incorrect or incompatible settings on the printer or the terminal. These can include printer mode, paper cut mode, baud rate, character set, or firmware version. To fix this, make sure that the settings on the printer and the terminal match each other, and that they are compatible with your POS software and hardware. You can also try updating the printer driver and firmware, or resetting the printer to its factory defaults.

Add your perspective

Jithuraj K Rajan

IT Officer at Celebrity Cruises, Inc.
Report contribution
To resolve printer problems, begin by verifying that the printer model indicated in the Profile.ini file corresponds to the actual printer model. If they match, proceed to assess the communication between the printer and POS Machine with the help of the EPSON OPOS ADK application. However, if the models do not match, it is advisable to delete the Profile.ini file found in C:\Windows and reboot the POS system. After restarting, the Profile.ini file will be generated anew.

Like

4 Check the software

The last thing to check when you encounter a POS printer error is the software on the terminal and the printer. Sometimes, a software bug, a virus, or a corrupted file can interfere with the printer function. To fix this, make sure that your POS software and operating system are up to date, that you have installed the latest security patches and antivirus software, and that you have scanned and removed any malware or junk files. You can also try reinstalling the POS software or the printer software, or restoring the terminal to a previous backup.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve most of the POS printer errors that you may encounter. However, if none of these solutions work, or if you have a more complex or recurring issue, you may need to contact your POS provider or a professional technician for further assistance. Remember, a well-maintained and functioning POS system is essential for your business success and customer satisfaction.

Add your perspective

Robert Wilkie

POS Specialist with Strong F&B Background
Report contribution
Another main driver of print related support calls is a time discrepancy between workstations. Simplest to hardest troubleshooting print issues should always start with syncing time of all stations on the POS network.

Like

What are the common causes and solutions for POS printer errors?

1

2

3

4

1 Check the connection

2 Check the paper

3 Check the settings

4 Check the software

Point of Sale (POS) Systems

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Point of Sale (POS) Systems

More relevant reading