Step 1: Put your cash register in a suitable place

To get started, put your cash register on a flat, hard surface, ideally at the cashier counter and beside other POS terminals where you pay your customers.

Then you plug it into an electrical outlet.

Note: Don’t use a power cord but plug the register directly into the socket.

Step 2: Install the battery

The battery is the backup power supply for the cash drawer in a power failure. Therefore, you need to install the battery before any function of the cash register.

First, remove the receipt cover to reveal the battery compartment. Some battery compartments are located below the receipt area, and you need to use a small screwdriver to open the cover.

Then, insert the battery according to the instruction manual that came with your cash register. When you’re done, close the battery compartment cover.

Note: You should change the battery once a year for the cash register to work stably and continuously.

Step 3: Install receipt paper rolls

To install the receipt roll, locate the receipt drawer and open the cover. Then, pass the rollover and bring the roll up to the front of the register, where your cashier can tear up receipts for customers.

Test run by pressing the FEED button. The register will catch the receipt and pass it over.

Note: For the paper to load easily in the input tray, make sure the end of your roll has a straight edge.

Next, let’s learn how to open a cash register.

Step 4: Unlock the drawer

To unlock the drawer for the first time, you need to use the key that comes with each of your cash registers. Once the drawer opens, you can leave the key in the drawer during a sales session.

Note: Don’t lose this key and always lock your cash drawer after the sale ends for safety.

Step 5: Turn on the cash register

You can easily find the ON/OFF switch on the side or back of your cash register. However, some cash registers have a key to enable the cash register on the front of it. With that type of cash register, you need to turn the key to the REG position to register.

Also, with newer cash registers, you may see the MODE button instead of the start key. If so, please press the MODE button and scroll to REGISTER mode or active mode.

Step 6: Configure your cash register

In the items of your retail store, there will be taxable or non-taxable items. In addition, you may want to set the date and time. Therefore, there will usually be corresponding function buttons on your cash drawer to program those items. Depending on the type of cash register, to access the program function, you press the mode button to go to the PROGRAM, use the PRG or P key, or manually swipe below the receipt tape cover.

For example, some cash registers have 4 tax buttons to set different tax rates, including VAT, GST, PST, or depending on your location. Follow the user manual to install these functions.

Step 7: Connect with other point of sale devices

The related POS terminal for retail stores includes a cash drawer, credit card reader, a receipt printer, and a barcode scanner. In general, these devices connect to cash registers either wired or wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Before you open your store, it’s a good idea to run a few test transactions to ensure that all of your hardware and software is working correctly, and your employees have mastered how to use a cash register.

Step 8: Close the drawer

Always close the cash drawer immediately after you use it. It reduces the risk of theft. Also, always empty and balance cash drawers before storing them in a safe place at the end of the business day.