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FAQs

MAGNETIC STRIPE READER (MSR)

What is the difference in the tracks on a mag stripe card?
On a credit and debit card, Track One contains the card holder account number, expiration date, name, and other account data. Track Two contains everything that Track One has except the card holder’s name. Track Three is generally non-existent on credit and debit cards. Track Three is most often used in addition to One and Two on drivers’ licenses in 21 states. Specialty cards may contain any of these tracks (i.e. ID badges, access card keys, etc.)

My new computer does not have a PS/2 port fro my old keyboard wedge reader. What can I use?
The USB Keyboard Emulation is your best bet. But always check with your software provider before purchasing.

How do I connect a magnetic stripe reader to a computer?
There are three interfaces for peripheral MSR’s: 1) RS232, or serial, 2) PS/2, also known as “Keyboard Wedge”, and 3) USB. USB comes in two versions: 1) HID – Human Interface Development for which the interface must be written into the application, and 2) Keyboard Emulation – the output looks like keyboard data to the computer.

CHECK READERS

What is MICR?
MICR is an acronym for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. The ink used to print the bank and account information at the bottom of the check is usually printed in magnetic ink.

What is the best check reader for my business?
Your check processor is the best source for that information. They can tell you what lines and interfaces they support.

How do I connect a check reader to a computer?
There are three interfaces for peripheral check readers: 1) RS232, or serial, 2) PS/2, also known as “Keyboard Wedge”, and 3) USB.

CHECK IMAGING

What determines whether I need check imaging or not?
There are various services within the transaction payment industry which may require or prefer check images as part of the process. Your best source for information as to the requirements is your check processor.

Are the images color or black and white?
Depending upon the imager, images can be captured in color, black and white, or grayscale. If you are maintaining your own file of images, keep in mind that color images are huge files.