The ATM processor, also known as an ATM pro, is a computer terminal that is used by the ATM to process transactions. The ATM's processing terminal can take many forms, including a computer terminal, a telephone interface, and a hand held device such as a card reader. There are many different operating systems that control the ATM processor. Each operating system is designed for a specific type of ATM.
An ATM is a machine that processes transactions made at a
local supermarket, a convenience store, and other businesses. The processing of
these types of transactions occurs by the use of a card reader. In some
locations, a magnetic strip is used instead of a card reader to facilitate the
transactions.
An ATM uses software to collect the information about the
customer and the transaction. Then it transmits this information over a serial
line to the processing machine. This entire process happens very quickly. A
couple of minutes may be all it takes to complete one transaction at a local
ATM.
Most ATM's will accept most major credit cards and checks.
There may be specific ATMs that only accept a select few items, such as check
or debit cards. These ATMs are referred to as "smart" or
"special" credit card processing terminals. These special terminals
may only accept certain items, which limit the types of transactions that can
be made. Certain transactions, such as the sale of alcoholic beverages, are not
allowed at all ATMs.
A typical ATM processor will have a keypad that is used for
inputting security related information. It will contain a combination of
letters and numbers. Some of these letters and numbers will be alphabets. Other
letters and numbers will be numeric. The processing time of the transaction is
usually denoted by the amount of time that it will take to process one
transaction.
ATM's may require the customer to key in a four-digit pin
number. This four-digit pin is needed in order for the machine to allow the
transaction. ATM's will have a series of alphanumeric characters that are
commonly referred to as "code" and these are what the customer uses
to make their transaction. Sometimes these code combinations are located on a
label on the ATM. If this label is missing or has become misplaced, it may be
possible for the customer to punch in a new code combination by passing a
magnetized pen through the coin slot.
Some ATM's may only allow two-person transactions. This
means that there may be a time during which only one person may be using the
machine at any given time. ATM's may use a "guest" code to track who
is using the machine at any given time. These guest codes are usually only
written on the receipt that the customer receives after they complete a
transaction. They cannot normally be stored on the ATM's computer.
Depending on the particular ATM, there may be certain
transactions that the ATM processor company considers "safe." For
instance, a withdrawal may only be processed if the customer passes through the
metal detectors. ATMs that do not follow this policy may result in some
individuals having to pay exorbitant fees to withdraw cash from their accounts.
There are also ATM's that will only allow certain
transactions, such as cash withdrawals. They may allow only the most secure
transaction modes, such as inserting a debit card. ATM's may charge a fee for
each transaction that is not allowed due to the extra work required to process
the transaction. This can be a hassle for customers who need to make several
transactions and may hinder their ability to make purchases at many businesses.
Depending on the rules of an ATM, customers can only make
transactions that are allowed by that particular location. For example, an
institution may restrict all non-cash withdrawals, such as credit card
purchases. In addition, a merchant account processor may only accept MasterCard
or Visa purchases at their ATM. They are also capable of issuing receipts for
non-cash transactions.
There are a few things that an ATM should not perform during
processing. Any transactions that involve money being transferred should be
completed with the use of a traditional teller machine (TTM). Additionally, a
PIN request should be done prior to any transaction that requires a card. A
customer may lose their card if they do not enter the PIN number right away.
Lastly, any ATM that accepts a debit card for a transaction should require a
credit card for a non-cash transaction. This helps to ensure that the customer
has the money available to complete the transaction when they run out of
credit.
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