A cloud POS runs in the browser. That often means you don't need a special "POS terminal": a tablet, a computer or a phone is enough. Here is what each spot in the business needs.
The counter (till)
A 10–11 inch tablet on a stand is the most common choice. Android or iPad work the same. If you already have a computer at the counter, it can be the till with a touch screen or a mouse. Keep it on the shop's Wi-Fi and plugged in all the time.
Waiters
Waiters can take orders on their own phones. The owner approves each device once, and each person signs in with their own PIN, so you know who took which order.
Kitchen and counter printers
Most thermal network printers (Epson, Star, Xprinter, Bixolon and others with ESC/POS) work, including older ones. They need a network cable or Wi-Fi on the same network as the tablet. Because a browser cannot reach local network printers by itself, a small bridge program runs on a computer or on the Android tablet itself and sends the print jobs.
Tip: give the printer a fixed IP address on the router, so it isn't lost after a restart.
Card terminal
If you already have a Viva, EveryPay or myPOS terminal, it can be connected so the amount goes from the till to the terminal by itself. Another option is a phone as the terminal (tap to pay), where a phone accepts contactless cards. Ask your provider which terminals support connecting.
Screens: kitchen, order numbers, menu
Any TV with a browser, Android TV or tablet can be a kitchen screen, an "order ready" screen or a menu on the wall. No special equipment: the screen opens an address and links with a code.
Internet
A cloud POS needs internet. Keep a 4G/5G phone as a second connection (hotspot), so you can carry on if the line drops.
What to buy first
- A tablet for the counter (if there is no computer there).
- A kitchen printer, if you don't have one.
- Nothing else until you see how it works: phones, screens and a terminal are often already there.
How IKAROS POS does it: POS software for cafés and take away, on a tablet or phone
Questions
Do I need a special POS terminal?
Not necessarily. A tablet, computer or phone with a browser is enough for a cloud POS.
Will my old printers work?
Most thermal network printers with ESC/POS work, through a small program on a computer or an Android tablet.
Can waiters use their own phones?
Yes. The owner approves each phone once, and each waiter signs in with their own PIN.
What if the internet goes down?
A 4G/5G phone as a hotspot is the simplest second connection to keep the business running.
These guides are general information, not tax or legal advice. For your own business, ask your accountant.