Abstract: The present invention provides for a compact, portable POS terminal through the co-location of a magnetic card slot and a smart card entry slot. In one embodiment, the smart card slot is positioned within a portion of the magnetic card slot. The POS terminal also accommodates contactless instrument readers and optionally includes features for electronic signature capture, user display interaction, multi-tasking capabilities, check reading and age and identity verification.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a rotatable, portable POS terminal through the use of software and hardware that supports different screen orientations for electronic signature capture. The POS terminal also accommodates contactless instrument readers and optionally includes features for user display interaction, multi-tasking capabilities, check reading and age and identity verification.

Abstract: The invention provides increased convenience through use of multiple opposed magnetic stripe reader heads within a POS terminal card reader track. In one embodiment, the various opposed heads are offset along the card reader track. The POS terminal also accommodates smart card and contactless instrument readers and includes features for electronic signature capture, user display interaction, multi-tasking capabilities, check reading and age and identity verification.

Abstract: A data communication method enables the transfer of data having different protocols without requiring increased bandwidth in the transmission line. The system efficiently re-routes data in the event of network alterations and determines a fast and efficient way to transport data based on the then-existing network structure using link-state and distance vector techniques.

Abstract: A point of service (POS) terminal having an integral field replaceable printer for printing a customer receipt and a method for replacing the integral printer. The POS terminal comprises a single, unitary housing which houses the various components typically associated with a POS terminal, but which is also configured to accommodate an integral printer within the terminal housing. The integral print module may be easily accessed, removed and replaced by a merchant without the use of tools or special training and instruction. A moveable access panel associated with the terminal housing provides access to the removable, replaceable printer cartridge and allows the printer cartridge to be removed from the POS terminal and replaced without having to disassemble the POS terminal.