A register is a device that records or transmits data. It can be used to store binary information such as numbers, letters or symbols or it can be used to record the flow of a physical quantity, such as electricity or a chemical reaction. A register can also be used to record the number of items a customer buys or it can serve as a cash drawer for accepting payment from customers. A register can be manipulated by shifting the binary information in it, incrementing or decrementing it or clearing it entirely (setting it to zero). Registers are often associated with computers but they may be used for many different types of devices including mobile phones and televisions.
Mastering the use of a cash register takes rhythm and focus, especially during peak times, but with time and practice your speed will improve, errors will decrease, and the entire process will become second nature. Most modern registers are built to handle a variety of payment options including cash, debit and credit cards, as well as contactless payments such as mobile wallets.
To open a new sale on the register, press the’sale’ or ‘new transaction’ button. Enter the total amount of the purchase using the number keys, which will be added to a running total displayed on the receipt paper roll reader or screen. Some registers will also require you to hit a department key after each item to categorize the purchase (for example, clothing or food). Department keys can be programmed to correspond to different tax rates.
If the customer wants to add a discount code, use the ‘%’ key in the row of buttons that are located to the left of the numeric keypad. The discount percentage will then be applied to the price of the item that was entered in step 5.
Some registers will scan barcodes and automatically enter product information into the system, which can save you a lot of time. However, some registers are not equipped with a barcode scanner and you will need to manually key in each item’s price.
When it is time to close the register at the end of the day, first make sure the ‘NO SALE’ or ‘NS’ key is pressed. This will prevent the cash drawer from accidentally opening while you are still working, which could put you at risk for theft.
Then, if you are using a traditional paper receipt, be sure to load a fresh roll into the printer and replace the old one. If you are using a POS system, be sure the till drawer is completely empty and closed. Finally, be sure to install batteries in the register. These will provide backup memory in case of a power failure. You can usually find the battery compartment underneath the receipt paper area. Be sure to change the batteries once per year. Depending on the model of register, you may need a screwdriver to access this compartment.