POS hardware checklist for a retail shop in Pakistan
Browser-based POS software runs on hardware you may already own. Before buying anything, here is what a typical retail counter in Pakistan needs, what to look for, and what you can skip.
A computer, tablet or phone
Any reasonably recent Windows or Mac computer with an up-to-date browser can run a cloud POS. A tablet is a good second till on the shop floor or for a pop-up stall, and the owner will mostly use a phone. Prefer a device with a solid-state drive and at least 4 GB of memory for the main counter.
Barcode scanner
A USB barcode scanner is the single biggest speed improvement at a busy counter. Most scanners act like a keyboard, typing the code and pressing Enter, so they work with browser-based POS without drivers. Choose a 2D scanner if you may scan QR codes as well as barcodes. Phones and tablets can scan with their camera, which is fine for low volumes.
Receipt printer
An 80 mm thermal receipt printer is the standard choice: fast, no ink, and wide enough for item names, tax and an FBR QR code. 58 mm printers are cheaper and smaller but cramped for long receipts. Check that the printer has a Windows driver so it can print from the browser. Many customers are happy to receive the receipt on WhatsApp instead.
Barcode label printer
If you tag your own stock — clothing, shoes, accessories — a thermal label printer pays for itself quickly. Common roll sizes are 38 × 25 mm and 50 × 25 mm. If you only print occasionally, A4 label sheets on an office printer are an alternative.
Cash drawer
A lockable cash drawer keeps the float organised and secure. Many drawers connect to the receipt printer and open when a receipt prints; check compatibility with your printer before buying. Whatever drawer you use, count it at the start and end of each shift so shortages are found the same day.
Power and internet
- UPS A small UPS for the counter computer, printer and router keeps the till running through short outages.
- Backup internet A mobile data device or a second connection keeps the cloud POS online when the main line fails.
- Offline mode Choose POS software that keeps selling and syncs later if both fail.
What you can skip
You do not need a dedicated server, a separate 'POS machine', or a special touchscreen to run a modern cloud POS. Start with what you have, add a scanner and a receipt printer, and upgrade the rest as the shop grows.