
Comprehensive Overview of POS Systems A POS system, or point-of-sale system, is a combination of hardware, software and payment services that businesses use to make sales. And as its name implies, this system exists at the physical or virtual point of sale. Online-only businesses, however, do not require hardware to complete their POS systems. At minimum, a POS system records customer purchases, accepts payments and provides receipts, either by printing them or sending them electronically through text or email. Many of the best POS systems for small businesses also generate reports, help manage inventory and track employee hours, among other things. Key Components of a POS System 1. Hardware § POS Terminal – The main computer or tablet where the software runs. § Cash Drawer – Stores cash from sales § Receipt Printer – Prints transaction receipts for customers § Bar-code ...