Card terminal showing approved transaction on small screen

Card terminal displays an approved transaction on a small screen, a common sight in Brazilian commerce.

About this subject

The card terminal, also known as a Point of Sale (POS) device, is the equipment used by merchants to process credit or debit card payments. In Brazil, the adoption of these devices grew exponentially from the 2000s onwards, driven by the popularization of cards and the reduction of cash usage. Today, it is rare to find a commercial establishment without a terminal, whether wired, wireless, or integrated into automation systems.

The terminal screen, usually LCD or OLED, displays essential transaction information: amount, payment method, approval status, and sometimes the cardholder's name. The message "Transaction Approved" is the green light to complete the purchase, generating a printed or digital receipt. This step is crucial for security, confirming that funds have been verified and transferred.

In the Brazilian context, card terminal usage is regulated by the Central Bank and card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Elo, etc.). Chip and PIN technology became mandatory in 2014, reducing cloning fraud. Additionally, contactless payment (NFC) has gained ground, allowing quick transactions without inserting the card. The terminal in the image, in a documentary morning setting, may represent the start of a business day when the first sales are recorded.

Interestingly, Brazil is one of the countries with the highest number of card terminals per capita, reflecting a digitalized financial system and a population that has strongly embraced electronic payments. In 2023, the country had over 10 million active POS devices, according to data from the Brazilian Association of Credit Card and Services Companies (ABECS).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 'Transaction Approved' message on the card terminal mean?

It indicates that the payment has been authorized by the card issuer and that funds are available for the transaction. The purchase can be safely completed.

What are the main card brands accepted in Brazil?

The main ones are Visa, Mastercard, Elo, American Express, and Hipercard. Each has its own network and processing rules.

How does contactless payment (NFC) work on terminals?

The card or mobile device with NFC technology is tapped near the terminal, which performs wireless communication to authorize the payment, without needing to insert the card or enter a PIN (for low amounts).