Welcome to Teya. Accepting card payments is a significant step for any business, and we're here to make the process as smooth and simple as possible. Setting up a card machine, whether for a new venture or an upgrade, can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be.

This guide provides everything you need to know, from choosing the right device to making your first successful transaction. We'll offer clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to get you confidently up and running. Let's begin.

Your guide to setting up a card machine

At Teya, we design payment solutions with small, local businesses in mind. Our card machines are more than just hardware; they are intuitive tools created to simplify your daily operations and help your business flourish. In today's market, customers expect the convenience of paying by card. By offering card payment processing, you not only meet this expectation but also open your business up to more sales, improve cash flow, and create a more professional experience for your members.

A reliable card machine is crucial. It speeds up transactions, reduces queuing times, and provides secure payments for you and your customers. It's an essential part of modern business, helping you manage your finances efficiently and focus on what you do best: serving your community.

Choosing the right Teya card machine for your business

Selecting the perfect card machine depends on your unique business needs. We're here to help you consider the key factors so you can make the right choice. Think about where and how you'll be taking payments. Do you need a mobile card machine for payments on the go, or will a countertop device at your point of sale be a better fit?

Here are a few things to think about:

• Features: Do you need a device that accepts contactless payments, chip and PIN, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay? All our modern credit card readers do, but it's good to confirm the features that matter most to you.

• Costs: We believe in being honest and transparent about our fees. Understand the transaction fees and any monthly costs associated with your merchant services. We can help you find a plan that makes financial sense for your business.

• Compatibility: Consider how the card machine will integrate with your existing setup. Does it need to connect with your point of sale (POS) software or other business tools? We design our payment solutions to work seamlessly.

Setting up your card machine: step-by-step instructions

Once you've chosen your device, it's time for the setup. We've made the process straightforward, so you can start accepting payments quickly. Follow these simple steps for a hassle-free installation.

Unboxing your new card machine: a quick setup guide

Opening your new device is an exciting moment. Inside the box, you should find everything you need to get started. Typically, this includes:

• Your new Teya card machine.

• A charging cable and power adapter.

• A roll of receipt paper (if your model includes a printer).

• A quick start guide or user manual.

Before you do anything else, take a moment to check that all the components are present and undamaged. Plug in your card machine to make sure it starts charging. A full battery is a great starting point for the setup process.

How to start taking card payments in five easy steps with Teya

With your device unboxed and charging, you're just a few steps away from being ready to take payments.

1. Power on the device: Press and hold the power button to turn on your card machine. The device will boot up and guide you through the initial language and region selection.

2. Connect to the internet: A stable connection is essential for payment processing. You can connect your device to your local Wi-Fi network by selecting the network name and entering the password. If you have a mobile card machine with a SIM card, it should connect to a mobile network automatically.

3. Update the software: Your card machine may need to download and install the latest software updates. This ensures you have the most recent features and security enhancements. Allow the device to complete this process, which might involve a restart.

4. Activate your account: Follow the on-screen prompts to activate your device. This usually involves logging into your Teya account or entering an activation code we've provided you. This step securely links the payment device to your business.

5. Link to your bank account: During the activation process, you'll connect the card machine to your business bank account. This is where your funds from card transactions will be deposited. Make sure you have your bank details ready.

Configuring your payment settings

Now that your card machine is connected and activated, you can customise a few settings to suit your business. You might want to configure how receipts are printed—for example, you could set it to automatically print a merchant copy but ask the customer if they need one. You can also explore options for adding tips, setting up different tax rates, or customising the information that appears on the receipt, like your business name and contact details. Taking a few minutes to explore the settings in your POS software can make your day-to-day transaction management much smoother.

Testing your card machine before use

Before you start using your card machine with customers, it's a good idea to run a quick test transaction. This simple check makes sure everything is working correctly and gives you peace of mind.

To do this, you can process a very small payment, such as £0.10, using your own debit or credit card. Follow the process just as you would with a customer. This test will confirm that:

• The machine can successfully read a card (via contactless, chip and PIN, or swipe).

• The payment is processed and approved.

• The transaction appears in your Teya portal.

• The receipt printer is working correctly (if applicable).

Once the test is successful, you can void or refund the transaction. Now you're ready to go live with confidence.

Common issues and troubleshooting tips

Even the best technology can sometimes hit a snag. If you run into any issues, don't worry. Here are some common problems and simple tips to fix them.

• Connection problems: If your machine can't connect to the internet, first check your Wi-Fi or mobile data signal. Try restarting your router and the card machine. If you're using Wi-Fi, make sure you're within range of the router.

• Card read errors: If the machine is struggling to read a card, the card's chip or magnetic stripe might be dirty or damaged. You can ask the customer to wipe the card and try again. Also, make sure you are inserting or tapping the card correctly.

• Battery not charging: Check that the charging cable is securely plugged into both the machine and the power source. Try a different power socket to make sure the issue isn't with the outlet.

• Frozen screen: Like any electronic device, a card machine can sometimes freeze. A simple restart by holding down the power button usually fixes the problem.

If you try these steps and still need help, our customer support team is always here for you.

Ongoing maintenance and support for your card machine

To keep your card machine in top condition, a little regular maintenance goes a long way. Keep the device clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the screen and keypad. Make sure to keep the software updated to benefit from the latest features and security protections.

Remember, as a Teya member, you're part of our community. We are invested in your success, and that includes providing exceptional support whenever you need it. If you have any questions or run into a problem you can't fix, please get in touch with our dedicated support team.

Conclusion and final tips

Congratulations. You've successfully set up your first card machine and are ready to offer your customers the fast, secure, and convenient payment options they expect. This is a fantastic step forward for your business.

To make the most of your new payment technology, here are a few final tips:

• Train your team: Make sure anyone who will be using the card machine knows how to process transactions, issue refunds, and handle basic troubleshooting.

• Let your customers know: Put a sign up at your till or on your door to let people know you now accept card and contactless payments.

• Keep it charged: Get into the habit of charging your device at the end of each day so it's always ready for business.

We're proud to support you on your business journey. By simplifying payments, we hope to give you more time to focus on what truly matters—growing your business and serving your community.