Blunt decision rule
Start here
Draw each checkout and production station before ordering hardware. Assign every device to a location, power source, network connection, owner, warranty, and replacement plan. Then compare the same complete bill of materials across vendors.
Checkout station
- Register, tablet, or computer
- Customer-facing display
- Payment terminal or reader
- Barcode scanner
- Receipt printer and paper
- Cash drawer and till
- Stand, mount, security lock, and cable management
Food-service and fulfillment
- Kitchen display screens or printers
- Bump bars and mounts
- Label printer and label stock
- Order-status display
- Pickup printer or tablet
- Scale if supported and appropriate
Network and resilience
- Business router and internet service
- Ethernet runs or dedicated wireless coverage
- Switch and power-over-Ethernet needs
- Battery backup where appropriate
- Cellular backup if supported
- Spare reader, printer, cables, and power supply
Ownership and lifecycle
- Purchase versus financing or lease
- Warranty and advance replacement
- Compatibility if payment processor changes
- Expected replacement cycle
- Software support end date
- Shipping, tax, installation, and training
Official starting points
Sources to confirm before buying
Features, terms, support, and compatibility can change. These links are starting points; the written quote and agreement control the actual purchase.