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Vending & Unattended Retail Fundamentals

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Credit Card Readers (Installation & Overview)

Credit Card Readers (Installation & Overview)

Mike Hoffmann

Vending Machine Expert

Master the installation of the NIAX D-Post Touch credit card reader in vending machines, ensuring seamless operation and setup.

Installation Overview

In this lesson, Matt walks through the complete, hands-on installation of the NIAX VPOS Touch Credit Card Reader on a Wittern/Futura 3589 combo vending machine. This detailed guide addresses common viewer questions and ensures clarity around each step.

The reader will be installed in the machine’s designated credit card reader panel. Key components used include:

  • The NIAX reader with mounting plate

  • MDB cable

  • Antenna cable

  • Instruction manual and drill guide (not used here due to a pre-fitted mount)

Disassembly: Accessing the Reader Mount

To begin, Matt powers off the machine and opens the cabinet.

Coin Mechanism Removal:

  • The coin chute is unscrewed first (two screws on top, smaller ones on the side).

  • The coin mech is then unbolted using an 11/32" socket and removed with care to avoid losing hardware.

Bottom Screws and Final Detachment:

  • Two additional Phillips screws at the base are removed.

  • The entire coin mechanism is carefully pulled out and disconnected from the top wiring harness.

This provides full access to the mounting area behind the dollar bill acceptor, where the reader will be placed.

Modifying the Mount Frame

Matt encounters a thick metal frame that prevents easy mounting of the reader.

  1. Using a grinding wheel, he shaves down the metal plate at four bolt points (two top, two bottom) to reduce its thickness.

  2. Eye protection and gloves are essential during this process.

  3. Burrs are cleared using a razor blade, and the mounting frame is cleaned.

Once ground down, the mount fits properly and bolts are installed to secure the reader.

Pre-Wiring the Reader

Before final mounting, Matt connects wires while the reader is still external:

  • MDB Cable is connected to the white port inside the reader.

  • Antenna Cable is untangled and connected securely.

  • The plastic wire cover breaks during reattachment, but since it's optional, the install continues without it.

With cables secured, the reader is installed into the frame using bolts and tightened with a socket wrench.

Reassembly: Coin Mech and Wiring

Reinstalling the Coin Mech:

  • Matt routes the wires away from obstruction zones.

  • The coin mechanism is carefully wedged back into place.

  • Top and bottom bolts are secured, followed by reconnection of the coin tubes and box.

Wire Connections:

  • MDB cable from the reader is connected to the coin mech and then to the control board.

  • The antenna is placed inside the machine door.

Final Component:

  • The coin chute is reinstalled using the small screws.

  • All remaining parts are returned to their original positions.

System Boot-Up & Confirmation

With the machine fully reassembled:

  • Power is restored.

  • The NIAX reader lights up and cycles through its boot sequence.

  • After a double reboot (normal for first-time setup), the display confirms successful connection by showing Visa, Mastercard, and other payment logos.

Matt confirms that the reader is now live and functional.

Key Takeaways from Matt

  • This walkthrough applies specifically to the Wittern/Futura 3589, but the core installation process applies across most vending machines.

  • Steps always include: mount the reader, connect MDB and antenna cables, power up, and test functionality.

  • A future video will cover programming MDB codes and setting up the product map in the NIAX back-office software.

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Complete the following exercises:

1. Reflect on a time when you installed or set up a device. How did attention to detail impact the success of the installation? Consider the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

2. Try setting up a simple payment simulation using a credit card reader app. Observe the connection steps and relate them to the NIAX setup process. How does understanding the physical setup enhance your software setup skills?

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QUIZ

1. Which component is essential for securing the credit card reader to the vending machine frame?

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Leave your comments and questions below.

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Join live weekly calls with me & coaches with $1M+/mo vending experience. We'll handhold you through your first vending business.

Join Vendingpreneurs

Join live weekly calls with me & coaches with $1M+/mo vending experience. We'll handhold you through your first vending business.