How to Stamp Customer Cards and Issue Rewards Using the Scanner App

Overview

The Perkstar scanner app is your mobile tool for processing customer loyalty transactions—stamping cards, issuing points, redeeming rewards, and managing all customer interactions at the point of sale. The scanner operates through your web browser, allowing you and your staff to process loyalty transactions from any smartphone, tablet, or computer.

What you can do with the scanner app:

Stamp customer cards instantly after purchases
Issue points for reward and cashback programs
Redeem rewards and process discounts
Track customer visit history
Process transactions for all loyalty card types
Give staff members their own scanner access
Set permissions for what staff can do (Scale plan only)
Use on mobile devices or desktop computers with barcode scanners

How it works: The scanner app runs in your web browser at a dedicated URL. Log in with your Perkstar credentials (or staff credentials if you've created team accounts), and you can immediately start processing customer loyalty transactions. Use it on your phone for mobile flexibility, or set up a stationary scanning station at your checkout counter with a computer and 2D barcode scanner.

Accessing the Scanner App

Direct Scanner App URL

The scanner app is accessed through a dedicated web address:

Scanner App URL: https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login

You can:

Bookmark this URL in your mobile browser
Add it to your phone's home screen for quick access (recommended for mobile)
Access from any desktop computer at your point of sale
Bookmark on desktop browsers for quick access
Share this link with staff members who need scanner access

Platform compatibility:

Mobile devices: Smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android)
Desktop computers: Windows, Mac, or Linux with any modern browser
Tablets with keyboards: Can function as stationary checkout stations

Finding the Scanner Link in Your Account

If you can't remember the URL, you can always find the scanner app link from your Perkstar dashboard:

Log in to your Perkstar account at app.perkstar.co.uk
Click on the user profile icon in the top-right corner
Look for Scanner App in the dropdown menu
Click to open the scanner app in a new tab

This method is helpful for:

First-time access when you don't have the URL saved
Sharing the link with new staff members
Confirming you're accessing the correct scanner URL

Choosing Your Scanner Setup

Mobile vs. Desktop Scanner

Mobile setup (smartphone/tablet):

Best for: Mobile businesses, pop-up locations, roaming staff, flexible environments
Pros: Portable, no additional hardware needed, easy staff access
Cons: Requires holding device, smaller screen, battery considerations
Recommended for: Food trucks, market stalls, mobile services, small boutiques

Desktop setup (computer + 2D scanner):

Best for: Fixed checkout counters, high-volume locations, dedicated cashier stations
Pros: Hands-free scanning, faster processing, larger screen, no battery concerns
Cons: Requires additional hardware, less portable, setup time needed
Recommended for: Retail stores, cafes with registers, salons with reception desks, restaurants with POS systems

Hybrid approach: Many businesses use both—desktop scanners at fixed locations and mobile devices for roaming staff or backup during busy periods.

Setting Up Desktop Scanner (Computer + 2D Barcode Scanner)

What You Need

Hardware requirements:

Computer or tablet: Any device that can run a web browser (Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook, iPad with keyboard, etc.)
2D barcode scanner: USB-connected scanner capable of reading QR codes
Internet connection: Stable WiFi or ethernet connection
Monitor: Clear display for viewing customer information (optional but helpful)

Why you need a 2D scanner: Customer loyalty cards display QR codes (2D barcodes). A standard 1D barcode scanner (like those used for product barcodes) won't work—you specifically need a 2D/QR code scanner.

Recommended Hardware: Sunmi Blink

Product recommendation: Sunmi Blink 2D Barcode Scanner

Why we recommend the Sunmi Blink:

2D/QR code compatible: Reads all types of QR codes including loyalty cards
Hands-free design: Stationary scanner for fixed checkout positions
Fast scanning: Quick read times even in high-volume environments
USB plug-and-play: Simple connection to any computer
Durable construction: Built for commercial retail use
Omnidirectional scanning: Reads codes from multiple angles
Auto-trigger mode: Automatically scans when code is presented

Alternative options: While we recommend the Sunmi Blink, any 2D barcode scanner will work as long as it:

Reads QR codes (2D barcodes)
Connects via USB
Functions as a keyboard input device (most USB scanners do)
Has presentation/auto-trigger mode for hands-free operation

Setting Up Your Desktop Scanner Station

Step 1: Hardware Setup

Position your computer at your checkout counter or reception desk
Connect your 2D scanner via USB port
Install any drivers if required (most are plug-and-play)
Position the scanner where customers can easily present their cards
Test the scanner by scanning a test QR code to verify it works

Step 2: Browser Setup

Open your preferred browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
Navigate to https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login
Bookmark this page for quick access (Ctrl+D or Cmd+D)
Consider pinning the tab so it's always open during business hours
Enable full-screen mode (F11 on most browsers) for distraction-free scanning

Step 3: Login and Test

Log in with your Perkstar credentials
Test the workflow:
- Open scanner app
- Click into the search/scan field
- Present a customer card to the scanner
- Verify the customer profile loads automatically
Adjust scanner position if needed for optimal scanning angle

Step 4: Staff Training

Show staff how to present cards to the scanner
Practice processing transactions using the larger desktop interface
Create quick reference guide for common transactions
Keep backup method ready (mobile device) in case of technical issues

Desktop Scanner Workflow

Processing transactions with desktop scanner:

Customer presents card
- Customer opens their digital loyalty card (Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or PWA)
- Customer holds phone near the 2D scanner
Scanner reads QR code
- Scanner automatically reads the QR code
- Customer profile loads on your screen immediately
- No typing or manual searching required
Process transaction
- View customer's current balance on large screen
- Click Add Stamp, Add Points, or Redeem Reward
- Confirm the transaction
- Customer's card updates instantly
Complete and ready for next customer
- Scanner returns to ready state
- Present next customer's card to continue

Hands-free operation: With a presentation scanner like the Sunmi Blink, you don't need to hold or press anything—just position the scanner so customers can present their cards, and it reads automatically.

Setting Up the Scanner App on Mobile Devices

Why Add to Home Screen (Mobile)

Adding the scanner app to your home screen provides several benefits for mobile users:

Quick access: Tap once to open, like a native app
No browser clutter: Doesn't open with your browser tabs
Full-screen experience: Removes browser navigation for cleaner interface
Stays logged in: Maintains your session more reliably
Professional appearance: Looks like a dedicated business app

Recommended setup: Every staff member who processes transactions on mobile should have the scanner app installed on their phone's home screen.

Installing on iPhone (iOS)

Step 1: Open the Scanner URL

Open Safari browser on your iPhone (must use Safari, not Chrome)
Navigate to https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login

Step 2: Access Share Menu

Tap the Share button at the bottom of the screen (box with upward arrow)
Scroll through the options in the share sheet

Step 3: Add to Home Screen

Tap Add to Home Screen
Edit the name if desired (e.g., "Perkstar Scanner" or "[Your Business] Scanner")
Tap Add in the top-right corner

Step 4: Access from Home Screen

Find the new icon on your home screen
Tap to open the scanner app
Log in with your Perkstar credentials

Result: The scanner now appears as an app icon alongside your other apps. Tapping it opens directly to the scanner login screen without browser navigation.

Installing on Android

Step 1: Open the Scanner URL

Open Chrome browser on your Android device (Chrome recommended)
Navigate to https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login

Step 2: Access Browser Menu

Tap the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner
Look for Add to Home screen or Install app option

Step 3: Confirm Installation

The browser may show an "Install app" prompt automatically—tap Install
Or select Add to Home screen from the menu
Edit the name if desired (e.g., "Perkstar Scanner")
Tap Add

Step 4: Access from Home Screen

Find the new icon on your home screen or app drawer
Tap to open the scanner app
Log in with your Perkstar credentials

Alternative for older Android versions: If you don't see "Add to Home screen":

Tap the three dots menu (⋮)
Select Settings or Page info
Look for Add to Home screen or Create shortcut

Result: The scanner functions like a standalone app, opening directly without browser controls visible.

Installing on Tablets

iPad: Follow the same process as iPhone using Safari browser. iPads work well as stationary checkout devices when paired with a stand.

Android Tablets: Follow the same process as Android phones using Chrome browser. Consider adding a 2D barcode scanner via USB for hands-free operation.

Windows/Surface Tablets: Access through browser bookmark. Can connect USB 2D scanner for hands-free scanning at checkout.

Logging Into the Scanner App

Using Your Perkstar Account

Business owners and managers: Log in with the same credentials you use for the main Perkstar dashboard:

Open the scanner app (from home screen icon, browser bookmark, or direct URL)
Enter your email address or phone number
Enter your password
Tap or click Log In

Session persistence: The scanner stays logged in even when you close it, so you don't need to log in repeatedly throughout the day. You'll only need to log in again if you explicitly log out or clear your browser data.

Desktop tip: Keep the scanner browser tab open all day during business hours. Pin the tab so it doesn't accidentally close.

Staff Account Login

If you've created staff accounts for your team, they log in with their own credentials:

Open the scanner app (mobile or desktop)
Enter their assigned staff username or email
Enter their staff password
Tap or click Log In

Permission levels: What staff members can see and do depends on the permissions you've configured in their account settings (available on Scale plan only).

Using the Scanner to Process Transactions

Desktop Scanner Method (with 2D Barcode Scanner)

Fast, hands-free transaction processing:

Step 1: Ready State

Ensure scanner app is open and logged in
Scanner cursor should be in the search/scan field
Customer approaches with their phone ready

Step 2: Customer Presents Card

Customer opens their loyalty card in their wallet
Customer positions phone's screen near the 2D scanner
Scanner reads QR code automatically (no button press needed)

Step 3: Profile Loads

Customer profile appears immediately on your screen
View current balance, stamps, or points
See transaction history and loyalty status

Step 4: Process Transaction

Click Add Stamp, Add Points, or other transaction button
Enter amount if required (for cashback, reward points, etc.)
Click Confirm or Process

Step 5: Transaction Complete

Confirmation appears on your screen
Customer's card updates instantly in their wallet
Scanner returns to ready state for next customer

Advantages of desktop scanner:

Speed: Process transactions in 2-3 seconds
Accuracy: No typing errors or manual searching
Hands-free: Staff can focus on customer service
Larger screen: Easier to see customer information
High volume: Handle busy periods more efficiently

Mobile Scanner Method (Smartphone/Tablet)

Step 1: Identify the Customer

Customer shows their loyalty card (Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or PWA)
You can scan the QR code using your phone camera, or
Search for the customer by name, phone, or email

Step 2: Open Customer Profile

Tap on the customer's name to view their loyalty card details
You'll see their current balance (stamps, points, or rewards)

Step 3: Process the Transaction

For stamp cards: Tap Add Stamp or similar button
For points/reward cards: Enter the transaction amount or points earned
For redemptions: Tap Redeem Reward if customer is claiming a benefit

Step 4: Confirm Transaction

Review the transaction details
Confirm the action
Customer's card updates immediately in their wallet

Result: The customer's card is instantly updated with new stamps, points, or redeemed rewards. They'll receive a notification of the transaction if notifications are enabled.

Processing Different Card Types

The process works the same whether using mobile or desktop scanner:

Stamp Cards:

Add stamps for qualifying purchases
Track progress toward free rewards
Redeem rewards when stamp threshold is reached

Cashback Cards:

Enter purchase amount
System calculates cashback percentage
Balance updates automatically

Reward/Points Cards:

Enter transaction amount or point value
Points added to customer balance
Process reward redemptions

Multipass Cards:

Record customer visits
Track visit streaks and bonus points
Manage visit-based rewards

Gift Cards:

Check remaining balance
Deduct purchase amounts
Show transaction history

Membership Cards:

Verify active membership status
Process membership benefits
Track membership renewal dates

Discount Cards:

Apply percentage discounts at checkout
Track discount usage
Manage time-limited offers

Coupon Cards:

Validate and redeem coupons
Track coupon usage
Manage expiration dates

Managing Staff Access

Creating Staff Accounts

If you have team members who need to stamp cards and process rewards, create dedicated staff accounts for them:

Step 1: Access Staff Management

Log in to your main Perkstar dashboard
Navigate to Settings → Managers or Team section
Click Add Staff Member or Create Manager Account

Step 2: Enter Staff Information

Name: Staff member's full name
Email or Username: Login credential they'll use
Password: Create secure password (or let staff set their own)
Role/Title: Optional, for your internal reference

Step 3: Set Permissions (Scale Plan Only) If you're on the Scale plan, configure what this staff member can access:

Process transactions: Add stamps, issue points, redeem rewards
View customer data: See customer profiles and history
Manage customers: Edit customer information, add notes
Access reports: View analytics and transaction reports
Send notifications: Permission to send messages to customers

Step 4: Save and Share Credentials

Save the new staff account
Share the scanner app URL with the staff member
Provide their login credentials securely
Show them how to access the scanner (mobile home screen or desktop bookmark)

Best practice: Each staff member should have their own account. This allows you to track who processed which transactions and maintain accountability.

Staff Permission Levels (Scale Plan Only)

The Scale plan offers granular permission controls for staff accounts:

Full Access:

Process all transaction types
View all customer data
Access reports and analytics
Send notifications to customers
Manage some business settings

Transaction Only:

Add stamps, points, and process rewards
Limited customer profile viewing
Cannot access reports or settings
Cannot send notifications

Read-Only:

View customer information
See transaction history
Cannot process transactions
Cannot modify customer data

Custom Permissions: Mix and match specific permissions based on each staff member's role and responsibilities.

Location-based permissions: If you have multiple locations, you can restrict staff to only process transactions at their assigned location(s).

Note: Permission management is only available on the Scale plan. Starter and Growth plans can create staff accounts (Growth: up to 10 users, Scale: up to 25 users), but all staff have full transaction processing access.

Best Practices for Scanner App Usage

For Business Owners

Choose the right setup for your business:

High-volume locations: Desktop scanner with 2D barcode reader
Mobile operations: Smartphone or tablet with home screen installation
Multi-location: Consider desktop at primary location, mobile for others
Hybrid approach: Desktop during peak hours, mobile as backup

For desktop scanner setups:

Position scanner where customers naturally present their phones
Ensure adequate lighting so scanner can read codes easily
Keep the browser tab pinned and logged in during business hours
Have a mobile backup ready in case of technical issues
Clean the scanner lens regularly for optimal performance

For mobile setups:

Install on multiple staff phones/tablets
Have backup devices in case of technical issues
Keep devices charged with accessible chargers
Consider a dedicated tablet at your checkout counter

Train staff thoroughly:

Walk through the complete transaction process (desktop and mobile)
Demonstrate how to handle redemptions
Practice with test transactions before going live
Create quick reference guides for common scenarios
Show proper card presentation angle for desktop scanners

Monitor transaction activity:

Review daily transaction logs
Check for unusual patterns or errors
Ensure staff are processing transactions correctly
Use this data to identify training opportunities

Secure login credentials:

Use strong passwords for all accounts
Don't share owner credentials with staff
Create individual staff accounts for accountability
Change passwords if staff members leave

For Staff Members

Desktop scanner operation:

Ensure scanner app is open and cursor is in search field
Guide customers to present cards at correct angle/distance
Watch for confirmation that profile loaded before processing
Keep scanner lens clean for reliable reading

Mobile operation:

Stay logged in throughout your shift
Keep device charged
Process transactions promptly
Verify customer identity before stamping

General best practices:

Verify customer identity (especially with manual search)
Double-check names if processing multiple customers quickly
Process transactions immediately after qualifying purchases
Check that the transaction succeeded before dismissing the screen
Handle customer questions about balances and redemptions
Report technical issues to managers immediately

Troubleshooting

Desktop Scanner Issues

Scanner not reading QR codes

Check USB connection: Ensure scanner is properly connected
Test with different QR code: Verify scanner hardware works
Adjust distance: Customer may be holding phone too close or too far
Check lighting: Ensure adequate lighting for scanner to read codes
Clean scanner lens: Dust or smudges can prevent reading
Driver issues: Reinstall scanner drivers if necessary

Scanner reads code but nothing happens in browser

Check cursor position: Cursor must be in the search/scan field
Browser focus: Ensure browser window is active (click in it)
Scanner configuration: Verify scanner is in keyboard emulation mode
Test in notepad: Scan a QR code into notepad to verify scanner outputs text
Scanner mode: Some scanners have multiple modes—ensure it's in 2D/QR mode

Slow scanner performance

Update scanner firmware: Check manufacturer's website
Reduce screen brightness: Very bright phone screens can cause glare
Reposition scanner: Adjust angle to reduce reflections
Check internet speed: Slow connection affects profile loading
Close other applications: Free up computer resources

Scanner repeatedly scans the same code

Auto-trigger sensitivity: Adjust scanner's auto-trigger settings
Add scan delay: Configure scanner to wait between scans
Train customers: Ask them to remove card after successful scan
Manual trigger mode: Switch from auto to manual trigger if problematic

Mobile Scanner Issues

Can't access the scanner app URL

Check internet connection: Scanner requires stable internet
Verify URL: Ensure you're using https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login
Try different browser: Use Safari (iPhone) or Chrome (Android) for best results
Clear browser cache: Sometimes cached data causes loading issues

Login credentials not working

Check spelling: Email addresses and passwords are case-sensitive
Verify account exists: Ensure the staff account was created successfully
Password reset: Use "Forgot Password" link if needed
Contact manager: Staff should verify credentials with account administrator

Scanner app doesn't work after adding to home screen

Reinstall: Remove the home screen icon and add it again
Use browser first: Log in through browser, then add to home screen while logged in
Check iOS/Android version: Very old devices may have limited PWA support
Try alternative: Access through bookmarked browser link if home screen installation fails

General Issues

Customer's card not updating after stamping

Check internet connection: Both your device and customer's device need internet
Verify transaction processed: Look for confirmation message in scanner
Customer notifications disabled: Card may not update if notifications are off (see separate troubleshooting article)
Refresh customer's card: Have customer close and reopen their wallet app

Scanner app keeps logging out

Browser settings: Check if browser is set to clear data automatically
Private browsing: Don't use incognito/private mode
Stay logged in option: Ensure you're not selecting "Log out" inadvertently
Reinstall from home screen (mobile): May maintain session better than browser tabs

Can't find scanner link in dashboard dropdown

Check you're logged in: Must be authenticated to see profile menu
Look for profile icon: Usually in top-right corner of dashboard
Alternative: Use direct URL https://app.perkstar.co.uk/scanner-app/login
Contact support: If still not visible, verify account status

Staff member can't see certain features

Check permissions: Scale plan allows permission restrictions
Verify plan tier: Some features require specific plans
Account role: Confirm staff account has appropriate access level
Ask administrator: Manager must adjust permissions in dashboard

Scanner shows wrong information for customer

Verify correct customer: Ensure you selected the right profile
Refresh data: Pull down to refresh in most interfaces
Check synchronization: Data may take a moment to sync from main system
Log out and back in: Sometimes resolves data display issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Setup and Hardware

Do I need to download an app from the App Store or Play Store? No. The Perkstar scanner is a web-based application accessed through your browser. For mobile devices, you add it to your home screen, but it doesn't require a traditional app store download.

Can I use the scanner on a desktop computer? Yes. The scanner works on any computer with a web browser. For desktop use, we recommend connecting a 2D barcode scanner for hands-free operation.

What kind of scanner do I need for desktop use? You need a 2D barcode scanner (also called a QR code scanner). Regular 1D barcode scanners won't work. We recommend the Sunmi Blink for stationary checkout setups.

Where can I buy a 2D barcode scanner? 2D scanners are available from office supply retailers, Amazon, electronics stores, or directly from manufacturers. Search for "2D barcode scanner" or "QR code scanner."

How much does a 2D scanner cost? Basic 2D scanners start around £30-50. Professional-grade scanners like the Sunmi Blink typically range from £80-150. Consider this a one-time investment that significantly speeds up transaction processing.

Can I use the scanner on both mobile and desktop? Yes. You can use the same scanner app URL on mobile devices and desktop computers. Many businesses use both—desktop at fixed locations and mobile for roaming staff or backup.

Do I need a separate scanner for each location? No. The same scanner app works at all your locations. Each location can have its own hardware setup (mobile, desktop, or both) accessing the same scanner URL.

Staff and Permissions

Can multiple staff members use the same device? Yes, but each should log in with their own credentials for accountability. Log out between users if sharing a device, or provide each staff member with their own device.

How many staff accounts can I create?

Starter plan: No staff accounts (owner-only access)
Growth plan: Up to 10 staff users
Scale plan: Up to 25 staff users

Do staff need their own Perkstar subscription? No. Staff accounts are created by you within your subscription. They log in to your business's scanner app using credentials you provide.

Can I control what staff members can do in the scanner? Yes, but only on the Scale plan. You can set granular permissions for each staff member. On Starter and Growth plans, all staff have full transaction processing access.

Technical Questions

Does the scanner work offline? No. The scanner requires an active internet connection to process transactions and sync data in real-time. Ensure you have reliable WiFi or mobile data at your point of sale.

What if my phone battery dies during business hours? This is why we recommend having multiple devices with the scanner installed, or using a desktop setup that doesn't rely on battery. Keep backup devices charged or have portable chargers available.

Can I use the scanner on both iPhone and Android? Yes. The scanner app works on both platforms and any desktop computer. Each device should be set up using the appropriate method for their platform.

Will a desktop scanner work with tablets? Yes. Tablets with USB ports (or USB adapters) can connect 2D barcode scanners. This works particularly well with tablets mounted on stands at checkout counters.

Do I need special software to use a 2D scanner? No. Most USB 2D scanners are plug-and-play and function as keyboard input devices. They simply "type" the scanned code into whatever field has focus in your browser.

Operations

How do I know if a transaction was successful? The scanner displays a confirmation message after processing. You'll see the updated balance on the customer's profile immediately after the transaction.

Can customers stamp their own cards? No. The scanner app is for business owners and staff only. Customers cannot access the scanner—they can only view their cards and redeem rewards through their wallet or customer portal.

What happens if I accidentally stamp the wrong customer? Contact Perkstar support immediately. Depending on your plan and settings, you may be able to reverse transactions or they can assist with corrections.

Can I see transaction history in the scanner? Yes. Open any customer's profile in the scanner to view their transaction history, including stamps earned, points redeemed, and visit dates.

What if the scanner URL changes? Perkstar will notify you of any URL changes. You would need to update your bookmarks and reinstall the home screen icon (for mobile) or update bookmarks (for desktop) with the new URL.

Is the scanner secure? Yes. All data is transmitted securely over HTTPS encryption. Require staff to use strong passwords and log out when leaving devices unattended.

Do I need to update the scanner app? No. Because it's web-based, you always access the latest version when you open it. There are no manual updates required.

What if my customer doesn't have their card with them? You can search for customers by name, phone number, or email in the scanner app. Process their transaction even if they forgot to bring up their digital card.

Can I process transactions for customers who haven't installed their card yet? If the customer exists in your system, yes. However, they won't see the updates until they install their card. It's better to help them install first if possible.

Which is faster—mobile or desktop scanner? Desktop with a 2D barcode scanner is significantly faster for high-volume operations. Scanning takes 1-2 seconds vs. 5-10 seconds with mobile manual search. For busy periods, desktop scanning is more efficient.