Question
My attached Elo magnetic stripe reader isn't reading card swipes. How can I fix this?
What should I do if my Elo magnetic stripe reader isn't recognizing card swipes?
Why isn't my Elo magnetic stripe reader working when I swipe cards?
Answer
Here are some steps you can take if you're having trouble with your magnetic stripe reader (MSR) not reading cards.
Clean the MSR
A dirty MSR is a common cause of errors.
Use the cleaning pads we supplied or a microfiber cloth.
Pass the cloth slowly through the swipe slot in one direction, then repeat in the opposite.
Test the reader with both a credit and a swipe card after cleaning.
Clear the Toast App Cache
Go to App Settings > Toast app.
Select Clear Cache and close the app.
Test the reader again.
Re-establish Connectivity
If the above steps don't work, you might have a connectivity issue.
Hard Reboot: In Toast app settings, if Clear Default is grayed out under Launch by Default, perform a hard reboot. This should prompt a USB connection request.
No Connection Request? Physically remove and reinstall the reader by unscrewing the two Phillips head screws on the back, detaching it, and reattaching it.
Try a Different Port: If issues persist, switch the reader to another port on your terminal. See our guide on how to Remove Your Magnetic Card Reader (MSR).
If the issue continues, there might be a fault with the reader or terminal.