FAQ# 961:

How do I get my POS software to open my cash drawer?

Answer

Most cash drawers are opened by a small electrical pulse sent from the printer to the cash drawer via a cash drawer cable. These drawers are referred to as "printer-driven" drawers. This is the variety of printer we will cover here.

(Other cash drawers are controlled by USB or serial port, and are dealt with much differently from printer-driven drawers. In addition to requiring different steps for configuration, your software must be compatible with USB/serial cash drawers.)

PRINTER-DRIVEN CASH DRAWERS

1. Verify that the printer is connected to the computer and able to print a Windows test page. (Instructions.)
2. Verify that the cash drawer cable is connected correctly. (Instructions.)
3. Assure that your POS software is configured to use your receipt printer and to use a printer-driven cash drawer. For further instructions regarding this step, please contact the developer of your point-of-sale software.
4. Attempt to process a transaction or no-sale via your POS software. If the cash drawer kicks, it is correctly connected. If not, you may need to troubleshoot the drawer. (For testing your drawer with an Epson or POS-X printer, see our guide, here.)

CONNECTING A CASH DRAWER WITH A BUILT-IN CABLE

Connect the cable to the back of your printer.

CONNECTING A CASH DRAWER WITH A SEPARATE CABLE

Connect one end of the cable to the printer and the other end to the cash drawer. If the cable does not fit, try connecting it in the opposite direction.