Retail POS is designed to be used with multiple setups and operating systems. This guide will help you confirm which hardware is supported when using Retail POS on Windows, Mac, or iPad.

Understanding supported and compatible hardware

You can use Lightspeed-supported hardware or hardware compatible with Retail POS that isn’t supported by the Retail Support team.

Supported hardware

• Available to purchase from the Lightspeed Hardware store.
• Works with Retail POS.
• Retail Support can help with setup and troubleshooting.

If you experience an issue with supported hardware that isn’t resolved through troubleshooting, you can contact Retail Support. Before getting in touch, make sure to have access to the hardware and prepare your business information and a summary of the issue, including troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.

Compatible hardware

• Purchased independently from Lightspeed.
• Typically works with Retail POS, but compatibility may change.
• Retail Support can’t help with setup or troubleshooting.
  • Epson
  • Star Micronics
  • DYMO
  • Zebra
  • Honeywell
  • Socket Mobile
  • Motorola

If you experience an issue with compatible hardware, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer for help. General information may be available in the Help Center or the manufacturer guides for your device.

Understanding operating systems and devices

You can use Retail POS and compatible hardware on a range of devices, including computers, iPads, and mobile devices:

• Windows / Mac

  : A computer running a Windows or Mac operating system, often used for Retail POS administrative tasks.

• iPad

  : An Apple tablet, often used for Retail POS registers and tasks that require portability.

• Mobile device

  : An internet-enabled phone, often used to run Retail POS apps, like the Scanner app.

Retail POS requires the use of up-to-date web browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Your iPad must be running iOS 16.6 or higher to continue receiving updates in the App Store and the Retail (X) app must be version 6.4.2 or higher for stability.

For optimal performance and security, stay up-to-date with the latest available version of your operating system, web browser, and apps.

Understanding connection types

Depending on your business needs, you can connect different types of hardware to your devices using connection types:

• USB

  : Wired connection (USB cable), connects to one device at a time.

• LAN

  : Wired (Ethernet/LAN cable) connection, known for reliability and speed.

• Wi-Fi

  : Wireless connection with extended range, prone to disconnections.

• Bluetooth

  : Wireless connection with limited range, prone to interference.

Preparing to install hardware

If you’re using hardware that wasn’t purchased from the Lightspeed Hardware Store, confirm that it’s compatible with Retail POS before attempting to install.

After receiving your hardware, prepare your technical setup before installing:

1. Unbox and organize your hardware and devices.
2. Use the appropriate hardware connection type for your physical setup and devices.
3. Purchase additional supplies, like blank labels or printer paper, as needed.
4. Check if you need an adapter to connect your hardware to your device (like a USB to USB-C cable).
5. Optimize your physical setup and follow networking best practices to minimize connectivity issues.
6. Make sure the software on your devices is up-to-date.
7. Set up Retail POS.

Supported receipt printers and cash drawers

Supported label printers

DYMO 550 Turbo label printers are not compatible with iPad setups.

Retail POS does not support label printers with serial/parallel ports requiring adapters for USB compatibility.

Supported barcode scanners

Socket Mobile S740

Windows

Mac

iPad

Bluetooth

• Setting up your Socket Mobile scanner

Zebra CS6080 Barcode Scanner

Windows

Mac

iPad

Bluetooth

• Setting up your Zebra CS6080 barcode scanner

Zebra DS2208 Barcode Scanner

Windows

Mac

iPad

USB

Bluetooth

• Setting up your Zebra DS2200 series barcode scanner

Supported payment terminals and card readers

Compatible hardware

Compatible hardware purchased independently from Lightspeed typically works with Retail POS, but compatibility may change.

If you experience an issue with compatible hardware, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer for help.

Compatible receipt printers

Star printers are not compatible with setups using Windows IoT Enterprise.

For guidance on setting up a compatible receipt printer, visit the manufacturer website or our Setting up your receipt printer articles for USB, LAN, and Bluetooth connections.

Compatible label printers

Compatible barcode scanners

Compatible cash drawers

Cash drawers connect to a supported receipt printer and open automatically when a transaction is processed and receipt printed.

• Setting up your cash drawer

Retail POS also supports any cash drawer that is able to connect to a compatible receipt printer via an RJ12 or a CD-101A cable.

Compatible payment terminals and card readers

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