Pin pad cover

Types of pin pad covers

A pin pad cover is a small accessory that fits over the pin pad of a card reader machine. These covers come in different materials, depending on what is preferred or required. Here are the main types of covers:

• Silicone

  Silicone is a popular material for pin pad covers because it is durable and offers good protection against wear and tear. These covers are often easy to clean and have a non-slip texture, making it easy for customers to enter their PIN without the pad sliding out of their hands. Silicone covers are also available in various colors and designs, allowing businesses to customize them to match their branding or create a more visually appealing customer experience.

• Plastic

  Plastic covers are less common and not as widely used as silicone ones. They may be used in some instances, depending the specific requirements of the pin pad. Plastic covers are typically made from a thin, flexible plastic material that fits over the pin pad and protects it. They are lightweight and can be easily removed and replaced when needed. Some plastic covers may have a slightly transparent design, allowing the pin pad display to remain visible while the cover is on. Businesses may opt for plastic covers due to their low cost and ease of use.

• Fabric

  Fabric covers are another option for pin pad protection. These covers are often made from soft, durable fabric material designed to fit snugly over the pin pad. They may have additional padding or cushioning to provide extra protection against bumps or impacts. Fabric covers are often preferred in high-traffic areas or locations where the pin pad may be subject to more wear and tear. They are easy to clean and maintain and come in various colors and designs to match business branding. Some fabric covers may have added features such as a non-slip texture or reinforced seams for added durability.

• Customized Covers

  Some businesses may require custom pin pad covers tailored to their specific pin pad model or usage requirements. These custom covers may be made from any of the materials mentioned above and designed to fit precisely over the pin pad. Customized covers may also have added features such as branding or logos embroidered or printed on them for a more personalized touch. Businesses may opt for customized covers to ensure a perfect fit and maximum protection against wear and tear.

How to choose pin pad covers

When it comes to choosing a pin pad cover, there are many factors to consider. Following are some of the key factors to keep in mind.

• Size and Shape

  It is important to measure the pin pad before purchasing a cover. Each pin pad is different, and the cover needs to fit properly to provide adequate protection. The cover should be snug but not too tight, as this could damage the pin pad over time. The shape of the pin pad will also determine what kind of cover is needed. Round, rectangular, and square are common shapes. Many covers are made of silicone, which is a flexible material that easily stretches to fit different shapes and sizes.

• Accessibility

  The cover should allow easy access to all buttons and functions on the pin pad so users can complete transactions quickly. Some covers have individual openings for each button, while others have a single opening for the entire pad. Consider which option would work best for the specific pin pad and business needs.

• Material

  The material of the cover is important, as it needs to protect the pin pad from dirt, dust, spills, and other environmental factors that could damage it over time. Silicone is a popular choice because it is durable and easy to clean. Other materials, like rubber or plastic, may also be available depending on the size and shape of the pin pad.

• Installation

  Some pin pad covers are easy to install, while others require more time and effort. Read reviews to see how other customers installed the cover and if it was done independently or required assistance. Some covers may need to be stretched over the pin pad, while others simply slip on or have velcro straps.

• Reviews

  Before purchasing a pin pad cover, it is important to read reviews from other customers who have bought the same product. This will provide valuable information on the quality, fit, and overall satisfaction of the cover. Many manufacturers will provide reviews on their websites, or customers can check other retail sites for more information. Reviews are an important part of the purchasing process and should be considered before making a final decision on which pin pad cover to buy.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

• Find out how to remove the cover: Many pin pad covers are flexible silicone or rubber, so the owner can easily slide them off the pin pad. Some may have a more secure fit, requiring gently pulling them out or asking customer service for help. In some cases, removing the cover may require gently prying it off with a fingernail or a thin object. Owners should check the instructions first to avoid damaging the pad or cover.
• Use the correct size cover: The size of the pin pad cover is vital to its proper use. Using a cover that fits too tightly may make it hard for customers to press the buttons or slide their cards. On the other hand, a loose cover won't protect the pin pad as effectively from wear and tear. Finding a cover that strikes the right balance is essential to ensure a smooth transaction experience while maintaining the durability of the pin pad.
• Test the cover: After putting on the cover, customers should test that all buttons respond well and that their card or mobile payment device works correctly. Sometimes, a thin layer of silicone over the card reader may slightly slow down transactions, but it should not take longer than two extra seconds. If the cover hinders speed or function, the customer may need to remove it and try another one.
• Keep the cover clean: Customers need to clean the cover regularly to ensure optimal performance and protection of the pin pad. Dirt and debris can accumulate on the surface, affecting the responsiveness of buttons and the overall transaction speed. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean the cover, ensuring it is dry before placing it back on the pin pad.

Product Safety

• Material quality: The materials used in making pin pad covers are usually high-quality silicone or plastic. These materials are not only durable but also safe, as they do not contain any harmful chemicals that can affect the user's health or the pin pad's functionality.
• Easy Installation and Removal: Pin pad covers are designed for easy installation and removal, which helps avoid damage to the pin pad during the process. Users can easily slide the cover on or off without using extra tools or force, ensuring the cover fits snugly and provides optimal protection.
• Regular Testing and Certification: Reputable manufacturers regularly test pin pad covers for quality and safety standards. These tests ensure that the cover meets industry requirements for durability, compatibility, and user safety. In addition, many manufacturers provide certification details, which can be an added advantage for users looking for proof of quality and safety compliance.

Functions, features and design of pin pad covers

Function

• Hygiene: Pin pad covers are primarily designed to protect pin pads from germs, bacteria, and viruses. These covers often have antimicrobial properties or are made from materials that can be easily sanitized, ensuring that the surface where customers input their PINs is clean and safe.
• Durability: These covers shield the pin pads from wear and tear, protecting them from scratches, spills, dust, and other environmental factors that can damage the device over time. This protection helps pin pads maintain their functionality and appearance longer, reducing the need for replacements and saving costs for businesses.

Feature

• Easy Installation: Most pin pad covers are designed for easy installation and can be fitted or removed in no time. This can be especially useful for businesses that need to clean or replace covers frequently.
• Custom Fit: Covers are available in various sizes and designs to fit different models of pin pads perfectly. A custom fit ensures that the cover provides maximum protection without hindering the device's usability or aesthetics.
• Soft Touch Texture: Some covers have a soft-touch texture, making the surface feel better when entering a PIN. This textured surface can help ease the process of entering a PIN, improving customer experience.

Design

• Sleek Design: Pin pad covers are designed to fit snugly over the device without adding bulk. This ensures that the device remains easy to use and does not detract from the overall look of the checkout or banking kiosk.
• Ergonomic Design: Some pin pad covers are designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring raised or textured areas that guide users' fingers to the correct buttons, enhancing the speed and accuracy of PIN entry.
• Variety of Colors and Finishes: Pin pad covers come in various colors and finishes, allowing businesses to choose covers that match their branding or store decor. This adds an aesthetic touch while maintaining functionality.

Q&A

Q1: Are pin pad covers safe?

A1: The pin pad cover is safe and secure for many reasons. They are usually made of high-quality silicone, which is a very durable material. This also means that they are very secure because the silicone pins will hold the cover in place and cannot be easily removed. The silicone is also heat resistant and will not melt from the heat of the machine. In very rare cases, if a thief tries to remove the cover, it will alert the machine and send an alert to the bank to notify them of suspicious activity.

Q2: What are the benefits of a pin pad cover?

A2: There are many benefits to using a pin pad cover. The main benefit is that it protects the pin pad from wear and tear. The cover will keep the buttons on the pin pad from getting worn down over time, which can make them hard to press. It can also prevent scratches and other marks that can make the pin pad look old, even if it is still functional. The cover also protects the pin pad from dirt and debris that can get stuck in the crevices and make it hard for customers to use the pin pad.

Q3: How to clean a pin pad cover?

A3: Cleaning a pin pad cover is easy and can be done in a few simple steps. First, remove the cover from the pin pad. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe any dirt or debris that may be on the cover. If there are any tough stains, use a mild soap and water to scrub the area gently. Once done, use a disinfectant to spray the cover, and then use a tissue or cloth to wipe it down. Finally, air or manually fit the cover back onto the pin pad.