ATM Maintenance: How to Keep Your ATM Machine Up and Running

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ATM maintenance is an important part of owning an ATM machine. The better your maintenance, the more uptime your machine experiences, and the more revenue you earn. After all, you can’t make money if your machine is inoperable. Regular ATM maintenance ensures that your machine functions, looks good, and avoids costly repairs and replacements later on. 

Here, we will explain the different types of maintenance you can expect your machine to undergo and how to handle it. There are some tasks you’ll want to take care of monthly and others on an as-needed basis. 

Don’t worry. ATM maintenance is quite simple and even common sense. You want to take care of your ATM machine just as you would a vehicle, appliance, or firearm. Any mechanical device that involves moving parts requires regular maintenance. Here’s what that looks like for an ATM machine:

FLM vs. SLM

There are two categories of ATM maintenance: first-line maintenance (FLM) and second-line maintenance (SLM). FLM can be performed by you, the location owner, or anyone you delegate the task to. FLM includes restocking receipt paper, fixing jams, addressing certain error codes, and cleaning.

SLM will require the tools and expertise of a qualified technician. This can include replacement or repair of machine parts and software updates. You should be able to get ATM technical support by contacting your ATM processing company. When looking for an ATM company, this is one service you might want to make sure it offers.

Most Common Error Codes

There are 5 error codes that you’re most likely to encounter. These, you should be able to address and fix yourself.

The first is a dispenser error (40047). This happens when the dispenser isn’t working properly, most likely due to a cassette misfeed. There might be a bill jam or the dispenser sensors might just need to be cleaned. Worst case scenario, the cassette box will need to be replaced. 

No receipt paper (20013) happens when the receipt paper runs out and needs to be replaced or when there is a jam. There is also a paper reset switch you can use if there is paper and no jam. 

A connection error (D1500) can happen when there is a modem disconnection or timeout. This error can occur if the host doesn’t respond in 60 seconds. 

To restore the connection, verify the host phone number and modem speed to make sure they’re consistent. You might need to contact the phone company if the modem is defective. You can use an in-line filter to improve data-communication support. Or, you can check the programming including the Dual Master Key setting and Host Processor Mode.

When setting up your machine, you will need to set the terminal identification number (TID) in the Host Setup. Otherwise, you will get an F000F error code indicating that the TID is missing or is incorrect.

Finally, there is the low/no cash error (20002). The low cash warning sensor on the dispenser will open when the balance reaches around $75. Simply stock the machine with more cash or consider disabling this function in the Transaction Setup menu if you typically keep a low amount of bills. 

Most Important Parts of ATM Maintenance

When planning your routine FLM, there are a few areas you want to be sure to include. Basically, you want to make sure you keep all moving parts clean as well as the outside of the machine and even the area around it.

Screen

You want to be sure the screen is always clean. This is the part of the machine your customers interact with. So to improve the user experience and keep customers coming back, you want to make sure the screen is sanitary and clear—users need to be able to see the information on the screen. This is especially important if you have a touchscreen. Fingerprints can quickly grime up a screen.

You can clean the screen with a soft, damp cloth. Use an antiseptic wipe for touchscreens to keep the area sanitary and free of germs.

Card Reader

The card reader can also fill with debris quite quickly. You will want to clean the card reader of magnetic stripe particles, dust, skin cells, oils, etc. Otherwise, the card reader can malfunction or you could experience card jams. These can both be costly and time-consuming problems if not prevented. Simply use a wet cleaning swab to clean out the card reader regularly.

Cash Dispenser

The cash dispenser will fill with dust, lint, and other particles quickly, too. You can blow all of this out with a can of compressed air. You might even want to lubricate the rollers to keep them moving seamlessly, but inquire with your ATM company or manufacturer for a recommendation.

Safe

You’ll want to maintain the ATM safe to make sure it remains secure. So check the hinges at the door and cassette lids to make sure they are moving smoothly and aren’t broken anywhere. To keep them moving smoothly, clean the hinges regularly. Lubricate the hinges and oil the cassette lids. If you think you might need to replace the safe battery, consult your ATM manufacturer first.

Operating System

You need to keep the operating system fresh and up-to-date. Otherwise, you won’t have a record of all of the data you might need. Keep memory available to record all activity by printing your journal regularly. Keep these records on-hand for at least a year. You can also refresh the ATM’s operating system by rebooting it every now and then. 

Exterior

Finally, you want to make sure the exterior of the machine is clean and free of damage or vandalism. This includes the area around the ATM machine. Don’t let dust bunnies accumulate around the base of your ATM machine; it just looks bad. And if any stickers or decals on your machine begin to peel or tear, replace them.

You want your machine to be approachable. Customers won’t feel comfortable or even all that safe using a machine that looks like it isn’t monitored or cared for. They might fear losing their card to the machine or risking a cash jam. Make it clear that your machine is under watchful eye and is well-cared for and maintained. This will increase usage and overall revenue.

Internal Function

Remember that most internal functions that require special tools and expertise will need to be handled by qualified technicians. 

Make sure you document every error code, replacement, and repair. Take note of what went wrong, what action you took, and what the result was. You might need this information later for warranties, equipment audits, or to advise employees when future troubleshooting is necessary.

Where to Find ATM Maintenance Support

As an ATM owner, you have a lot of resources to help you with your ATM maintenance. First, you can always consult your machine’s manual. If you don’t have a hard copy, just look for one online or request one from the manufacturer or your ATM vendor. 

You can also consult error code lists if you get a code not listed above. While some error codes are universal, others are specific to the manufacturer of your machine. You can search for a specific code online or request a list from the manufacturer.

And, if your ATM company offers technical support, you can call them with any questions you might have or help you might need.

7x24x365 ATM Maintenance Support

It’s important to note that most ATM machines rarely need servicing. This article covers the most basic, most common scenarios you will face when it comes to ATM maintenance. Of course, you might experience an unexpected issue or something not covered in this article. In that case, use your resources. Make a plan ahead of time by locating a phone number, manual, or other guide so that you know where to go in an emergency.

ATMDepot.com offers 24 hour support 7 days a week 365 days a year. If you work with ATMDepot, you can access support at any time through your Real-Time ATM Monitoring Portal or by entering your TID. With that kind of support, there is no need to worry about ATM maintenance. If there’s a problem you can’t solve, we’re here to help. Just make sure you take preventative care of your ATM machine by checking and cleaning the parts regularly!

ATM Keypad Encryption PCI Compliance Updates – Upgrades Due by January 1, 2025

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PCI Compliance: Best Practices for Enhanced Security

Digital transactions have undoubtedly transformed how we interact with our finances. ATMs play a vital role in facilitating these transactions, offering convenience and accessibility to users worldwide. However, with the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, ATM providers and financial institutions must prioritize security measures.

This article will explore the upcoming mandatory ATM keyboard PCI compliance that will take effect on January 1, 2025.

Understanding PCI Compliance:

The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI) is the unified governing body of ATM networks. They are a self-policing group that comes up with the rules that ATMs, credit card terminals, and processors must abide by in the United States.

What is the ATM Keyboard PCI Compliance?

Intending to keep ATM processors and users safe, the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) has released new mandates for ATM PIN pads and data encryption. The latest update states that by December 31, 2024, all terminals that have the potential to be upgraded to the latest version of encrypting pin pad (EPP) must undergo the necessary upgrades. Any and all terminals that are not eligible for upgrades will need to be replaced entirely.

Starting January 1, 2025, operational ATMs must have up-to-date firmware and software utilizing the TR31 Phase 3 key blocks. These key block encryption measures have been implemented to enhance the security of PINs and data transmitted through ATMs and payment network infrastructure. The strengthened security measures aim to safeguard the cryptographic integrity of payment data, making it significantly more challenging for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

After the specified deadline, machines not equipped with the latest pin pads and key blocks will no longer receive support from host processors. Consequently, the networks will not accept any attempted transactions on these ATMs, rendering the machines non-operational. In other words, your ATM will be turned off if you do not have the updated firmware or keypads to support this new compliance standard.

What does this mean for current and future IADs (Independent ATM Deployers)?

For current IADs, we strongly advise upgrading your ATMs as soon as possible in the upcoming months and not waiting until the end of 2024.  We see this happen anytime there are mandatory updates and parts become scarce and more expensive, field technicians get busier, and you may miss the deadline and have your ATM shut off until you complete the update. If you have a Hyosung, Genmega, Hantle, or Triton ATM and want to can if your ATM model has an upgrade available, you can download this compliance and upgrade paths pdf.

If you are just starting in the ATM business and considering a used machine, be mindful of this new requirement. For example, if you see a good deal on a used Hyosung 1800CE, looking at the above compliance PDF, you can see the Hyosung 1800CE ATM will need to be replaced by 2025 ss the ATM core is WinCE5.0 and is not PCI  compliant and can’t be upgraded. 

If you wait too long to upgrade, there will be price increases and delays in equipment after October 2024. Schedule your updates by the summer of 2024 so you can be sure of availability. All the PDF ATMs showing “Replace ATM” are boat anchors in 2025. 

All the Hyosung ATMs in this compliant Hyosung ATMs PDF show which ATMs will need to be replaced, so don’t buy any used or refurbished Hyosung ATMs listed in this document where it says “Replace ATM?” = Yes!

So, this is a huge warning to all retailers and IADs, be careful who you buy ATMs from and what they did to refurbish them if anything. Used machines have to be cleaned, and tested, have parts replaced, have software reset to factory defaults, include keys and passwords, and be PCI compliant so they can be properly programmed for installation and use after 2025.

Although January 1, 2025 feels like it’s way out in the future, please do not delay updating your ATM. Our CEO has been in the ATM business for over 30 years and our parent company Intelligent e-Commerce, Inc. has been around for almost as long.

We have seen our fair share of ATM security updates including Triple Des & EMV as well as other changes including new ADA guidelines and software sunsets like Windows XP and so on.

We know from decades of experience that updating ATMs early can save you money, time, and headaches as people wait, parts and services become scares and wait times grow longer.  If you wait until the middle or end of 2024 or you hope that an extension will be forthcoming, our experience has proven the upgrade kits will be more expensive. It will also mean technicians will be swamped and you may not get your ATM upgraded before the deadline and it would be turned off.

We can not stress how important this update is. Please check the links above and see if your ATM requires an update. If it does, we urge you to call us soon. 

If you want to make sure the machine you are buying is PCI compliant, please check out our line of brand-new future-proof ATM Machines.

There Are Other Side Hustles, Then There’s The Ultimate Side Hustle

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Are you looking for side hustles that could make you a little extra money each month? Are you struggling to find something perfect? Something that doesn’t cause you extra stress and anxiety? Something that you can fit into your already busy schedule?

Here, we’ve got a list of some of the most common side hustles including what we consider to be the ultimate side hustle. Keep reading to find out which side hustle you can turn into a fully-fledged business that works—even when you don’t!

Other Side Hustles

There are so many things people are doing to earn extra cash, build savings, or create a legitimate small business. And it’s not surprising. In the United States, about 340 million people and 77% of households are in some kind of debt. About 40% of adults struggle to make ends meet each month (a 5.6% increase from 2022). Furthermore, 60% of adults live paycheck to paycheck. Finally, 6.3 million Americans are classified as “working poor”, people who actively work or spend time looking for work but whose incomes still fall below the official poverty level.

It’s unfortunate that so many Americans feel the need for side hustles to supplement their regular employment. But the internet and the rise of work-from-home opportunities make it easier than ever to make a little extra cash.

Driving/Delivery Side Hustles

Many people make driving and delivery service their full-time job. But there’s no reason why you can’t do a little on the side when you have some spare time. Most Uber drivers make between $15 and $25 an hour. But if you don’t like the small-talk aspect of rideshare service, don’t have a comfortable vehicle, or just don’t feel comfortable letting strangers in your car, you can consider food or grocery delivery.

Doordashers can also expect to make around $15 and $25 an hour. And you can make $200-$1,000 a week as a personal shopper with Instacart. Amazon Flex is a package delivery service that allows drivers to make $18-$25 an hour. However, you still need a reliable vehicle to make these side hustles work, not to mention the wear it will cost. And your income potential will depend on where you live, the busiest times of the day, and the size of the orders. 

Online Side Hustles

If you don’t have your own, reliable vehicle, there are a number of ways you can make money online from home. If you are a quick typer, you can look for online transcription jobs that pay by the project. You just listen to audio files and type scripts of them. However, these jobs typically require training and certification.

Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and 99Designs allow you to market your writing, editing, photography, graphic design skills, etc. Create a profile with your experience, qualifications, and portfolio, set your price, and users can find you and your services. 

Or, you can create your own website or blog and sell ad space or become an Amazon affiliate. If you are crafty, Etsy is a very popular site for people to sell their handmade goods and personalized products. 

While you don’t necessarily need any special training or certification for these other online side hustles, you do need to have a marketable skill. If you don’t, you can still make money online by taking surveys, joining focus groups, or testing products.

In-Home Side Hustles

Maybe you have a more practical skill or just don’t want to bother with the internet. There are many in-home side hustles you can do from your home or a client’s home. All you have to do is get the word out that you are available for a price!

You can babysit, petsit, dog walk—we’ve even heard of plant sitters! You can clean homes, do hair and makeup, and even meal prep. People pay for services like HelloFresh, so if you like to cook, create a menu and start taking orders!

Labor Side Hustles

If you are strong and healthy, good with tools, or just enjoy working outdoors, you can make extra money doing yard work, washing and detailing vehicles, or moving furniture. Websites like TaskRabbit and Handy are great for Jacks- and Jills-of-all-trades to pick up jobs that other people can’t or don’t want to do themselves.

Teaching/Tutoring Side Hustles

Teaching and tutoring can be done in person or online. It just depends on what platforms or channels you use to get clients. You can offer in-home tutoring to students in your community. Or, you can apply with a website like Tutor.com to tutor online. Depending on the website, you might not even need a degree. Sometimes you just have to pass a content test to prove that you are proficient in a certain subject.

You especially don’t need a degree to teach English language online. Websites like VIPKid and Preply will accept almost any native English speaker to teach the English language to people all over the world.

You can even teach music or art in-home or online. It just depends on your preference and the preference of your clients.

The Ultimate Side Hustle: ATMs

Flexibility is the nature of any side hustle. All of the examples above can be done day or night on your own schedule. With a side hustle, you need to be able to pick and choose your own hours because you’ve got to make it work with your regular job. 

But do you really want to work when you aren’t working? Do you want to turn your hobby into work and risk compromising its enjoyment? If you have a regular job and a side hustle, do you have time for anything else? With the ultimate side hustle, you don’t have to sacrifice more of your time to make that extra cash.

How an ATM Business Works

Not all ATM machines are owned and operated by banks. If you’ve ever seen or used an ATM at a gas station, grocery store, pop-up market, cannabis dispensary, etc., someone owns it and makes money from it. Sometimes the store itself owns the machine. But other times, independent ATM deployers (IADs) own the machine in exchange for the store’s customers benefiting from the convenience.

So if there are places in your community where you see that people need access to cash and there is no ATM nearby, inquire with the business owners if they would be interested in having an ATM onsite. Alternatively, if you see ATMs that are in bad shape or that are often out of order, find out if the location owner wants you to take over! Maybe they own the machine and can’t keep up with the maintenance, or maybe they are unhappy with their current IAD. These are all great opportunities for you.

Once you get some good leads, work with the location owner to figure out a deal that works for you both. Maybe you share the surcharge revenue, maybe you share the responsibilities. Either way, you get paid a surcharge fee every time someone uses the machine. You can even negotiate how much time you spend on the business.

The only work you really have to do once the machine is up and running is make sure it stays stocked with cash and keep it maintained and functioning. You can use remote online monitoring to view all ATM activity on your phone from the comfort of your own home—and make money while you sleep!

What Makes an ATM Business the Ultimate Side Hustle

Passive income is the name of the game. With an ATM business, you make money without spending a ton of time and effort. Your ATM machine can make money while you sleep, spend time with your family, go on vacation…. 

In terms of starting a business, the upfront costs are minimal compared to other side hustles like buying and flipping or renting property, reselling thrifted items, operating a food truck, or buying or renting a storefront for a brick-and-mortar business. Plus, you are your own boss! 

Finally, it’s a completely customizable business. Depending on how much money you want or need to make, you can pick and choose which aspects of the business you want to handle and which you want to outsource or partner up for. You can operate one ATM machine for a little extra cash each month, or you can replace your full-time income with passive income from a fleet of ATM machines.

How to Start an ATM Business

You can start an ATM business in just a few steps. All you need to do is pass a background check, open an ATM business bank account, purchase an ATM machine, find a store or location willing to share its space with you, and install and program your machine. Then, you can start making money on each transaction made on your ATM!

Get Started!

There are a ton of resources available to new IADs. You can download a free guide about how to profit from an ATM business, purchase a more detailed book (the best selling ATM business book on Amazon…), join ATMDepot’s Members Area, and/or join our Facebook group. 

We won’t say that owning and operating an ATM business is easy. It will require some work up front. But after that, you can relax! Other side hustles are basically second jobs, and that can take away from your friends, family, and free time.

An ATM business is, however, simple. There are only a few steps to get started, and you don’t need any special business license, entrepreneurial experience, or certification. You also don’t have to spend a lot of time working with clients or customers, working on a computer all day, or worry about your job security. As an ATM owner and operator, you are your own boss! What could be better than that?

Let us help you master the ultimate side hustle today!