Tag Archive for: atm installation

Where to Put ATM Machines: Installation 101

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We’ve published a few articles about where to put ATM machines in terms of the best performing locations. But what about once you’ve gotten that far? How do you know where to put ATM machines at that location? 

Here, we’ll summarize locations that have high or consistent transaction volume in case you missed it. But we’ll mostly offer tips for how and where to put ATM machines once you’ve secured a high-traffic location. Use this as a basic guide or a regular checklist as you install machine after machine. Or, if you are the location owner already, here is what you need to know to get started installing your new ATM machine!

Where to Put ATM Machines to Achieve Your Goals

Before choosing where to place an ATM, clarify your goals. Are you installing a machine to boost foot traffic and sales inside your own business? Or are you entering the ATM ownership space for passive income through transaction fees? Your purpose influences the ideal type of location and expected traffic patterns.

Are you a store or business owner increasing in-store purchases by offering convenience? Are you an independent ATM deployer (IAD) generating passive income in high-traffic or cash-heavy areas? Or are you serving a specific community like college students, tourists, or cash-only clientele? Maybe you’re just filling a market gap where banks or ATMs are scarce.

Knowing your objectives will help you prioritize the right kind of location, installation features, and revenue strategy.

If you are still in the location stage of starting an ATM business, you will want to read some of our other articles about the best locations to secure. But this article will cover some best practices for installing ATM machines with the most typical location conditions in mind.

For example, common and profitable locations for ATM placement include gas stations, convenience stores, and retail stores; bars, nightclubs, casinos, and other event spaces; hotels and tourist hubs; cannabis dispensaries and other specialty markets. However, an ATM installed at a prime location can perform poorly if it isn’t positioned strategically. So there are other factors to keep in mind.

General Guidelines for Where to Put ATM Machines

When it comes down to where to put ATM machines, it’s best to position the machine where users can easily see and access it. Typically, this helps everyone reach their goals, consumers and business owners alike. But there are some requirements and strategies that will restrict and influence your options.

First, you’re limited to the electrical set-up: wherever there is power and internet access is where to put ATM machines. Machines need consistent electricity and internet whether it’s via Wi-Fi, ethernet, or wireless modem.

Second, the machine should be visible. The ATM should be in plain sight and near natural traffic flow like checkout lanes or entrances. But the machine also legally has to be accessible. Customers, including those in wheelchairs, should easily be able to approach the ATM without obstruction.

If you have the luxury of doing so, you should consider security as well. For example, look for well-lit areas, camera coverage, and/or direct line of sight of an employee. This is especially important if you want to know where to put ATM machines for after-hours access. This doesn’t just help customers feel more safe and secure during transactions but also allows for safe and discreet cash vaulting and repairs. 

Where to Put ATM Machines Legally

Before installation, you must comply with local laws and accessibility standards. Some municipalities require a business license or permit for ATM placement. Outdoor machines may require additional zoning approvals or signage restrictions. And if you’re placing the machine on someone else’s property, make sure you draft a placement agreement clearly outlining terms, revenue split (if applicable), maintenance duties, duration, etc.

Every ATM placement must be ADA compliant. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that ATMs be accessible to all users. This means that buttons, touchscreens, and card slots must be within accessible height and depth ranges. And the space around the machine must be clear. Users in wheelchairs must be able to approach and maneuver around the ATM.

Ensure your ATM model is ADA-compliant and that installation allows for sufficient access and use. Noncompliance can lead to lawsuits or fines.

Installation Basics

Once you’ve selected the location and cleared legal requirements, the next phase is installation. Your machine will need power and network connections. The area around the ATM must allow for user access and ADA-compliant clearances. And it is recommended that you bolt down both indoor and outdoor machines to deter theft and vandalism. 

Through-the-wall (TTW) ATMs will require a little more construction. You will either need a space in a wall that faces the outside to offer 24/7 access to passers-by, or you will need a space where the interface is available to users on the wall of a locked, secured, and/or managed area where the chassis is stored. Ensure that this area is protected during cash vaulting.

However, for standalone machines, you can handle the installation yourself with the help of a simple YouTube video, the equipment manual, or a tech call. Or, if you prefer, you can hire a technician to install the machine for you. Check with your ATM company to see what services and resources they offer to help with installation.

After setup, the machine must be loaded with cash and configured to your processor. Then, it’s a good idea to run test transactions to ensure smooth operation.

Mistakes to Avoid

There are some common mistakes you can avoid to save time, money, and stress. 

First, make sure your ATM machine isn’t hidden. Low visibility reduces usage. Customers can’t use your machine if they don’t know it exists.

Customers also can’t use your machine if it’s out of order. Out-of-service machines lose money, so don’t neglect maintenance. Establish a maintenance plan for cash loading, paper replacement, and tech issues.

Be careful not to underestimate foot traffic. Just because a space looks busy doesn’t mean it is. Track actual customer flow and consider peak hours before choosing a location.

Don’t ignore ADA or other compliance regulations. ADA lawsuits and permit violations can be costly. Make compliance a non-negotiable from the beginning.

Finally, make sure you have formal documentation of your agreements with the location owner. Vague or handshake-only deals can lead to disputes. A written placement contract can ensure that each party upholds their responsibilities, is compensated accordingly, and is protected in extenuating circumstances.

Who Knows Best Where to Put ATM Machines?

If you are installing a machine in someone else’s store, the location owner might have their own preferences about where to put it. The ATM machine is your business, and you’re the expert. You want to place the machine where it will get the most usage. But the location owner is the expert of their business as well. They have their customers in mind and won’t want to risk damaging their current business. 

So if you find yourself disagreeing with the location owner about installation, just explain the reasoning behind these best practices. Work together to create the best possible user experience focused on accessibility, convenience, and safety. 

If you partner with ATMDepot.com for transaction processing, you get access to installation resources including 24/7 customer support. ATMDepot can arrange for a certified ATM technician to professionally install your first unit. During installation, technicians often provide training—demonstrating setup steps, running test transactions, and teaching upkeep best practices. And ATMDepot’s online resources include detailed guides covering everything from unpacking and leveling to anchoring and connectivity. 

For more help with DIY installation, check out our 7 ATM Installation Tips or contact us with questions. Now, you’re ready to install your machine. We’re here to help if you need it!

7 ATM Installation Tips

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ATM installation can be an overwhelming process for some independent ATM deployers (IADs). However, it should be the most exciting part of starting an ATM business! ATM installation means you’re just steps away from entering into business and making passive income. 

Although overwhelming, the process is quite simple, especially when you know ahead of time what to expect. Here, we provide 7 ATM installation tips so that you can rest assured knowing that you are checking all of the boxes. And don’t forget, you always have access to professional help should and when you need it.

1. Choose the Right Spot

The most important ATM installation task is choosing the right spot. To do so, there are many factors to consider. 

Convenient Yet Secure

You want to choose a spot that is easy for customers to get to but difficult for criminals to get to. So, this means a clear path in a high-traffic area away from doors and windows. Customers should be able to see the machine right away and be able to get to it easily. However, the machine should be protected from break-ins, enough so that it’s more risk than it’s worth to try to get to it for theft or vandalism.

High-traffic areas are great for increasing usage, but they are also simple security measures. The more eyes on the machine at any time the better. The machine should be in eyesight of cashiers or employees or at least within the view of security cameras.

For the same reasons, the ATM area should be well-lit. This helps customers see the machine and feel safe and comfortable using it which increases usage. But it also deters criminals.

Close to a Power Source

Your machine will also need to be powered. So you will need to install your ATM machine within a few feet of a power source. It is recommended that you use 110/115v 15a outlets that aren’t dedicated to other major appliances (freezers, refrigerators, etc.). It’s a good idea to use a surge protector, too, and maybe even an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) so that your machine remains operable during any outages.

Connect your machine to a dedicated standard phone line. If you try to connect the ATM to a fax line, a shared line or a PBX phone system you risk transaction issues like delays, non-dispensing, incomplete transactions, etc. Save yourself the headache and just install a separate phone line.

Adherence to ADA Guidelines

ATM placements have to be in compliance with the rules and regulations outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This gives people with disabilities equal access to public services.

All ATMs need to be accessible to people with disabilities, so certain accommodations are mandated. ATM manufacturers are aware of ADA guidelines, so new machines should already be equipped with Braille, earphone jacks, and compliant keypads. 

However, it is up to you—the ATM owner—and the location owner to make sure that the area around the machine is clear and wheelchair accessible. This is the responsibility of the property manager or merchant, regardless of the arrangement made with the ATM owner or other ATM provider. 

Include a clause in your site location agreement (SLA) to ensure the location understands that they can’t permanently block access to the ATM with inventory or other barriers. The minimum clear floor or ground space required for accommodating a single, stationary wheelchair and occupant is 30 x 48 inches (10 sq. ft.), so that is the space needed in front of the ATM to comply with the ADA wheelchair access guidelines.

Furthermore, an ATM’s reach, the height of the uppermost function key on the machine, should be no higher than 48” from the ground. This ensures that all customers can easily access all input controls. It’s especially important to keep this in mind when installing wall mount ATM machines.

2. Secure the Machine

Choosing a strategic location for ATM installation is important to maintaining its security. But there are additional measures you can take during installation to make sure the machine is protected, especially if the only space available at your location isn’t ideal.

Without blocking access to the front of the machine, limit physical access to the case. If the machine is against a wall and closed off on either side by other walls or furniture, this limits the areas of the machine vulnerable to tampering. 

This especially helps prevent logical attacks which involve accessing the mainboard and other internal electronics to breach the software or hardware. Blocking the back and sides of the machine makes it difficult for scammers to access points of ingress.

As far as preventing physical attacks, you want to make sure the machine is bolted to the floor. The ground should be level. First, so that you avoid warping, bending, or otherwise damaging the ATM cabinet. Second, so that someone can’t pry the machine up with a crowbar or other tools. Once bolted, try to budge it. The machine should not give, shift, or wobble.

If there are not security cameras at your location already, or at nearby locations if you place your machine outdoors, install your own. Security cameras and alarm systems help monitor the ATM’s surroundings both increasing customer comfortability and deterring crime. You can even advertise that your machine is under surveillance.

3. Opt for a Wireless Device

The machine has to be connected to a communications device such as an internet connection or a wireless communication device. We recommend investing in your own wireless device so that you aren’t at the mercy of the location’s internet service provider (ISP). 

If communication is interrupted, you’re out of business. Having your own communications device allows you to troubleshoot quicker and ensure that you always have a reliable connection. The alternative is waiting for the location owner to handle any reboots or dealing with their ISP which can be time-consuming and frustrating. It’s best to have this ready at the time of your ATM installation, just in case, but it can always be added later.

4. Load Enough Cash

You can’t start operating your ATM business without vault cash. Load your machine with about $2,000-$3,000 in cash at first. Then monitor the activity via remote online monitoring system to see if you need more or less to facilitate withdrawals in between vaulting. If you use your own money to vault the machine, you can use less than $2,000 if that’s all you have. This just means you might have to load cash more often. 

The most important part of loading cash is ensuring that your machine doesn’t run out. Cash vending is your business; so you’ve got to make sure your machine is equipped to provide this service. Try to load extra at first as a safeguard until you get a good idea of how much traffic your machine sees in a week.

5. Advertise

Once ATM installation is complete and you’re up and running, you will want to make sure that customers and passersby know. Add signage advertising ATM service. Work with the merchant or location owner to run promotions or offer coupons with ATM transactions. These are great ways to jumpstart your ATM business and start earning revenue.

6. Seek Professional Help and Training

It is more than possible for you to handle installation on your own. However, it might be a good idea to seek professional assistance for your first machine. This will help save you time and prevent avoidable mistakes. Then, once you’ve experienced the installation process once, you can do it easily and for free for all machines you install afterward.

Work with your ATM provider to see what kind of installation support they offer. They might have manuals or guides they can provide you with, or they might have a number of technicians already working for them and their clients. See if they offer phone support and when. If you want to handle the ATM installation yourself, you might want to make sure you do so during business hours in case you need to call with questions.

You can always hire a local third-party professional ATM technician to help you with the ATM installation. Costs will vary based on the distance a technician is from your location, but plan to budget around $350 for this service. It’s well-worth it to ensure that the ATM installation goes smoothly, and you can get training simultaneously.

Watch and learn. Ask questions. Take notes. A lot of technicians will also let you film part or all of the process. Then you can just refer back to it later.

7. Test the ATM Installation

Finally, test your machine once it’s installed. You want to identify any mistakes, error codes, or other problems before a customer does. All it takes is making a test transaction on your machine. 

You should actually do this every time you vault your machine. Dispensing the wrong bills can be a very costly mistake. Your machine might give a customer too much, and you won’t notice unless an honest person alerts someone to the issue. Or, you could short a customer and have to deal with complaints, chargebacks, and journal requests. This can have long-term consequences if customers lose trust in your machine and your service.

It takes seconds to make a test transaction, and you can often get ATM fee reimbursement from your bank. 

Ready for ATM Installation?

Hopefully this list of ATM installation tips helps you feel more comfortable with the process. If you follow these guidelines, you shouldn’t have any problems. Remember that professional help is always available. 

If you purchase an ATM from ATMDepot.com, we can arrange for the ATM to be professionally installed for you by a certified ATM technician. We recommend a professional installation for your first machine. We can also arrange training during the installation for no additional charge if you’d like to learn how to operate your ATM.

Questions or inquiries? Contact us today!