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7 Mistakes to Avoid in the ATM Business

7 Mistakes to Avoid in the ATM Business

The ATM industry remains robust, with billions in cash transactions annually across the U.S. According to recent reports, Americans made approximately 5 billion ATM transactions in 2023, and demand remains high in cash-heavy locations like convenience stores, bars, and entertainment venues. ATMs can be profitable, but it’s essential to start with a well-planned approach to avoid common pitfalls.

ATM Business Mistake Wrong Surcharge - ATM Business Woman Pointing with ATMs Featured

1. Expecting Instant Profits

Many new ATM owners think money will start flowing immediately. However, success comes from choosing the right locations and understanding transaction volume. Research areas with high foot traffic like convenience stores and bars, and take time to study your potential customers.

2. Cutting Costs by Buying Used ATMs

While used ATMs might save money upfront, older models can have hidden issues, like outdated software or frequent breakdowns. Plus, old machines may not meet today’s security standards, like EMV chip readers and PCI-compliant keypads, which protect against card fraud. Investing in a newer, compliant machine can save you future headaches and costs.

Best ATM Models to Consider:

For details on these models, visit ATMDepot’s Equipment Page.

3. Underestimating the Cash Needed to Refill ATMs

Keeping your ATM stocked with cash is essential. Each machine’s cash needs vary depending on traffic and transaction frequency, but running out of cash too often means lost business. Plan based on location, refill schedule, and holidays or events that might increase traffic. If you have multiple machines, monitoring and managing cash refills can prevent costly, unnecessary trips.

4. Skipping Required Upgrades

Compliance is crucial in the ATM business. Your machine must meet PCI standards for data security and support EMV chip cards for fraud prevention. Failing to comply can lead to fines and loss of customer trust. Newer machines are typically compliant but always check with the manufacturer.

5. Skipping Dedicated Banking Relationships

Working with a bank that understands the ATM business is essential. Many banks hesitate to work with ATM owners, but a dedicated bank account is vital for managing cash flow and establishing trust. Look into local banks or credit unions and explain your business plan to ease concerns and build credibility.

6. Setting Too Low or Too High a Surcharge

Some operators set their fees low to attract users, but this can limit profitability. Review what competitors charge in similar locations, and set a fee that provides value without cutting into your profits. Slightly higher fees are usually accepted in areas where convenience is a priority, like bars or tourist spots.

ATM Business Mistake wrong surcharge

7. Choosing Low-Traffic or Inaccessible Locations

Location is everything. High-traffic areas like convenience stores, gas stations, and entertainment venues tend to yield higher transaction volume. However, low-traffic spots can be costly without foot traffic. When selecting a location, consider its visibility, competition, and whether it’s easily accessible at all times.

Steps for Finding the Right Location:

Components That Boost ATM Reliability

Reliable equipment is crucial in the ATM business. High-quality machines from trusted manufacturers offer dependable performance and include necessary components like cash dispensers, secure card readers, and fast connectivity.

Cash Dispenser: Prevents jams and ensures quick transactions.
Secure Keypad & Card Reader: Protects user information.
Dependable Connectivity: Ensures fast, reliable transactions every time.
Check ATMDepot’s Equipment Guide for compliant machines and helpful insights.

Ready to Start Your ATM Business?

With a solid plan, you can avoid these common mistakes and build a profitable ATM business. Start by investing in dependable equipment, picking high-traffic locations, and maintaining compliance for customer safety. For more resources, check out ATMDepot.com for equipment, placement tips, and guidance on setting up your ATM business.

ATM Security Camera: Do You Need One?

An ATM security camera is a great way to protect your ATM, your customers, and your business. Not only does an ATM security camera deter crime, it also helps to catch criminals in the act.

There are many things you can do to improve the security of your ATM machine. But an ATM camera is one of the easiest things you can do. Unfortunately, it isn’t the cheapest thing you can do. 

Essentially, the choice to invest in an ATM security camera is up to you, the owner. Keep reading so that you can make an informed decision!

Benefits of an ATM Security Camera

Yes, cameras are popular security measures. But why? There are many ways video surveillance protects your ATM, your customers, and your business. 

Deter Crime

Obviously, the more security precautions you take, the better. Criminals do not want to spend more than a couple of minutes at an ATM machine, so after an obstacle or two, they are likely to just move on. And an ATM security camera is an obstacle.

To combat an ATM security camera, criminals would have to plan ahead and disguise or cloak themselves to avoid being identified. Or, they would have to remove or damage the camera. However, they would have to find the camera first, and that might take time. Even still, the camera could capture them in the act and, although destroyed, footage could be saved digitally.

This is not a hassle or risk most criminals want to face. Those “Smile, you’re on camera” surveillance signs you’ve probably seen in locations you frequent work. Don’t let someone break into your ATM machine because they didn’t know there would be visual proof. Let them know that the machine is under surveillance and prevent the crime and any associated damage altogether.

Catch Criminals

While surveillance camera systems reduce crime by 50% or more, crimes still happen. In these cases where the crime isn’t deterred, an ATM security camera can help catch the criminal. The camera can provide real-time response to give you a head start on alerting the authorities, and then you can provide them with identification from face detection and recognition from photo and video.

Prove Theft

An ATM security camera also provides access to photo and video of transactions. If you report theft to your insurance company, they might require proof. Providing them with that data helps you recover any losses. 

You might also have a customer who gets robbed at the ATM machine. He or she might call you to see if there is anything you can do. If you have the video footage, you could provide your customer with superior customer service. You might be able to help detect certain attacks as well and alert the authorities sooner than a bystander could.

And, unfortunately, you might need photo and video footage of transactions if you have a customer who files a false complaint. Having an ATM security camera can help you settle disputes and protect yourself against false claims.

Reassure Customers

Sure, an ATM security camera helps keep your ATM safe from damage and robbery, but it also protects your customers. Customers are more likely to use a machine that is under video surveillance than one that isn’t because they feel safer using it. 

This is another reason why it’s a good idea to advertise that your ATM machine is under surveillance. It could set you apart from competitors and bring in more business!

Where to Get an ATM Security Camera

You have a few options for security equipment. 

First, you can purchase machines that already have a camera built in. The Hyosung Force, for example, can be upgraded to include the Monivision Camera. The Monivision Camera takes a snapshot of customers as they enter their PINs and again as the cash dispenses. 

The Monivision Camera allows customers to see themselves on screen. This not only provides them with safety and comfort being able to see who is behind them, but criminals can also see themselves and know right away to move on!

Similarly, Genmega also offers a camera system. The GenCam camera system is actually included on all Genmega machines as a standard feature for no additional cost!

Now, you might already have ATM equipment that didn’t come with a camera system. You could upgrade your screen, or you could purchase your own third-party camera system from retailers like Costco or Amazon (we recommend a two-camera system). This means you might have to install it yourself. But how?

Where to Install an ATM Security Camera

An ATM security camera is really only as good as its placement. It isn’t going to work effectively if it isn’t aimed in the right direction. Therefore, installation is fairly straightforward. 

First, you will want the camera to have a clear view of a user’s hands and face. This will help you monitor transactions and settle disputes. You also want to try to capture as much of the surrounding area as possible. This can help deter or capture anyone lurking in the background. 

Finally, make sure the area is well-lit to improve the video quality. There is no sense in recording activity if the photo or video is dim, blurred, or obscure. This defeats the purpose of using surveillance for identification.

Do You Need an ATM Security Camera?

Camera systems and video surveillance are extra services and therefore come at an additional cost. If you are just starting out, this might be a feature you add on after you start generating revenue. However, it can also be a beneficial investment to protect your business and your customers. How much is your peace of mind worth?

You might even be fortunate enough to place your ATM machine in a location that already has video surveillance in place. Or, if you have an outdoor ATM machine, it might be in view of cameras of nearby locations. 

Of course, you will want to contact these locations to make sure the cameras are functional. They can be a crime deterrence regardless, but don’t count on them for evidence if they go out of service. You might feel better just having control of your own ATM security camera system so that you can make sure they are always functioning and get real-time data.

Each ATM business is different and each deployer has different needs and budgets. So consider the information in this article and make the decision that’s right for you!

5 Advantages of Using Cash

Are there advantages to using cash? Do most of us even carry cash anymore? With cryptocurrency, online shopping, debit and credit cards, Apple and Google pay, PayPal, and other money transfer apps, do we really even need cash anymore?

Technology is nice, but what happens when it doesn’t work? Have you ever tried to order food at a restaurant just to be told that their point-of-sales (POS) system is down? Have you ever tried to use a money transfer app to send or receive money just to run into verification obstacles, long wait times, or extra fees? 

For these reasons and more, cash will have a special place in our hearts (even if it isn’t always in our wallets) for a long time. It’s reliable, it’s convenient, and it’s a 3,000 year tradition.

Is the ATM Business Dying?

As long as people need cash, they will need ATM machines. Although cash payments decline as electronic payment methods increase and improve, there is currently more cash in circulation than ever. 

Cash is traditional. It’s familiar. Comfortable. So for a long time yet, there will be people who prefer cash. Could you even imagine what would happen if cash was taken out of circulation? Many people would protest that choice being taken away from them. So we don’t see that happening in our lifetime.

Even so, ATM machines are versatile. They have already evolved to facilitate the cryptocurrency craze. So there’s no reason to believe that the ATM business would be dying anytime soon.

Furthermore, federal law prohibits businesses from going cashless. While state mandates might vary, it’s generally accepted that cash is the most widely accessible form of payment in addition to the other advantages of using cash. 

The Payment Choice Act

The Payment Choice Act (2021-2022) refers to the bill that states that retail businesses do have to accept cash payments. It also prohibits them from charging cash-paying customers more. The goal is to prevent discrimination and keep consumerism fair. 

Without the ability to pay with cash, low-income and other unbanked individuals would be unfairly excluded from locations that would prefer not to accept cash payments. However, as you will see, in most cases, cash payments actually benefit retail businesses. The advantages of using cash on top of the federal law further solidify the role of cash in our society.

5 Advantages of Using Cash

1. Quick

In many cases, cash payments are quicker than electronic ones. Cash payments don’t decline. The POS system doesn’t have to communicate with your bank to release the funds. And when that POS system goes down, you’d better believe you’ll be wishing you had some cash on you. 

Cash is also often more convenient than electronic payment methods. You don’t have to worry about accidentally overdrawing your account and accruing exorbitant bank fees when you pay with cash. 

And if someone needs to pay you for something, cash payments are immediate. You don’t have to download a new app, figure out how to be “added” as someone’s contact, fight with authentication procedures, worry about payments being sent to the wrong person, be restricted by sending limits, wait days for the money to hit your account, or pay any transfer fees.

With cash, once it hits your hands, it’s yours. 

2. Tangible

Cash is tangible, an old-fashioned favorite. Bills can be broken into smaller bills and even coins. Many of us learned to count using bills and coins, and many children still do. Physical money is an important educational tool for children when it comes to counting and budgeting. 

Cash is a useful budgeting tool as evidenced by the envelope method touted by financial guru Dave Ramsey. By physically dedicating a set amount of cash to various categories of your spending habits, it’s much easier to be frugal and disciplined with your money—once it’s gone, it’s gone. 

Don’t payments hurt just a little bit more when you can see and feel the money leaving your side? Electronic stashes are often out of sight and out of mind (and sometimes out of control if you aren’t careful with your credit cards…). Some people also feel safer having tangible money in their possession where they can keep an eye on it and protect it.

3. Private

Cash payments are private. They are difficult to track, and, excepting disposable paper receipts, they leave no paper trail. Sketchy business practices aside, this privacy also serves as a security measure. 

No one can electronically hack into your wallet or safe. Your financial information can’t be compromised in a data breach if you use cash payments at most stores and avoid online shopping. And if you minimize the number of debit and credit cards you carry, you in turn minimize your risk of identity theft. 

4. Universal

Cash is also the most widely accessible payment method. Everyone has access to cash. And it’s a good thing, too.

About 6% of Americans are unbanked, with no bank account, and another 16% are underbanked, meaning they only have a checking account and maybe a savings account. There are many reasons why someone might be unbanked or underbanked.

First, low-income individuals might not make enough money to warrant a bank account. This is especially true when bank accounts charge monthly service fees or impose minimum balance requirements. And what about the homeless man at the intersection? Does he take debit or credit? 

Other people might be distrustful of banks, especially under the threat of national and economic crises. Covid-19, for example, caused more cash to be in circulation than ever. Others still might just not want to deal with bank regulations and restrictions. 

Minors are also unbanked. We pay our children for doing extra chores. We use cash to pay our neighbor to mow our lawn. Our kids receive cash in their birthday cards. They keep it safe in a piggy bank. These are traditions that are still going strong.

5. Necessary

Finally, cash is necessary for cash-only businesses. Many small businesses are cash-only to save money on credit card processing fees and to make bookkeeping simpler. 

The cannabis industry is also often cash-only by necessity. Although legal in many states, whether medicinal or recreational, marijuana is still illegal on a federal level. Therefore, few banks will work with cannabis businesses due to the threat of breaking money laundering laws. 

Even if cannabis businesses find banks willing to work with them, it can be quite expensive for them to maintain those accounts. This is because it costs the banks more to service them due to anti-money laundering software, external auditors, and legal counsel.

Cash tipping is also common in many industries like beauty salons, bars, and restaurants. Many businesses, like Starbucks, only accept cash tips if they aren’t able to apply them to a debit or credit charge. You will see little bowls or buckets on the counters of places like these where customers can leave a cash tip. Businesses that are able to apply a tip to a debit or credit charge will sometimes still place a cash tip receptacle in customer view because the visual reminder (Dare we say peer pressure?) encourages more tips.  

Other times, customers want to make sure that their servers receive the full amount of a cash tip whereas electronic tips are subject to tip sharing and other deductions. And how else do you tip your concierge when you travel? The entertainment at your local bar? Your favorite street performer?

Cash is King

As you can see, cash plays a very important role in our society. There are many advantages of using cash. No other payment option is as secure, convenient, reliable, or universal. That’s good news for the ATM industry. As far as we are concerned, cash is here to stay, and so is the ATM industry. Ready to start your own ATM business? Where there is a need for cash, there is an opportunity for you to make some passive income. Get started today!

ATM Buyers Guide: How to Choose the ATM Equipment That’s Best for Your Business

We’ve created an ATM buyers guide to help you determine which ATM equipment options best suit you. We’ll discuss each brand, each type, and even prices to help get you started.

The selection process can be broken down into three steps:

Step 1: Choose ATM Type

Step 2: Choose a Manufacturer

Step 3: Choose New or Refurbished

When it comes to choosing an ATM, you want to know which one is the best. However, what the decision really comes down to is which one is the best for you

Keep size in mind too. Do you need a through-the-wall ATM or a smaller version? There’s a lot to consider. Our ATM Buyers Guide can help get you started. Check out the following options and see which machine best meets your needs and space.

ATM Buyers Guide Step 1: ATM Type

Let’s discuss the type before we cover a few leading ATM brands. There are three popular options: free-standing, through-the-wall, and wall mount.

Free-standing ATMs vary in size but are generally smaller than through-the-wall. The advantage of free-standing ATMs is that they can be placed anywhere there’s a power supply. This gives you more freedom with your organization and planning.

Through-the-wall (TTW) ATMs are heavier. The bulky part (the interface) extending from the front of the ATM (the chassis) fits into or through the wall protruding into the next room. 

It might take some construction work to develop this area if it doesn’t already exist in your space, but through-the-wall ATMs are typically more secure because they are often placed in rooms with controlled access.

Remember that TTW ATM machines are also better when facing outdoors as they allow a secure way to offer 24-hour convenient cash access to passers-by, not just in-store customers. That often translates into higher usage.

The smallest option is a wall-mount ATM. These ATMs can be mounted to a wall using sturdy steel brackets (included with the ATM) or optionally mounted on a table or countertop, depending on your work space.

Because of their space-saving size, wall-mount ATMs hold fewer notes but can be the perfect ATM for small businesses and lower-traffic locations.

ATM Buyers Guide Step 2: ATM Manufacturers and Equipment Options

ATM Depot offers full lines of Hyosung, Genmega, Triton, and Hantle/Tranax machines. Plus, we can get just about any machine you may be interested in. In addition to a brief overview of each brand, we’ll share our recommendations and most popular machines.

Hyosung ATM Machines

Hyosung Halo 2

The Hyosung Halo II has a ‘Halo’ around the keypad, which is great for dimly lit locations.

Hyosung is a Korean-based company that first introduced its Nautilus Hyosung ATMs to the United States in 1998. Their US office is located in Irving, Texas. They’ve deployed thousands of ATMs worldwide since 1997.

Hyosung is considered to be the leading provider of ATM hardware, software, and service. They have a reputation for having the most reliable, durable, and flexible ATMs.

If you have limited location or floor space, the Hyosung 4000w was a space-saving option that can be mounted to a countertop or vertical surface but has been discontinued. Don’t worry. It has been replaced by Genmega Onyx-W which has all of the same features and options as the new and very popular free-standing Genmega Onyx) model.

The “Halo” is appropriately named. The LED lighting surrounding the keypad draws more users and, therefore, more revenue for your bottom line. The Halo is perfect for dimly lit areas like bars and clubs due to its LED lighting. 

The 10.1 high-resolution color screen is larger than most ATM screens which makes it perfect for customization. The vibrant 10” color LCD screen adds to this machine’s user-friendliness. 

Genmega ATM Machines

Genmega headquarters are in Fremont, California. One of the newest ATM companies, they introduced their first ATMs in 2006. However, they’ve already deployed over 50,000 units worldwide since that time.

One of Genmega’s most significant advantages is its staff of engineers, developers, and technicians. With decades of combined ATM experience, there’s no shortage of help. Genmega is noted for its cutting-edge engineering and integration.

Specifically, we recommend the new through-the-wall Genmega GT3000. The terminal is small, compact, and weather-resistant. It’s an excellent option for outdoor space or where space is limited. Although new, the Genmega GT3000 proves Genmega’s goal to manufacture high-quality, reliable equipment. 

As far as free-standing options, we’d recommend the G2500. It’s comparable to the Halo II mentioned above with an 8″ TFT high-resolution 32-bit color LCD screen. The Genmega G2500 is the latest option for a brand-new Genmega ATM machine. A little bit lower in cost, it’s our second most popular machine after the Halo II.  We like Genmega machines because they come standard with the new Genmega GenCam. The GenCam takes a photo of everyone that uses your ATM so there is always photo proof if handling disputes.

Hantle (Tranax) ATM Machines

Tranax began as a business partner of Korea’s Hyosung Computer Company. They first introduced their ATMs to the US in 1998. In 2010, Tranax changed its name to Hantle, the name of its Korea-based parent.

From 650 in their first year to 6,000 in the next, half of the machines deployed were the ever-popular Mini-Bank 1000 ATM. Additionally, Tranax/Hantle ATMs experience almost zero service issues for their 1700 Series, according to our field technicians. Our technicians rarely make service calls to the hundreds of these ATMs we’ve deployed. Unfortunately, Hantle ATMs are no longer compliant. The Genmega ATMs have taken their place.

Triton ATM Machines

Triton started in the early 1990s and has been a market leader ever since. The company produces reliable ATMs that last upwards of ten years or more. Triton has been a privately owned company since 2010 and produced its 200,000th ATM in 2011.

ATM Depot’s founder and author of The Amazing Money Machine, Noah Wieder, was part of Triton Systems’ original Triton Advisory Committee in 1992. One of the oldest ATM companies, Triton, continues to produce quality machines.

While the popular Triton 9600 has been discontinued, a close second is the Triton RL200, RL1600 and 9100, which you can purchase used and refurbished (more on this later). 

ATM Buyers Guide Step 3: New vs. Refurbished

Triton 9100 ATM Machine

The Triton 9100 is a great refurbished machine for a location with lower-traffic

You can purchase brand new ATMs of most models from ATM Depot or a refurbished version. It just depends on your needs and what you’re looking for.

Of course, new is nice, but don’t immediately turn up your nose at a refurbished machine. First of all, you should know that refurbished machines are supplied with the newest upgrades, thoroughly cleaned, and furnished with replacement decals before being sold. 

Used ATMs aren’t always advertised as refurbished, so if you’re shopping around for used ATM equipment and find a deal, be sure to ask if it’s been refurbished, much like buying a used car from a reputable dealer. A reputable dealer will often inspect and then fix or replace any used parts that could cause a problem making it nicer.

Second, by purchasing a refurbished piece of equipment, you can rest assured that someone has gone through it already to ensure it’s durable. One downfall, however, is that refurbished ATM equipment is sold based on availability. So if you’ve got your eye on a particular brand or style, you might have to purchase it new or wait until a good used one comes around.

It’s important to note also that if you’re starting out, technology improves with the newer machines making them easier to use. Technology on the older machines can be complicated, but brand-new machines come with updated graphics, input functionalities, and more straightforward operator menus.

So it might be easier to input data like the ATM address, update cash amounts, add graphics, troubleshoot, etc., with a newer model. If you have minimal experience, keep the technology in mind.

New ATM Machine Pricing vs. Refurbished ATM Machine Pricing

Last, let’s make a brief price comparison to give you an idea of what to expect:

Take the discontinued Triton 9600, for example. Recommended replacements are a refurbished Triton 9100 for between $1,199 and $1,495 or a brand-new Genmega 2500 for around $2,295. You could be looking at around a thousand-dollar difference, but you must also check availability. 

While the Triton is a great buy, the screen is smaller, and the Genmega offers more options, like a Windows OS and a GenCam. However, if you’re starting out in the ATM business and have limited funds or a location that might not be that busy but want to install an ATM anyway, refurbished ATM equipment could be an ideal solution.  Just know that most Triton machines have much smaller screens and do not operate on Windows.

Discontinued ATMs

New, Used, & Certified Refurbished ATM Equipment

If you’re looking into a refurbished machine from another seller, remember that some heavily discounted machines might be outdated and no longer meet requirements or process transactions.

As regulations change, so must ATM features. ATMs that don’t meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and other upgrades are accordingly unable to continue processing transactions on ATM networks. For this reason, be wary of Triton 9600, Triton 9700, Tranax or Hantle 1700, WRG Apollo, and WRG Genesis models or any ATM manufactured before 2016.

You might see these discontinued ATMs for sale for extremely discounted prices. But keep in mind that they won’t work for you as is. They can, however, be used for parts. Additionally, if you see one that interests you, we can recommend comparable replacements.

How to Pay for Your ATM

All the new and certified refurbished ATM equipment listed on ATMDepot.com are offered at already discounted cash prices. You can purchase the machine outright for the price listed. You can even pay with a credit card for a small additional charge.

The typical return on investment (ROI) on an outright purchase is about 3 to 18 months, depending on your location, surcharge, and hours of operation. So if you use a credit card to purchase your ATM equipment and make payments, the ROI will be a little longer since you’ll pay some interest on your credit card. 

However, you can find credit cards that offer no interest for 12 months. ATM Depot even has a financial partner to help you get small business loans to buy ATMs.

When you purchase an ATM from ATM Depot and want us to help you run the ATM processing, there are no monthly, statement, or processing fees. Shipping is also free within the continental United States. The only additional cost is the installation fee and other upgrades, which are entirely optional. 

ATM Depot also offers special sales, upgrades, flexible payment options, and in-house financing. You can always contact us for more information.

Before Making a Decision

Finally, before making a definitive decision, you must ensure you’re ready to operate your ATM. Here are the two things you will need:

  • A space / Location
  • Power supply

We can take care of the rest as long as you have these covered. Compare the different machine options listed in this ATM buyers guide, and match them to your needs.

Contact us with your questions to help you make a decision. It’s easy to get set up with nationwide ATM processing. Get started on your ATM Side Hustle today! 

New ATM Machine ADA Standards

New ATM Machine ADA Standards

A new law affecting ATM machines has passed under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and went into effect on March 15, 2012. The new ATM machine ADA standards required full compliance by the deadline date of March 15, 2012.

If you are an ATM Operator, an ATM company or a retail merchant operating one or many ATM machines, these new requirements will affect every active terminal in your ATM portfolio or retail location.

Today I’m going to tell what you need to know about these upcoming changes and how it will impact your business.

Starting on March 15, 2012 customers with disabilities should find using an ATM easier than ever before. Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with this new ADA requirement your ATMs must be in compliance by March 15th.

Some ATM machines may require that you make enhancements to the way your customers physically access and interact with your ATM machines. Some of the new design standards and requirements include:

Height and Reach:
The reach requirement will change from a height of 54″ to 48″ to the top working button. This will help to ensure customers can easily access the input controls of the ATM. The exception to this change is drive thru ATMs.

ATM Machine height is now 48 inches

Clear floor space:
The area in front of the machine needs to equal 48″ x 48″ (16 square feet).

ATM Machines needs 48 inches by 48 inches of clear floor space

Accessible route:
One unobstructed side of the clear floor space must adjoin an accessible route or another clear floor space leading up to the ATM and connecting to the clear floor space in front of the ATM. This is for wheel chair accessibility.

ATM ADA Accessible Route

Voice Guidance:
All ATMs must be speech enabled to service visually impaired customers. This may require a 3.5mm female jack be accessible for head phones.

ATM ADA Voice Guidance Standards

Display Screen:
Visibility from 40″ above the center of the floor in front of the ATM, characters on the screen must be in San Sarif font. A minimum of 3/16″ high and must contrast with their background.

Braille Instructions:

Braille Instructions to initiate the aforementioned voice guidance feature must also be provided.

ATM ADA Standards for Braille Instructions

Function Keys:
Function keys must be designed to contrast visually from their background surfaces.

Input device:
Input device controls must be tactically discernible, meaning the key surfaces must be raised above the surrounding surfaces.

Numeric Keypads:
Keypads must be arranged in an ascending or descending layout. The enter key should be marked with a raised circle, the clear key with a raised left arrow, and the cancel key should be marked with a raised X. The add value key should be marked with a raised plus sign and the decrease value key should be marked with a raised minus sign.

ATM ADA Standards for Numeric Keypad

If your location has multiple ATMs the most accessible ATM must meet these new 2012 ATM standards. However, the law requires the terminal inside a location and one outside the same location be considered two separate locations. In cases like these both must be compliant.

These laws will be applied to all lobby and walk up thru-the-wall ATMs. There will be no safe harbor granted for existing units and no grandfathering of currently deployed machines.. While there are many ATM operators and banks taking a “wait and see” attitude this could potentially be a costly proposition as any ATMs that don’t meet ADA standards by the 2012 deadline could result in a civil penalty of up to $55,000 for a first offense and double that amount for subsequent offenses.

ATMDepot suggests you take this opportunity to inventory your existing ATMs and record the manufacturer, model number, and year manufactured. It would also be wise to note each terminals software and speech capabilities.

If you need help, we suggest you check with your respective vendors for more details regarding upgradability and cost. ATMDepot is able to offer several upgrade kits and exceptional pricing on new replacement ATMs in cases where you need to upgrade or replace entire machines (generally older ATM models) in order to be compliant.

Be especially careful of used or previously refurbished ATM machines at this time as there are a lot of non-compliant machines on the market that cannot be setup. Make sure the ATM you plan to purchase, especially if it’s used or refurbished, is already completely upgraded or compliant with new ADA standards. All new machines shipped from ATM manufacturers today come fully ADA compliant.

You can find more information about the ADA standards for 2012 at ada.gov

You can find us at atmdepot.com or you can follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Youtube.

Tag Archive for: atm machines

Buy an ATM Machine

Looking to Buy an ATM Machine? Before jumping into Buying an ATM Machine we suggest you do some research.  ATM Depot is here to help. We want you to become well informed prior to Buying an ATM Machine. Buying an ATM Machine should not be taken lightly. This is not a get rich quick business. Buying ATM Machines and operating them in your own business or as a Vending type of business is a great way to earn residual income. ATM Machines have come way down in price over the last decade and many new models have come onto the market. The original ATM Machine manufacturer that is still around from the 90’s is Triton Systems. Another manufacturer we think very highly of is Tranax ATM now made by Hantle manufacturing. Trition ATMs have good resale value should you ever need to sell your ATM machines and they have very good life expectancy of 7 – 10 years. Although a few hundred more that some other manufacturers a new Triton or a certified refurbished Triton ATM is a good investment and can pay for itself in a relatively short period if put in the right location. Tranax and Hantle are…