Overview
The cash drawer is an essential component for securely storing cash, coins, and other payment instruments during in-store transactions. EPOS360 supports cash drawers that connect via an RJ12 cable either through a compatible thermal printer or directly to a terminal port. This guide explains both connection methods and the setup process.
What You'll Need:
Compatible cash drawer with RJ12 connector
RJ12 cable (usually included with cash drawer)
Either:
A compatible thermal printer (for printer connection)
An available terminal port (for direct connection)
Who is this guide for?
Store Owners & Managers setting up point-of-sale hardware.
Cashiers & Front-of-House Staff who will be operating the cash drawer daily.
IT or Operations Staff responsible for hardware configuration and maintenance.
Before You Begin
Method 1: Connect Via Printer (Recommended)
How it works: The cash drawer is connected to your receipt printer. When a cash sale is finalized, EPOS360 sends a signal through the printer to trigger the drawer to open.
Prerequisite: You must have a compatible thermal printer already set up and connected in EPOS360. See the Thermal Printer Setup Guide.
Method 2: Connect Via Hardware Port
How it works: The cash drawer is connected directly to a port on your POS terminal or device (e.g., a tablet dock or all-in-one terminal).
Prerequisite: Your terminal must have a compatible cash drawer port (often an RJ12 or USB port) and the necessary drivers.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Physically Connect the Cash Drawer
For Printer Connection: Plug the RJ12 cable from the cash drawer into the dedicated port on the back or side of your thermal printer.
For Direct Connection: Plug the RJ12 cable directly into the cash drawer port on your terminal or device.
Connect the cash drawer to a power outlet and turn it on.
Access Cash Drawer Settings in EPOS 360
Open the EPOS 360 app and tap "More" in the main navigation.
Tap "Hardware."
Tap "Cash Drawer."
Select and Configure Connection Method
Tap "Add Cash Drawer" or the "+" icon.
Select your connection method:
Via Printer: Choose this option. A list of your configured printers will appear. Select the printer your cash drawer is physically connected to.
Via Hardware Port: Choose this option. The app will attempt to detect the connected drawer. You may need to select the correct port or enter device-specific details.
Complete the Setup
Tap "Confirm" or "Save" to finalize the configuration.
⚠️ Important System Note: Only one cash drawer can be added per register in EPOS360.
Testing Your Cash Drawer
After setup, it's crucial to test the connection:
Navigate back to the main Sell screen.
Process a dummy cash transaction or use the manual open function.
To test via a sale: Add any item to the cart, select "Cash" as the payment method, and complete the sale. The drawer should open automatically upon payment finalization.
Troubleshooting
The drawer does not open after a cash sale.
Check Physical Connections: Ensure the RJ12 cable is firmly connected at both ends (drawer and printer/terminal). Verify the power cable is plugged in and the drawer is switched on.
Check Printer Connection (Method 1): Confirm the assigned printer in EPOS360 is correct and online. Perform a test print to ensure the printer itself is communicating.
Check Configuration: Go to More > Hardware > Cash Drawer and verify the correct connection method is selected.
The drawer opens at the wrong time or randomly.
Printer Interference: If connected via printer, other print jobs (like kitchen tickets) might be inadvertently sending an "open" signal. Check the printer's compatibility and settings. Some printers require a specific command setting to differentiate between print and drawer signals.
Cash drawer not detected" error.
Driver/Port Issue (Method 2): For direct connections, ensure your terminal's operating system has the necessary drivers for the cash drawer. You may need to configure the specific serial port in your device's system settings outside of EPOS360.