Point of Sale Checkout (POS)

Precision Motion for Point of Sale (POS) Systems

Miniature motors and gearboxes are integral to modern Point of Sale (POS) systems, enabling smooth, reliable operation across printing, payment, and automated checkout functions.

Rotalink’s motion solutions provide compact, high‑performance actuation for receipt printers, card readers, cash drawers, and scanning mechanisms, combining quiet operation with long‑term durability.

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Industry Challenges

POS and checkout systems demand compact, efficient, and low‑maintenance motion components that can perform consistently under heavy use.

  • Compact integration
    limited internal space within terminals and kiosks.
  • Quiet operation
    essential for retail and hospitality environments. 
  • High duty cycle
    continuous operation with minimal downtime. 
  • Precise torque control
    for consistent printing, feeding, and handling. 
  • Energy efficiency
    maintaining performance while reducing power consumption.

How Motion Technology Supports POS Systems

Rotalink’s miniature motors and gearboxes provide the precision, torque, and reliability required across every POS function.
Our motion systems deliver:

  • Consistent, repeatable performance
    for high‑duty applications.
  • Compact, efficient actuation
    to fit within tight mechanical housings.
  • Low noise and smooth operation
    for customer‑facing environments.
  • High torque density
    enabling powerful movement in limited space.
  • Custom engineering
    tailored solutions to match specific OEM requirements.
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Applications of Miniature Motors and Gearboxes in POS Systems

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Receipt Printers

  • Function: Drive paper feed and cutting mechanisms. 
  • Motors Used: Small DC motors or stepper motors.
  • Gearbox Role: Provides torque to drive rollers and precision to align prints or activate guillotine cutters.
  • Example: Thermal receipt printers (e.g., Epson or Star Micronics).
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Label Printers and Dispensers

  • Function: Feed label rolls and activate cutters or peelers. 
  • Motors Used: Stepper motors or coreless DC motors.
  • Gearbox Role: Enables precise label positioning and torque for cutting mechanisms.
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Card Readers and Payment Terminals

  • Function: Move cards into readers and eject them smoothly. 
  • Motors Used: Micro brushed or brushless DC motors. 
  • Gearbox Role: Offers fine control over speed and torque to prevent card damage. 
  • Types: Motorised magnetic stripe and chip card readers.
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Cash Drawers

  • Function: Automatic opening and closing mechanisms.
  • Motors Used: Small brushed DC motors or solenoids.
  • Gearbox Role: Provides high torque to unlock or slide open the drawer reliably.
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Barcode Scanners (Motorised)

  • Function: Drive moving mirrors or scanning heads in high‑speed or omni‑directional scanners. 
  • Motors Used: Coreless DC motors or voice coil actuators.
  • Gearbox Role: Provides precise mirror control for consistent scanning angle and speed.
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Coin and Bill Acceptors (in kiosks or self‑checkouts)

  • Function: Sort and transport coins or bills through validation systems. 
  • Motors Used: Miniature DC motors with encoders. 
  • Gearbox Role: Provides high torque and precision for compact coin paths and bill validation rollers.

Why Choose Rotalink for POS Applications?

  • Proven reliability
    supporting leading POS and checkout equipment manufacturers.
  • Compact and efficient
    ideal for small enclosures and kiosks.
  • Quiet, precise performance
    maintaining smooth operation in public environments.
  • Custom design options
    developed to meet the needs of OEM integration.
  • UK‑based engineering support
    from concept through production.