How to Choose the Most Suitable Thermal Paper Roll for POS, ATM, and Cash Register Devices

THE FIRST AND MOST IMPORTANT CRITERION:
For fiscal receipts produced in POS, ATM, and cash register systems, Turkish legislation (VAT Law No. 52 and Electronic Cash Register communiqués) requires that rolls be manufactured by a TSE-certified company. This is a legal obligation ensuring compliance and reliability.

Thermal rolls used in POS systems, ATMs, and cash registers are crucial for accurate transaction recording, readable customer receipts, and long-term archive storage. Choosing the right thermal roll involves more than just device compatibility. Factors such as print durability, paper quality, surface coating, and production standards affect not only printer performance but also customer experience. Therefore, businesses must consider several key criteria when selecting the most suitable thermal paper roll.

Step One: Ensuring the Correct Roll Size

Each device supports specific roll dimensions. Thermal rolls are typically defined by width × length (for example, 56x16, 80x30, etc.). Choosing the wrong size can cause paper jams, improper cutting, or misaligned printing.

How to Check the Correct Size

  • The roll compartment or inner cover of the device usually indicates the supported size.
  • Manufacturers list compatible roll sizes in their technical documentation.
  • You can verify by measuring the width of your existing roll with a ruler.

The Importance of Thermal Coating Quality for POS, ATM, and Cash Registers

The thermal coating determines how sharp the print appears and how long it remains readable. Low-quality coatings fade quickly, resulting in unclear or disappearing receipts. This not only reduces customer satisfaction but also complicates official record keeping.

High-Quality Coating Offers the Following Benefits:

  • Up to 10 years of fade-resistant print life
  • High contrast for clear, legible text
  • Resistance to wrinkling and surface deformation
  • Consistent print performance even under heavy use

Choosing BPA-Free Thermal Paper

Some thermal coatings contain Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical restricted in many countries due to potential health risks from prolonged exposure. Therefore, selecting BPA-free thermal paper ensures safer use for both employees and customers.

The Role of ISO-Certified Production in Device Performance

Implementing the ISO 9001 Quality Management System in thermal paper production ensures consistency in:

  • Accurate roll length (metrage)
  • Uniform surface smoothness
  • Stable coating density
  • Controlled roll tension

This guarantees longer printer head lifespan and fewer device malfunctions. In short, using high-quality rolls reduces printer maintenance costs significantly.

Choosing Between Printed and Unprinted Thermal Rolls

Unprinted Rolls

Ideal for standard applications. They offer quick supply and cost efficiency, suitable for general retail use.

Printed Rolls

Can feature logos, contact details, campaigns, or QR codes printed on the back. They enhance brand recognition and project a professional image.