thread Re: How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge? in Hardware Setup & Troubleshooting

How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge?

LoriB — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:28:05 GMT

I received my chip reader today. I plugged it in to charge it and the light went from Amber to green in only a few minutes. But I was only able to do one test swipe before it stopped working and needed to recharge. I plugged it in again and it again went from an amber light to green in only a few minutes. How long should these devices hold a charge?

Re: How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge?

VanKalkerFarms — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 13:07:59 GMT

what reader do you have? you said swipe so do you have the combo swipe/chip reader that plugs into the headphone jack or the Bluetooth reader? our Bluetooth readers last weeks if not used and usually a full day under fairly heavy usage (200+ transactions)

this is the combo reader, I personally don't recommend it.

Re: How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge?

LoriB — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 17:53:33 GMT

It IS the combo chip reader/swipe. Has there been a history of issues with this? Darn! I have an event tomorrow night and really needed this to work!

Re: How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge?

VanKalkerFarms — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 18:01:52 GMT

I have had issues with this reader, I personally had 5 broken (3 of which were broken out of the box). they can get an error message about tampering. I would recommend getting the Bluetooth reader. https://squareup.com/shop/hardware/us/en/products/chip-credit-card-reader-with-nfc

you may be able to pick it up locally to save time. https://squareup.com/where-to-buy

Re: How long does a chip reader typically hold a charge?

LoriB — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 23:39:17 GMT

Thank you very much for your help with this!