thread Re: How do I get the cabled card reader to connect? in Payments Troubleshooting

How do I get the cabled card reader to connect?

NurtArts — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 07:39:16 GMT

I have the card reader that plugs in with a USB cable, and I can't get it to work with an iPad or with an Android phone. When I plug it in, it lights up, but the square app doesn't know the device is there.

Thanks for the help!

Re: How do I get the cabled card reader to connect?

JK_Fiber_Art — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 15:06:54 GMT

If you're referring to the Contactless and Chip Reader - the cable connection is for the USB hub that comes with the Square Stand. If you don't have that setup, you can connect the Reader via Bluetooth.

Re: How do I get the cabled card reader to connect?

NurtArts — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 15:46:25 GMT

I am not referring to the contactless chip reader.

The device I have is USB only, not a Bluetooth connection.

Re: How do I get the cabled card reader to connect?

JK_Fiber_Art — Sun, 02 Jun 2024 13:02:28 GMT

Need more info on what Reader you actually have as that would be helpful.

For example the Square Magstripe reader has either a headset jack or a Lightning connector - no USB capability that I'm aware of. The Square Contactless and Chip Reader has USB or Bluetooth capability.

Re: How do I get the cabled card reader to connect?

NurtArts — Sun, 02 Jun 2024 15:14:14 GMT

My wife figured it out, because she's great. Turns out I'm the **bleep** and it was the contactless chip reader. The stand it was plugged into was the red herring.

Thanks for your offer to help!