I'm receiving messages that my reader (1st generation) is no longer applicable for OFF LINE payments

[CannedFresh]

Not sure I have the correct catagory.

I keep getting messages that my Square Reader (1 Gen) which connects fine but tells me it is NO LONGER COMPATIBLE to use for OFF LINE payments.  Do I need to turn it in and "pay" for a new one ?   When I'm in an off line situation, isn't that because there is something wrong with Square ?  My mobile hot spot is working fine.   What do I need to do ?  

[Summer2024 · Accepted solution]

Hi, @CannedFresh ! Let me provide some clarification 😁

Understanding the Message:

1. The "no longer compatible" message isn't about Square's service being down - it's specifically about first-generation reader hardware no longer supporting offline mode
2. Offline mode is a feature that allows you to accept payments when you don't have internet connection, which is different from Square's service being unavailable

What This Means:

• First-generation readers have been phased out of offline payment support due to security updates
• Your reader will still work for regular transactions when you have internet connection
• The issue isn't with your hotspot or Square's service, but with the reader's compatibility with newer security features

Solutions Available:

1. Alternative Reader Options:

   • Square Reader for magstripe (newer generation): $10
   • Square Reader for contactless and chip: $49
   • Square Stand: Available if you want to upgrade your entire POS setup

Recommended Actions:

1. Short-term:

   • Ensure you have stable internet connection when processing payments
   • Consider using your phone's cellular data as backup when your hotspot isn't working

2. Long-term:

   • Consider upgrading to a contactless + chip reader for more payment options and better security

To Order a New Reader:

1. Log into your Square Dashboard
2. Go to Hardware

Important Note: You don't need to "turn in" your old reader, but it's recommended to properly dispose of it once you receive a replacement.

I hope this helps!

[CannedFresh]

Hello !!   

Thank you for the reply.  Yes, everything was quite helpful.

another question tho......HOW do I get the "old" reader to not show up on my screen (I use a tablet) even after I dispose of it ?  It just shows as disconnected (which it is) but neither of them show which one is newer !! 

Thanks

lois

[Summer2024]

@CannedFresh - try these steps below to remove the old reader! 

1. Through the Square App:

   • Open your Square Point of Sale app
   • Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon)
   • Select "Settings"
   • Tap "Hardware"
   • Look for "Card Readers"
   • Find the old reader in the list
   • Tap on it and look for "Forget This Reader" or "Remove Reader"

2. If you can't find the forget option:

   • Go to your tablet's Bluetooth settings
   • Find the Square reader in your paired devices list
   • Select "Forget" or "Unpair" device

3. To identify which reader is newer:

   • Look at the serial number on the physical reader
   • Compare it with the serial numbers shown in your Square app
   • The serial number can usually be found on the back or bottom of the reader
   • Newer Square readers typically start with "R" followed by numbers

If you're still seeing the old reader after trying these steps:

• Try signing out of the Square app completely
• Clear the app's cache
• Sign back in
• Re-pair only the reader you want to use

I hope this helps!