Credit Card Reader (Magnetic Card Reader) - A device that reads the magnetic stripe on a credit card for account information to automatically be processed for a transaction. A credit card reader is either integrated into a register, attached onto a register as a separate component or is part of a stand-alone terminal dedicated for the sole function of processing credit card transactions.
Track 1 is a "track" of information on a credit card that has a 79 character alphanumeric field for information. Normally a credit card number, expiration date and customer name are contained on track 1. Track 2 is a "track" of information on a credit card that has a 40 character field for information. Normally a credit card number and expiration date are contained on track 2. Track 3 is a "track" of information on a credit card that has a 107 character field for alphanumeric information. Normally a credit card number, expiration date and room for additional information are available on track 3.
