The 2nd Generation Helcim Card Reader is designed to be flexible, allowing you to take payments whether you're at a fixed desk or moving around your shop. Depending on which device you use to run the Helcim app, you’ll connect via Bluetooth (for mobile and tablets) or USB (for computers).

Prepare your reader

Before we dive into the app settings, let’s make sure your hardware is ready to go.

• Charge it up: Use the micro-USB cable to connect the reader to a power source. We recommend a full charge before your first use.

• Power on: Press and hold the power button on the front of the reader until the screen lights up.

• Log in: Open the Helcim POS app on your phone, tablet, or computer and log in to your account.

Choose your device

Every merchant's counter looks a little different. In the Helcim POS app, you’ll start by telling the system which device you are using.

1. Look at the bottom bar of the app and click on the Connection icon.

   • If you haven't connected a reader before, it will say Connect hardware.

   • If a reader was recently unplugged, it will say Disconnected.

2. From the list of available devices, select Card Reader (2nd Generation).

Connecting via Bluetooth

Bluetooth is the "no strings attached" option, perfect for keeping your counter clutter-free or taking the reader right to your customer.

1. After selecting the reader from the list, choose Connect via Bluetooth.

2. Ensure your reader is discoverable. The Bluetooth icon should be flashing on the reader's screen.

   • Note: If the icon isn't flashing, turn the reader off and back on again to reset it.

3. A list of available devices will appear on your screen. Select your device’s serial number from the dropdown (e.g. WPC1234567890).

4. Select Connect.

5. Confirm the pairing request by pressing the green return button on the physical keypad of the reader.

Connecting via USB

If you are using a desktop or laptop, a wired connection provides the most stable experience for high-volume environments.

1. Plug the USB cable into your reader and your computer.

2. In the app, after selecting the reader from the list, choose Connect via USB.

3. The app will automatically detect the device. Once the status in the bottom bar changes to Connected, you are ready to process sales.

Next steps

Now that you’re connected, it’s time to run your first sale! Head over to our guide on Accepting payments with the Card Reader (Gen 2) to see the workflow in action.