The 2nd Generation Helcim Card Reader was designed for businesses that need to take payments anywhere—from the front counter to a weekend pop-up market. It’s a portable powerhouse that turns your existing smartphone, tablet, or computer into a full point-of-sale system.
Hardware features
The Gen 2 reader is easily identified by its slim profile and physical number pad. Unlike our newer touchscreen models, this reader uses tactile buttons for PIN entry and navigation.
Physical keypad: Buttons 0-9 for secure PIN entry.
Compact display: A small screen at the top of the device shows the transaction total and simple prompts.
Connectivity: Pairs with your devices via Bluetooth or a physical USB connection.
Payment types: Supports Tap (NFC) and Chip & PIN.
Device compatibility
A great thing about the Gen 2 reader is its versatility. It is compatible with:
iOS and Android: Connect to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth.
Windows and Mac: Connect to your computer via USB or Bluetooth using the Helcim app.
Legacy support
While the 2nd Generation reader has been replaced in our shop by the newer touchscreen version, it remains fully supported by Helcim. We continue to release software updates for the reader to ensure it stays secure and compatible with the latest versions of our app.
If your Gen 2 reader ever reaches the end of its life, or if you simply want to upgrade to access newer features like Helcim Fee Saver, you can always find our latest hardware in the Helcim Equipment Store.
Next steps
If you're ready to get to work, the first step is getting your reader synced. Head over to our guide on Connecting your Card Reader (Gen 2).