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Activate and set up your devices

General Information for Activation and Management of POS Devices

If you're setting up a Viva.com POS device, you will need to activate it before you can use it to accept in-person payments. The activation process depends on the type of device you have.

This guide covers the general steps for setting up, activating, and managing your POS device.

When you receive your terminal

When you receive your POS terminal, check that you have the required accessories:

  • Terminal device

  • Connection cables (USB or Ethernet, depending on the model)

  • SIM card, if the model includes a pre-installed SIM card, such as the PAX A920 Pro

  • Charger

  • Terminal battery, depending on the model

  • Thermal paper roll for the printer, depending on the model

Also check that the terminal and the devices you will use meet these software requirements:

  • Bluetooth 4.2 or later

  • Android 8.1 or later when using the Viva.com Terminal app

Initial setup

  1. Insert the battery into the terminal.

  2. Insert the SIM card into the terminal if you are using a Ciontek device or plan to connect to the internet using mobile data.

  3. Start charging the terminal.

  4. Turn on the terminal using the power button.

  5. Enter your Wi-Fi network details and link a Google Play Store account to allow the terminal to perform the necessary updates.

Activate your device

The activation process may vary depending on your setup.

If you use the Viva.com Terminal app with an accessory, such as a Mini Card Reader, additional setup may be required. This can include pairing the devices using Bluetooth.

Make sure all accessories are adequately charged before you begin and follow the pairing instructions provided.

For detailed setup and activation instructions, see here.

Manage your Stores

After activating your device, you can organize your POS devices by linking them to specific Stores in your Viva.com account.

A Store is a type of Payment Source. Assigning devices to Stores helps you organize and filter transaction information by location and maintain clear, location-specific transaction records.

  • Create a Store: Follow the instructions here to set up a Store representing a physical location or department.

  • Assign a Store to a device: After creating your Stores, assign your POS devices to the appropriate Store to organize your transactions.

POS device security guidelines for PCI DSS compliance

To maintain a secure payment environment and ensure PCI DSS compliance:

  • Use a new device or one that has been reset to factory settings before installing any application.

  • Only install additional applications that are necessary for business purposes.

  • Install applications only from the official Google Play Store or your organization's approved device management solution.

  • Keep the device's operating system and the Viva.com Terminal app updated.

  • During PIN entry, instruct customers to shield the PIN pad.

  • Make sure no cameras or recording equipment are directed at the device during PIN entry.

For more information about PCI DSS and your obligations when accepting card payments, see here.

Still need help? Our team is here to support you. Please contact us via the Chat with us option in your Viva.com account.

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