POS Touchscreen Monitors

Touch technology: resistive, acoustic wave or capacitive

The touch layer decides how the screen feels and what it tolerates. Resistive types such as AccuTouch respond to a finger, gloved hand or stylus, but the surface can scratch. Surface acoustic wave types such as IntelliTouch keep the glass clear and sharp but can be affected by dirt or liquid on the surface. Projected capacitive gives phone-like multi-touch, and a 10-touch rating counts how many fingers register. Infrared frames suit larger sizes. Pick for your environment, because gloves, grease and spills matter.

Size, resolution, brightness and cabling

Typical counter sizes are 15, 17 and 19 inches in 4:3 or 5:4 shapes, with 21.5-inch widescreens at 1920 by 1080, plus small 7 and 10-inch screens for customer displays. Brightness of 200 to 400 cd/m2 suits most counters, and more helps near windows. Touch monitors need two cables: one for video and one, usually USB or serial, for the touch signal, and some need a driver. Look for a flat, sealed front and a stand that tilts, or a VESA mount.

Questions about POS Touchscreen Monitors

Does a touch monitor need a separate cable for touch?

Yes, in most cases. Video travels on one cable, such as HDMI, VGA or DisplayPort, and the touch signal travels on another, usually USB or serial. Some operating systems detect it automatically, others need a driver.

Which touch type works with gloves?

Resistive screens work with gloves or a stylus because they respond to pressure. Infrared and surface acoustic wave types can also register a gloved finger, while capacitive screens usually need a bare finger or special gloves.

What screen size and resolution suit a till?

Fifteen to 17 inches at 1024 by 768 or 1280 by 1024 is typical, and enough for most POS software layouts. Choose a larger or widescreen panel if your software shows more at once, and check the software's recommended resolution.