POS Terminals Error Code
Systems & Devices
POS Terminals
PIN PAD | PIN pad inoperative
Industry
Systems & Devices
Canonical
/systems/pos-terminals/error-codes/pin-pad-inoperative/
Last Updated
Feb 27, 2026
Summary
The PIN entry device is not available or not responding, so PIN-based transactions cannot proceed.
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What This Code Means
“PIN pad inoperative” indicates the terminal cannot use the PIN entry device (integrated or external). This prevents debit PIN or PIN-verified transactions until the device is restored or the terminal is serviced.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- During debit PIN entry prompts
- At terminal startup if peripherals are missing
Why This Code Appears
- Loose/failed PIN pad connection
- Peripheral driver/module failure
- Device is in a locked state after an update
What Typically Happens Next
- Terminal may fall back to signature or decline PIN-required transactions
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a card issuer decline
- It is not a batch/settlement error
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Power-cycle the terminal and reseat cables if external peripherals are used
- □ Verify the terminal is on the supported software version
- □ Contact the terminal vendor if the device remains unavailable
Notes And Edge Cases
PIN entry devices are regulated; do not substitute non-certified peripherals.
Related Codes
8 links
- DECLINED CodeIssuer declined
- BATCH NOT CLOSED CodeSettlement pending
- INVALID TID CodeTerminal ID invalid
- CALL ISSUER CodeIssuer contact required
- COMMUNICATION ERROR CodeHost communication failed
- EMV FALLBACK CodeChip fallback
- ICC READ CodeChip read error
- KEYS NOT LOADED CodeEncryption keys missing
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