Downloading and Installing Required Software and Encryption Keys
In order for the PAX terminal to operate correctly, it must have the required software
and encryption keys installed. The PAX terminal is configured to automatically download
and install software and encryption keys. This process is also referred to as
remote
software and key injection
. This automated activity provides merchants with a
secure way to perform injections at the point of sale. If you receive an
Accessory update required
error message on the terminal when
software is installing, see Fixing the Accessory Update Required Error on the PAX Terminal.These types of software and encryption keys are automatically downloaded and installed on
the terminal:
- Operating system
- The PAX terminal runs on a preinstalled Android operating system (OS) called PayDroid. The PAX PayDroid OS is a specialized version of the Android OS that was developed by PAX Technology specifically for its smart payment devices. Although based on the standard Android OS, the PayDroid OS was modified to provide a secure platform for payment applications and services. It supports the installation of third-party apps, which must be approved by PAX due to the sensitive nature of payment data.
- Acceptance Devices app
- This app downloads only on devices running the Acceptance Devices | Semi-Integrated Solution in Semi-Integrated mode or Standalone mode. The Acceptance Devices app enables communication between the PAX terminal and the integrated POS system by using simple API requests in a local Wi-Fi network or by using the cloud. You can also operate the Acceptance Devices app in Standalone mode, which enables you to start transactions directly from the PAX terminal. This mode does not require any integration to a POS system.
- Payment apps
- BroadPOS Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE) is a payment app developed by PAX that manages card data encryption. It is an application interface that enables your PAX terminal to acquire card information; support insert, tap, swipe, and manual card payments; acquire the PIN; and encrypt the transaction process. In order to read payment cards and process payments, every PAX terminal must have BroadPOS P2PE installed. All PAX terminals that are ordered throughCybersourceand shipped by its distribution partner automatically install BroadPOS.
- Third-party POS app
- This app downloads only on devices running the Acceptance Devices | PAX All-in-One Solution. When performing an SDK/ All-in-One integration, a third-party point-of-sale (POS) app that includes the SDK is installed and run directly on the PAX device. If you are using a debug device, you can install (or sideload) the app for development and testing by using a USB connection to your laptop. Mac users must use Android File Transfer to sideload apps. For more information about debug devices, see Ordering PAX Terminal Equipment.
- Encryption keys
- Every terminal running Acceptance Devices solutions will be equipped with a set of encryption keys through remote key injection (RKI) after the terminal connects to a Wi-Fi network for the first time. The Online PIN key is used for encryption and real-time verification of PIN data. The Secure Reading and Exchange of Data (SRED) key is applied in the encryption of card data from the Point of Interaction (POI). This action ensures P2PE between the terminal and gateway.