Step-by-step
In some cases, SalesPlay POS users report issues such as:
- POS not syncing data with the back office
- POS data not uploading to the back office
- Changes made in the back office not appearing on the POS
- KOTs (Kitchen Order Tickets) not reaching the kitchen printer
- Tablet orders not syncing between tablets
While these problems may appear to be software or internet issues, they are sometimes caused by damaged network cables used in the POS setup.
Why Network Cables Matter
Many devices in your POS environment communicate through Ethernet network cables, including:
- KOT / BOT printers
- Receipt printers
- Routers and switches
- POS terminals
If the network cable connecting these devices is damaged, communication between devices may fail or become unstable.
Inside a Network Cable
A standard Ethernet cable (such as Cat5e or Cat6) contains:
- 8 small copper wires
- These wires are arranged as 4 twisted pairs
These wires work together to send and receive data between devices. They do not function as separate “upload” or “download” cables; instead, the pairs carry data both directions depending on the network technology.
Common Causes of Network Cable Damage
The small copper wires inside a network cable can become damaged due to several reasons:
- Rat or rodent bites
- Cable being crushed by heavy objects
- Frequent bending or pulling
- Improper cable installation
- Environmental damage
When these internal wires are damaged, the cable may still appear normal from the outside but data transmission becomes unstable or slow.
Signs of a Damaged Network Cable
You may experience the following symptoms:
- POS fails to sync with the back office
- Orders do not reach the kitchen printer
- Tablets do not sync orders with each other
- Devices disconnect randomly from the network
- Slow communication between POS devices
What You Should Check
If you experience any of the issues above, check the following:
- Check Internet Speed
Ensure your internet service provider is delivering the expected download and upload speed.
- Test the Network Cable
Even if your internet speed is good, your device may not receive the full speed due to a damaged network cable.
- Inspect Physical Cable Condition
Look for:
- Visible cuts or bends in the cable
- Loose connectors
- Damaged RJ45 heads
- Signs of rodent damage
- Replace the Cable
If you suspect damage, replace the network cable with a new one and test the system again.
Best Practice
To maintain a stable POS environment:
- Use high-quality Cat5e or Cat6 cables
- Avoid running cables where they can be crushed or bitten by rodents
- Periodically inspect network connections
- Replace damaged cables immediately