Skip to main content

What's the difference between the Master POS, Slave POS, and Waiter Pad?

L
Written by Lucien Hopkinson

Quick answer: There can only be one Master POS: it's the central hub and must stay open and awake (set Auto-Lock to Never). Slave POS terminals and Waiter Pads take orders but communicate with other devices through the Master.

The Nomni POS application can be used for a Master POS, a Slave POS, or a Waiter Pad; you just need to reconfigure the settings.
​
Different settings are required for different uses, with different capabilities.


Master POS

The Master POS is the central hub for your POS system, configured during the initial setup. It has full access to all features of the Nomni POS application, making it the most powerful device in your system.

  • There can only be one Master POS, as it acts as the communication point for Slave POS devices and Waiter Pads.

  • To ensure constant communication between terminals, the Master POS must remain active at all times. On the Master POS device, go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock and set it to Never.

iPad Display & Brightness settings with Auto-Lock highlighted

Slave POS

A Slave POS is any additional terminal connected to the Master POS. It can take orders and complete transactions but relies on the Master POS for communication with other devices.

  • Slave POS is ideal for fixed Point of Sale terminals, typically on regular iPads or iPad Pro devices.

  • It has most of the same functions as the Master POS but cannot operate independently.


Waiter Pads

The Waiter Pad is a specialized type of Slave POS, designed for handheld use in restaurants.

  • The main difference is that a Waiter Pad can take orders but cannot complete transactions. This makes it distinct from the regular Slave POS.

  • Waiter Pads are best for iPads carried around the dining room, enhancing table service efficiency.

If you prefer, you can use a Slave POS for payment on the dining room floor by disabling the Waiter Pad function.


Need help?

Email support@nomni.ai or call 1300 445 483.

Did this answer your question?