These small rolls of thermal paper provide the physical record of transactions conducted at point-of-sale systems. A chemical reaction within the paper causes it to darken when exposed to heat from the print head, creating a legible receipt for both the customer and the merchant. This receipt typically includes details such as the date and time of the transaction, the amount charged, the card type used, and the last four digits of the card number.
Transaction receipts are essential for record-keeping, accounting, returns and refunds, and dispute resolution. They offer immediate proof of purchase for consumers and facilitate efficient business operations for merchants. Historically, carbon copies provided this documentation, but thermal printing offers a faster, cleaner, and more efficient solution. This technology allows for the immediate generation of a clear and detailed record, reducing errors and simplifying reconciliation processes.
