We’ve all been there—that moment when your POS system crashes during a rush, right when you need it most. If you’re a Clover POS user, this article will help you navigate—or even avoid—that experience.
Read on to learn about the most common issues users encounter with Clover POS and how to address them. We also suggest alternative POS systems that offer a more reliable user experience. Let’s get started!
Common Clover POS Issues and Troubleshooting Them (with Solutions!)
Below, we’ve outlined common problems users face and provide solutions to help you troubleshoot each issue effectively. If these issues persist, consider switching to KORONA POS for a more reliable solution.
Problem 1: Frozen or Unresponsive Screen
Users often report that their Clover device’s screen becomes unresponsive, disrupting transaction processing and the overall flow of operations.
💡 Solution: Perform a Hard Reset
- For Clover Flex: Hold the power button for approximately 46 seconds until the device restarts.
- For Clover Mini: Open the printer paper door, locate the green reset button beneath the paper roll, and hold it for about 10 seconds until the device reboots.
- For Clover Station: Press and hold the white power button on the bottom right side of the device for around 10 seconds to initiate a restart.
Problem 2: Device Not Powering On
Some users find that their Clover device doesn’t turn on, even when connected to a power source.
💡 Solution: Check Power Connections and Perform a Hard Reboot
Ensure the device is correctly connected to a power source and charged for at least 30 minutes. If it remains unresponsive, perform a hard reboot:
- For Clover Flex: Disconnect from the charging cradle, hold the power button for 40 seconds, then release and press the power button again until the Clover logo appears.
- For Clover Mini, Unplug all cables, press the green power button in the receipt compartment for at least 20 seconds, reconnect the cables, and power on.
Problem 3: Connectivity Issues Between Devices
Users may experience problems with the customer-facing Mini not connecting to the merchant-facing device.
💡 Solution: Verify USB Connections and App Installation
Ensure the USB connector is connected correctly: the Type A USB should be plugged into the merchant-facing Mini and the Type B USB into the customer-facing Mini. Confirm that the USB Pay Display app is installed on both devices.
Problem 4: Payment Processing Errors
Errors such as “Do not honor” or “REJECT 203” can occur during payment processing, blocking the sale.
💡 Solution: Address Payment Denials
These errors usually indicate that the customer’s bank is denying the card. Advise the customer to use an alternative payment method or update the card information on file.
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Problem 5: Printer Not Connecting to POS System
Some users have trouble connecting their printers to the Clover POS system, which disrupts receipt generation.
💡 Solution: Inspect Cables and Network Connections
Check for loose or broken power cables between the printer and the POS system. Ensure that the internet connection is stable and that no unnecessary wires are plugged into the hub, which can cause lagging issues.
Problem 6: Frequent Server Issues
Some businesses report recurring server issues that get in the way of POS functionality.
💡 Solution: Evaluate Server Stability and Consider Alternatives
Regular server disruptions can significantly impact operations. If such issues persist, it may be beneficial to explore alternative POS systems like KORONA POS, which is known for its reliable performance.
Problem 7: Error Code 429 – Too Many Requests
This error occurs when the system is overwhelmed with requests in a short period.
💡 Solution: Implement Rate Limiting and Retry Logic
To prevent this error, implement rate limiting in your API requests and include retry logic with exponential backoff in your application.
Problem 8: Device Diagnostics Issues
In general, users may need to access device diagnostics to troubleshoot various problems.
💡 Solution: Utilize the Help App for Diagnostics
- On the Clover device home screen, tap the Help app, then navigate to Menu > Diagnostics to check for pending messages and perform diagnostic tests.
Problem 9: API Error 400 – Bad Request
This error indicates that the server could not understand the request due to invalid syntax.
💡 Solution: Validate Request Data
Ensure that all required fields are correctly filled and that the data sent in the request adheres to the expected format.
Problem 10: Device Lag Due to Unnecessary Connected Cables
Connecting unrelated cables to the network hub can cause the Clover device to lag.
💡 Solution: Disconnect Unnecessary Cables
Do not plug unrelated cables into the hub connecting the POS system and Clover terminal to ensure stable and smooth connectivity.
Problem 11: Error Code 500 – Internal Server Error
This error indicates that the server encountered an unexpected condition that prevented it from fulfilling the request.
💡 Solution: Contact Support for Assistance
Since this is a server-side issue, you should contact Clover support for further assistance.
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Problem 12: Device Not Connecting to Wi-Fi
Connectivity issues can prevent the device from accessing crucial online features and interrupt your POS operations.
💡 Solution: Check Wi-Fi Settings and Network Stability
Ensure that the device is within range of the Wi-Fi network, the correct network is selected, and the password is entered correctly. Restart the router if necessary.
When and How Do I Perform a Hard Reboot of my Clover POS System?
You should perform a hard reboot of your Clover POS system when the device becomes unresponsive, experiences connectivity issues, or shows recurring issues that a standard reset doesn’t solve. To reboot:
- Clover Flex: Press and hold the power button for about 40 seconds until the device restarts
- Clover Mini: Open the receipt paper door, press and hold the green reset button under the paper roll for 15 seconds.
- Clover Station: Hold the white power button on the device’s side for 10 seconds.
Clover POS Troubleshooting Support Options
Clover provides troubleshooting via phone, email, and their online Help Center, which offers articles and guides. However, users frequently criticize Clover POS support for long wait times and limited availability during peak hours, which can seriously affect business operations.
On the contrary, KORONA POS is celebrated for its exceptional 24/7 customer support. Check out what one of our users said about us:
“The customer service [with KORONA POS] is consistent and very helpful… The team really cares about solving issues and finding solutions.”
-Emily K.
Clover Alternatives: Competitors and Features
When Clover doesn’t meet your business needs, you can always turn to reliable alternatives with better features, pricing, and customer support. Explore options like KORONA POS, Square, Lightspeed, or Toast to find the perfect solution.
1. KORONA POS
KORONA POS overview
KORONA POS stands out with unmatched 24/7 customer support, affordable pricing, and an intuitive interface tailored to retail and hospitality. Unlike Clover, KORONA ensures real-time troubleshooting and expert guidance to minimize downtime.
Pros
- Advanced customer support
- Reporting and analytics
- Choose your credit card processor
Cons
- Learning curve
Pricing
Core
$59/mo
- Various reporting
- Unlimited users
- Customizable dashboard
Retail
$69/mo
- Stock management
- Barcode automation
- Price and shelf labels
Adds-on
From $10 to $50/mo
- KORONA integration
- KORONA Plus
- KORONA Invoicing
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Boost store performance and improve sales with KORONA POS’s advanced features and tools.
2. Square POS
SQUARE POS overview
Square POS, created in 2009, offers an affordable Clover alternative for businesses. It’s especially popular with startups and smaller companies due to its user-friendly interface and flexible options. However, businesses often outgrow Square’s limited features or complain that customer support is limited.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Flexible payment methods
- Great integration features
Cons
- Not ideal for complex and retail businesses
- Poor customer support
- Not ideal for businesses with high sales volume
- Insufficient reporting metrics
Pricing
Square Restaurant
From $0-$153/mo
- Point of sale app
- Inventory management
- Sales reporting
Square Retail
Starts at $0/mo
- Advanced inventory management
- Employee management features
- In-depth sales and customer reports
Square Appointments
From $0 to $69/mo
- Deposit management for appointments
- Custom intake forms and questionnaires
- Waitlist management
- Advanced reporting and analytics
3. Lightspeed POS
Lightspeed Retail overview
Lightspeed offers advanced inventory management and a user-friendly design for retail and restaurants. However, its pricing can be steep compared to KORONA, which provides similar features at a lower cost.
Pros
- Centralized employee management
- Built-in marketing tools
- Cloud-based accessibility
Cons
- Customer service issues
- Dependence on internet connection
Lightspeed Retail Pricing
Basic
$89/mo
- Registers
- Free training and onboarding resources
- Dedicated account manager
Core
$149/mo
- Lightspeed B2B
- Accounting
- eCommerce
Plus
$289/mo
- Omnichannel loyalty
- Advanced reporting
4. Toast POS
Toast POS overview
Toast offers comprehensive features like table and order management, mobile POS capabilities for tableside ordering, and seamless integration with kitchen display systems (KDS).
Restaurant-based Clover users will enjoy Toast’s inventory management solutions, online ordering options, and detailed reporting tools.
Pros
- Inventory management built-in
- Integrated online ordering & payments
- Detailed reporting and analytics
Cons
- Mixed customer support reviews
- Contract required
Toast POS Pricing
Starter Kit:
$0/mo
- Reporting & analytics
- Menu management
- Toast invoicing
Core
$69/mo
- Toast mobile order and pay
- Toast delivery services
- Scheduling, powered by Sling
Build Your Own
Custom Pricing
- Payroll & team management
- Toast pay card and payOut
Clover Issues, Errors, and Troubleshooting FAQs
How do I check for a problem with Clover card machines today?
To check if Clover card machines are experiencing issues, visit Clover’s status page for real-time updates on outages. You can also contact their support for confirmation.
How do I reset a Clover device?
The Clover device’s reset button is located under the receipt paper door in the Clover Mini and Flex models. To reset the device, simply press and hold it for 10 seconds.
Switch to a Reliable POS With 24/7 Support
Clover POS has advantages but challenges, such as limited support, troubleshooting delays, and high fees. KORONA POS eliminates these frustrations with reliable 24/7 customer service, user-friendly features, and scalable pricing plans.
Don’t settle for less. Switch to KORONA POS today and discover how the ideal POS system can alleviate stress and enhance your business operations.
Get started with KORONA POS today!
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