Credit card processing is supported through 3rd-party authorization processing software. The processing software is required to handle the actual communication with the merchant bank, which is only possible with certain licensed providers.
Campground Master is currently compatible with four different products:
X-Charge -- This is our provider of choice, and integrates seamlessly with Campground Master. There is no charge for this integration no matter how many workstations you have, and it works in conjunction with their own merchant services (so support for both the software and the merchant services are provided by the same company). Their discount rates are very competitive (they can provide you with a detailed comparison to your existing merchant statement), and it's simple to get set up. Contact us to find out more. We also support PIN-pad/Debit cards when using X-charge, while the other options cannot use PIN-pads for debit card transactions.
MerchantWare Web Service -- This is another alternative that you may consider if you can change merchant accounts, since it's tied to Merchant Warehouse merchant services. Like X-Charge, there's no software to buy. In fact you don't even need to install separate software, as all processing is done through a direct web connection. However it does require a reliable high-speed internet connection, and any maintenance functions (settlement reports, etc.) need to be done through a web interface.
ICVerify (by FirstData) -- This software is sold separately from merchant services and can be used with most existing U.S. merchant processors. While we do support its format, we only recommend this option if you don't have the ability to change your merchant provider. Important -- you must purchase the "Multi-user" version of IC Verify, even if using on only one computer. If you have more than 4 workstations needing to process cards, then you must also purchase additional user licenses.
PCCharge (by Verifone) -- This software is sold separately from merchant services and can be used with most existing U.S. merchant processors. While we do support its format, we only recommend this option if you don't have the ability to change your merchant provider. Important -- if using more than one computer for credit card processing, you need to purchase an appropriate number of user licenses or the "Unlimited" version. Campground Master supports both the "PCCharge Pro" and "PCCharge Payment Server" products. PAYware PC and Payware SIM are not supported.
Whichever processing software you use must be installed and running while using Campground Master (except the MerchantWare Web Service). This must be on the same computer or a computer that is accessible through a mapped network drive. In a networked environment, this only needs to be running on one computer, which should either be the Master workstation or one that the master can see through a mapped drive. Exception -- if using the X-Charge XpressLink processing option, then each computer must have X-charge installed on it.