Connecting SilomPOS to a Printer with Your iPad
This guide provides a step-by-step process for connecting your SilomPOS app to a compatible printer using your iPad.
Connecting printer
Before you begin:
Ensure your iPad is connected to a stable WiFi network.
Your printer must be connected to the same network (if using a LAN connection).
If you’re using an older SilomPOS version, please update to the latest version available on the App Store.
Certified Printer Models:
Epson: TM-T82, TM-T88, TM-m30, TM-m30 II, TM-m30 II-SL, TM-m30H, S300 (WiFi)
Star: TSP100III, TSP143III, mPOP (Bluetooth)
Compatible Models: (These may require a license fee for full functionality)
Other Epson and Star thermal printer models that support ESC/POS commands.
Xprinter and similar generic thermal printers.
Connecting printer
LAN (Ethernet): For printers with LAN ports.
This offers a stable connection, ideal for high-volume printing and longer distances.
Bluetooth: For printers with Bluetooth capabilities.
Convenient for wireless connection within a shorter range.
USB to Lightning: For Star TSP143iii and potentially other printers that support USB direct connection.
Steps to Connect Your Printer:
Access SilomPOS Settings:
Open the SilomPOS app on your iPad.
Tap on the “Settings” icon (usually located in the top right corner or bottom navigation bar).
Navigate to Printer Settings:
Select “Printer & Scanner” (the wording might vary slightly depending on the SilomPOS version).
Choose “Add Printer” to start the printer setup.
Identify Your Printer Type:
For Epson Printers:
If using LAN:
Select “Epson (ePOS2 Printer)”.
The app will scan the network and attempt to automatically detect your printer.
If using Bluetooth:
Select “Epson (Bluetooth)”.
Turn on your printer’s Bluetooth functionality.
Select your printer (usually listed as “TM-m30_xxxx”) from the list of detected Bluetooth devices.
For Star Printers:
If using LAN:
Select “Other”.
Enter the printer’s IP address manually (See Troubleshooting below for how to find your printer’s IP address).
If using Bluetooth:
Select “Star (Bluetooth)” or “Other” (depending on your SilomPOS version and available options).
Turn on your printer’s Bluetooth functionality.
Select your printer (e.g., “STAR mPOP-xxxxx”) from the detected devices.
If using USB to Lightning (Star TSP143iii):
Select “Star TSP143iii (USB)”.
For Compatible Printers:
Select “Other” from the list of printer types.
Enter the printer’s IP address manually for LAN connections, or pair via Bluetooth if the printer supports it.
Configure Printer Details:
Printer Name: Enter a descriptive name for the printer (e.g., “Cashier Printer”, “Kitchen Printer”).
Print Mode: Choose “Receipt Printer” if you’ll be using the printer for receipts, or “Kitchen Printer” if it’s for kitchen orders.
Paper Size: Select the appropriate paper width (usually 58mm or 80mm for thermal printers).
Serial Number: (For Epson and Star certified models) Enter the printer’s serial number (found on a label at the back or bottom of the printer) to register it and access full features.
Troubleshooting:
Cannot Find Printer on the Network:
Ensure both your iPad and printer are connected to the same WiFi network.
Find your printer’s IP address:
Run a self-test print (see printer manual for instructions). The IP address will be listed on the test receipt.
Check the configuration page of your router. The printer should be listed in the “connected devices” list.
Enter the IP address manually when setting up the printer in SilomPOS.
Bluetooth Connection Issues:
Check if your iPad and printer are in close proximity and the Bluetooth functionality is enabled on both devices.
Forget the Bluetooth connection on your iPad and pair again.
Reset your printer’s Bluetooth settings (see printer manual).
Printer is Offline or Disconnected:
Check if the printer is turned on and connected to the network via LAN or Bluetooth.
Re-start your iPad and printer.
Check network cables (if using LAN) to ensure they are properly plugged in.
Contact SilomPOS support if the problem persists.
Test and Save:
Tap on “Test Print” to check if the connection and printer settings are working.
If successful, you’ll see a test receipt. Adjust your settings if necessary.
Select “Save” or “Record” to save the printer configuration.
Contacting Support:
If you’re facing persistent issues connecting your printer