eDynamo - Device Quick Guide

Modified on Thu, 4 Sep at 12:32 PM

eDynamo Quick Installation and Setup Guide

The MagTek eDynamo is a secure, flexible card reader designed to accept both magnetic stripe cards and EMV chip cards. With support for USB and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) connectivity, the eDynamo is ideal for both mobile and countertop payment environments. This article walks you through setup, mounting, charging, operating modes, LED indicators, and compliance details.


Connection Options

  • USB (Micro-USB B)

    • Configured as a vendor-defined HID device.

    • No custom drivers required.

  • Wireless (Bluetooth LE)

    • Configured as a GATT device.

    • Operates on standard 2.4 GHz frequency.

    • Wireless range: up to 33 ft. (10 m) in line-of-sight conditions.


Mounting Options

  • Handheld or mounted – the eDynamo requires no special wiring or drilling.

  • Optional Docking Station:

    • Micro-suction base adheres to smooth surfaces.

    • Provides stability for customer swiping/dipping.

    • Includes recessed panels for merchant branding.

    • Setup: connect the USB cable → place device on base → snap on top case.


Power and Charging

  • Power Sources:

    • Via micro-USB (powered while connected to a PC or tablet POS).

    • Via rechargeable internal battery.

  • Charging Instructions:

    • Fully charge on arrival (≈ 3 hours or until LED is solid green).

    • Recharge at least every 6 months during storage.

    • A full charge supports 1,000+ swipes.

    • Recharging typically takes only a few hours.

  • Storage Temperature: 32°F to 113°F (0°C to 45°C).


Device Modes

The eDynamo supports several operating modes:

  • Airplane Mode: Shipping/storage mode, no wireless activity.

  • Reset Mode: Hold pushbutton for 5–10 seconds to return to Airplane Mode.

  • Discoverable Mode: Press pushbutton briefly; device advertises over Bluetooth.

  • Pairing Mode: Hold pushbutton for 2 seconds until LED flashes; device is ready for pairing.

  • Connected Mode: Actively connected via USB or Bluetooth.

  • Tamper Mode: Self-test or tamper detection failed—device must be returned for factory reset.


Card Reading

  • Magnetic Stripe Cards: Swipe with stripe facing away from the lock logo and toward the larger side of the device.

  • EMV Chip Cards: Insert according to the orientation symbol on the top of the device.


LED Status Indicators

General Status LED

  • Off: Battery depleted or waiting for swipe.

  • Solid Green: Battery charged / ready to read card.

  • Blinking Green: Authentication established / charging.

  • Amber: Wireless send failed.

  • Red (various states): Authentication failed, card read error, low battery, or tamper mode.

Wireless Status LED

  • Off: Airplane, Discoverable, or Connected Mode.

  • 3 Blue Flashes: Entering Pairing Mode.

  • Blinking Blue: Advertising, ready for host pairing.

  • Solid Blue: Active Bluetooth connection.


Tested Operating Systems

  • Windows: Windows 7, 8.1, 10 (USB supported)

  • iOS: Version 7.1 or newer (Bluetooth LE)

  • Android: Version 4.4.2 or newer (Bluetooth LE)


Compliance Certifications

  • FCC: Meets Part 15 Class B limits (safe for residential use).

  • CE: Conforms to European health, safety, and environmental standards.

  • UL/CSA: Certified for safety under UL and Canadian standards.

  • RoHS: Available as a RoHS-compliant device (lead-free).


Technical Support

For questions, setup assistance, or troubleshooting your MagTek eDynamo, please contact Forte Technical Support:

Phone: 866-290-5400 (Option 5)
Email: integration@forte.net


When contacting support, ensure your device is charged and have the part number and serial number available.

Phone: 562-546-6800
Email: support@magtek.com


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