How many watts does a POS terminal + tablet use?
Updated
Running watts
30 W
Starting watts
30 W
Energy per day
240 Wh
A POS terminal + tablet typically draws about 30 watts while running. At about 8 h of use a day, that is roughly 240 Wh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a POS terminal + tablet?
Plan for at least 36 W: 30 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 2,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a POS terminal + tablet? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Yes |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a POS terminal + tablet?
Running continuously at 30 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 30 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 28 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 2.4 days |
| 3,600 Wh | about 4.3 days |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the Food Truck Generator Size CalculatorFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a POS terminal + tablet?
At least 36 W: 30 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a POS terminal + tablet?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 30 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a POS terminal + tablet?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 30 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a POS terminal + tablet?
About 28 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 30 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.