Introduction for ISVs
Semi-Integrated, Cloud-Based Architecture
The North SI API leverages semi-integrated, cloud-based architecture to handle much of the heavy lifting that comes with integrating payments into your app. The semi-integrated approach means that the payment company is responsible for meeting most of the Payment Card Industry (PCI) requirements, allowing you to focus on building software solutions without the burden of extensive PCI compliance regulations. If you're interested in learning more about the difference between integrated and semi-integrated payment architecture, check out this informational article.
Moreover, our architecture allows ISVs to host their applications in the cloud, giving you flexibility and scalability that isn’t possible when your app is restricted to the Local Area Network (LAN). Cloud-based connectivity means your Point of Sale (POS) app doesn't need to operate on the same network as merchants’ terminals or card readers, enhancing security while simplifying deployment.
Efficient Encryption and Data Security
Architecture and Device Setup
POS Application
Device Connection
Payments Gateway and Processor
Transaction Flow
- Initiating Payment
The Point of Sale application (POS app) initiates the payment transaction. A push notification for a sale or pre-authorization is sent to the North standalone app installed on the PAX Smart Terminal prompting the customer for payment.
This product also supports pre-authorization adjustments for increasing or decreasing the amount that was originally authorized before capturing the transaction. For example, increasing the pre-auth amount can enable restaurants to make tip adjustments. Merchants may need to decrease the pre-auth amount for customer service purposes, in which case, the pre-auth adjustment endpoint can be used to decrement the amount and release the hold on the extra funds.
- Transaction Info
Transaction information is securely transmitted to North and onward to the EPX payment processor. The processor then forwards the data through the credit card provider (such as Visa or Mastercard) to the cardholder’s bank for authorization.
- Transaction Response to Terminal
The North standalone app receives and displays a generic transaction response including a transaction approved or declined message.
- Transaction Response to POS Application
The POS app receives a detailed transaction response via the North API webhook. This response contains non-sensitive data including the transaction ID, which can be used for subsequent actions on the transaction without the card present, such as refunds and voids.
If ISVs want to tokenize cards for recurring payments, an optional parameter enables them to receive a token value in the response which can be used to make future transaction requests.
Getting Started With an Integration
In conclusion, the North Semi-Integrated Cloud API offers heightened security, a simplified payment API integration, and an improved experience for ISVs building POS applications. To learn more, technical documentation including the Integration Guide and API specification are available on North Developer. Ready to get started? Contact our Sales Engineers today to begin your integration.