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Connecting a Cash Drawer to IZI

Published: · IZI Team

The cash drawer opens automatically when a payment is processed through IZI. It connects to the cash register station — directly via USB or through a receipt printer via RJ11 cable.

  • Cash drawer (standard size 330×380mm or similar — one option depending on budget)
  • RJ11 cable (included with most drawers) or USB cable
  • A connected and configured receipt printer — if using RJ11 connection (see Connecting a Receipt Printer)
  • Access to IZI CRM settings
TypeHow It WorksWhen to Use
RJ11 through printerDrawer connects to the “Cash Drawer” port on the printer. Open command goes through the printerMost budget drawers
USB directDrawer connects to a USB port on the cash register station. Separate driverDrawers with USB interface, no printer
Serial (COM)Legacy interface, found on old equipmentCompatibility only

Option A — Through a printer (RJ11):

Find the connector labeled DK (Drawer Kick) or Cash Drawer on the back panel of the receipt printer — usually an RJ11 socket (resembles a phone connector). Connect the drawer cable into this socket.

The drawer receives the open command from the printer: when IZI sends a “open drawer” command, the printer translates it into an electrical pulse via the RJ11 cable.

Option B — Via USB:

Connect the drawer’s USB cable to the cash register station. Windows will detect the device automatically or require a driver from the manufacturer.

Open Settings → Hardware → Cash Drawer in the CRM.

Specify:

  • Connection type: through printer (RJ11) or USB
  • Printer: if RJ11 — select the printer from the configured list
  • Open command: leave default (ESC p 0 25 250 — standard ESC/POS command for most drawers)

Save settings.

In the settings section, click Open Drawer — the drawer should open.

If the drawer doesn’t open — check the troubleshooting section below.

Determine when the drawer opens automatically:

  • When accepting cash
  • On any payment
  • Manually via a CRM button

Settings are in Settings → Register → Drawer Open Triggers.

SymptomCauseSolution
Drawer won’t open with any actionCable not connected or wrong portCheck RJ11 in the printer’s DK connector
Drawer opened once then stoppedPrinter went offlineCheck printer status in Windows
Drawer opens by itselfMechanical problem or short in cableReplace RJ11 cable
”Open Drawer” button in CRM is inactivePrinter not configured in IZIConfigure printer first, then drawer

Frequently asked questions

Does the cash drawer open only for cash or any payment?

Depends on the IZI settings. Opening can be configured for cash transactions only or for any payment processing — depending on the club's workflow.

Is a receipt printer required for the cash drawer to work?

For RJ11 connection — yes. The drawer connects to the printer, and the open command goes through it. For USB connection — no printer needed. Check the type of connector on your drawer.

The drawer doesn't open when pressing the button in the CRM — what to check?

Verification order: 1) cable is firmly inserted in the printer port (RJ11) or USB, 2) printer is on and online, 3) IZI settings have the correct connection type selected, 4) try the open command from hardware settings manually.

Can a cash drawer be connected without a receipt printer?

Yes — if the drawer has a USB or Serial (COM port) interface. Most budget drawers use RJ11 through a printer. USB-connected models cost slightly more but don't require a printer to operate.