Frequently Asked Questions
Are the barcodes
that are generated by CardStar scannable at the checkout counter?
Scanning varies depending upon the the scanner type and the mobile device. In general, an imaging (CCD) scanner will always read a barcode from your screen, but a laser scanner may or may not.
On some devices (iPhone and iPod touch prior to fourth gen, and some Android devices) CardStar's SyncScan® advanced system for rendering barcodes allows for successful scanning with many models of handheld laser scanning guns as long as our tips for laser scanning are followed (see below). On other devices, inclduing BlackBerry, Windows Phone 7 and Symbian, an imaging scanner is required to read the barcode from the screen.
On some devices (iPhone and iPod touch prior to fourth gen, and some Android devices) CardStar's SyncScan® advanced system for rendering barcodes allows for successful scanning with many models of handheld laser scanning guns as long as our tips for laser scanning are followed (see below). On other devices, inclduing BlackBerry, Windows Phone 7 and Symbian, an imaging scanner is required to read the barcode from the screen.
Are there any tips for insuring a successful scan with a laser scanner?
- Use the hand held scanner gun attachment at the register if possible. NOTE: some users have reported successful scanning off of flatbed scanner, but only under very specific circumstances so it is easiest to stick to handhelds.
- Make sure the screen is free of dust and fingerprints. The screen MUST be clean in order to scan properly.
- Keep the screen just shy of perpendicular to the scanner and hold the barcode image steady (don’t wave around).
- Hold the device screen approximately 2-4 inches from the hand held scanner and pull back slowly while scanning. If you don’t get a scan after several tries, just have the clerk type in your number from your digital card. Please also contact us at and let us know if the scan does not work and what scanner is being used.
- Make sure the visible red laser beam line crosses the device screen in about the middle of the barcode.
- Keep the screen in a vertical (portrait) orientation is possible. Some scanners have trouble reading barcodes when the device is in a horizontal (landscape) orientation.
- In general, avoid using screen protectors — many models interfere with the laser as tries to read the barcode off the screen. If you are looking for an alternative screen protector that is known to work with CardStar please email for suggestions.
When entering in a new card, how should I enter in the barcode number?
Every merchant barcode varies. In general, when entering in a new merchant
make sure to enter in all the digits associated with your barcode including
any in front of or after the barcode. Also, be sure to include all
numbers and letters associated with your barcode. If you have any questions
about adding a card for a specific merchant, email for
further assistance.
How do I manually add a merchant that is not listed within CardStar?
CardStar maintains an extensive list of merchants found in the United
States, Canada, Australia, Asia, UK and more. However, if one of your
cards is not currently listed just select the desired merchant category
and then scroll to the bottom where you will see “Other”. Once you
have selected “Other”, enter the merchant name and barcode numbers.
Then scroll to the bottom of the screen and select the “Advanced” option.
There you will see the “Symbology” button. You can scroll through the
symbologies trying one by one to see which one creates a barcode that
creates an identical barcode match to the one on your card. If none
of the symbologies create a barcode that is identical then send the
request to and
we can try to help you figure it out.
How do I get a new merchant added into CardStar’s database?
Simply go to the Add A Card section of our website where you can request
to get a card added based on whether or not you are a CardStar user
or a merchant.
My CardStar barcode doesn’t match the one on my card. Why?
If you’ve selected “Other” as the Merchant, you may need to change
the barcode “Symbology” to one that creates a match to your cards barcode.
CardStar will not generate barcodes for cards that do not already have
a barcode on them originally. Many travel merchants such as hotel rewards
and rental card programs don’t have barcodes on their cards but we
include them in our list of merchants for people who would still like
to save their card information and have it with them on the go.
Does CardStar offer a way for me to backup or save my card information entered?
Yes. We offer a backup feature on all of our supported platforms. To get information or further instruction on backing up your cards please contact .
On which cell phones and mobile devices can I use CardStar?
CardStar is available for iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone 7 and Symbian. We are working to reach other platforms in the future. Be sure to follow
us on Twitter for
our latest product updates.
Why does the application need to know my location?
Your current location is required for CardStar’s store locator feature
and is required for delivering merchant coupons and promotions.
Can I use CardStar if I don’t have a compatible device?
Yes you can! CardStar has partnered with KeyRingThing to help you have
your cards with you on the go whether you have a compatible mobile device
or want simply one card to do it all.
Does your company have access to or collect my membership numbers?
No, membership numbers entered into our application are never transferred
to us. We also do NOT access or otherwise collect any other information
that directly personally identifies you. We do collect certain technical
and usage data including information about how and when the CardStar
application is being used. However, this information does not directly
personally identify you and CardStar will only use and share this information
in a manner that does not personally identify you or any individual user.