How does an Automated Teller Machine Works?

An Automated Teller Machine (ATM) works by connecting to a network of banking systems that allow customers to access their accounts and perform various financial transactions. Here are the basic steps involved in using an ATM:

1. Authentication: To use an ATM, a customer inserts their bank card (debit or credit) into the machine and enters their personal identification number (PIN). The ATM then authenticates the card and the PIN to ensure that the user is authorized to access the account.
2. Transaction selection: Once the customer has been authenticated, the ATM displays a menu of transaction options, such as cash withdrawals, deposits, balance inquiries, or transfers. The customer selects the desired transaction from the menu.
3. Transaction processing: After the customer selects a transaction, the ATM communicates with the customer’s bank to process the request. The ATM may also communicate with other banks if the transaction involves a transfer or payment to another account.
4. Dispensing cash or completing the transaction: If the customer has requested a cash withdrawal, the ATM dispenses the cash in the desired denominations. For other transactions, such as deposits or transfers, the ATM prompts the customer to insert any necessary checks or cash and confirms the transaction is complete.
5. Card retrieval: Once the transaction is complete, the customer retrieves their bank card from the ATM. The machine may also provide a receipt for the transaction as proof of the transaction.

Overall, the ATM network allows customers to perform a variety of financial transactions quickly and conveniently, without having to visit a physical bank branch. The process is secure and reliable, thanks to the authentication measures and communication protocols used by the ATM network.