ATM (Automated Teller Machine)

An Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is an electronic machine used for carrying out financial transactions. The machine helps the customers to perform smooth banking transactions without the involvement of any banking representative or a human cashier.  

Updated On - 06 Sep 2025
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What is an Automated Teller Machine?

Automated Teller Machine

The full form of ATM is Automated Teller Machine. It is a self-service banking outlet through which you can check your bank balance, withdraw cash, or even transfer money to another bank account. Various banks offer their ATM services by installing cash machines in different areas of the country. No matter if you have an account with the same bank or not, you can withdraw money from any of these ATMs.

How to Use an ATM Step-by-Step

Using an ATM is simple and convenient. Follow these steps to complete your transaction:

  • Insert your ATM card into the card slot.
  • Select your preferred language.
  • Enter your 4-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number).
  • Choose the type of transaction – withdrawal, balance enquiry, mini statement, etc.
  • Enter the amount you wish to withdraw.
  • Collect your cash and wait for the machine to process your receipt.
  • Take your card back once the transaction is complete.

Functions of ATMs

Given below are the functions of ATMs:

  1. Cash withdrawal
  2. Mini account statement
  3. Cash transfer
  4. Account balance details
  5. Deposit of money

Advantages of ATMs

The following are the advantages of ATMs:

  1. Banks provide ATM services 24*7.
  2. It helps in reducing the workload on bank staff.
  3. ATMs provide seamless services without any error.
  4. ATMs are a better resource for travellers.

Types of ATM Classifications

  1. Orange Label ATMs: Share transactions
  2. Yellow Label ATMs: e-commerce transactions
  3. Green Label ATMs: Agricultural transactions
  4. White Label ATMs: Owned by TATA Group
  5. Pink Label ATMs: For female customers
  6. Brown Label ATMs: Operated by a third-party service provider

Difference Between On-site and Off-site ATMs

Type

Location

Operated By

On-site ATM

Within a bank branch

Bank

Off-site ATM

Remote locations like malls, stations

Bank or third-party operators

  1. On-site ATMs are usually more secure, often with bank staff nearby.
  2. Off-site ATMs provide convenience, especially in urban and rural outreach.

Common ATM Issues and How to Resolve Them

Some common ATM-related issues include:

  1. Card Not Ejected: Wait a few seconds. If it doesn’t eject, contact your bank immediately.
  2. Cash Not Dispensed But Amount Deducted: File a complaint with your bank. The amount is usually reversed within 7 working days.
  3. Invalid PIN Message: Double-check your PIN. If locked out, visit your bank branch.
  4. ATM Out of Service: Try another nearby ATM or contact customer care.

Daily Withdrawal Limits Across Major Banks

Here’s a quick look at ATM withdrawal limits across top Indian banks:

Bank Name

Daily Limit

SBI

₹20,000 – ₹40,000

HDFC Bank

₹25,000 – ₹75,000

ICICI Bank

₹25,000 – ₹50,000

Axis Bank

₹20,000 – ₹50,000

Kotak Mahindra

₹25,000 – ₹50,000

Basic Parts of an ATM

Given below are the basic parts of an ATM: 

How Input Devices Work in ATMs

  1. Keypad: Keypad is used to insert numbers, clear them or cancel a transaction. The customers use keypads to enter their ATM PIN and the cash amount that they want to withdraw
  2. Card Reader: An ATM consists of a space where you can insert your ATM card. The ATM card contains a magnetic card on its back that has the account details. The card reader gathers the account information and sends it to the server.

Role of Output Devices in ATM Operations

  1. Cash Dispenser: Cash is stocked in the ATM by the bank officials. The cash dispenser helps you to collect cash after withdrawing a specific amount from the ATM.
  2. Display Screen: The display screen guides the user about the steps related to cash withdrawal, checking account balance, or changing ATM PIN.
  3. Speaker: There is a speaker in every ATM which provides audio instructions to carry out transactions and access the machine.
  4. Receipt Printer: Once the ATM transaction is completed, the receipt printer records the transaction type, remaining account balance, and amount withdrawn.

ATMs have increased the convenience and accessibility of the people. You can withdraw money at any time, including on holidays and after business hours.

FAQs on ATM Machine

  • What ATM stands for?

    ATM stands for Automated Teller Machine.

  • What is difference between ATM and ATM machine?

    ATM and ATM machine are same.

  • What is an orange label ATM?

    An orange label ATM are the ATM machines offered for share transactions.

  • What is a green label ATM?

    Green label ATMs are used for agricultural purposes.

  • Who controls ATMs in the country?

    ATMs in the country are controlled by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

  • How many white-label ATMs are there in India?

    There are more than 10,000 white-label ATMs in India.

  • How much can you withdraw from an ATM?

    You can withdraw up to Rs.20,000 from an ATM.

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