The APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual (e.g., publication code B006-6180) is the core technical document used to configure and manage NCR's self-service ATM software in NDC (NCR Direct Connect) host environments. Key Reference Manuals & Guides
The APTRA suite is divided into several specialized manuals depending on your role:
Reference Manual (Main): Detailed specifications for transaction processing, message formats, and terminal state definitions.
EMV™ Integrated Circuit Card (ICC) Reference Manual: Specifically covers chip-based transaction logic, CAM flags, and ICC candidate list editing states.
Developer’s Guide: Information on implementation, system requirements, and troubleshooting for technical personnel.
Supervisor’s Guide: Instructions for daily operational management, menus, and on-site troubleshooting.
Multi-Vendor Support Manual: Guidance for running the system on non-NCR hardware using CEN XFS standards. Common Technical Reference Areas
When using the manual for updates or configuration, these sections are most frequently referenced:
Message Formats & Configuration: Details for loading configuration parameters and enhanced configuration options (e.g., Option 76 for note dispense settings).
Device Status Codes: Definitions for hardware health, such as "J" for fitness data or "L" for software release numbers.
Printer Control: Control sequences for USB receipt and journal printers, as well as margin control settings.
EMV Logic: Configuration for contactless transactions, PIN entry states, and terminal risk management. ut-codec-ndc/README.md at master - GitHub
devices - hardware configuration data DIG (Device Identifier Graphic) as defined in APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual. A - Time- GitHub APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
APTRA™ Advance NDC Reference Manual is the primary technical documentation for NCR’s Windows-based ATM transaction protocol. The "updated" versions of this manual typically cover transitions from legacy NDC+ environments to the APTRA platform, including critical configuration, security, and hardware enhancements. arthurvandermerwe.com Key Technical Updates in Recent Revisions
Recent updates to the manual (such as version 03.02.01 and EMV 3.0.0 editions) focus on modern hardware support and enhanced protocol security: arthurvandermerwe.com Hardware Configuration (DIGs):
Detailed Device Identifier Graphics (DIGs) for newer components like barcode readers ( ), cheque processors ( ), and note acceptors ( Security & PIN Handling: Added support for secure key entry and clarified that Diebold PIN verification is not supported in Advance NDC. EMV & Smart Card Support: Comprehensive updates for EMV Level 2
integration, including partial CAM (Card Authentication Method) flags processing and new Smart DIP Take Card states. Configuration Parameters:
Restructured chapters for configuration load details (Chapter 7), adding new timers (e.g., Timer 10 and Timer 77) and base 36 (alphanumeric) next-state numbers. Operational Changes:
Clarified that touch FDKs (Function Display Keys) cannot be used as the "Enter" key in PIN Entry States and added requirements for reboots after certain device-level option changes. arthurvandermerwe.com Manual Structure & Core Content
The reference manual is part of a larger documentation suite often found on repositories like or official NCR documentation portals Manual Section Content Overview System States
Definitions of ATM states (e.g., Close State, PIN Entry, Dispense) and transitions. Message Formats
Technical layouts for solicited and unsolicited status messages. Configuration
Detailed parameter load messages, timers, and local configuration options. Device Control
Printer control codes, BNA (Bulk Note Acceptor) status tracking, and display performance. EMV ICC Support aptra advance ndc reference manual upd
Specialized reference for chip card processing and transaction data objects. Related Documentation APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
NCR APTRA Advance NDC is a foundational self-service software application designed to drive ATMs within NCR Direct Connect (NDC) host environments. As the most widely used transaction protocol in the financial industry, the APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual serves as the authoritative technical guide for developers, supervisors, and technicians managing these high-stakes banking networks. Core Purpose of the Reference Manual
The manual provides comprehensive documentation for the APTRA Advance NDC system, which allows financial institutions to manage a single application across multi-vendor hardware. It details how the ATM communicates with the host server using the NDC protocol—a system built on command-response symmetry where every customer action (e.g., PIN entry, withdrawal) triggers a specific transaction request. Technical Updates and Feature Enhancements
The term "UPD" often refers to documented updates or revisions within the manual to reflect software improvements and new hardware support. Key technical areas covered in recent iterations include: APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
The NCR APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual is the definitive technical guide for deploying, configuring, and maintaining ATM software within NCR Direct Connect (NDC) host environments. As financial institutions migrate toward more secure and flexible self-service channels, staying updated with the latest manual revisions is critical for compliance and operational efficiency. What is APTRA Advance NDC?
APTRA Advance NDC is a Windows-based ATM application designed to bridge the gap between traditional host-based transaction flows and modern digital services. It allows banks to:
Run Multivendor Hardware: Drive a single application across different manufacturers' ATMs.
Expand Beyond Cash: Use "web exit" technology to connect to cloud services for bill payments, ticket sales, and mobile top-ups.
Enhance Security: Maintain compliance with the latest PCI PA-DSS and EMV Level 2 standards. Key Updates in the Reference Manual (UPD)
Recent updates to the APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual (often documented under codes like B006-6180) focus on hardware modernization, security protocols, and advanced journaling. 1. Hardware & Component Support
Manual updates often include revised parameters for newer hardware components:
Contactless Card Readers: Added configuration and error screen support for contactless EMV readers.
USB Connectivity: Introduced support for USB receipt and journal printers, including specific character set support and registry settings.
Touchscreen Enhancements: Updated information regarding the number of touchscreen areas and the restriction of touch FDKs as "Enter" keys during PIN entry. 2. Transaction Flow & Configuration
The manual provides granular details on "State" and "Timer" settings used to control the ATM's behavior:
Timer Updates: New descriptions for specific timers (e.g., Timer 10 and Timer 77) and the addition of barcode reader time-outs.
Electronic Journaling (EJ): Updates regarding delayed EJ initialization while transactions are in progress and new screens for tracking retracted or "moved" notes due to incorrect denomination detection.
Configuration Parameters: Restructured chapters to deduplicate information, moving all configuration parameter load details into centralized summary tables for easier reference. 3. Security and Compliance (EMV/ICC)
Specific supplements, such as the EMV ICC Reference Manual, cover the integration of smart cards: Arthur Van Der Merwe APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
The APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual (often documented under the publication code B006-6180) is the core technical document used to configure and manage NCR Direct Connect (NDC) applications on self-service terminals. "Updated" versions of this manual primarily detail shifts from legacy NDC+ to the Windows-based APTRA environment, including expanded state ranges, enhanced configuration options, and support for modern hardware like EMV/ICC and contactless readers. Core Manual Content
The manual is typically structured into chapters covering the logic flow and message formats required for ATM-to-Host communication:
State Tables & Logical Flows: Defines how the ATM processes a transaction (e.g., PIN Entry, Card Read, Amount Entry). Updated versions increase the state range (e.g., up to 999) and add specific states for EMV Smart DIP and Web Exits.
Message Formats: Detailed specifications for Transaction Request and Reply messages, including field-by-field breakdowns of how data is sent to and received from the host. The APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual (e
Configuration Parameters: Instructions for loading terminal configuration, such as Enhanced Configuration Options (e.g., Option 76 for note dispense logic) and Timers (e.g., barcode reader time-outs).
Device Status & Fitness: Definitions for solicited and unsolicited status messages, covering hardware health, supply levels (e.g., "Media Low"), and sensor data.
Screen & Keyboard Management: Information on reserved screens, touchscreen area definitions, and FDK (Function Display Key) mapping. Notable Updates in Recent Versions
Recent manual updates (e.g., for version 04.04.01 and beyond) include these specific technical changes:
EMV/ICC Integration: Significant sections added for EMV Smart DIP Take Card states, TR34 security scenarios, and terminal action analysis.
Hardware Support: New details on USB receipt/journal character sets, barcode reader integration, and contactless card reader modes.
Security & Encryption: Updated info on Secure Key Entry and registry settings for disabling terminal action analysis.
Reporting: Addition of M-status reporting for notes detected at power-up and enhanced journal (EJ) tracing. Where to Find it
Official manuals are proprietary to NCR and are usually accessible through the NCR Support Portal or via licensed distributors like Microtec. Some versions and outlines can be reviewed on document sharing platforms like Studylib or Scribd for reference purposes. APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
The APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual is the primary technical resource for NCR's Direct Connect (NDC) application, which is used to manage ATM transaction flows and device configurations in a Windows-based environment. Manual Overview
The manual provides comprehensive instructions for technical personnel to implement, configure, and maintain the NCR APTRA Advance NDC software. It focuses on:
Terminal States and Flow: Defining the operational logic of the ATM, including PIN entry, cash dispensing, and depository states.
Configuration Parameters: Details on timers, enhanced configuration loads, and registry settings that control ATM behavior.
Multi-Vendor Support: Guidance on operating the same application across hardware from different manufacturers using the CEN XFS standard.
Device Status Codes: A dictionary of hardware configuration data, status descriptors, and severity levels (fitness) for components like card readers and printers. Key Technical Updates
Recent updates to the manual and software (particularly version 05.01.00 and later) include several critical changes: APTRA Advance NDC, Reference Manual
APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual is a core technical document provided by NCR for financial institutions and ATM deployers. It serves as the primary technical specification for the APTRA Advance NDC (NCR Direct Connect) software, which is a Windows-based application used to drive ATM transactions in NDC host environments. Overview of APTRA Advance NDC
APTRA Advance NDC is designed to migrate self-service networks from older OS/2-based products (like NDC and NDC+) to a modern, flexible Windows platform. It is the most widely used transaction protocol in the financial self-service industry, operating on over 70,000 ATMs globally. www.microtecweb.com Key Reference Manual Updates
Documentation updates (often marked as "upd" or revisions) reflect the evolution of ATM hardware and security standards. Notable updates include: Arthur Van Der Merwe Enhanced Security : Inclusion of EMV Level 2 certification, PCI PA-DSS validation, and support for Triple DES compliance. Protocol Refinements
: Updates to message formats, including the addition of Base 36 Alphanumeric ranges for "Next State" numbers and new registry settings for customizing data. Hardware Compatibility
: Clarifications on modern hardware components like touch FDK (Function Display Keys), BNA (Bulk Note Acceptor) status tracking, and USB receipt/journal support. Customization
: Details on using "Web Exit" technology to connect ATMs to external web services for non-cash transactions like bill payments or ticket sales. Arthur Van Der Merwe Document Structure & Use Cases
Technical personnel typically use the manual for the following: State Machine Configuration Phase 3: Agent Training
: Defining transaction flows using specific "States" and "Screens". Device Status Monitoring
: Understanding unsolicited messages and status codes for components like card readers and dispensers. Troubleshooting : Utilizing the Supervisor's Guide for operational management and the Developer's Guide for system integration.
For official access to the latest manual updates, you should consult your NCR representative or access the NCR Corporation support portal. EMV configuration mentioned in the manual? Advance NDC Developer's Guide | PDF - Scribd
The APTRA™ Advance NDC Reference Manual (often cited as document B006-6180) is a technical guide for NCR's self-service ATM software. Recent versions and related technical documents include updates for hardware compatibility, security protocols, and feature enhancements. Key Reference Manuals and Recent Versions
The most common reference versions available through technical repositories include: APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual (04.04.01)
: A 2017 revision that added support for specific hardware behaviors, such as
CIM86 hardware exclusions and enhanced deposit transaction FDKs. Developer's Guide (2025 Edition)
: Provides implementation details for Microsoft Windows 10 and 11 environments, including updates for graphic scaling, PIN-acquired flow points, and local customization loading.
EMV Integrated Circuit Card (ICC) Reference Manual: Detailed specifications for EMV/CAM2 Exits and Windows 10 compatibility, often tracked under document number B006-6297. Critical Update Areas in Recent Manuals
Recent manual updates (e.g., from the APTRA Advance NDC Developer's Guide) typically cover:
Configuration Parameters: Relocation of parameter load details to deduplicate information and updates to specific options like Option 76 (notes to dispense) and Option 83 (device identifier).
Device Status Codes: Definitions for suppliesStatus and fitness (severity levels) for troubleshooting ATM modules like card readers and dispensers.
Software Enhancements: Introduction of USB receipt/journal support and barcode reader time-out settings in the configuration load parameters. Accessing the Full Manual
Because these documents are proprietary to NCR Corporation, they are typically distributed to authorized partners via the NCR Support Portal or technical repositories like ManualLib and Studylib. APTRA Advance NDC Reference Manual - Studylib
This document is intended for ATM deployers, field technicians, and software administrators who manage NCR ATM fleets running the Aptra Advance software application.
C:\NCR\Aptra\Advance\NDC\Data or similar). They control the "look and feel" and logic flow of the transaction. Common extensions include .upr, .scr, and .fit.NDC’s shift from PNR to Orders means OrderCreate is critical. Reference manual updates often clarify:
PaymentTimeLimit)OrderChangeRecent upd versions include servicing standards – e.g., how to request seat upgrades post-ticketing.
So you’re looking for a technical reference that lists NDC commands, responses, and behaviors specific to the Aptra Advance ATM.
The Reference Manual is famous for its complex state diagrams showing the "conversation" between the ATM and the Host.
Even with the updated manual, integration issues arise. Here are the top 5 documented by Amadeus support teams:
| Pitfall | Consequence | Solution per Manual UPD |
|--------|-------------|--------------------------|
| Ignoring case sensitivity in XML elements | Flight vs flight – schema validation fails | Use manual’s exact casing examples |
| Missing optional-but-recommended fields (e.g., Traveler@BirthDate) | Airline may down-sell or block booking | Manual’s “best practice” callouts – always include |
| Assuming all airlines support same NDC version | OrderCreate rejected with version mismatch | Check airline-by-airline matrix in Appendix B |
| Outdated TLS versions | Connection refused | Manual specifies minimum TLS 1.2 (now 1.3 in latest upd) |
| Using production endpoints for testing | Accidental ticketing | Manual’s endpoint table clearly labels test vs prod URIs – verify after update |
The NDC protocol relies heavily on "States." The manual explains how to map a specific Host State (a code sent by the bank's computer) to a specific Screen Number on the ATM.