Drinks, sandwiches, and chocolate bars need different temperatures. Some machines handle this with zones.
A temperature zone is a section of the compartment kept at a different temperature from the rest. Zones are created with partitions, separate airflow, or a separate circuit, and sensors in each zone report to the controller. That lets one machine hold products with different requirements.
How it works
The controller compares the sensor reading with the setpoint and switches cooling or a fan on. The number of zones and temperature ranges depend on the design and are listed by the manufacturer.
Why it matters
Chilled products must be stored as their labels say. Zones let you combine them with products that need no chilling.
Vending coolers
In vending coolers (publisher's site), the whole compartment is usually kept at one temperature. Zones are more common in combo spiral machines.
FAQ
Can the temperature be checked from outside? Some machines display it; others only in service mode or via telemetry.
What happens if the temperature rises? Many controllers can block chilled products and raise an alarm.