A bill acceptor has a split second to decide whether a note is genuine. Here is how it does it.
A bill acceptor pulls the note in, scans it with optical and other sensors, compares the results to stored patterns, and decides to accept or reject it. Accepted notes go into the cash box, and the controller credits the amount to the customer.
Why a note is rejected
- A folded, damaged, or wet note.
- A denomination the machine does not take.
- Dirty sensors.
- No way to give change.
Pattern updates
When new note designs appear, the acceptor may need a software update. The service team or operator does this.
Cash vs. cashless
Many machines pair a bill acceptor with a card reader. Browse devices on the page with vending machines (publisher's site).
FAQ
Does every machine take notes? No. It depends on the machine's equipment.
What if the machine kept my note? Contact the operator using the details on the machine.