How Does Coin Vending Machine Mechanism Work: (Step-by-Step )
Have you ever wondered how vending machines can differentiate between coins?
It’s all thanks to the coin vending machine mechanism, also known as a coin mech.
What is a Coin Vending Machine Mechanism?
Coin Vending Machine Mechanism allows vending machines to accept coins as payment and give back change if necessary.
And while they may seem like a simple piece of technology, a variety of different types and models are available depending on the machine they’re being used in.
How Does the Coin Vending Machine Mechanism Work?
The coin vending machine mechanism is designed to dispense a product or service when the correct amount of money is inserted into the machine.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how the mechanism works:
Step 1: Customer Inserts coins
Customers insert coins into the coin slot when they approach the vending machine.
Step 2: Coins are Validated
The coin vending machine mechanism validates the coins to ensure they are genuine and not counterfeit. The machine has a built-in system that can detect fake coins.
Step 3: Coins are Sorted
After the coins have been validated, they are sorted according to their denomination. This is important because each product or service in the vending machine has a set price, and the device needs to know how much money has been inserted.
Step 4: Money is stored in the coin box.
The validated and sorted coins are then stored in a coin box inside the vending machine. The coin box keeps track of how much money has been inserted.
Step 5: Customer Selects a product
The customer selects the product or service they want from the vending machine.
Step 6: The product is dispensed
Once the money has been inserted correctly, the vending machine mechanism dispenses the product or service to the customer.
Step 7: Change is Dispensed
If the customer has inserted more money than is required, the vending machine mechanism will return the change to the customer.
What are the parts of a coin vending machine mechanism?
Here’s an overview of a coin vending machine mechanism’s key components and functions.
1. Coin Acceptor
The first part of a coin vending machine mechanism is the coin acceptor.
This component is responsible for identifying and accepting coins inserted into the machine. It uses a series of sensors to measure each coin’s size, weight, and shape and verify that it is a valid form of currency.
Once the cash is accepted, it is sent through a channel and into the coin mechanism.
2. Coin Mechanism
The coin mechanism is part of the vending machine that processes the coins and determines their value. It uses a series of channels, gates, and sensors to sort and count each cash based on its size and denomination.
The mechanism also ensures that counterfeit coins are rejected and that only valid currency is accepted.
3. Coin Hopper
The coin hopper is the container that holds the coins once the machine accepts them. It is typically located beneath the coin mechanism at the bottom of the device.
It is designed to have a certain amount of coins and dispense them as needed to make a change or provide refunds.
4. Control Board
The control board is the brain of the vending machine. It manages all the machine’s functions, including accepting coins, dispensing products, and providing change.
They are programmed to respond to user input, communicate with other machine components, and monitor the machine’s status.
5. Display Panel
The display panel is part of the vending machine that provides information to the user. It typically includes an LED or LCD screen that displays the price of each product, the amount of money inserted, and any other relevant information.
The panel may also include buttons or a touchscreen interface for the user to make selections and complete transactions.
A coin vending machine mechanism is a complex system of parts and components that work together to provide a seamless and convenient customer experience.
Understanding the functions of each component is essential for maintaining and repairing the machine, as well as ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
How can I fix a jammed coin vending machine?
If you are experiencing a jammed coin vending machine, don’t worry, it’s a common issue that can be easily fixed with some basic troubleshooting.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fix a jammed coin vending machine:
Step 1: Turn off the Power supply
The first step is to turn off the power supply to the vending machine to prevent any electrical accidents while working on it.
Step 2: Locate the Jam
Open the vending machine’s access door and locate the jammed area. Usually, the jam occurs in the coin mechanism or the delivery tray. Check for any foreign objects that may have caused the mess.
Step 3: Remove the jammed coins:
Gently remove the jammed coins from the coin mechanism using your hands or a pair of pliers. Be careful not to damage any of the machine’s parts.
Step 4: Clear the Coin Path
Check the coin path for any obstructions, such as dirt or debris, and clean it using a soft brush or cloth. Ensure the way is clear for the coins to travel through smoothly.
Step 5: Test the Coin Mechanism
Turn the power supply back on and test the coin mechanism to ensure it is functioning correctly. Insert a few coins, check if they go through, and drop them into the delivery tray without issues.
Step 6: Close the access Door
Once you have confirmed the vending machine is working correctly, close the access door and secure it.
Step 7: Restart the Vending Machine
Finally, restart the vending machine and check if it is dispensing products correctly.
Following these steps, you can quickly fix a jammed coin vending machine and have it up and running again quickly.
If you encounter any issues or the problem persists, it’s best to contact a professional vending machine repair service for further assistance.
How Long do Coin Vending machine mechanisms last before needing to be Replaced?
There is no fixed time frame as it depends on various factors, including the quality of the machine, its usage frequency, and maintenance.
Here’s a detailed explanation of each factor:
Quality of the machine
The quality of the vending machine plays a significant role in determining its lifespan. A high-quality coin vending machine made of durable materials can last for years. On the other hand, a low-quality machine made with cheap materials can break down more quickly and may need frequent repairs.
1. Usage Frequency
The frequency of usage is another critical factor that affects the lifespan of a coin vending machine. A machine used more frequently will wear out faster than a machine used less often.
A high-traffic location such as a busy shopping mall or airport will likely result in faster wear and tear than a machine in a less active area.
2. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial in ensuring the longevity of a coin vending machine. Proper care includes cleaning, lubrication, and regular checks for damaged parts.
Neglecting maintenance can cause minor issues to escalate into more significant problems that may require costly repairs or even replacement.
Considering these factors, giving an exact timeframe for when a coin vending machine mechanism will need replacement is difficult.
However, with proper maintenance and usage, a high-quality machine can last for several years, while a lower-quality machine may need replacement in as little as one or two years.
READ: How to Fix a Vending Machine Compressor: Pricing & Maintenance
How much does a Vending Machine Coin Mechanism Cost?
The price range for a new coin mechanism can vary from $50 to $300 or even more. Refurbished coin mechanisms cost around $100 to $200 or more, depending on the brand and condition.
| Coin Mechanism Model | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Coinco 3341S/9360S | Single Price Coin Mech (Refurbished) | $159.00 |
| Mars TRC6800H | Single Price Coin Mech | $169.95 |
| Coinco 9302GX | MDB Coin Mech (Refurbished) | $139.00 |
| Coinco 9302GX Coin Pro 3 | MDB Coin Mech (Refurbished) | SOLD OUT – $159.00 |
| Mars TRC6000 | 110V Logic Coin Mech (Refurbished) | $139.00 |
| Coinco Series 9302L | 24V Logic Coin Mech (Refurbished) | $149.00 |
| Coinco Series 9302LF | 24V Logic Coin Mech (Refurbished) | $139.00 |
| Mars TRC6010X | 24V Logic Coin Mech | $149.00 |
| Mars TRC6010XV | 24V Logic Coin Mech | $139.00 |
| Mars TRC6510 | MDB Coin Mech | $139.00 |
| Mars TRC6512 | MDB Coin Mech | $149.00 |
| Conlux CCM5G | MDB 5 Tube Coin Mech (Refurbished) | From $199.00 |
However, it is essential to consider the cost-effectiveness of the coin mechanism to determine its actual value.
It is important to note that while the upfront cost of a coin mechanism may seem high, it is a crucial component of a vending machine that can significantly impact its profitability.
A reliable and efficient coin mechanism can ensure that coins are accurately counted, reducing the risk of loss and increasing revenue. Thus, investing in a high-quality coin mechanism can pay off in the long run.
Where to Buy Vending machine Coin Mechanism
Here’s a list of reliable places to buy vending machine coin mechanisms.
1. Vending Group
Vending Group is a well-known supplier of vending machine parts, including coin mechanisms. They offer coin mechanisms from brands such as Coinco, Mars, and Conflux.
It also offers refurbished coin mechanisms at a lower price point.
2. Vendors Exchange
Vendors Exchange is another famous supplier of vending machine parts, including coin mechanisms. They offer new and refurbished coin mechanisms from brands such as Coinco and Mars.
3. Suzo Happ
Suzo Happ is a well-known supplier of arcade and gaming machine parts, but they also offer vending machine coin mechanisms. They offer a wide range of coin mechanisms from various brands such as Coinco, Mars, and Conflux.
4. VendNet USA
VendNet USA supplies vending machine parts and services. They offer both new and refurbished coin mechanisms from various brands, such as Coinco and Mars.
5. eBay
eBay is a popular online marketplace where you can find new and used vending machine coin mechanisms. However, it is essential to be cautious when purchasing from individual sellers and to thoroughly research the product before buying.
6. Amazon
Amazon also offers a selection of vending machine coin mechanisms from various brands, such as Coinco and Mars. However, the choice may be more limited than other specialized vending machine parts suppliers.
Researching the seller and product before purchasing a vending machine coin mechanism is essential to ensure you buy a quality and reliable product.
Conclusion:
The coin mechanism is a crucial component of any vending machine. It allows the machine to accept and process coins, providing customers with a convenient way to purchase.
Also Read: How Does Cashless Vending Machines Work: Step-by-Step
