How does a vending machine know the difference between coins?

“Vending machines use light sensors to measure the size of a coin and electromagnets to detect the metal type to determine what kind of coin it is,” Chan writes. “If you’re not shaped like a quarter and built like a quarter, you ain’t a quarter in their book.”

How do mechanical vending machines work?

In older vending machines, pulling or turning a knob activates a strictly mechanical dispensing mechanism. In more modern machines, the customer enters a series of letters and numbers corresponding to his selection before a basic processor electronically activates a motor to dispense the merchandise.

Can you put fake money in a vending machine?

Long ago, you often needed to have exact change to use a vending machine. Today, though, vending machines accept coins, paper money and even credit cards. They can also give back change in the form of coins and bills.

How does a vending machine read money?

Some vending machines use ultraviolet scanners to measure the glow from a bill to verify it is real. Real currency bills are also printed using magnetic ink. Many vending machines also use a magnetic reader to detect the magnetic signature of a bill to ensure it’s real and determine its denomination.

How do you put coins in a vending machine?

If you’re using coins, put them in the coin slot. The amount of money you feed into the machine should be listed on the machine’s screen. Avoid using any bills with rips or tears since the machine may not accept them. Many vending machines do not accept bills over $5 USD.

Do vending machines make change?

Where do you put coins in a vending machine?

If you’re using coins, put them in the coin slot. The amount of money you feed into the machine should be listed on the machine’s screen. Avoid using any bills with rips or tears since the machine may not accept them.