Casinomate Microcoin QL User manual

Casinomate Instruction Manual Version 2.00, September 2003
Page 1 of 16
Microcoin QL
Casinomate Instruction Manual
Contents
1. Operational and Support Overview 2
2. Essential Information & Getting Started 4
3. Checking the QL Configuration 6
4. Change Coins 9
5. Change Coin Sensitivity 10
6. Diagnostics 11
7. Glossary 14
8. Attachments 16

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Casinomate Instruction Manual Version 2.02, July 2004 Page 2 of 16
1. Overview
1.1 Overview
The Microcoin QL coin validator has been specifically configured as a multi-programmed high
speed coin acceptor.
There has been significant development in the area of security, both in view of an OEM's security
regime and the ability of end-users to incorrectly program (deliberately or otherwise) their own
acceptors.
A comprehensive and highly secure solution has been developed which addresses these security
issues, yet maintains the philosophy of offering a Casino operator the responsibility and ability to
access their QL acceptor for maintenance, diagnostics, programming and coin enable/disable
functions, whilst maintaining the highest level of security.
1.2 Solution
Microcoin QL
All Microcoin QL validators will be supplied with factory security SET, restricting any access to on-
board programming features and disallowing the use of a regular Micromate.
Casinomate
A special version of the Micromate hand held programmer called a Casinomate will be used to
permit password access to the following features :
1. View coin settings
All coin categories may be viewed to check their parameter settings.
2. Change settings
Two parameter settings are permitted to be adjusted.
-Coin Enable/Disable Toggle
As the QL is programmed for multiple coins, only one coin type may be turned
ON at any one time. The coin enable/disable facility allows you to toggle between
coin types and the Casinomate will automatically toggle the coin types on or off
respectively.
-Coin Sensitivity
All coin categories are set on WIDE discrimination for optimal coin acceptance
performance and fraud protection. In the event that the sensitivity band needs to
be adjusted, there are three additional bands which can be used to increase
sensitivity – Medium, Narrow and Special .
(Please use in consultation with Microcoin).
3. Diagnostics
Various diagnostics functions are available to the user, including validator and
Casinomate operational checks and a powerful CRC security check.
(See Diagnostics for details)
1.3 TRACER Software Package
To monitor and control the use of the Casinomate, a software program named TRACER is with
the Casinomate.
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2. Essential Information
Before you use the Casinomate, a few essential concepts and comments. It is strongly
recommended that if you read nothing else, you at least read this page.
Introduction
The Casinomate allows a user to check and modify the coin settings in QL. It will also allow
diagnostic tests to be done.
It is provided in a sturdy case to protect against everyday knocks and bumps.
Validator Power.
QL needs to be connected to a 12Vdc power source via its parallel port to work with the Casinomate.
Casinomate Power.
The Casinomate is powered by an internal, rechargeable battery. It also has an input for an external
9Vdc power source.
Initial Setup.
When you first use your Casinomate, set up the operating modes using the DIAGNOSTICS;
CASINOMATE menu.
Menus and Navigation.
The menu structure of the Casinomate is self explanatory and designed to prompt the user for
the next entry. Take time to read each screen.
A flashing field indicates that the Casinomate is requesting data input. Key in the data and press
Enter.
For multiple field entry screens, pressing ENTER will skip to the next field without changing the
existing value.
Navigating the menus is accomplished by pressing the appropriate number key for the option
listed or pressing ESC to return to the previous menu. Pressing ESC multiple times will step back
through the menu tree and eventually return you to the main menu.
The keypad responds best to slow deliberate presses on the individual keys. Listen for the
confirmation beep
Where there are arrows at the bottom of the screen, use the scroll (arrow) buttons to access
additional options and information.
Coins and Tokens.
Throughout this manual, the term coin is used to cover both coins and tokens.
Casinomate Display
This manual shows Casinomate screen text as “BOLD” capitals.
Flashing text is shown as “NORMAL “ capitals.
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Connection and Configuration of the Casinomate
Off
On
Connect the
Casinomate to QL
using the supplied
RJ11 cable. Both
units have a
corresponding RJ-
type data plug. The
validator also needs
to be connected
to12Vdc via its
parallel output
connector.
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Switch On
A small switch on the right of the housing, just above the keyboard, will switch power to the
Casinomate. Once switched on, the Casinomate goes into a self-diagnostic mode, and then
Displays the Main Menu Menu:
To Configure the Casinomate for Use
To check the set-up of the Casinomate, press 3to bring up the diagnostics menu.
1-CASINOMATE
2-VALIDATOR
3-VERIFICATION
ESC
Press 1to go to the Casinomate set-up options.
VERSION=X.X
1-COMMS VIA CABLE
2-BACKLIGHT ON
ESC  SCROLL
VERSION= This is the software version number of the Casinomate
1-COMMS This is the setting for the communication method with the validator
COMMS VIA CABLE Comms via the supplied RJ11 cable (default)
2-BACKLIGHT The option will turn the backlight on or off. Press 2to toggle states
.3-POWER SAVE When the power save option is on, the Casinomate will shut down after
5 minutes of inactivity. Press 3to toggle states.
Once the settings are complete, press ESC, ESC to save settings and return to the main menu.
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3. Checking the QL Configuration
To Check the QL Configuration
Pressing 1 at the Main Menu will bring up the View Settings Menu and allow you to check the
configuration information in the QL validator.
You will first be presented with a screen showing you which coin is currently enabled. Then you
have the option to continue or return to the Main Menu.
CURRENT COIN ON :
aaaa
CONTINUE? (YES/NO)
YES - GO TO VIEW SETTINGS MENU
NO - RETURN TO MAIN MENU
3.1 Check Coin Settings
1-COIN SETTINGS
2-PRICE SETTINGS
To check the coin information, press 1.
COIN SETTINGS
O/P ON=12 OFF=25
ENTER COIN CATEGORY - (*FLASHING*)
ESC
The O/P shows the ON and OFF pulse widths of the output lines in milliseconds (ms).
To check the settings for a coin category, enter the coin channel No. Refer to QL Label
CAT=x ENABLED=Y or N
VAL=x WIDE
OUTPUT=x PULSES=1
ESC zy SCROLL
CAT=1 Coin category number (1-12)
ENABLED=Y Coin is enabled (Yor N)
VAL= X Value of the coin
WIDE Discrimination window (wide/medium/narrow/special)
OUTPUT=1 Output number (1-6)
PULSES=1 Number of pulses for each coin (1)
Use the scroll keys to check other coin categories.
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3.2 Check Price Settings
1-COIN SETTINGS
2-PRICE SETTINGS
Press 2to go to the Price Settings.
PRICE= 1 ENABLED=Y
CLEAR EXCESS=Y
ESC
PRICE = 1 Price value should always be set at 1
ENABLED =Y Price Enabled/Disabled
CLEAR EXCESS = Y Clear excess after price reached (only permits one credit per coin)
Press ESC, ESC to return to the main menu.

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4. Change Coins
At the main menu, press 2to bring up the Change Coins Menu.
You will first be presented with a screen showing you which coin is currently enabled. Then you
have the option to continue or return to the Main Menu.
CURRENT COIN ON :
aaaa
CHANGE? (YES/NO)
YES - GO TO CHANGE COINS MENU
NO - RETURN TO MAIN MENU
4.1 Change Coins
The Casinomate presents a simple method of turning on a required coin. Simply follow the
prompts to enable your coin. All other coins will be automatically turned OFF.
ENTER COIN VALUE
TO ENABLE
xxxx
RETRIEVING SETTINGS !
ENABLING VALUE - xxxx
CHANGES DONE
The Casinomate automatically downloads the new settings to the validator.
When your changes are completed, press ESC, ESC, to return to the main menu
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5. Change Coin Sensitivity
All coins are preset with the optimal WIDE sensitivity setting. In the event of a situation which
requires the coin sensitivity to be increased, (fraud, slugging) you may choose up to three
settings which gradually increase the coin sensitivity.
These settings are called MEDIUM, NARROW and SPECIAL respectively
It is recommended that you consult with Microcoin if you encounter a need to alter these settings
5.1 Change Coin Sensitivity
At the main menu, press 3 to bring up the Change Coin Sensitivity Menu.
Simply follow the prompts to alter the coin sensitivity.
ENTER COIN CATEGORY
TO CHANGE
xxxx
RETRIEVING SETTINGS !
SENSITIVITY IS : xxxx
WIDE MED NARROW SPEC
zy SCROLL TO CHANGE
CONTINUE? (YES/NO)
YES - CHANGES SETTINGS
NO - RETURN TO MAIN MENU
NEW SENSITIVITY - xxxx
CHANGES DONE
The Casinomate automatically downloads the new settings to the validator.
When your changes are completed, press ESC, ESC, to return to the main menu
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6. Diagnostics
The diagnostics menu for the Casinomate is used to set the Casinomate user options, (as
explained in Setup section of this user guide) and to test various QL functions.
Select option 4 from the Main Menu
1-CASINOMATE
2-VALIDATOR
3-VERIFICATION
ESC
6.1 Validator Diagnostics
The QL performs a self diagnostic routine every time it is powered up, to ensure that it is
functioning correctly.
From the main diagnostics menu, press 2 to bring up the validator diagnostics menu.
1-SELF DIAGNOSTICS
2-TEST ACCEPT GATE
3-TEST STATUS LED
ESC
6.1.1 Validator Self Diagnostics
Press 1to start the self diagnostics routine in the validator.
TESTING!
OPTO’S ARE OK
ESC
•The validator checks the operation of the 3 coin detection opto-coupler devices, and then
reports back their condition. If an error message comes up, indicating that one or more of
the optos are faulty, you should check the QL coin path for obstructions
•If there are no obvious signs of obstruction, contact Microcoin for advice.
•Press ESC to return to the main diagnostics menu.
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6.1.2 Test Accept Gate
Press 2from the main diagnostics menu to start the accept gate test sequence. This test will
allow you to activate the QL accept gate and ensure that it is functioning correctly.
PUSH CE FOR GATE
ESC
l
•To test the operation of the gate, press the CE button. A double “click” will be heard from
the validator, indicating that the gate has activated.
•Once you have completed the output tests, press ESC to return to the diagnostic main
menu.
6.1.3 Test Status LED
The QL validator comes equipped with a multi-coloured LED to show validator status and to aid in
diagnosis. To test this device, press 3.
1-TEST STATUS LED
ESC
•To test the multi-coloured LED on the side of the validator, press 1. This will cause the
validator to pulse the LED, first green, then red, then orange, before returning the display
to the normal green.
•Once you have concluded this test, press ESC until you return to the diagnostics main
menu.
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6.2 Software Security Verification
The Casinomate can perform a comparative verification of the program that is used to operate the
validator, and the configuration data loaded in to customise the validator for a specific job.
As part of the verification procedures, a ‘seed’ number is entered, and this is used, with a CRC
check, to generate a number. This number can then be compared to the verification numbers
generated by other validators of the same type, to check whether anything is different or
changed.
To verify the validator, press 3 from the diagnostics main menu.
SERIAL NO= XXXX
SOFTWARE REV= X.XX
CONFIG NO= XXXXX-XX
VERIFY Y/N?
The serial number of the validator will be displayed, along with the software revision number, and
the config number. To proceed with the verification, press YES.
VAL S/N= XXXX
ENTER SEED
ESC
Enter a seed number, for example 1, 2, 3, 4ENTER.
CALCULATING
PLEASE WAIT!
SEED=1234
The display will now show the results of the verification.
VAL S/N= XXXX
CONFIG CRC= XXXXX
ROM CRC= XXXXX
ESC
•The Config CRC is the checksum of the seed number, and the config data stored in the
validator. This number can be compared to a previous reading taken from the same
validator, or from another validator with the same config, to see if there are any changes
in the code.
•The ROM CRC is the checksum of the seed number and the program software in the
validator, and can be used to verify that there haven’t been any changes to the operation
of the validator
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7. Glossary
ALARM QL has an alarm output which can be configured to pulse in the event of
various conditions.
BACKLIGHT The Casinomate has a display which can be turned ON and OFF
CATEGORY No. QL has 12 Coin Categories (or Coin Channels) which can be
programmed for individual coins or tokens. Each of the 12 Coin Channels
has the following information associated with it : Coin value, Output Line,
No of Pulses, Enable/Disable status and Discrimination Band
CHECKSUM This is a number generated by an algorithm within the QL that uses both
the seed number, chosen by the User and the CRC number, which is
calculated from the software code. The checksum can be used to verify
that the code and configuration in a validator hasn’t changed, or that the
code in different validators is the same. Refer Verification.
EXCESS CREDIT Excess credit is generated when the accumulated value of coins
accepted exceeds the preset totalised price (or credit) value. Excess
credits will be cleared after the accumulated price output.
COIN SIGNATURE The Coin Signature is a set of values generated within the QL for a
particular coin when it passes through the detect area. The Average Coin
Signature is a set of numbers stored within the QL which represents the
average of the coin signatures for a population of those coins. An
acceptance window is formed into which a coin signature must fall to be
considered valid.
COMMS This setting refers to the physical mode of communications between the
Casinomate and the QL.
CONFIG The Config, or Configuration File, contains all the information
programmed into the QL. This includes all coin category information and
user specified settings.
CREDIT See PRICE
DISCRIMINATION The discrimination band ( sensitivity) determines how wide the
acceptance window will be for a particular coin. Typical factory setting is
WIDE and Medium, Narrow & Special can also be selected,
ENABLE Each coin category may be enabled or disabled by the Casinomate. Only
one coin denomination can be ON at any one time.
GATE The validator has a gate which operates to allow valid coins to pass to
accept or directs rejected coins to reject. The Casinomate can test the
operation of the gate. Refer Enable/Disable Coins
O/P PULSE WIDTH The Output Pulse Width is the duration of the pulses issued on a coin
line. Both ON and OFF times (time between multiple pulses) can be
specified in mSec
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POWER SAVING When the power save option is turned ON, the Casinomate switches
itself off after 5 minutes of inactivity.
PRICE The Price (Credit) totaliser accumulates the value of the coins and
tokens accepted by the QL until the preprogrammed Credit value is
reached. A credit pulse is then output on the Accumulator output line.
Line 6. (This value is set at 1)
PULSES The number of pulses issued on a coin output line for each of the Coin
Channels, can be programmed. (This is set at 1)
VALUE Defines the value of a coin or token which is programmed into a Coin
Category. It is used in conjunction with the Price Setting.
VERIFICATION The verification feature is used to check that the code and config data in
the validator has not changed. See A seed number is chosen by the user
and this is applied to an algorithm that calculates a number from the
config data and from the ROM code. These numbers can then be
compared to previous readings or other validators of the same type.
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8. Attachments
Microcoin QL – Features and Benefits
Casinomate Instruction Manual

Microcoin QL Features & Benefits
MicrosystemControls
Sept 2002
Casinomate FAB
Page 16 of 17
The Microcoin QL electronic coin validator is designed and developed by Australian-based
coin validation experts, Microsystem Controls Pty Ltd.
This coin acceptor is a universal high speed, multi-coin, secure yet programmable device.
It has been specifically configured to operate in IGT Gaming machines.
Microcoin QL validator
Features Benefits
New patented coin discrimination Superior coin & token discrimination
Less frauds
Unique Coin Path No jams Greater reliability
Elimination of coin steals
Field Programmability – Casinomate Field diagnostics
Turn coins on/off
Security – CRC check
Programming software – QLProd Easy to use Permits authorised config reprogramming
Maintains Gaming security
Coin “toggle” feature Through the use of the Casinomate
programmer, only one coin type can be
enabled at any one time.
Factory Security
QL cannot be tampered with in the field
Programming only with secure QLProd
software package
Highest security level possible
High Speed Coin Acceptance Superior performance
No user frustration with slow coin feed rates
Mechanical Dimensions “It fits” Industry standard dimensions
Can be interchanged between machines
Industry Compatible Connectors
Retrofittable to most applications
Conforms to defacto Gaming industry
standard 10 way connections
Conforms to defacto comparitor Gaming
industry standards
Anti-strimming protection
Electronic and mechanical anti-strimming
features are incorporated into the Microcoin
QL to prevent strimming attempts.
1. Mechanical gate
2. Electronic direction sense
3. Inhibit timer after a strim is detected
Serial Communications
QL can communicate via NAMA protocols
directly to a host machine, providing
operational and audit information unheard
of with standard parallel communications.