Vendors Exchange VE CONNECT User manual

Snackshop AP 113
Dixie Narco® 501E
AMS
USI
INTERNATIONAL
®
™
User’s Manual
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VE CONNECT™ USER MANUAL
© Vendors Exchange International, Inc.™
Thank you for purchasing the VE CONNECT™ . This document
will guide you through setting up a VE CONNECT™ on location
for the first time. Note that if not already configured prior to
delivery, the VE CONNECT™ requires an internet connection to
the equipment, as well as a CMS (Content Management System)
account pre configured for the content (product images/
information, categories, themes, and advertisements) specific to
the machine that you are setting up. This guide does not include
information about setting up and using the CMS. Please refer
to the CMS User’s Guide for information related to content or
contact your sales representative for more information.
NOTE: Images may vary slightly from actual product. Instructions
and screenshots may have differences based on the software version
installed on the equipment and the application.

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Contents
1 Product Overview 2
VE CONNECT™ - What is It? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
VE CONNECT™ - How it Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Primary Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Secondary Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2 System Setup 5
Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Machine Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Temperature Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Power Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Adding Payment Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Filling Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Ethernet Cable (RJ45) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Wi-Fi Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Cellular Data Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
3 Operator Settings 14
Tray Conguration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
UCB™ Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Firmware Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Homing Motor to NO (Dixie Narco®501E only) . . . . . . 21
Setting Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Clear Sold Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
System Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4 Equipment Testing 23
Testing Images and Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Test Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Test Camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Test QR Barcode Scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Test the Drop Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
5 Operating Equipment 27
Restocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
DEX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Cleaning the Display Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Cleaning the CPU Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
6 Basic Troubleshooting 29
7 Warranty Information 36
8 Connection Diagrams 38
Power Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Audio/Video Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
USB Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Control Board Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
9 Part Diagrams 42
CPU Module Explosion 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
CPU Module Explosion 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Display Explosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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VE CONNECT™ - What is It?
The VE CONNECT™ consists of a powerful Intel based computer system, a large
format touch panel LCD, and software that transforms traditional vending
equipment into an interactive consumer experience. The screen presents the
items inside the vending machine in a digital format, and provides information
previously inaccessible to the consumer prior to purchasing goods. In addition,
the VE CONNECT™ plays video advertisements to the customer and offers new
ways to interact with and entice the customer at the point of sale. Internet
connection to the equipment is required through Ethernet, Wi-fi or optional
cellular service. The VE CONNECT™ is a revolution in vending and brings legacy
equipment into the digital age, and is a powerful tool for operators to improve
their business.
VE CONNECT™ - How it Works
The LCD display plays video advertisements and animates products to attract
customers (also known as “Attract Mode”). Consumers navigate the UI (User
Interface) to view and make product selections using the touch panel. Payment
is inserted as normal and currency information is detailed on the screen.
Product is vended and customers take their goods. Post vend applications may
run, such as skill or chance based games to entice customers to return. Loyalty
programs may be available for returning customers, which can be redeemed
using the QR code scanner. High quality images and attractive user interfaces
are possible because of the quality of the processor and display featured on
the VE CONNECT™ .
Route personnel fill vending equipment as usual and then assign tray locations
for specific goods using the operator menu. Product images and information
are downloaded through an internet connection and reside on the local hard
drive of the machine. Changes made to products, such as introducing new
products to the machine, require interaction with CMS (Content Management
System)and cannot be done directly on the equipment. User experience
elements such as themes, games, and loyalty programs are also only set
through the CMS. Tray configuration, product mapping, and pricing is set
digitally using the Operator Menu on the screen, which is the primary tool for
the route manager in setting up and maintaining the equipment.
Components
What is included with the VE CONNECT™ varies based on the type of vending
equipment being used. There are three primary components that make a
VE CONNECT™ : the display module, the CPU module, and an adapter kit. A
possible secondary component required for VE CONNECT™ installation is a
REVISION™ Door, which includes a UCB™.
Primary Components
Display Module - includes a 46” LCD
display in a custom aluminum frame,
a multi point touch panel, a camera, a
proximity sensor, frame lighting LEDs,
a QR code scanner, a speaker, and a
USB hub.
CPU Module - includes a miniATX
motherboard, integrated hard drive,
24V power supply, 12V power supply,
19V power supply, locking case, keys, cooling fans, keyboard, mouse, mounting
hardware, laser barcode scanner, wireless router, antennas, Microsoft Windows®
license, mounting hardware and an optional cellular device.
1Product Overview
CAMERA
PROXIMITY SENSOR
SPEAKER
MEDIA MODULE
12 V POWER SUPPLY 19 V POWER SUPPLY MOTHERBOARDCOOLING FAN
24 V POWER SUPPLY CRADLEPOINT ROUTER CELL ADAPTER

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Adapter Kit – varies based on type of equipment. Includes transition plates
and hardware for display module mounting, HDMI cable, 24V power cable,
RS232 mounting hardware, RS232 board, AC power cord, and micro USB cable.
Secondary Components
REVISION™ Door - a high quality metal replacement
front door for equipment such as the AP 113 and Dixie
Narco® 501E. REVISION™ Doors are not required for
all OEM equipment, such as an AMS or USI machine.
A UCB™ (Universal Control Board) or similar control
board from Vendors Exchange® is required for proper
vending operation.
UCB™ (Universal Control Board) - replaces the control
board of the OEM equipment and handles payment
systems through MDB, collects DEX data, runs motor
controls, and receives environmental information
such as temperature and drop sensor status. The
VE CONNECT™ communicates with the UCB™ via a
serial connection, provided through the RS232 board
included in the adapter kit. The UCB™ also includes a
keypad for manual configurations and an LCD display that is mounted inside
the cabinet, only visible to the route personnel.
Drop Sensor – attaches to the vend bucket on either the OEM door or a
REVISION™ Door. Verifies that product has vended and triggers out of stock
and refund status. A drop sensor is essential for the VE CONNECT™ because
the physical product is covered by the display module and is not visible by
the consumer. The drop sensor is included with every REVISION™ Door, or
included with an adapter kit for OEM equipment where a REVISION™ Door is
not required.
Laser Scanner – the USB handheld laser scanner is used to scan
tray locations and product UPCs to speed up the convenience of
assigning products to locations for the VE CONNECT™ .
Keyboard/Mouse – a keyboard and mouse are included for
service and convenience of data entry, and should be stored in
the bottom of the vending machine for route personnel. Two
USB ports are easily accessible for the use of these
two devices.
2System Setup
Unpacking
Remove the protective film from the display module frame. Open the vending
door and remove the Microsoft Windows® license packet from the vend bucket.
Save the Microsoft Windows® license packet and store it in a safe place – DO
NOT DISCARD.
Machine Placement
Always refer to the OEM vending machine user manual regarding moving and
setting up the machine.
Please consider facts such as the width of the equipment as it relates to fitting
through standard doors, machine transportation and handling, and power
before attempting delivery and installation.
Depth Considerations
The VE CONNECT™ may add up
to an additional 6.25” to the depth
of the machine, depending on
configuration (depth of display
module + depth of computer
module.) Make sure to know
door widths of a desired location
before attempting delivery. The VE
CONNECT™ can be ordered with the
computer module on top of your unit which reduces the overall depth.
IMPORTANT! Any vending machine with VE CONNECT™ should be
placed in indoor locations only. Outdoor use of any kind, including
outdoor locations with rain protection, will void warranty.

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Temperature Considerations
1. VE CONNECT™installed on non-refrigerated machines should be used in
environments where the room temperature is 74 degrees Fahrenheit or less if
the equipment is vending products that are susceptible to melting.
2. Place the vending machine at least 6" from the back wall.
3. Do not place the vending machine directly under heat generating lights, such
as Halogen spot lights.
4. If the VE CONNECT™is being installed with a bank of machines, place the
machine on the far right or far left of the bank if possible.
5. Do not block vending machine ventilation grates and cooling fans.
6. If products are melting in a non-refrigerated machine, place those products
on the lowest possible tray. Example: chocolate, if melting, should be moved to
5th to 6th tray of the machine.
Power Considerations
The VE CONNECT™ computer module taps into the AC power running to the
machine. Plug the machines normal 3 pin grounded plug into a properly
grounded 115V 60HZ outlet only (USA). In order to comply with electrical
safety regulations and Underwriters Laboratories requirements, all electrical
equipment must be properly polarized and grounded. The VE CONNECT™
will add 1.8 Amps (200 watts) to the draw from the OEM vending machine. An
AP 113, operates at 3Amps, so an AP 113 powered by VE CONNECT™ draws
approximately 4.8Amps. Do not exceed the limit of circuit breakers in any given
location and outlet. Turning on the power to the machine, and thereby the VE
CONNECT™, varies by manufacturer.
Adding Payment Systems
The UCB™ features a standard MDB connection, accessible on the inside of the
door near the payment slots. Install payment systems as you would in other
vending machines as there is no difference in this regard. If you are installing
a credit card swipe system, such as the EPort®, make sure the connection
is between the bill acceptor and the coin changer. Place the antenna for
dedicated swipe systems and terminals on the inside of the vending door. The
VE CONNECT™ router does not negate the need for a separate wireless modem
in processing credit card transactions, contact provider for additional details.
Filling Machine
Once you have confirmed that tray
configuration is optimal for the
products, you are ready to load your
products to the trays. It is highly
recommended that you refer to the
OEM user’s manual for information on
proper filling techniques.
Internet Connection
VE CONNECT™ requires an internet
connection to get the most out of
the system features. New product
images, advertisements, and even
important system updates all rely
on an internet connection in order
to function. There are three ways to
get internet to the VE CONNECT™ :
Ethernet cable, Wi-Fi, and cellular.
Ethernet Cable (RJ45)
If a hard wired Ethernet connection
is near the equipment, then the CPU
module should be directly connected
to the internet. Using the included keys, unlock the CPU module box. Feed the
Ethernet cable through one of the slots on the perimeter of the box. Loosen
the kepnuts that are holding the metal bracket, feed the cable into the box, and
plug into the RJ45 jack found on the CradlePoint device (see figure). Do not
connect the cable directly to the motherboard, as the correct port is critical to
proper remote management.
MDB CABLE
FROM UCB
BILL
ACCEPTOR
COIN
CHANGER

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Step 6 - Enter the password as “password” (all lowercase), then click “LOGIN”.
Step 7 - Click “Internet” and the following drop down menu will appear. Click
“Wi-Fi as Wan/Bridge” from drop down.
Wi-Fi Setup
When using Wi-Fi you will need to have the wireless name and password
available to establish a connection. Inquire with the location proprietor for
information if you are authorized to use any available wireless connection.
To setup a Wi-Fi connection on VE CONNECT™ :
Step 1 - Connect a USB keyboard to an available USB port on the inside of
the door.
Step 2 - Open the door and press F12 key, Microsoft Windows® desktop will
appear. If it does not, touch the screen then press ESC.
Step 3 - Press the Microsoft
Windows® shortcut key on the
keyboard to make the Windows® task
bar appear.
Step 4 - Press the Internet Explorer®
icon and start the browser.
Step 5 - Log into the router by entering "gateway" into the address bar and
press ENTER. This can also be accomplished by entering 10.45.20.1.
NOTE: if previous two methods do not work try 192.168.0.1.
Use this port for direct
ethernet connection
Use this port for direct
ethernet connection

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Step 8 - Click the “Wi-Fi as WAN” button
Step 9 - Click “Wireless Connection”. Click the “Import” button
Step 10 - Enter the network password in the “WPA Password” field.
Click “Submit”.
Step 11 - A pop up message will appear “Settings were successfully applied”.
Click “OK”.
Step 12 - After the router connects to your network, you will see green bars
with the network signal strength.
Step 13 - You have now successfully connected your CradlePoint router. Click
“Logout” to Exit.
Wireless Name

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Step 3: Click the "Internet" drop down screen and select "Connection Manager".
Step 4: Set the priority on screen using the arrows as a guide. Click to change
priority. The connection type at the top of the list is the default connection,
with the following below as second, third and so forth.
Step 5: Click "Logout" located in the upper right hand corner.
Step 6: Exit the browser and restart Microsoft Windows® or power cycle the
machine. Priorities are now saved.
Cellular Data Connection
If Ethernet and Wi-Fi are not an option at the chosen venue, then cellular can
be added. The disadvantage of cellular is there is a cost associated with the
connection, the connection may be weak or unstable, and it may take longer
for certain files to download to the machine. Internet connection speed will not
affect the consumer experience, the machine will function the same regardless
of the speed or quality of the connection. Contact your sales representative for
more information on this option.
If the unit was delivered to you with a cellular connection included, you will
find the cellular device connected to the CradlePoint router in the CPU module.
While there are several methods for achieving cellular connection, at the time
of this writing the method is over a USB device which has an antenna running
external to the cabinet. Signal will vary by carrier. A simple method to test the
service prior to machine installation is to have a mobile device with the same
provider (for example Verizon®) and check the phone for the number of
bars available.
Setting Internet Connection Priority
There are three possible internet connection methods mentioned previously
in this document. It may be desirable to set the "priority" for each connection
type. In most cases, reliability and stability of connection are: 1) Ethernet
2) Wi-Fi and 3) cellular. Locations that already have Wi-Fi or Ethernet should
only use cellular as a backup in the scenario where alternative connection is
not available.
To set the connection priority, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Internet Explorer® browser. See section "Wi-Fi Setup" above
to access the CradlePoint settings page.
Step 2: Enter "gateway" into the address bar to run the CradlePoint
setup application.
USB cell dongle connects
to CradlePoint router
and external antenna

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Pogo Mat
The VE CONNECT™ display blocks the consumer’s view of the physical product
inside of the vending machine. Since the customer cannot see the location of
the product, the route personnel must assign a slot location for each item in
the machine.
Press the Pogo Mat button to view a graphical display of all slots available. Your
machine will arrive with the pogo mat set up. The only time you need to access
the pogo mat is to change the product or pricing.
The screen shot above summarizes all of the products that are available in
the vending machine. The route personnel must adjust this information to
match the tray locations for each product, as well as, set individual prices. The
sequence and numbering of items listed must match the corresponding tray
locations. A thumbnail image of each item is shown to graphically represent
the physical item.
Click on the desired slot to direct you to the assignment screen. Use the
touchscreen scroll bar to scroll through the available products, or begin typing
the first letters of the product to filter results.
5 SLOTS, TRAY 1*
5 SLOTS, TRAY 2
5 SLOTS, TRAY 3
5 SLOTS, TRAY 4
5 SLOTS, TRAY 7
10 SLOTS, TRAY 5
5 SLOTS, TRAY 6
3Operator Settings
The machine will startup, by default,
directly into the attract mode. To
access the operator menu, open the
front door of the machine. The door
switch will launch the operator menu
application. The operator menu
allows access to basic settings for the
equipment, and is a necessary tool for
the route personnel in setting up
and operation.
• Snacks - exits the operator menu and launches the user interface.
• Pogo Mat - adjust settings for product layout (plan-o-gram), and pricing.
• UCB™ Settings - to program features of the UCB™ without using the
internal 12 button keypad and display
• Clear Sold Out - to reset the sold out items in the machine during a refill.
• System Info - displays system information such as memory use and
IP address.
NOTE: The Operator Menu does not provide access to the following functions:
Loading/managing video advertisements (CMS function)
Changing themes (CMS function)
Changing games (CMS function)
Setting up loyalty programs (CMS function)
Setting up new products (CMS function)
Changing categories and descriptions (CMS function)
Setting volume (Windows function, requires a connected keyboard)