Coinamatic Card Reader: Magnetic Head Cleaning Protocol... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

Magnetic card readers rely on inductive pickup. Ferrous oxide particles on the card's magnetic stripe induce current in the reader head's coil. Accumulated debris (dirt, oils) creates a physical barrier, attenuating the signal. Low operating temperatures (-40C) may increase the viscosity of contaminants, further impeding signal detection. ESD events can temporarily disrupt reader IC operation.

Symptoms:

Decreased read accuracy, card swipe failures, intermittent errors, or complete failure to read magnetic stripe cards.

Possible Causes:

Accumulation of dirt, dust, and debris on the magnetic head.
Oxidation or corrosion of the magnetic head surface.
Physical damage to the magnetic head (scratches, abrasions).
Signal interference from nearby electronic devices (EMI).
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) affecting reader IC.
Incorrect card swiping technique by users.

Solution:

1

Power down the card reader. Disconnect the power cable from the kiosk; ensure the power LED is off. Follow Safe Handling procedures.
2

Use compressed air to remove loose particles from the magnetic head slot. Apply short bursts at a slight angle.
3

Obtain a commercially available magnetic head cleaning card specifically designed for card readers.
4

Moisten the cleaning card with isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) according to the cleaning card manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid saturation.
5

Swipe the cleaning card through the card reader slot multiple times (5-10 passes).
6

Allow the card reader to air dry completely before reconnecting the power cable.
7

Test the card reader with multiple magnetic stripe cards to verify functionality.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power before cleaning to prevent electrical shock. Use only approved cleaning solutions (isopropyl alcohol) and follow manufacturer's instructions. Ensure adequate ventilation during cleaning. Avoid excessive force when inserting or swiping cleaning cards. Static discharge can damage electronic components. If reader is frozen or iced, allow to thaw before cleaning.

Prevention:

Implement a regular cleaning schedule (e.g., weekly or monthly) based on usage and environmental conditions. Provide user training on proper card swiping techniques. Inspect the card reader slot regularly for visible debris. Consider installing a protective shroud to minimize dust and debris accumulation.

Expert Tip:

If cleaning cards are unavailable, a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol can be carefully used to clean the magnetic head. Wrap the cloth around a thin, flat object (e.g., a credit card edge) and gently swipe it through the card reader slot. Alternatively, check for firmware updates for the card reader, as some updates improve error handling and read reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of cleaning card is recommended for Coinamatic card readers?

Use a commercially available magnetic head cleaning card designed for card readers with inductive heads. Ensure it is compatible with the card reader's dimensions and magnetic head type.

•How often should I clean the Coinamatic card reader's magnetic head?

Cleaning frequency depends on usage and environmental conditions. In high-traffic or dusty environments, clean weekly. Otherwise, a monthly cleaning schedule may suffice. Monitor card read performance and adjust frequency as needed.

•What are the symptoms of a damaged magnetic head?

Symptoms include consistent read failures even after cleaning, distorted or weak card signals, and visible physical damage (scratches, cracks) to the magnetic head surface. Replacement of the card reader may be required.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of cleaning card is recommended for Coinamatic card readers?

•How often should I clean the Coinamatic card reader's magnetic head?

•What are the symptoms of a damaged magnetic head?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: