ICT L70 Bill Acceptor: Incorrect Amount Display... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

The ICT L70 communicates the accepted bill denomination to the host system via a serial protocol (typically RS-232 or USB). The bill acceptor's optical sensors and magnetic head determine the bill's value. This value is then encoded and transmitted. Errors can occur due to voltage fluctuations on the 24V DC power supply, signal attenuation in the communication cable (especially in outdoor -40C conditions), or corrupted firmware within the bill acceptor.

Symptoms:

The ICT L70 bill acceptor is registering and accepting bills, but the displayed amount on the host system (kiosk screen, connected computer) is incorrect.

Possible Causes:

Contamination on the optical sensors causing misidentification of the bill denomination.
Degradation or damage to the RS-232 or USB communication cable, leading to data transmission errors.
Voltage drops in the 24V DC power supply affecting the accuracy of the internal sensors and logic.
Firmware corruption within the L70's microcontroller, causing incorrect value encoding.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to the communication port on either the bill acceptor or the host system.
Loose or corroded connectors on the power or communication cables.

Solution:

1

Visually inspect the optical sensors within the bill acceptor for dust, debris, or obstructions. Use compressed air to carefully clean the sensors.
2

Verify the 24V DC power supply is providing stable voltage within the specified tolerance (+/- 5%). Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the bill acceptor's power input.
3

Inspect the RS-232 or USB communication cable for any signs of damage (cuts, kinks, frayed wires). Replace the cable with a known good cable.
4

Check the communication port settings (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits) on both the bill acceptor and the host system to ensure they match. Consult the ICT L70 technical manual for correct settings.
5

Power cycle the bill acceptor and the host system. This may resolve temporary software glitches.
6

If possible, connect the ICT L70 to a different host system (e.g., a test computer) to isolate whether the problem lies with the bill acceptor or the original kiosk system.
7

Consult the ICT support website for any available firmware updates for the L70. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully during the update process.

Safety Warning:

The ICT L70 operates on 24V DC. While this voltage is not typically considered lethal, always disconnect the power supply before performing any maintenance or inspection. Ensure the power supply is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock. Use proper ESD precautions when handling electronic components. Follow all local electrical safety codes.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the bill acceptor's optical sensors (every 3 months). Use high-quality communication cables with strain relief. Ensure the 24V DC power supply is properly grounded. Inspect cables for wear annually. Maintain a clean operating environment to minimize dust accumulation.

Expert Tip:

Try using a serial port sniffer (software or hardware) to monitor the data being transmitted between the bill acceptor and the host system. This can help identify if the incorrect amount is being sent from the acceptor or being misinterpreted by the host. Adding a ferrite choke to the communication cable near the acceptor can reduce noise and improve signal integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the default communication parameters for the ICT L70?

Refer to the ICT L70 technical manual for the default baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits.

•Where can I find firmware updates for the ICT L70?

Check the official ICT website or contact ICT technical support.

•What type of cleaning solution is recommended for the optical sensors?

Use isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and a lint-free swab. Ensure the alcohol has fully evaporated before powering on the device.

ICT L70 Bill Acceptor: Incorrect Amount Display Diagnostic

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the default communication parameters for the ICT L70?

•Where can I find firmware updates for the ICT L70?

•What type of cleaning solution is recommended for the optical sensors?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: