Vending machines are automated concession stands that enable consumers to purchase drinks, snacks and other prepackaged items without interacting with a human. Most vending machines accept cash and coins but some also feature card readers for credit/debit payments. One frequently asked question regarding vending machines is "Do they give change?". While the answer usually lies within yes; however there have been cases when vending machines didn't return any change at all and this can leave some confused; here we discuss why that occurs and provide tips for getting back your money when promised by.
How Do Vending Machines Calculate Change? When customers insert payment into a vending machine, its microprocessor checks to see what options are available before sending a signal to its coin hoppers to disburse coins based on those options. In addition to dispensing coins to match available options, if either bill or coin does not match its true value it will alert the user and pause its operations while operator investigates.
How do vending machines detect counterfeit bills? Vending machines tend to be highly accurate at detecting counterfeit currency, though they cannot always do it with 100% certainty. Some vending machines use sensors to detect magnetic properties while others compare physical characteristics like size, shape and the number of ridges on coins to ensure they are genuine.
Some machines even incorporate cameras that can search for visual markings specific to particular currencies, making these cameras more effective than optical sensors in recognizing reflective patterns on bills or coins.
Do vending machines provide change when a dollar is wrinkled or dirty?
Sometimes vending machines won't provide change when a bill has wrinkles or dirt marks on it; this could indicate that something isn't quite right with the machine and needs servicing, such as by cleaning its sensors or replenishing change reserves.
If the problem continues, a replacement machine may need to be purchased. To find out who services it and whether they can assist, speak with the location manager. In the meantime, try using money-grubbing machines and ensure you have an intact dollar bill in your wallet before entering a vending machine; carry some spare change with you as this may prevent money being misappropriated by machines that appear suspiciously empty of change; this way you won't mistakenly assume they're taking money out.