Dead MARS Bill Acceptor

[tacman]

Ken Layton

   Dead Mars bill acceptors
« on: February 14, 2008, 09:30:30 AM »   

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Got two Mars AE2411-U5 (115vac) bill acceptors made in 1997 that are totally dead. AC power is present on both sides of the 9 pin AMP connector. Both of the small white soldered-in fuses on the main control board check out ok as does the power transformer.

They appear totally dead as if no power were present at all. Can't even get the LED to light nor the stacker motor to operate. The troubleshooting section of what manuals are available (instruction/installation) just say check to see if power is present at the connector and that's all it says.

Any schematics/more detailed troubleshooting available? 
 
 
Cactusjack

   Re: Dead Mars bill acceptors
« Reply #1 on: February 14, 2008, 11:54:53 AM »   

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Not as far as I know.  We use hundreds of them and they MUST be serviced by an MEI authorized dealer - they do not supply parts or documentation.  Normally, there is a flat rate for repair (I think). However, it might cost more if they need to replace the main controller board (which sounds like your problem).

I did service a few of them myself that were dead - it was the Mosfet that is part of that switching power supply.

BTW, units with a date code of 449 (First three digits of the serial number 44th week of 1999) cannot be updated for the new $5 bill.  But, they will give you a $20 to $40 credit on the purchase of a replacement.  Otherwise, they can be flashed using their BPM which are now available with the new software in them.

A few dealers we have used:  Happ Controls, AECO, Betson Enterprizes.  All have about the same turn around.

CJ
 
 

[monitorman]

There is a small transformer on the board and just under it are some SMD diodes. One of the always short and shut down the power supply on board.

[Ken Layton]

We ended up sending our units to a Mars authorized repair center. Wachtor Electronics is a Mars repair center and is only about 50 miles from us so we sent them there. Had them do a "straight repair only" (no upgrade for newer bills). Very pleased with the quick service and reasonable prices.

http://www.wachtor.com/home.html

We used their Seattle, Washington area office.