Currency Counters

A Currency Counter typically refers to a counter that only counts the number of bills. It does not distinguish the bills denomination. Popular features include batching the bills in pre-set or variable amounts and counterfeit detection. It typically detects counterfeits by using ultra-violet light and/or a magnetic read head. Legit bill are fluorescent and are detected as such. Magnetic read heads detect the magnetic line in legit bills. If any bill doesn’t pass either one of these two tests, the machine will automatically stop. The last bill in the output hopper is the “suspect” bill.

Currency Discriminators

A Currency Discriminator detects each bills denomination. Depending upon the manufacturer and model, this is accomplished the following ways.

Denomination Detection Methods

• Contact Image Sensors (CIS): Act as high-speed line scanners capturing optical images of both sides of a bill to read printed patterns, serial numbers, dimensions, and orientation.
• Infrared (IR) Detection: Analyzes how specific ink patterns absorb, reflect, or transmit infrared light to reveal hidden design elements invisible to the human eye.
• Ultraviolet (UV) Detection: Shines UV light on the banknote to measure fluorescence emitted by special security fibers and paper stock.
• Magnetic (MG) Detection: Reads unique magnetic signatures and magnetic ink patterns placed on specific regions of genuine currency.
• Size and Thickness Sensors: Measures physical length, width, and thickness (using optical or mechanical rollers) to catch folded bills, double-feeds, or wrong denominations.