Abstract: A banknote validator for determining the value and authenticity of a banknote is provided. The banknote validator includes a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, and a non-return gate. The magnetic sensor includes a magnetic circuit and an electronic circuit. The optical sensor includes a trapezoidal light guide, a broadband light source for illuminating a banknote via the light guide, and sensors for detecting light reflected from the banknote. The non-return gate includes banknote-guiding means for guiding the banknote along a banknote path and for controlling the direction of the banknote's travel based on its acceptability.

Abstract: A banknote validator (50) for receiving and accepting valid banknotes is described. The banknote validator (50) comprising a housing (54) comprising banknote sensing means (136) and a separable banknote drive mechanism (60) for conveying the banknote into the validator (50) to the sensing means (136), wherein the banknote drive mechanism (60) is arranged to be readily removable such that a faulty drive mechanism can be rapidly replace. The banknote validator also comprises a housing including a sensor housing body and a sensor for sensing a characteristic of a banknote in use to determine its validity provided within the sensor housing body. The sensor housing body (54) comprises a one-piece translucent moulded portion (140) defining a banknote-engaging surface (150) along a note path (61) of the validator (50) and an opaque portion provided adjacent the sensor and arranged such that in use illumination of the banknote is sensed by the sensor without substantial interference from ambient light.

Abstract: A banknote validator for determining the value and authenticity of a banknote is provided. The banknote validator includes a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, and a non-return gate. The magnetic sensor includes a magnetic circuit and an electronic circuit. The optical sensor includes a trapezoidal light guide, a broadband light source for illuminating a banknote via the light guide, and sensors for detecting light reflected from the banknote. The non-return gate includes banknote-guiding means for guiding the banknote along a banknote path and for controlling the direction of the banknote's travel based on its acceptability.

Abstract: The optical sensor (305,306) comprises a trapezoidal light guide (34, 104), a broadband light source (350) fo illuminating a banknote via the light guide (34, 104) and sensors (351, 352, 353) for detecting light reflected from the banknote via the light guide (34, 104). Filters (354, 355, 356) are arranged in front of the sensors (351, 352, 353). The light guide (34,104) is inclined relative to the banknote path (6).