Abstract: A coin counting apparatus for a vending machine includes a down counter which is loaded with an initial count representing the number of coins to be deposited in order to initiate a vend cycle which initial count is decremented in response to each sequential coin detection. A display responsive to the current count of the counter indicates the number of coins yet to be deposited and a gate detecting the target count of zero is coupled to actuate relay contacts to signal the vending machine to initiate a vend cycle. An initialization circuit causes the loading of the initial count in response to either the detection of power up or the expiration of a predetermined time period, in the range of 1 to 10 minutes, after the last coin detection.

Abstract: A device for counting events, such as deposit of coins, providing a control signal after an easily preset number of events has been counted. A binary counter has a parallel output register, with a simple switch and diode connected between each output terminal of the register and a common signal conductor. Individual switches are set to the binary number corresponding to the desired count, so that the voltage on the common conductor changes when the count equals or exceeds the binary preset number. When the circuit receives on electrical signal to be counted, a delay circuit prevents counting for some minimum interval of time, to prevent false counts due to switch bounce or other disturbances which may be related to the event. Energy is stored within the device to maintain the stored count for a short period of time in the event of power interruption between receipt of a first signal to be counted and provision of a control signal when the preset number of counts has been reached.