Abstract: A flipper control circuit is provided for a pinball machine having a flippper, a flipper switch for activating the flipper, means for holding the flipper in an actuated position until the flipper switch is deactivated, and a solenoid coil for controlling the movement of the flipper in response to the voltage applied to the solenoid coil. A first voltage is applied to the solenoid coil when the flipper switch is activated. A second holding voltage is applied to the solenoid coil when the flipper is in the actuated position, to hold the flipper in the actuated position until the flipper switch is deactivated. A switch electrically disconnects the first voltage from the solenoid coil when the flipper is in the actuated position.

Abstract: A dual-coil solenoid for actuating pin ball game flippers having a high actuation and ball propelling force and a lower flipper and ball holding force. The solenoid includes low and high resistance coils placed in electrically parallel relationship across a source of electrical energy upon actuation of a flipper switch by a game player. Upon full deflection of the flipper and solenoid, an end of stroke switch automatically removes electrical energy from the low resistance coil thereby leaving only the high resistance coil energized to hold the flipper and game ball in position. A capacitance is positioned across the end of stroke switch to absorb electrical energy from the low resistance coil and to protect the switch. Diodes further protect both switch and the capacitor from excessive voltage transients.