User's Manual

Keypad

The keypad is a standard module that is used primarily to enter

personal identification numbers (PINs). PINs can only contain

numeric data (0 through 9).

The keypad may also be used by the library staff to select certain

administrative or diagnostic functions. It has 12 keys styled after the

standard touch-tone telephone keypad (including * and # keys).

Magnetic Card Reader

The magnetic card reader can read magnetic stripes that conform to

the ABA (American Banking Association) industry standard. It can

read both numeric and alphanumeric data from the magnetic stripe if

the data is recorded on track 1, track 2, or track 3. Typically,

alphanumeric data is recorded on track 1, numeric data is recorded

on track 2, and alphanumeric data is stored on track 3. The default

selection for SelfCheck™ System operation is track 1.

VCU (Video Checkout Unit)

The Video Checkout Unit (VCU) is designed to allow patrons to

check out their videotapes. To be checked out successfully,

videotapes must have a bar code applied near one end of the

cassette. To be properly desensitized, a 3M DVM-1 Security Strip

must be applied to the spine of the cassette.

As a videocassette is inserted into the slot, a sensor is blocked. A

signal is sent to the processor and the patron screen changes. If the

videocassette is fully inserted, a second sensor at the rear of the slot

is blocked. If the tape is not fully inserted, an error message displays

on the screen. When the videocassette is properly in place, the bar

code is directly under the bar code scanner. The bar code number is

sent to the processor and then to the automated circulation system

(ACS). When the video has been checked out on the ACS, the

patron is instructed to remove the videocassette, desensitizing the

strip.

The SelfCheck™ Manager software can be configured so that

videotapes can be both checked out and checked in.

Multiple Book Detectors

Multiple book detectors (MBD) help prevent patrons from checking

out and desensitizing materials without recording the transaction in

the automated circulation system (ACS). The MBD sensors prevent

patrons from checking out more than one item at a time.

If more than one sensitized strip is detected, the monitor displays an

error message, interrupting the loan process.