1 Analysis of Existing Counterfeit Detection Technologies
1.1 Magnetic Counterfeit Detection Technology
Magnetic counterfeit detection technology is widely used in Indonesian banknote counters. Its main advantage lies in detecting the distribution of magnetic ink on banknotes, as well as identifying the security thread on the fifth series of the Chinese Yuan (RMB). By using a set of magnetic strips to amplify the weak magnetic signal from the banknote, the security thread’s magnetic signal is detected by the magnetic head, then amplified through two stages of amplifiers and shaped into a square wave by a comparator. The microcontroller analyzes the intervals and duty cycle of the square wave to determine the authenticity and denomination of the banknote. However, in magnetic detection, the friction between the magnetic head and the banknote is crucial. If the magnetic head is positioned too high, the signal impact becomes large, causing false alarms; if it’s too low, the signal is weak, resulting in missed detection.
1.2 Fluorescent Counterfeit Detection Technology
Fluorescent counterfeit detection technology also plays a key role in Indonesian banknote counters. Ultraviolet (UV) light is used to check the quality of the banknote, and paired with photoelectric sensors for monitoring, it can detect counterfeit notes even with slight variations in the paper quality. However, this technology has certain limitations. For instance, if the photoelectric sensor is dirty, the sensitivity is not properly adjusted, the banknote has been washed, or there is strong indoor light, the UV detection might trigger false alarms for genuine notes. Conversely, if the banknote does not reflect UV light or the sensor is aged and less sensitive, it may fail to detect counterfeit notes.
2 Common Issues and Challenges
2.1 Inaccurate Counting
One of the significant problems with Indonesian banknote counters’ counterfeit detection function is inaccurate counting. The causes include faults in the code disk and counting tube, such as a broken tooth or dust accumulation on the code disk, or damage to the emitter or receiver of the counting tube. Additionally, structural issues with the bill dispensing tray, such as pitted resistance rubber, improper assembly of the bill slider position, improper tension adjustment of the adjustment screws, or worn or dirty note pickup rollers, can also lead to inaccurate counting. Inaccurate counting can severely affect financial transactions, potentially leading to accounting errors and disrupting the stability of economic operations.
2.2 Insensitivity in Fluorescent Detection
Another common issue is insensitivity or failure to alarm during fluorescent counterfeit detection. Factors such as dirt on the photoelectric sensor, poorly adjusted sensitivity, washed banknotes, or strong indoor lighting can cause false alarms for genuine notes, while notes that do not reflect UV light or aged sensors with low sensitivity may result in undetected counterfeit notes. Moreover, dust accumulation on the UV lamp or aging of the lamp itself can also affect the sensitivity of counterfeit detection. This decreases the ability of the banknote counter to identify counterfeit notes, increasing the risk of counterfeit currency circulation.
Conclusion
Although magnetic and fluorescent detection technologies are widely applied in Indonesian banknote counters, their effectiveness is often hindered by factors such as equipment aging, environmental influences, and usage frequency. Improving counting accuracy, enhancing UV detection sensitivity, and conducting regular maintenance and upgrades of counterfeit detection equipment can effectively reduce the circulation of counterfeit currency and ensure the safety and stability of financial transactions.
