Keyboard simulator module

PN: GV-B-KP101

What is this device?

This device is an add-on module for the GalaxyVend mainboard, which can be used to connect to the mechanical keypad interface of older vending machines for automated product selection without customer intervention.

Its flexibility allows it to connect to the mainboard running different firmware versions (MDB master, MDB slave, and MDB-Executive converter).

This functionality allows you to develop your own application for managing payment systems, emulating a cashless device, managing payment systems and connecting to an Executive machine, and at the same time sending commands to the machine's keypad to automatically select products after payment has been successfully completed.

Key elements of the keypad simulator

  1. It can be used together with the following products:

  • GalaxyVend MDB to Executive converter (for developers)

  • GalaxyVend MDB slave to USB serial (for developers)

  • GalaxyVend MDB master to USB serial (for developers)

  • GalaxyVend pulse out expansion board (for developers)

  1. It can be interconnected with any mechanical keypad interface of commercial vending machines. Your task will be to identify and reverse-engineer the pinout for the machine's mechanical keypad.

  2. It includes 10 miniature signal relays that can be controlled in pairs or simultaneously, designed specifically for matrix-type keypads.

  3. The relays can be coupled in pairs; however, a specific firmware version for the pulse-out control board allows it to function as a standalone interface, activating up to 4 relays at the same time (ideal for applications such as self-service car wash systems).

Possible applications

  1. Modernization and Retrofitting: The most important application is building a retrofit system for older commercial vending machines to add modern features such as touch screens, telemetry, and closed-loop cashless payment functions.

  2. MDB-to-Pulse Conversion: Adding this expansion board to the GalaxyVend mainboard (with the corresponding firmware) instantly allows the conversion of any MDB payment system—especially credit card readers—into pulse mode.

  3. This allows you to connect MDB payment systems to a wide range of equipment, from older generation vending machines to custom systems based on PLCs or microcontrollers (such as self-service car washes, children's arcade games, and access control systems).

  • Simple Configuration: Configuration is straightforward: use our free software to set your desired prices, number of pulses, and their characteristics (such as pulse duration and pauses between pulses). This configuration also provides access to a large number of MDB telemetry systems and electronic cash registers required in many regions.

  • Advanced Integration: For deeper integration, you can use our SaaS backend. The MDB-to-pulse converter connects via any Wi-Fi network to send and receive data. This allows you not only to build your own telemetry or remote payment systems, but also to remotely control MDB hardware and trigger pulses on the commercial machine.