Stepper Units

The large backbox of bingo machines contains a number of stepping switches that perform various functions. Most of these are mounted on the back door.

The Replay Counter Units

The replay counter(s) controls the payout function. When a winner is detected by the search disk and search relays, the search disk stops and the search relay's contact circuitry indicates which type of winner (3, 4. or 5 in-line) has been found. The payout cams on the control unit are subsequently set into motion, and the pulse from one of these cam switches begins to advance the replay register (the three digit counter behind the backglass indicating to the player how many replays he has available).



At the same time, a replay counter begins to be stepped up by one of the payout cam switches. The replay counter may be stepped once for each, every other, or every fourth advance of the replay register. This is controlled by the position of the corresponding score unit (i.e. depending on the odds being paid out). This is done so that the replay counter will not be required to have a number of steps equal to the largest award (often 300 or 600 replays). The circuitry involved in stepping up this unit is a series circuit involving the score unit disk contacts and the disk contacts on.
the replay counter itself. When the proper number of replays have been awarded the replay counter's own disk contacts open the circuit and payout is terminated. The payout cams then stop, and the search disk again begins to search for another winning combination.
Note: The replay counter(s) is only reset at the start of a new game. This means that once a winner is paid off (say a 3-in-line for example) the replay counter remains at the step corresponding to that level of payout. If a larger winner (4 or 5 in-line) is subsequently detected, the counter will advance further until that level is reached. This results in the awarding of additional replays such that the total number of replays awarded equals the proper amount for the highest level of winner detected during the game. Later model bingos, having separate three color odds. have separate replay counters for each color, allowing three independent payouts.

The Replay Register

The three or four digit unit that shows the player the number of credits they have. Not to be confused with a replay counter.