Buying Guide for Counterfeit Banknote Detectors

According to [data from the European Central Bank][1], 308,000 counterfeit banknotes were detected and withdrawn in the second half of 2019. 96.4% of these were found in eurozone countries. Therefore, it is essential for stores that handle a significant amount of cash to have ways to verify the authenticity of the banknotes they receive.

In this guide, we will briefly and concisely explain the key points you should pay attention to before purchasing a [counterfeit banknote detector][2].

Detection Equipment

Detector Pens

![enter image description here][3] [Detector pens][4] are the simplest and most economical way to detect counterfeit banknotes. Real banknotes are made of a mixture of materials, not just plain paper. The ink in these pens contains iodine solution, which reacts with the starch used in regular paper but not in banknotes. By drawing a line on a banknote, if the line is colorless or slightly yellow, then the banknote is genuine. If the line turns black or brown, then it is counterfeit. Due to their size, they are ideal for taxi and delivery drivers, fuel stations, and cashiers.

Unfortunately, this method does not provide complete coverage, as it only checks the quality of the paper and not other counterfeiting methods. If you don't want to spend more money on a detection device, UV detection pens allow you to see the watermark of the banknote and are definitely a better solution. If you handle a larger volume of money and need to check multiple banknotes simultaneously or don't want the next customer to wait in line, then you should consider using a counterfeit banknote detection machine.

Counterfeit Banknote Detectors

![enter image description here][5] These machines combine different detection methods (see all methods at the end of the guide) and are faster and therefore more effective than pens. Below, we will briefly discuss the features you should look for when purchasing a banknote authenticity detector.

How to Choose the Right Counterfeit Banknote Detector

Upgradeability

![enter image description here][6] This is perhaps the most important criterion, as you don't want to purchase a new detector every time new banknotes are issued (e.g., a 300€ banknote or a new 50€). Make sure the detector you choose has the ability to be upgraded to recognize new banknotes.

Automatic vs Manual

![enter image description here][7] The [automatic detector][8] is one that, after placing the banknote in the slot, scans it and notifies us of its authenticity without any further action required. On the other hand, the [manual detector][9], using a UV lamp, helps us visually check if the banknote is counterfeit by highlighting its authenticity features. To learn about the features you should look for when checking a banknote, [click here][10]. While the automatic detector is faster, the manual detector excels in its versatility of use.

That is, most of them have the ability to detect counterfeit passports, documents, banknotes, and credit cards. If you tend towards the manual, keep in mind the lifespan of the UV lamp. The more modern the model, the longer the lamp's lifespan (around 10,000 hours in new models). Therefore, if you are looking for speed (mini market, kiosk, retail stores, etc.), prefer an automatic banknote detector. If your job requires the verification of bank drafts, credit cards, or passports, then a manual detector will definitely serve you better.

Speed

Speed does not only refer to how quickly your machine scans one or more banknotes, but also to its sensitivity in immediately detecting without errors. Many times, the first read may identify a banknote as counterfeit, and more reads may be needed. Another factor that affects speed is the detector's ability to "read" banknotes from all sides. Imagine how time-consuming it would be if you wanted to check several banknotes simultaneously and had to arrange them all on the correct side.

Finally, for businesses that need both a detector and a cash counter, you can purchase a machine that can do both tasks simultaneously, with just one pass.

Place of Use

If you use the detector outside the office or in other offices besides your own, then you should prefer a battery-powered portable detector that provides this capability. Of course, besides the battery, you should also consider the size of the product, as you will be carrying this machine.

Foreign Currencies

For businesses that come into contact with currencies outside the Eurozone, it is important to choose a machine that has the ability to detect foreign banknotes and has a range of options according to your needs.

Certified Counterfeit Banknote Detectors

Click here to see the list of devices certified by the ECB (European Central Bank). Please note that the list is updated regularly (this specific one was published on 10/7/2020), so if a device is not on the list, it does not necessarily mean that it did not pass the ECB's inspection.

Knowing...

...the above, you are now ready to secure the safety of your cash register and limit - if not eliminate - the inflow of counterfeit banknotes into it.

Source

Counterfeit Banknote Detectors

Welcome to our e-commerce site for counterfeit banknote detectors. We offer a wide range of products to help you detect fake banknotes and protect your business. Whether you need an automatic or manual detector, we have the perfect solution for you.