The NYC MetroCard Vending Machine (MVM) is an imposing ATM-like device that dispenses MetroCards and paper single-journey tickets. The MVM has a freestanding stainless steel enclosure with graphics on the front to assist passengers with the purchasing cycle. The machine is computer-controlled, and it retains financial data in the event of a communications failure.

The MVM has the capacity of communicating with the passenger in eight different languages. The main medium for passenger interaction is the touch-screen display. An LED strip annunciator provides additional information as required, such as out-of-service, etc. The computer can be configured to display advertising when it is not being used or during waiting periods, such as validation of a credit card payment. This provides an additional revenue stream.

The MVM has a built-in credit and debit card authorization system. It is on-line through armored communication links. The machine also accepts bills, coins and used MetroCards with residual value.

MVM Specifications

Cabinet           14-gauge stainless steel
                  485 pounds
Payment Methods   US Notes: $1, $5, $10, $20 (New and old)
                  US Coins: 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1
                  MetroCard with remaining value
                  Credit and debit cards
Vaults            Armored bill vault
                  Armored coin vault
Main Display      17-inch SVGA colour monitor with waveflow
                  touchscreen overlay
Security          Interlocking vaults
                  Intrusion alarm
                  Magnetic and optical switches
                  Monitored encrypted communication link
                  Impact alarm
Reliability       15,000 mean cycles before failure
                  0.5 hour mean time to repair
Internal UPS      Yes
Environmental     -10°F to +120°F, operating
                  0 to 97% humidity, non-condensing