Toy crane machines, popular in arcades and entertainment centers, rely on a coin mechanism to initiate gameplay. This system starts when a player inserts a coin into the slot. The coin mechanism, often called a coin acceptor, is designed to validate the coin's authenticity based on factors like size, weight, and material. Once the coin is inserted, it passes through a series of sensors or switches that check these properties. If the coin is recognized as valid, the mechanism registers a credit on the machine's control board. This credit activates the crane's controls, allowing the player to start the game by pressing a button. The coin then drops into a secure collection box inside the machine. If an invalid object is inserted, such as a fake coin or foreign material, the mechanism typically rejects it by diverting it to a return chute. This process ensures that only legitimate payments enable gameplay, maintaining the machine's profitability and functionality. Modern crane machines may also support digital payments or tokens, but the basic mechanical principle remains similar for coin-based systems.