(Topic ID: 299309)

Stern Insider Connected

By anathematize

2 years ago


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Topic index (key posts)

9 key posts have been marked in this topic

Display key post list sorted by: Post date | Keypost summary | User name

Post #1031 Notes directly from Stern's presentation to Stern Army members. Posted by chuckwurt (2 years ago)

Post #1043 Additional notes from the Stern presentation. Posted by Smack (2 years ago)

Post #2423 Stern Splitter for IC on Batman 66 and other amazingly loaded games! Posted by NeilMcRae (2 years ago)

Post #3320 Methods for leaderboards on location. Posted by davegauth (1 year ago)

Post #4641 Info regarding which chipsets in the dongles are likely to work. Posted by TrixTrix (1 year ago)

Post #4880 Sharing QR readers still works after Apr 20 2023 IC update Posted by ChrisBardon (11 months ago)


Topic indices are generated from key posts and maintained by Pinside Editors. For more information, or to become an editor yourself read this post!

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#26 2 years ago

So I guess LE owners have to remove one of their special insets to add this QR reader if they want to add this feature to their machine? I wish they would have taken another route. Scorbit does the same thing but does not require a reader on the pinball machine.

23
#576 2 years ago

You guys are all crazy. This is not the olympics. It is all for personal entertainment and enjoyment. If you cheat the system, you are only cheating yourself.

1 week later
#724 2 years ago
Quoted from oradke:

I wonder if the app could help newbies understand the machines? Like offering rules or even tutorials after logging in? I‘m thinking along the lines if what PinballArcade offers. If you help newbies understand the game, they‘ll have more fun playing, eventually dropping more coin as well instead of giving up out of frustration or ignorance.

I don’t think newbies would care enough to listen. They just want to get a multi-ball and see toys do something.

#730 2 years ago

I like how stern integrated the graphics with the QR reader and eliminated a player card and just added art there. I wish they would ditch the cut out for the player card on the left as well.

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#746 2 years ago
Quoted from cabal:

yes that looks nice, but it does only like like this on prem/LE?
i think on the pro it will look like this:
[quoted image][quoted image]

Correct. Thankfully I only have LE Sterns. With Pros being designed primarily for location play, I will give Stern a pass for doing what they did with the Pros. I was just worried they were going to masks the LE/premium machines not look as nice for collectors and the home use market.

Quoted from luvthatapex2:

Why would they do that? Don’t you want to read the rules?

You don’t have to have a cut out in the apron for a player card. They can be added with tape or a magnet. JJP has been doing this for many years and it looks much better.

#747 2 years ago
Quoted from cooked71:

[quoted image]
So you have to scan the QR code to register, then using the QR code you get you then show it back to the built in scanner in the game???
Why not just have one unique QR code on the game and no scanner necessary??

I have asked the exact same question. What you described is how Scorbit has implemented things. It works perfect on WOZ and hobbit with no extra hardware required (just a WiFi usb dongle).

https://scorbit.io/

2 months later
#1744 2 years ago

I got it working in my Elvira! I installed the new code released today and then moved the USB wifi stick and QR code reader from my Godzilla and added a blank 16gb microSD card to the main board. It is working great.

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#1748 2 years ago

I might be wrong but my guess is Stern just uses Ethernet cables for the physical connection but they send proprietary signals and power over it. I would not use any type of POE equipment for sure. A passive physical Ethernet switch could potentially work but might cost more that a IC kit.

#1749 2 years ago

I think the QR reader assembly is custom to Stern. It has some Stern PNs on it. Even if you found the camera portion, you would still need the node board that is attached on top with the Ethernet connection.

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16
#1798 2 years ago

Like a few of you I “borrowed” my QR reader from my Godzilla and am now using it in my EHOH. I made a bracket so that it can be mounted in the coin door (I have LCD screens in the apron that I want to keep). I have obtained about 1/2 of the 69 available achievements. If you are interested in doing the same, I am selling the brackets as a kit.

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Here is the link:
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

#1800 2 years ago

The reader on Godzilla at a local bar was only working 10% of the time today during our launch party. Probably a loose connection? Hopefully they get it fixed soon so I can get some more verified achievements.

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#1804 2 years ago

A straight through cable will work. I have tested with a 15ft long cat5e cable.

2 weeks later
#1987 2 years ago
Quoted from Soulstoner:

Anyone installed this on IMDN yet? The RJ-45 connector they want you to connect the QR reader to is already occupied connecting Node 8,9. Not sure where else I could connect this.

You can plug it into the open spot on the board in the back box. Just use a longer cat5 cable.

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#1999 2 years ago
Quoted from flynnibus:

Look at the other boards - there will be an open one Maybe someone rerouted the bus wires.

I don’t think so. I looked on a friends IM LE and found the same. I will look again tonight.

#2000 2 years ago

flynnibus it looks like you were correct. I found a free node board port on my friends machine. There was also a green cat5 cable so I am guessing somebody changes the routing for some reason.

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#2010 2 years ago
Quoted from Wmsfan-GAP:

Is there any difference in the retro kits between the pro kit and the prem/LE kit other than the apron? Couldn’t I just use the existing apron I say my LZprem with the pro retro kit and not use the included apron?
If there isn’t a difference, then why are the retro kits the same price if you don’t need the extra apron?
Yes cointaker does have, and is shipping the pro kits. Ordered some last Thursday midday and have them already…

You are correct but if you order a pro version for a premium/LE you will not have anywhere to mount it in the stock machine. It is strange that they are charging the same price for the different versions but I guess a plastic pro apron does not cost that much. Both versions work with the dollar bill acceptor bracket that I made. You can buy one here.

https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05569-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

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#2030 2 years ago
Quoted from Joe_Blasi:

until an update stops that from working or it needs to be linked for each game boot.

I don’t see Stern changing this behavior. The IC hardware is not a huge money maker for them. All new games will come with the reeder going forward so this is really only helpful for home use with existing machine.

#2038 2 years ago
Quoted from mwong168:

I removed mine from my Godzilla Premium and sold to a friend who wanted it for his Iron Maiden Premium. I forgot to give him the microsd card and assuming he can just insert a blank fat32 formatted one in his? Otherwise I took the microsd card out of my Godzilla and doesn't seem to make a difference. I do get this error on start up otherwise once game is booted it plays fine. I haven't spent much time looking but guessing I need to change a setting or maybe dip switch to get rid of this error?
[quoted image]

I think the game just formats it for you. Should be able to use any 16gb card. I put one from Amazon in my Elvira and recall seeing a message about the machine formatting the card when I first installed it.

#2098 2 years ago

Lol, it is absolutely not DOA. It is going to drive sales for Stern and increase revenue for operators.

#2100 2 years ago
Quoted from mbrave77:

So I made these QR code printouts and put them in magnetic photo frames. I have them magnetically clinging to the coin door of each of my games. Ever since doing that my Star Wars has acted kind of funny power wise. Once it didnt turn on with the rest of my games when I hit my wifi switch and now the game took another 30 seconds or so to turn off after hitting my wifi switch.
Anything in that coin door area that would be upset by a tiny little magnet? Im guessing no as thats a thick peice of metal a tiny magnet shouldnt mess with. Probably my wifi switch

No, not at all!

#2105 2 years ago

The reader already has a clear plastic front on it. A bracket is just needed to mount it in place with 2-4 screws.

I spend some time designing the mount that I am selling and it perfectly matches up with the coin door hardware and QR reader. It comes with everything needed to mount the reader including a 15ft Cat 5 cable. Unless you plan on printing a bunch of them I think it is very reasonable for $39.
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05569-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

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#2112 2 years ago

I find that really hard to believe. Have you placed them back on there and been able to recreate the issue? Magnetic fields don’t travel very far through metal and I can not think of any internal electronics that would be sensitive to magnetic fields.

#2114 2 years ago

Almost everyone I have talked to in our league is very excited about it. At home I have enjoyed the achievements immensely on Elvira and Godzilla. I stand by my comments. Get back to me in a year and then let’s compare thought.

#2124 2 years ago
Quoted from Taygeta:

Has anyone gotten a kit from Cointaker recently? I ordered one on the 12th when people said they were receiving theirs and haven’t gotten any kind of shipping or stock info since.

I ordered a pro one from coin taker on the 10th, got notification that it shipped on the 14th and received it on the 20th (with a two day delay in the shipping). I also ordered one from Flip N Out on 11/2/21 and have not received it yet. Hopefully they will start shipping in large quantities to everyone in the next two weeks.

#2137 2 years ago
Quoted from RC_like_the_cola:

So, I have a Stranger Things pro with insider connected being delivered tomorrow. I have the premium UV kit on hand. Looks like I should be able to just transfer the qr reader to my premium apron. Will have to figure out a custom apron card with a cutout to surround it. I believe most premium aprons from the last couple years have this cutout. Mine even has mounting studs.
[quoted image][quoted image][quoted image]

Hopefully that will work for you but I was under the impression that pro and premium/LE aprons attach differently. Do you think the premium apron will attach to your pro machine?

#2139 2 years ago

Thanks for the info. If that is the case, why is there a difference in the Pro and Premium UV kits? I have a premium UV kit and topper but have been unable to secure a premium or LE Stranger Things machine yet.

15
#2154 2 years ago
Quoted from HarrieD:

Say what? I only defend my own product as this is a more quality item you are referring to. There is no irony to be found here, I assure you.
That piece of plastic will cost around 1 dollar to produce. It'll take half an hour to print. I am only stating that 39 dollars is way too expensive in my opinion compared to the cost.
But hey, you don't agree. Lets leave it at that.

I am unsure why you continue trash talk other peoples work. The $1.62 worth of plastic is not what you are paying for. I spent several days designing and prototyping my mount before finalizing the design. Each piece takes 3.5 hours to print with 100% infill. Each mount is then painted with at least three layers of black hammer paint, threaded inserts are applied and and the parts are packaged with very detailed installation instruction. All this takes time and equipment and I don't work for free.

#2156 2 years ago

Great, glad you got it to work! Now you need to make a game card with a cut out for the reader.

#2162 2 years ago
Quoted from docquest:

Don't forget trips to the post office, making shipping labels, dealing with lost packages, helping people troubleshoot things when they mess up the install. It's a lot of work to design, make, and sell mods.

I literally go to the post office multiple times some day. Lol

I finished building one for a Pinsider today that integrates the Pinballlife.com headphone jack/volume controller. It was a tight fit but I am happy with how it turned out!

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#2164 2 years ago

Hopefully they announce it CES next month!

#2167 2 years ago

I have also had good luck with TP-Link product in the past. If only stern would just sell the scanner alone for $99.

#2170 2 years ago
Quoted from Hammerhead1550:

I have an Iron Maiden premium being delivered this Tuesday and was going to ask if you thought about making a plate that could hold the QR reader, and Stern's or pinball life's headphone and volume control! My machine supposedly has the QR reader installed at the factory, and I want to move it to the coin door.

I can help you with 1/2 of that but you should look to see if you can get a triangle with “art” on it to fill in the empty cut out in the apron.

#2175 2 years ago

I would email the Stern parts department.

#2180 2 years ago

I did notice that shipping varies from seller to seller. Most charge $25 and I found some for as low as $10.

#2196 2 years ago

That did not last long! Already sold out!

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#2197 2 years ago
Quoted from Chalkey:

While you guys are hacking this thing, is the scanner just a mounted off the shelf camera that could be obtained to make a completely bootlegged system, or does it have some proprietary circuitry on it?

No it is an off the shelf scanner/camera with a custom Stern interface board. Without the custom board there is no way to attach it to your machine.

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#2220 2 years ago

Docquest, I am glad you are happy with it. Thanks for sharing a picture. Game looks great. Now go get all 69 of those Elvira achievements!

#2232 2 years ago
Quoted from Chalkey:

I can't figure out where to install the SD card.

It goes in this slot circled in green.

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#2261 2 years ago
Quoted from RC_like_the_cola:

I bet the something different is they will need left hand side modules. We've seen BM66 and EHOH 40th come out last month with left hand mounted QR readers. And since the current "kit" offered has a right hand side module, that means those other games need entirely new aprons.

I don’t think that is the case. If so you would just invert the triangle and install it upside down.

#2268 2 years ago

Here are some pictures of the Premium/LE UV apron. I don’t have a Stranger things Machine (yet), but I am 99% sure you can order a regular pro or premium/LE inside connected kit and just mount the QR reader on the existing two threaded studs. Nothing special should be required.

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#2271 2 years ago
Quoted from Dahawk007:

I just received 2 premium kits from Flip n Out today.

Did you get a tracking number via email before it showed up? I have one on order with them and really hope it shows up soon.

#2276 2 years ago

Yes, it was well done on Godzilla LE as well.

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#2280 2 years ago

Drum412 - how long have you let the machine sit after powering on. For me it takes several minutes for the machine to connect after powering on. Let it sit for 5 minutes and see if it auto connects for you.

#2291 2 years ago

Or hardwire it if that is an option for you.

#2295 2 years ago
Quoted from cooked71:

Is there an option to turn off the sound for in game notifications…..super obnoxious.

Not sure but I love hearing the sound. Once you play a game a few times you will be hearing the sound much less frequently.

#2300 2 years ago

Such a waste! I threw the apron away that came with my kit. Hopefully they will sell the reader separately in the near future.

#2315 2 years ago
Quoted from NeilMcRae:

where are folks getting the kits from?

I stole mine from Godzilla! I did manage to get one from Coin Taker and have another order outstanding with another seller. Hopefully they start shipping in larger quantities this week. I would at lest sign up to be notified when they are in stock at Marco.

#2317 2 years ago
Quoted from Coz:

Got my kits from ZMeny at FlipNOut pinball

You must be a better customer than me. I ordered one from him several months ago and have still not received it!

#2342 2 years ago

Chalkey because you have the apron already, you can use a pro or premium kit. Just buy what you can find available.

#2348 2 years ago

Best news of the day!

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#2351 2 years ago
Quoted from gblack:

I also got my shipping notification! I'm not sure if I want to use the apron or front door mount. On the JP Prem it has the lit up art of a Jeep/Truck that I would lose.

When I install mine in the coin door today I will post pictures of how it looks!

#2353 2 years ago

I got my final Insider Connected kit today (Thanks Zach) and installed it on the Jurassic Park coin door with one of my kits.
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05569-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

I think it looks great and I get to keep the artwork on the apron!

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#2363 2 years ago
Quoted from rodcom:

Stranger Things (Premium) owners if you have the UV Kit installed - you can not install the premium insider connect kit. The problem is the UV board does not give you enough clearance to get the insider connected over the screw to the apron. See the pics for specifics - even the plastic art has a cutout to deal with this! This is also consistent with what is said by stern marketing materials that stranger things with UV will not work.
Will be talking to ZMeny at flipnout about options to see if can find out from stern the best approach
[quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image]

Mine works fine with the IC kit, though I would be more than happy to sell you a coin door mounting kit!

See pictures here:
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/stern-insider-connected/page/46#post-6695715

#2369 2 years ago

Sorry

Quoted from goldsmid:

I tried to switch my Godzilla LE to a wired Ethernet connection. I checked all of the connections, but when trying to get the machine online in the network wired setting it never connects. Has anyone else been successful in getting their Godzilla online with a wired connection?
I did get my AIQ online through wired and it is way better than wireless.

Hopefully you attached the ethernet to the connection on the top of the main board? The ones on the bottom are for Stern node boards. AIQ and Godzilla should behave exactly the same. Something must be different in your setup or software settings.

2 weeks later
#2482 2 years ago
Quoted from bowtech:

Anyone come to a resolution on the light on the scanner not working? Had mine for 2 weeks installed on my Maiden and tonight it stopped working.

Contact stern and get it replaced!

#2513 2 years ago
Quoted from purbeast:

As someone who likes to tinker you all are making me wonder if it would be as simple as just getting any old QR reader and it's just sending data over the rj45 connection and the node board/software is handling everything else.
Like would something like these 3 things just "work" lol.
reader - https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000239005664.html
usb -> rj45 adapter - amazon.com link »
You'd need some kind of extension cable obviously but I wonder if it would be as simple as that and figuring out how to mount it properly.

Have fun tinkering. None of that is going to work without integrated software support built into the pinball machine.

#2528 2 years ago
Quoted from John-Floyd:

After finally getting it connected after 10+ tries last night, I turned on LZ just now and it won’t connect again saying sd card not detected? annoying as hell - The damn thing is in there! Is there something I am doing wrong?!

Sounds like a bad micro SD card slot in the machine. For $10 it might be worth trying a second SD card in the off chance the card is the issue.

#2534 2 years ago
Quoted from JSpeights:

Installed the Stern Insider Connected QR reader today. So awesome! Huge thanks to Gotfrogs for the sweet coin door mount. Here is a link to that. https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount/page/2?hl=gotfrogs#post-6736772
Cheers!
[quoted image][quoted image]

Congrats on those scores and all the achievements on day one with insider connected. I have my work to do on Friday to try and catch-up to you! Machine looks great!!!

#2551 2 years ago

If you don’t mind, post a picture of the SD card in the main board.

#2602 2 years ago

Zach just posted this picture on FB. Look at all of the kits Flip N out is about to ship out.

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#2604 2 years ago
Quoted from TommyMc:

Only the pro version according to the post

All the same to me when mounted in the coin door.

1 week later
#2625 2 years ago
Quoted from Kaijumke:

Hi Pinsiders,
Anyone know/confirm if new pins that come with IC factory installed also come with the art/light for those of us that may not want this on the machine?
If not that can I replace the art light somehow?
Possibly by ordering new light/art parts from pinball life?
Also any factual experience on usability with JP movie code?

Nope, but I am sure you could trade with cash to somebody looking to upgrade.

#2648 2 years ago
Quoted from TrixTrix:

A splitter is required for Batman66 and Star Wars. The splitter is included in the IC kit.

I don’t think that is 100% true. If you don’t have a topper attached to the main node board, you could attach the QR reader to the main board in the back box with a longer cable. I include detailed instructions and the required cable in my coin door mounting kit to do it this way.

https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount
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#2675 2 years ago
Quoted from Lethal_Inc:

Where can you get the game specific apron decals to install on the QR reader apron mount? Has anybody just removed the ones from their original apron and re-stick them to the new QR apron?

Yes, that is what stern is recommending and what most people are doing now.

#2732 2 years ago
Quoted from Cdonnerusmc:

Once stern releases the Stars wars LE apron and Batman 66 LE apron I'll have all the spike 3 Limited Edition machines online. (Other than the Beatles) ‍♂️ Can't wait to see how this evolves, seems like a lot of possibilities now that they're online. Feel free to add me "GameOverLC" and if you're ever in Lincoln City Oregon hit me up.
[quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image]

No need to wait. Get any available insider connected kit and place the scanner on the coin door.

https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

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#2773 2 years ago
Quoted from usafstars:

On aprons that have the QR Reader, after relocating to the door...what are you doing to cover that hole like on a Godzilla?

If your game came with a QR reader (like Godzilla) I would not bother with the coin door mod. The mod is really intended for machines prior to the QR reader being integrated in the machine (especially LEs and Premiums that have the art "triangles" on the apron. I have a Jurassic Park LE and an Elvira HOH premium that I have the coin door mod on but I would not consider one for my Godzilla LE as the artwork integrate well and if I moved the reader there would be a hole with nothing in it.

#2780 2 years ago
Quoted from Deez:

So I got 6 kits installed at my location. I think the achievements are definitely fun but the whole system needs polish. Like I can follow other people but can't see who follows me. They're missing a whole social aspect.
It occurred to me that I bet they drop a huge release at TPF with features. I'm just wondering if they're waiting to give the presentation there and have a go live since there is not new game to announce.
What do you guys think? The system is far too clunky to not have a major release.

That would be wonderful but I would not hold my breath. I am not expecting any major updates any time soon. To me is it kind of like all of the marketing buzz word when they launched the paid Stern insider program. Most of their bullet points never happened.

#2795 2 years ago
Quoted from Thunderbird:

Open ethernet port on mini LCD works and works on Batman too, which also has all ethernet ports taken. But in the case of Batman it has the turning table mech, where ethernet cable has to work in conjunction with a fast spinning table and not get tangled up. So the best solution for Batman is using a splitter at the end of node board 8. Only issue there is, plugging a fat ethernet 8pin splitter in is too wide and puts pressure on adjacent ethernet port and flexes the board above way too much to possibly break it in the future.
Solution:
1. Buy 8pin (8P8C) RJ45 ethernet splitter (see photo)
2. Purchase 8pin (8P8C) coupler to hook into 8pin ethernet splitter (see photo)
3. Hook .5m or smaller ethernet cable to splitter
4. Remove ethernet cable located at node board 8 and install ethernet splitter assembly into that port. Insert removed ethernet cable and host camera cable both into ethernet splitter and you’re off to the Batcave making Bat66 achievements or SW universe. The same setup works for Star Wars and the other 2 games that have this issue.
[quoted image][quoted image]

Something like this might be a little cleaner and only require one part (plus cables)
https://www.amazon.com/Splitter-Aoiutrn-Connector-Ethernet-Extender/dp/B09BDT2VXF/ref=sr_1_5

splitter (resized).pngsplitter (resized).png
#2798 2 years ago

Sorry, I did not pay attention to you location. In the states we are so spoiled with Amazon. I can get most things delivered by 7:00 next day for free. I was not trying to dig your solution. Glad you found something local that worked!

1 week later
#2846 2 years ago
Quoted from PoMC:

My friend, Jesterfunhouse, graciously gave me a new Insider Connected kit last night. I've been having fun already collecting the achievements, even though I wasn't planning on buying one ever.
I bought the coin door mount and waiting on that. What I'm doing now is moving the reader from game to game. I have network cables connected in each pin , so I open the coin door and plug in the reader. No big deal, just me playing and easy to reach in with my phone to scan. Plus I don't have to re-scan when playing games after game.
I had enough spare 16GB cards to install in each game. But of course I only have the single wifi dongle that was included in the kit. So that sucks having to move it to each game and re-enter wifi password, etc.
Anyway, found this AWESOME deal on a 5-pack of the CanaKit Raspberry Pi WiFi Wireless Adapter/Dongles. Now it makes it simple to move the reader itself from game to game. I probably won't even mount it and keep it in the coin door because I remove one cable and that's it.
$35!!! Seven packs left.
ebay.com link: itm

Sorry for the delay on the coin door mounts. I had a large batch ship from the powder coater on Friday and they are scheduled to be delivered to me on Thursday. I have most of the orderer ready to ship as soon as they come in. We head to TPF on Thursday but hopefully they get delivered before we head out. If so, we will try and pack them up in the car and mail them on Thursday. If not, all orders should be fulfilled by Monday!
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

IMG_2433 (resized).jpgIMG_2433 (resized).jpg
#2854 2 years ago

If anyone is at TPF and would like a coin door mount for their QR reader. I have a few with me and you can save on not having to pay shipping. PM me if interested.

0AC7F716-B5D2-4A03-92DA-BF0799A95048 (resized).jpeg0AC7F716-B5D2-4A03-92DA-BF0799A95048 (resized).jpeg
#2869 1 year ago

All 3 of my Spike 2 Sterns. Jurassic Park, Elvira HOH and Godzilla!

#2874 1 year ago

I doubt the camera failed. My guess is the supporting custom Stern electronics is what failed. You will need to get it replaced under warranty.

#2888 1 year ago

I just purchased a Stranger Things LE over the weekend and was looking online for an Insider connected kit for it. I found these guys with them in stock. I got the last premium kit they had but they still have pro kits available. I only purchased mine this morning and they already sent me a tracking number!
https://oldtownpinball.com/shop-new/ols/products/stern-insider-kit-for-premium-machines-str-nsd-kit-for1

#2893 1 year ago

I have Canakit wifi in mine and no issues.

#2897 1 year ago
Quoted from Castlecade:

Yeah lets put a qr code reader aka a webcam facing your crotch, what could go wrong lol

Nothing to hide here!

#2910 1 year ago

I got another kit today for Stranger Things that should be joining my collection soon. Anybody else find it wasteful that they include a huge printed paper manual with each kit. They really should just make it a digital download only. Would save tens of thousands of pages of paper!

#2912 1 year ago

I got a premium kit for an LE machine but I will be mounting it in the coin door. I am the one that makes one of the coin door mounting kits.
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

I am 95% certain I could mount it in the UV apron though without much difficulty.

4E77FBD9-FB49-4CF8-8AF3-171E7C18E734 (resized).jpeg4E77FBD9-FB49-4CF8-8AF3-171E7C18E734 (resized).jpegB04BC3F4-FD98-4303-B457-8C53D0C9F002 (resized).jpegB04BC3F4-FD98-4303-B457-8C53D0C9F002 (resized).jpeg
#2914 1 year ago

Multiple distributor webpages make note of a special apron for stranger things. So I would assume Stern has something in the works. That might only apply to people while have not upgraded to the UV kit? Not sure really but that is my guess.

1 week later
#2950 1 year ago
Quoted from NoSkills:

Is the only difference between the pro and premium/le kits that you get a new apron with the pro kit? So if I have a pro with an apron with the hole already I can just order the premium kit and save some $ ? Thanks

They are the same price even though the pro kit comes with more "stuff" and in a larger box.

1 week later
3 weeks later
#3086 1 year ago

The QR scanner secures in place with #4-40 nuts.

1 week later
#3102 1 year ago

Not the full QR code reader assembly but I think I at least found the camera portion on Alibaba.com

323B0E04-1C16-47C4-967D-3B18E857F729 (resized).png323B0E04-1C16-47C4-967D-3B18E857F729 (resized).png
1 week later
#3122 1 year ago
Quoted from MacJedi:

Hey everyone. I recently purchased an Insider Connected reader for my Star Wars LE, and a coindoor mount kit. The problem is I don't have any open RJ45 ports on my node boards or up in the backbox. I also have a topper, which uses the middle RJ45 port up there. Any thoughts on how to have both connected? Right now I have decided to disconnect my topper for a while so I can work on getting achievements.

You can run a cable from the playfield display using the supplied cable in my kit or add a splitter and connect to that.

Ethernet Splitter, RJ45 Splitter Adapter LAN Network Internet Splitter 1 to 2, Ethernet Cable &LAN Internet Splitter for Cat5 Cat5e Cat6 Cat 7 Cable-2pcs https://a.co/d/j9dSy0I

https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

7C20E0F2-96BC-4989-87AD-F797F450F461 (resized).jpeg7C20E0F2-96BC-4989-87AD-F797F450F461 (resized).jpeg
#3164 1 year ago
Quoted from Mike7599:

Hey guys, is it also ok to use the rj45 splitter with stranger things? I’m using the coin door mod and want to route the Ethernet cable to the back box but don’t have any spare ports when the topper is plugged in. Thanks

It should work but. What is the reason for wanting to attach it to the back box? I would just follow the instructions and attach it to the open spot by the flippers.

1 month later
#3517 1 year ago

My guess is the hardware failed. I would request a replacement from the dealer you bought it from. It is a very common problem with the initial units.

#3538 1 year ago

What is the current cheapest compatible wifi usb dongle available on Amazon?

Post update:
I see that these have worked for others and are only $10 so I ordered one.
https://a.co/d/047no43

#3620 1 year ago
Quoted from Jerickso77:

What's a good dongle to use for insider connect? Also, do you need to have the mini SD card installed all of the time or is it just a 1 time firmware update?

This one works.
TP-Link USB WiFi Adapter for PC(TL-WN725N), N150 Wireless Network Adapter for Desktop - Nano Size WiFi Dongle for Windows 11/10/7/8/8.1/XP/ Mac OS 10.9-10.15 Linux Kernel 2.6.18-4.4.3, 2.4GHz Only https://a.co/d/2REM3lS

Yes, the microSD card needs to stay in the machine.

#3628 1 year ago
Quoted from Jerickso77:

Thanks. So I should just be able to make a copy of the mini SD to another one?

Nothing needs to be on the micro SD card. The machine will format it if needed. My understanding is that it checks if it is present but only actually uses it during downloads and updates.

#3633 1 year ago

I would keep the micro SD card in place. It is not the source of your issues.

#3698 1 year ago

I don't understand why all of the other games had the cut out in the apron for the QR reader and not Star Wars. Why do owners of that game get punished for the poor planning of Stern? If you have a Star Wars machine and want a coin door mount, send me a picture of your game and I will give you free shipping on orders placed through Monday night.

https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

IMG_1181 2 (resized).jpgIMG_1181 2 (resized).jpg
#3720 1 year ago
Quoted from Xdetroit:

Has anyone been able to find a RJ45 scanner that Stern uses. I bet they are out there somewhere.

The assembly is custom to Stern. You are not going to find it through other sources. You can get just the camera but that is not going to get you any closer to sourcing the assembly on your own.

1 week later
#3763 1 year ago
Quoted from mbwalker:

What's the reason for getting the SD cards? I mean, if I update a non-IC pin with new code (w/Home team) via USB, add the Wifi dongle, then do the QRC scanner trick, is that all that is needed to get the Home Team working on a non-IC pin?
When you use the QRC scanner located in another pin, does the RJ45 cable also power the QRC scanner (i.e. no power cable needed)? Looking at the IC kit on-line, I don't see a power cable.

My understanding is the microSD card is used as a temporary storage location to enable online updates.

The QR scanner connects to the machine via a standard Cat5 cable but power and data are shared on the connection (does not use normal Ethernet pin out or protocol).

#3778 1 year ago
Quoted from RobbyIRL5:

I have a Batman 66 that I’m trying to install insider on. I’ve got the ethernet splitter, but I do not know how to configure it. When I plug it into either port of node eight, and then plug in the insider to one side of the split and the cable I took out of node 8 into the other (no matter which port on node 8 I used), I get node board failures, no matter which way I configure it. Help! Assuming this has to be laid out pretty clearly in the Batman apron instructions for insider, but I didn’t buy that because I don’t want to get rid of the LE apron, using a coin door mount. Any help appreciated!

Do you have a topper? If not, just buy a long cat5 cable and run it to he scanner from them empty node port in the backbox. If you bought the coin door mount from me, this is covered in the instructions and the provided cable is long enough to do the job.

#3789 1 year ago

I have several coin door kits that came back from powder coating with some cosmetic blemishes. I am selling the for half of the normal price. If you have any questions, please PM me directly.
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/07114-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount-blemish

IMG_4200 (resized).jpgIMG_4200 (resized).jpg
2 weeks later
#3935 1 year ago

A few of you already have but if you have a leaderboard set up, please post a photo and let us know what display and hardware you are using? I really want to add one to our arcade.

Here is one example I found:
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/stern-insider-connected/page/64#post-6988552

#3937 1 year ago

Thanks davegauth, I have read your post. I am more interested in how things look and want to get inspiration from others. This will be in my personal game room so turning it on and off is not a major concern. I am interested in how and where people mounted their screens.

1 month later
#4143 1 year ago

Did you see George Gomez mention on the 007 stream tonight that one of the main reasons for no home leader boards is that operators want this to be exclusive to location play? I am not sure I buy this excuse. I think Stern want to differentiate home and location accounts so that can justify charging pro accounts in the future.

1 month later
#4270 1 year ago
Quoted from DiabloRush:

The QR reader on our GZ stopped working. No white light, won't scan. Board shows ethernet activity and blue LEDS. Tried unplugging/replugging all cables, testing (with HV switch properly pulled out) and still no response. If I unplug/replug the ethernet cable, the white illumination briefly turns on, then turns off. Any thoughts? Figured I'd ask here before starting a ticket with Stern. Thanks.

There is a design or material defect in the original readers. Open a ticket and get it replaced. They will make you go through your distributor.

3 months later
#4738 1 year ago

I wish we were not always traveling on Christmas so I could get that achievement!!

Quoted from NeilMcRae:

Folks on the pro apron, does anyone know the screw length/size that goes through to the IC reader? I borrowed the reader of a pro and I've misplaced those screws.
Thanks,
Neil

All of the IC mounting screws I have seen are 4-40 screws. These are the same size threads I have on the back of the coin door mounts that I sell on pinside
DA6AC765-A238-4395-9AE1-3294E0478DE9 (resized).jpegDA6AC765-A238-4395-9AE1-3294E0478DE9 (resized).jpeg

1 month later
#4907 11 months ago

I just got 100 more insider connected coin door mounts back from powder coating. This is a great mod if you have a Pre Godzilla premium or LE machine that was sold before insider connected was launched.
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/shops/1295-gotfrogs/05778-metal-stern-insider-connected-qr-code-reader-coin-door-mount

Pinside_shopitem_5778_0 (resized).jpgPinside_shopitem_5778_0 (resized).jpg
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