Stern&#039;s new platform titled &#039;Spike&#039;

I've worked on games running "spike beta" aka "The Pin" system. It has a lot going for it and will mean big changes for service. Replace instead of repair will probably be the norm. The multiple driver board architecture is similar to what mmr is doing. Game code is on a insertable compact flash card. The impact to ease of manufacturing and ability to outsource sub assemblies will be significant IMO.

Some may not like the change but this is a logical and necessary transition me thinks. Smart.

#299 9 years ago

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michiganpinball

Quoted from John_I:
Seriously? What other conclusion is there? There is no driver board in the backbox or cabinet and there are clearly at least two mini driver boards under the playfield with drive transistors that aren't needed for anything but coils. Upper left corner apron area with the clearly visible through hole transistors:VERGE2015-01-04_08-42-46CES.0.jp... 109 KB

I don't think they are through hole. They definitely were not on The Pin. But the drive transistors (3N10L34) are pretty big and look relatively easy to replace.

#300 9 years ago

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michiganpinball

Here is a driver from The Pin. Some things have changed probably.

pindriver.jpg

1 week later

#367 9 years ago

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michiganpinball

Quoted from Aurich:
From what I've heard The Pin isn't a flop. It's just not aimed at the collector market, we're not the audience. And hey, maybe it ends up being a "gateway drug".

I'd agree. I asked the sales people at 2 stores (where I was working on their game) and they have sold WAY more than I would have guessed. And they sold them last year too and they continue to let them use floor space today.

#379 9 years ago

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michiganpinball