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TinyBrights™ Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 Product User Manual

Model #: S1025 - Please read this manual and follow the instructions and warnings prior to usage.

What's Included:

  • TinyBrights™ Insert Coin Cube Gen 2

  • Built-in Rechargeable Battery

  • USB-A to USB-C Charging Cable

  • Coin Token

  • Piggy Bank Plug

Product Features

The premium injection-molded insert coin button really pushes in, lighting up with a nostalgic red glow inspired by classic arcade machines.

Drop in the included token or a U.S. quarter and it will trigger an arcade sound as the coin travels through the cube and exits the front chute for a fully interactive arcade-inspired experience. Coin slot sound effect can be customized.

Includes 15 pre-loaded arcade sound effects .

Keep the original sounds, add your own, or create a custom mix of both with storage for up to 20 total sounds (approximately 40 seconds of audio total, depending on audio quality). 

Personalize your device with ease using our browser-based configuration app. Manage your sound library, customize keyboard emulation, enable additional features, and fine-tune your setup all without installing software or downloading an app. Simply connect via USB cable to any PC, Mac, or Linux device and open our configuration website.

Easily wire the cube directly into an external USB encoder, arcade cabinet, PC power button, or other interface. Inserting the coin or pressing the Insert Coin button triggers the output. (External button cord sold separately)

Connect the cube to your computer or emulator, each button press or coin insertion can send a standard keyboard key input of your choice. Use it for putting credits into your emulator, game start, push to talk, or anything else you can imagine. Cube functions as a USB-HID keyboard device and works with Linux, Windows, Mac, Retropie, & MAME. Compatible with most systems and software that support USB keyboards.

Fine-tune the sound for your desk, office, game room, or streaming setup with 5 volume levels, including mute.

Easily customize the light from soft ambient glow to full arcade brightness with 5 lighting levels, including light-off mode.

Includes a USB-C charging cable, and runs on both rechargeable battery power and USB connection for flexible setup anywhere.

Insert the included plug to turn the cube into a tiny piggy bank that holds up to 5 arcade tokens or U.S. quarters. Optional Piggy Bank Mode temporarily powers the cube on for easy coin insertion before automatically returning to sleep mode after 10s of inactivity.

Automatically powers down after 4 hours of inactivity to preserve battery life. Auto-shutdown can also be disabled.

Basic Operation

Press insert coin button OR insert coin into slot.

Hold insert coin button for 3 seconds.

Cube will auto power down after 4 hours (optional default setting).

Press left button on back to adjust volume (5 levels with mute). To play sounds, press the insert coin button or insert a coin.

Press right button on back to adjust (5 levels including fully off). The highest brightness levels will drain the battery quickly! Use USB power for high brightness!

Made for US quarters and included token. Coin auto returns when inserted or use the included piggy bank plug to store up to 5 coins. Shake cube gently if a coin is stuck.

  • Press the included piggy bank plug directly into the coin slot opening to make the cube into a tiny piggy bank that holds up to 5 arcade tokens or U.S. quarters.
  • Remove the plug using your nail or finger on the side of the plug.
  • It is recommended to only put up to 5 arcade tokens or U.S. quarters into the cube with the plug inserted or they may jam up inside of the cube. 
  • Gently shake the cube to clear any jams if you put in too many coins. 
  • For a larger piggy bank use an external box, jar, or one of our piggy bank coin tray accessories. 

The cube is powered by an internal rechargeable battery or USB-C connection on the back of the cube. The USB-C connection will charge the internal battery.

  1. Connect the included USB-C cable to a USB power adapter or USB port. The USB port should be able to supply 5V at 500mA or more. 
  2. The red light on the back of the cube will illuminate while charging and turn off when fully charged.
  3. If you experience issues with charging or operation when connected to USB-C try using another charger or a different cable. Verify that the charging indicator light illuminates.
  4. Average charging time: 2–3 hours for a full charge.
  • At high brightness the battery will only last about 4-5 hours. It is recommended that you use USB power if you want to use the high brightness mode.
  • If the cube isn’t fully turned off (even if the light is off), it remains in standby mode. During this standby time, it will slowly use the battery. 
  • The cube auto shuts down after 4 hours to save battery life unless you disable this feature using the web app.
  • Battery: 0.9Wh 250mah 3.7V Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
  • Battery Life: Low Brightness: ~24 hoursMedium Brightness: ~12 hoursHigh Brightness: ~5 hours (USB power recommended due to short battery life)
  • Charging Time: 2-3 hours from 0% to 100%
  • Input Power Requirements: USB-C charging port
  • Power: USB Charger 5V @ 500mA or more

General Use & Care

  • Your cube features a premium matte finish that may scratch. Handle gently to keep it looking its best.
  • The cube is not waterproof. Clean gently with a damp, lint-free cloth, keeping water away from the interior and charging port.
  • Store your cube away from prolonged heat, high humidity, and direct sunlight.
  • Do not charge if the cube is in temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 120°F (50°C).
  • Leave it plugged into USB-C or take it on the go, the cube is designed for both stationary and portable use.
  • Rebooting or improper function is usually caused by a “noisy” USB charger or faulty cable. Try a different cable and charger, then see Troubleshooting if issues continue.
  • Handle with care. Dropping or mishandling the cube may cause damage.
  • Fully charge the cube at least once every six months to maintain battery health.
  • For best battery health, fully charge the cube before long-term storage.

Troubleshooting

Additional questions? Email: Info@ChronicConcepts.com

Battery life when in use or not fully powered off:

  • Low Brightness: ~24 hours
  • Medium Brightness: ~12 hours
  • High Brightness: ~4-5 hours (USB power recommended for extended use)

If your cube is not performing to the specs above you may be leaving the unit in continuous standby mode, which will gradually drain the battery.

If the cube isn’t fully turned off (even if the light is off), it remains in standby mode for up to 4 hours before the auto-shutdown feature (if left enabled) powers it down. During this standby time, it will slowly use the battery. 

To fully turn it off immediately, just press and hold the Insert Coin To Play button for 3 seconds. When fully powered off, the battery can last for months.

Try gently tapping on the button or the cube itself to free the button. It is quite durable. If the problem persists please send us an email and we will resolve your issue.

  • Verify that the red light near the charging port illuminates when you plug in the charging cable. 
  • Try a different charging cable or charger.
  • Power banks often have issues with charging low power devices like the cube or earbuds. Check the power bank user manual for low power device mode. Usually it is something like double pressing the power button.
  • Use a pin to press the reset button.
  • If the problem persists please send us an email and we will resolve your issue.

Gently shake or tilt the cube and the coin will come right out.

  • Briefly press the main insert coin button. 
  • Now try pressing the buttons on the back side of the cube for brightness and volume. The cube isn't off but is simply set on light off mode or volume mute mode. 
  • Charge using a different cable or charging brick. The charging light should illuminate on the back side of the cube.
  • Still not working? Try resetting the cube. Insert a pin or paperclip into the reset hole on the back of the cube.

You may have it set on “lights off” mode. Try pressing the brightness button on the back of the cube until the brightness is acceptable.

You may have it set on mute. Press the volume button on the back of the cube multiple times until the volume level is acceptable. Then try again.

  • Does the cube work properly when it is charged and running on battery power? This is a sign that you have a “noisy” charger or bad charging cable.
  • If you continue to have issues you can reset the cube using a pin or paperclip to press the reset button. Look at the labeled cube image to see the reset hole location.

Visit Our Web App to Access & Customize Advanced Features

InsertCoin.ChronicConcepts.com

No software, drivers, or app downloads are required. The web app can also be downloaded for offline use.

Then Follow the Steps Below to Get Started

Connect Device to Computer

  1. Connect the included USB-C cable to your Insert Coin Cube and plug the other end into your computer.
  2. Turn on the cube.
  3. Some systems may ask you to "allow the accessory to connect." Click Allow.

Click Connect Device

4. Click the Connect Device button.

Select Device

5. When the pop-up appears, select “Insert Coin Cube Gen 2,” then click “Connect.”

Connected

6. Once connected, the status indicator button on screeen will change to Connected.

Piggy Bank Mode

Turns on the cube for 10 seconds and plays a sound when you insert a coin or press the button. Enable piggy bank mode using the button combo or the web app.

Enable/Disable

Piggy Bank Mode with Button Combo

  1. Turn on the cube 
  2. Press and hold the front Insert Coin button and rear brightness button together for 20 seconds.
  3. After 20 seconds a sound will play and the cube will turn off.
  4. Piggy bank mode is now activated.
  5. To disable piggy bank mode turn the cube on and repeat the same combo again.

Enable/Disable

Piggy Bank Mode via Web App

With the cube connected to the web app, toggle Piggy Bank Mode on or off.

Add Your Own Sounds

Upload up to 20* of your own sounds or audio clips over USB using the web app. Keep the original sounds, add your own, or create a custom mix of both. *(Approximately 40 seconds of audio total, depending on audio quality). 

Sound Location

  1. With the cube connected to the web app choose where you would like to add or edit sounds.
  2. Choose audio quality

Choose

3. When prompted, select Insert Coin from the device list and click Connect.

4. Once connected, the status indicator will change to Connected.

Caption

Row

Pair text with an image to focus on your chosen product, collection, or blog post. Add details on availability, style, or even provide a review.

Button label

Auto Shutoff Mode

The cube will automatically shut down after 4 hours of inactivity. To disable this feature you can use the web app to turn off the “Auto Shutoff” feature and the cube will remain on until manually turned off.

Enable/Disable

Auto Shutoff Mode via Web App

With the cube connected to the web app, toggle Auto Shutoff Mode on or off.

Factory Reset

If an issue or glitch occurs, resetting the cube can often resolve it quickly.

Pin/Paperclip

Factory Reset

Insert a pin or paperclip into the reset hole on the back.

Keyboard Emulation

Enable keyboard emulation and select your keys using the web app.

Set Up

Keyboard Emulation

1. With the cube connected to the web app, toggle the USB Keyboard Emulation slider ON.

2.

Button Hold Mode

Holding down the button keeps the output key or button emulation output on while held down. DISABLES HOLD TO SHUTDOWN FEATURE.

Enable/Disable

Button Hold Mode

1. With the cube connected to the web app, toggle the slider ON.

External Button Emulation

Model #: S1025

Please read this manual and follow the instructions and warnings prior to install.

 

Overview

This feature allows you to wire your cube directly into an external USB encoder, arcade cabinet, PC power button, or other button interface. Inserting the coin or pressing the button triggers the output.


This feature is only for low voltage and low power applications as a button replacement. A technical term used for this is "TTL and CMOS compatible". It can not directly drive relays, solenoids, electromechanical arcades, or other circuits. 


We specifically designed the internal solid state switch to work with nearly every modern arcade button interface. It is still your responsibility to stay within the electrical specifications listed below. If you don't you could damage the device or your own equipment, we are not responsible for any damages occurring from operation outside of specifications.

Installation

First Steps:

  • This feature essentially allows you to wire the cube in as a “button” for an external device or interface.
  • The external interface doesn’t power the cube. You will still need to power it or charge it with a USB cable.
  • You must enable this feature first before it will operate. Enable the “Button Emulation” feature using the web app first…
    • The switch will close for 100ms when you press the button or insert a coin. This is suitable for most interfaces.
    • If you want more direct control you can also enable the “Button Hold Mode” feature. This feature will keep the button emulation “ON” for as long as you hold down the Insert Coin button. The downside of this feature is that you can no longer turn the cube off by holding the button down for 3s.
  • Read the information in the overview section. This feature is only for low voltage and low power applications as a button replacement. A technical term used for this is "TTL and CMOS compatible". It can not directly drive relays, solenoids, electromechanical arcades, or other circuits.
  • When you insert a coin or press the button the LED on the back will momentarily illuminate and the device you are wired to will indicate a button press.

Wiring:

  • You can purchase a universal wiring harness from our store or you can build your own:
    • Connector: 1x2 female 2.54mm (0.1IN) dupont connector
    • You can also use 2 of the commonly available "Breadboard Jumper Wires”
    • The connector is compatible with common 0.1IN headers
  • Connect the wiring harness into the back of the cube by simply inserting the connector. Make sure your application is within all of the specifications listed in this manual. We are not responsible for damage caused by improper wiring or installation.
  • Wire in like a standard button. There is no polarity requirement. See diagrams below.
    • Wire per the “Single Button Wiring” diagram below for a simple single button.
    • Wire per the “Parallel Button Wiring” diagram below if you want either the original button OR the Insert Coin Cube to trigger the same input.
  • External Button Interface Electrical Specifications:
    • Never exceed the electrical specifications listed below or you may cause damage to your device or external equipment. We are not responsible for damage caused by improper wiring or usage outside of our specifications.
    • Maximum Specifications: 
      • DC CMOS and TTL button replacement use only
      • Internal solid state switch is bidirectional and has no polarity
      • 8mA maximum current
      • 12VDC maximum voltage
      • Maximum ground differential (isolation) 24VDC
      • SWITCH ON = CLOSED CIRCUIT
      • SWITCH OFF = OPEN CIRCUIT
      • Closed Duration = 100ms (infinite with button hold mode option)

 

Insert Coin Cube Technical Specifications

Battery:

  • 0.9Wh 250mah 3.7V Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery

Battery Life:

  • Low Brightness: Approx 24 hours
  • Medium Brightness: Approx 12 hours
  • High Brightness: Approx 5 hours (we recommend using USB power for high brightness mode due to the short battery life)
  • Charging Time: 2-3 hours from 0% to 100%

Input Power Requirements:

  • USB-C charging port
  • Power: USB Charger 5V @ 500mA or more
  • It is recommended to use a high quality USB charger with a rating of 5W or more. Try a different charger and cable if the device appears to reboot or have any other malfunctions. See the troubleshooting section of the manual for more information.

Audio Storage:

  • Upload .WAV and .MP3 audio files to via web app
  • Upload up to 20 unique audio files
  • Storage for coin slot sounds and button sounds
  • Three upload audio quality options available (can mix and match)
    - High Quality = 16KB/s = 11 Seconds Max.
    - Medium Quality = 8KB/s = 22 Seconds Max.
    - Low Quality = 5KB/s = 35 Seconds Max.

Web App:

  • No software download or drivers needed, simply visit the web app at: https://insertcoin.chronicconcepts.com
  • Web app requires usage of the Web HID protocol for the device USB connection.
  • Compatible with Chrome browser or Edge 89+ on Windows, Mac or Linux.
  • The web app can be downloaded for offline use.

USB Interface:

  • Enumerates as a standard USB HID Device (Keyboard)
  • USB 1.1
  • Web App Utilizes Web-HID protocol

External Button Interface Electrical Specifications:

  • Never exceed the electrical specifications listed below or you may cause damage to your device or external equipment. We are not responsible for damage caused by improper wiring or usage outside of the specifications.
  • Maximum Specifications:
    - DC CMOS and TTL button replacement use only
    - Internal solid state switch is bidirectional and has no polarity
    - 8mA maximum current
    - 12VDC maximum voltage
    - Maximum ground differential (isolation) 24VDC
    - SWITCH ON = CLOSED CIRCUIT
    - SWITCH OFF = OPEN CIRCUIT
    - Closed Duration = 100ms (infinite with button hold mode option)

Temperature Range:

  • Do not charge the cube if the temperature is below freezing 32F (0C) or above 120F (50C).
  • Do not operate or store the cube above 131F (55C) or below -15F (-10C) 

Warranty

Your cube is handmade in our Colorado, USA studio. We care about our customers and we will work with you to resolve your issue. We make every effort to make sure we engineer, craft, and deliver to you the best product possible. Your product has a 1 year warranty against any manufacturing defects or functionality issues from the date of purchase. If there is a manufacturing defect or functionality issue please contact us directly using our email info@chronicconcepts.com with a description of your defect and proof of purchase date.

⚠️ Warning

This product contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

  • Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external contacts, or dispose of in fire or water.
  • Do not expose to temperatures above 50 °C (120 °F).
  • Charge only using a 5V USB charger with a 5W or higher rating.
  • Stop using immediately if the battery swells, leaks, or emits an unusual odor.
  • Keep away from children.

Disposal: Dispose of used batteries responsibly. Do not throw in household trash. Take to an authorized recycling or collection facility per local regulations.

Caution: Risk of fire, explosion, or burns if mishandled. Battery is not user-replaceable.

⚠️ CHOKING HAZARD — SMALL PARTS

  • This product contains small components and coin-sized parts that may present a choking hazard.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • For decorative or collectible use only — not a toy.

Additional Information

  • This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
    (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
    (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
    cause undesired operation
    - RoHS compliant
    - For indoor use only. Do not expose to moisture or rain.

TinyBrights™ is an exclusive brand collection owned by Chronic Concepts™. All Rights Reserved.

Designed and Built by Chronic Concepts™ in Colorado, USA

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