How We Test Claw Strength and Payout Settings — Hiclawcrane Factory Standards
Direct Answer
Hiclawcrane tests claw strength and payout settings on every kit before shipment. Claw grip force is measured under load to verify it meets the specification for the kit size. Payout rate settings are verified to function correctly across the full configurable range. Operators can adjust both settings after installation without tools or technical support.
What Is Claw Strength?
Claw strength refers to the grip force the claw applies when it closes around a prize. In a claw machine, the claw motor controls two distinct phases:
- Descent grip — the force applied as the claw descends and closes on a prize
- Retrieval grip — the force maintained as the claw lifts and returns to the drop chute
These two phases can be set independently on Hiclawcrane mainboards, giving operators precise control over gameplay difficulty and prize retention.
What Is Payout Rate?
Payout rate (also called win rate or prize rate) is the probability that the claw will grip with full strength on any given play. On plays where the payout rate setting does not trigger a full-strength grip, the claw closes with reduced force — making it unlikely to retain a prize during retrieval.
Payout rate is a standard feature on commercial claw machines worldwide. It allows operators to balance player experience with revenue targets. Hiclawcrane mainboards support configurable payout rate settings accessible via the operator menu.
How We Test Claw Strength at the Factory
Step 1 — Claw Assembly Inspection
Before strength testing, the claw assembly is inspected:
- Finger alignment — all fingers open and close symmetrically
- Spring tension — return springs checked for consistent tension across all fingers
- Pivot points — checked for smooth movement with no binding or excessive play
- Wire connection — claw motor connector verified for secure attachment
Step 2 — Grip Force Measurement
The claw is tested at the factory-default strength setting:
- A standardized test weight is placed in the claw’s grip zone
- The claw closes and attempts to lift the test weight
- Grip force is measured and verified against the minimum specification for the kit size
- The test is repeated at minimum and maximum strength settings to verify the full adjustment range functions correctly
Step 3 — Payout Rate Function Test
The payout rate mechanism is verified across multiple play cycles:
- Payout rate is set to a known value (e.g., 1 in 5 plays)
- The machine is cycled through the set number of plays
- Full-strength grip is verified to trigger on the correct play cycle
- Reduced-strength grip is verified on non-payout cycles
Step 4 — Operator Menu Verification
The operator settings menu is tested to confirm all adjustable parameters function correctly:
- Claw strength (descent and retrieval) — adjustable range verified
- Payout rate — all configurable values tested
- Play time — countdown timer adjustment verified
- Coin value — credit configuration verified
Factory Default Settings
Kits ship with factory default settings suitable for initial testing and setup. Operators are expected to adjust settings to match their venue, prize type, and local market requirements after installation.
| Setting | Factory Default | Adjustable Range |
|---|---|---|
| Descent grip strength | Mid-range | Full range via operator menu |
| Retrieval grip strength | Mid-range | Full range via operator menu |
| Payout rate | Operator-configurable | Full range via operator menu |
| Play time | 15–30 seconds | Adjustable via operator menu |
Claw Strength and Prize Type
The correct claw strength setting depends on the prize type being used. General guidance:
- Candy and capsule toys — lighter prizes, lower strength setting sufficient
- Small plush toys — medium strength recommended
- Medium and large plush toys — higher strength required for reliable retrieval
- Irregular or heavy prizes — test with actual prizes before setting final strength
Our 25.7cm mini kit is optimized for candy, capsule toys, and small plush. Our 53cm and 71cm kits support a wider range of prize types including medium and large plush.
Compare kit sizes and recommended prize types →
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I adjust claw strength after installation?
A: Claw strength is adjusted via the operator settings menu on the mainboard. Access the menu using the setting button included in the kit. The electronic instruction manual provides step-by-step adjustment instructions.
Q: What payout rate is recommended for a new venue?
A: We recommend starting with a moderate payout rate and adjusting based on player feedback and revenue data. Local regulations in some markets (US, UK, EU) may specify minimum win rate requirements for coin-operated amusement machines — check your local rules before setting the payout rate.
Q: Why does the claw drop the prize during retrieval even at high strength?
A: The most common causes are prize weight exceeding the claw’s rated capacity for the kit size, finger misalignment, or worn return springs. Check finger alignment and spring tension first. If the prize is too heavy for the kit size, consider upgrading to a larger kit.
Q: Can I set different claw strengths for descent and retrieval independently?
A: Yes. Hiclawcrane mainboards support independent adjustment of descent grip strength and retrieval grip strength. This allows operators to set a strong initial grip while controlling how firmly the prize is held during the return journey.