One use case for player cards is to configure them as Time Play cards and allow guests unlimited access to certain games and attractions for a set period of time, which can be configured in Item Maintenance. This feature can be used without a third party card integration, making use only of the built in CenterEdge system, although its implementation is less automated than with some other systems. With the CenterEdge system, a validation device can be configured to read time play cards, which an attendant can check to validate access to an attraction.

Setup

1. Verify Player Cards are enabled in Player/Gift Card Options in Manager Console:
   • Click Maintenance.
   • Double-click System Settings.
   • Double-click Player/Gift Card Options.
   • Select Enable Player Cards.
   • Click OK.
2. Create a Time Play Player Card as described in these instructions.
   • Once the item is sold, the Card History function will show time play added regardless of whether it is assigned to a customer.
3. Configure a Validation Device according to these instructions, ensuring you select Mobile Device as the Validation Type and Allow Time Play as enabled when configuring the device.
   
   
   • When the device is configured, the actual handheld device that is associated with it can validate the Time Play on the card, or the virtual swipe function can be used at the POS to validate the time play. Once the first use of a time play allotment is made, the countdown is started, and the timer will expire as configured. If Automatic Start is selected, the countdown begins on purchase for the minutes/hours specified.

FAQs

What is the difference between a CenterEdge card system and an integrated card system?

The CenterEdge card system is fully managed within the Advantage system, meaning all card values (cash, redemption points, Time Play, etc.) are tracked within the local Advantage database. Integrated card systems, on the other hand, rely on third-party systems to manage card values.

What types of values can be assigned to a CenterEdge card?

CenterEdge cards can be assigned various values, including cash value (often sold as points), Redemption value, and Time Play. While Time Play is less common, it is supported within the CenterEdge system if a handheld validation device is used.

Can Time Play on a CenterEdge card be used with any device?

No, Time Play on CenterEdge cards can only be used with devices managed within the CenterEdge system, referred to as Validation Devices. It will not work with devices controlled by integrated systems (e.g., Intercard game swipes).

How do I enable Time Play on a CenterEdge card?

First, ensure Player Cards are enabled in the Manager Console under System Settings as described above. Then, create a Time Play Player Card in Item Maintenance, and configure a validation device with the appropriate Reader Group. Once created, the Time Play value can be sold and added to a CE card.

What are Reader Groups, and why are they important?

Reader Groups allow you to group devices for ease of use, making it simpler to designate where a card's value can be used. This is particularly useful for managing passes and Time Play values.

How is Time Play validated on a CenterEdge card?

Time Play is validated through a configured validation device, which can be a handheld device or a virtual swipe function at the POS. After the first use or after its sale, depending on how it is set up, the countdown timer begins, and the timer will expire as configured.

What happens if a card has both point value and Time Play?

If a card has point value, it will be used first before Time Play is activated. The configured validation device will deduct the specified price (in dollars or points) from the card upon validation unless time play has already begun, in which case it will be used as configured.

Is deferred revenue on player cards relevant to Time Play?

No, deferred revenue is not a concern when using Time Play on CenterEdge cards.

What do I need to set up when configuring a mobile validation device for Time Play?

When setting up a mobile validation device, you need to specify a price that will be deducted from the card if time play is not available/active when it is validated. Ensure that the device is set to allow Time Play and select the appropriate validation type (e.g., Mobile Device).

Can Time Play be used if the card is not assigned to a specific customer?

Yes, Time Play can be added to a card regardless of whether it is assigned to a specific customer. The Card History function will still show the time play added.