Rowe BC3500 Programming Access Code

shawncruiksh

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Donor 8 years: 2018-2025
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Hi everyone,
I recently acquired a Rowe BC3500, which seems to have a programming access code in place, preventing me from getting to "Level 1" of the programming menu. The screen displays "Programming ----", and expects me to input a four-digit code.

I've tried 0000 (the default) without luck (it says "Level 0", it should say "Level 1" after).

I've tried disconnecting the battery from the CCC PCB without luck -- it still requires a passcode but now says "Setup Required" when not in programming mode. And I cannot enter setup because of the access code requirement!

Does anyone know how to bypass the access code or do a factory reset? When I press and hold "hopper" on the code prompt, I get "Access=HDTVCXJE", which I suspect is the access code encrypted. I've found that
IWTVVWFF = 0000, XEEEBHSI = 9999, and ISTVKWBG = 0001. So it seems there is indeed a unique code..

Alternatively, could anyone copy and upload their EPROM?

Thanks,
Shawn
 
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Yeah, after switching it over to the Programming mode, and pressing the function button a few times, I'm supposed to get "MC PAYOUT", but only get as far as "Programming —", because it wants a code 😞

Thanks for looking, though, I appreciate it! 👍
 
you need the utility rom in order to clear the password.

I had one years ago and have no idea where it is now. But, I may have dumped it so I might have a copy of bin at work. Ping me on Monday.
 
you need the utility rom in order to clear the password.

I had one years ago and have no idea where it is now. But, I may have dumped it so I might have a copy of bin at work. Ping me on Monday.
Holy crap, you'd be a life saver if you could find it for me! I'll message you soon!
 
I found the files. One for a 27256 and one for a 27512. You'll need to figure out which one you need to use based on the ROM thats in the board now.

whats a good email to send the files to?
 
Thanks for sending the files! I've got a 27C512 on order to burn the utility room.

In the meantime, I tried an experiment to see how long it would take me to brute-force the access code. I figured I'd try the first 10 combinations, and time it -- to see how long it would take me.

As luck would have it, after entering 0007, BOOM! "Level 1 Access" appeared, and I was in!!

So, for those in need in the future, HDTVCXJE = 0007 (y)

Thanks again, @gamefixer; I'll still check out the utility rom!
 
Thanks for sending the files! I've got a 27C512 on order to burn the utility room.

In the meantime, I tried an experiment to see how long it would take me to brute-force the access code. I figured I'd try the first 10 combinations, and time it -- to see how long it would take me.

As luck would have it, after entering 0007, BOOM! "Level 1 Access" appeared, and I was in!!

So, for those in need in the future, HDTVCXJE = 0007 (y)

Thanks again, @gamefixer; I'll still check out the utility rom!
my grandparents arcade had BC-3500s. I miss working on those. I even still have a hopper cleaning brush, a memento of my previous life, I suppose. I bought a BC-12 at an auction, I'm sorry I abandoned that thing. Rowe's changers have literally been part of almost my entire existence.
 
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