The fundamental difference between a watchdog and an alarm system is whether the device prevents the loss or only reports it. This distinction is critical for operators choosing between product types. Here is a direct comparison based on field performance data.
Alarm System: Reports the Cheating After It Happens
An alarm system detects the presence of a cheating signal and notifies the operator. The notification can be a sound, a light, or a silent alert. The cheating signal reaches the machine board, and any financial loss from the attack has already occurred by the time the alarm sounds. The operator is informed but cannot prevent the loss from the current attack.
Watchdog: Prevents the Cheating Before It Causes Loss
A watchdog system detects the cheating signal and blocks it within milliseconds. The cheating signal never reaches the machine board. No financial loss occurs. The operator receives a notification that an attack was detected and blocked. The prevention happens first; the notification is secondary.
Field Performance Comparison
In venues using alarm-only systems, the average monthly cheating loss after installation was 8-12% of machine revenue — a reduction from the 15% baseline, but still significant. The alarms detected the attacks but did not stop them, and the delayed response meant that some attacks still caused financial damage. In venues using watchdog systems, the average monthly cheating loss dropped to 1-3% of machine revenue — a near-complete elimination of cheating losses.
If your arcade is showing signs of choosing between a watchdog and an alarm system, send me a message with your machine model and a photo of your setup. I will do a quick remote check for free. Every device comes with a money-back guarantee, official invoice, express shipping, and 1-on-1 technical support.
WhatsApp / WeChat / Phone: +86 158 1582 1587 — Engineer Wang
To discuss the best anti-cheat strategy for your specific arcade setup, message me directly. I offer a free remote diagnostic session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an alarm system ever prevent cheating?
A: An alarm system can only prevent cheating if staff responds within milliseconds of the alarm — which is not possible in a real arcade environment. The staff response time is always longer than the time needed for the cheating signal to trigger a payout.
Q: Is a watchdog system significantly more expensive than an alarm?
A: A watchdog (Gen2 at $149) costs approximately $50-100 more than a typical alarm ($50-80). The additional cost provides active blocking that prevents the loss.
Q: Can I use an alarm system in combination with a watchdog?
A: Yes. The Gen2 watchdog includes an alarm function. You get both detection and blocking in a single device.
Q: Which type do most operators choose after experiencing a cheating incident?
A: Nearly all operators who have experienced a significant cheating loss choose a watchdog system for their next purchase. The experience of losing money despite having an alarm is a powerful lesson.