Patent ID: 7215414

Claim:
A method of processing multiple different types of deposited media items utilizing a single validation module, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a media item; ascertaining if the media item is of a known type; if the media item is of a known type, applying a media-specific illumination combination to the media item, where the media-specific illumination combination is selected from one or more illumination sources including an ultra-violet source, an infra-red source and a visible light source emanating primary colors, wherein the media-specific illumination combination is selected and activated based on the media type; if the media item is not of a known type, applying a non-media-specific illumination combination to the media item; detecting emissions from the media item, where the emissions are caused by the activated illumination sources; collating the detected emissions according to the type of source used; processing the collated emissions to determine if the media item is valid; and if the media item is determined to be valid, conveying the media item to a receptacle.