In 2026, Stern Pinball began implementation of a new style of General Illumination (GI). Up until 2026, Stern Spike system games included a socket style general illumination based using #44/47 bayonet bulbs. In 2026, the company began implementation of an LED board style General Illumination.
This is important as many after-market mods are powered using General Illumination. Many of these products utilize the Comet Matrix Replacement #44 bulb as a power source.
Games made in 2026 and beyond have a GI system which is not compatible with the Comet Matrix Replacement bulb and therefore require a different power solution. Products and collections impacted by this change have been highlighted on our website.
The best way to determine if your game if your game is impacted by this change is to check one or both of the following:
- Factory build date: this information can be found on the back of your machines cabinet, just below the backbox (aka head). If the date is 2026 and beyond, you will need to choose either our Apron or GI Power board options for power.
- Examine the GI: you can easily check your game to determine if it has the socket style or the board style general illumination. Check out this video for details.
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