Abstract: A locked portal unlocking control system (21) including an encryption device (22) responsive to input of a structure identifier to encrypt a time representation with an encrypting cryptographic key (37) for the structure to produce a cryptogram. At least one structure (32, 32a, 32b, . . . 32n) is remote of the encryption device (22) having a lock mechanism (26) controlling opening of a portal to the structure. Each structure (32, 32a, 32b, . . . 32n) further includes a decryption device (27, 27a, 27b, . . . . 27n) having an unlocking assembly (54) coupled to the lock mechanism (26) with the decryption device (27–27n) being responsive to input of the cryptogram (24) to unlock the lock mechanism (26) if a decrypted time representation produced by decrypting the cryptogram meets a time-based criteria in the decryption device (27–27n).

Abstract: A locked portal unlocking control system (21) including an encryption device (22) responsive to input of a structure identifier to encrypt a time representation with an encrypting cryptographic key (37) for the structure to produce a cryptogram. At least one structure (32, 32a, 32b, . . . 32n) is remote of the encryption device (22) having a lock mechanism (26) controlling opening of a portal to the structure. Each structure (32, 32a, 32b, . . . 32n) further includes a decryption device (27, 27a, 27b, . . . . 27n) having an unlocking assembly (54) coupled to the lock mechanism (26) with the decryption device (27-27n) being responsive to input of the cryptogram (24) to unlock the lock mechanism (26) if a decrypted time representation produced by decrypting the cryptogram meets a time-based criteria in the decryption device (27-27n).

Abstract: A stored value system and method comprising a central server apparatus (10), one or more value added terminals (12), and one or more money-activated machines (14). The value added terminal (12) is designed to read smart cards (16) and to add cash value to the cards upon customer (18) input of an appropriate authorization code (22). The money-activated machine (14) is designed to read smart cards, and reprogram them by deducting a cash value amount corresponding to the customer's use of the machines. The central server apparatus (10) receives calls from customers requesting an authorization code for use with a value added terminal, and in response thereto, verifies funds in a pre-established customer account and provides an active authorization code.