Abstract: An information display and communication system for use with paintball equipment during a paintball game is provided. The information display and communication system includes a display unit disposed on a housing; a wireless communication unit provided in the housing for receiving information from a paintball marker system; and a controller provided in the housing for displaying the received information on the display unit. The system can be constructed as a portable unit or incorporated into the body of a paintball marker or paintball hopper. Ideally, the display unit includes a touch screen input unit for providing user interaction with the information unit. The wireless communication unit utilizes a short range communication protocol, such as Bluetooth, IR, etc. Additionally, a second wireless communication unit is included having a longer communication range for communicating with other information display and communication systems and players.

Abstract: A lid assembly for a paintball hopper is disclosed, which reduces the paintball reload time. The lid assembly has an outer ring dimensioned to fit over a loading opening of the paintball hopper. A barrier member, such as an elastic membrane or plurality of flanges, is disposed across the inner perimeter of the outer ring such that the loading opening is substantially sealed. Also, a securing member is provided for securing the outer ring to the paintball hopper. A paintball hopper formed with the lid assembly described above is disclosed as well.