Abstract: A cash accounting and surveillance system for games, whereby operation of a number of player operated gaming devices may be monitored for purposes of detecting abnormal operation and/or cheating and for providing automatic accounting information for record keeping and pilferage detection purposes. The system utilizes a node concept with each node having a non-volatile data storage capability and a communications capability for communicating with each of a plurality of gaming devices coupled to the node. The exemplary embodiment disclosed operates in conjunction with slot machines having mechanically rotatable reels and a microprocessor control system for randomizing the reel stopping payouts and other machine functions. Alternate embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: In amusement and game apparatus of the type having a set of symbol-bearing reels and mechanism for spinning the reels after depositing the proper coins, an electronic control for selecting the stopping positions for the reels, for detection of the reel position, for calculating the payout to the player in response to the reel position, and for monitoring the payout and resetting the device for the next play.

Abstract: A system for use in monitoring a plurality of amusement game devices is disclosed wherein individually identifiable attending personnel are employed to verify a predetermined game condition. The system is adapted for use with a computer and includes an interface unit connected to the computer and to a plurality of coupler units which are individually mounted on and interconnected with game devices. Each of the coupler units is adapted to receive a portable device for identifying individually each of the attending personnel. In the system illustrated in the drawings, that device is a transponder that locks into the coupler unit and provides informational responses to interrogation by the interface unit which sequentially polls or addresses each of the transponders.