Abstract: An electronic messaging device includes a receiver configured to receive a message at one of a first operational frequency and second operational frequency. The messaging device can operate using a time synchronous protocol and can receive commands through over-the-internet-programming (OTIP) and over-the-air-programming (OTAP).

Abstract: An item dispensing system has a plurality of item dispensers at different retail locations. The item dispensers have processors for collecting data relating to the items dispensed. A host computer in electrical communications with processors in the item dispensers receives and stores the data relating to the items dispensed. A client computer in electrical communications with the host computer then receives the data relating to the items dispensed. Thus, the invention provides for the reporting of data relating to the items dispensed to a client computer via a host computer that collects the data from the item dispensers. The client computer is also capable of providing data to the item dispensers via the host computer. The invention is further applicable to a configuration which has a plurality of different client computers associated with different client systems, for example, different states. Thus, the invention is particular useful in reporting client item sales.

Abstract: An item dispensing system having modular and distributed components that are suitable for use at POS counter. Item dispensing units are placed beneath the counter and are electrically connected by a cable to a retailer keypad and display which, in turn, is electrically connected by a cable to a customer keypad and display. A panel having images representing the available games to be played is applied to the top of the counter surface. Thus, a customer can easily pay for and select items to be purchased. Items are automatically dispensed, collected by the retail clerk and provided to the customer.

Abstract: An item dispensing system having modular and distributed components that are suitable for use at a POS counter. Item dispensing units are placed beneath the counter and are electrically connected by a cable to a stand-alone retailer keypad and display which, in turn, is electrically connected by a cable to a stand-alone customer keypad and display. Thus, a customer using the customer keypad and display selects items to be purchased. A clerk uses the retailer keypad and display to accept payment for the items and authorizes the dispenser to dispense the items.