Abstract: A cassette for storing bills is described. The cassette includes a shutter, a link which engages the shutter; and a helicoidal drive shaft which engages the link. As the cassette is inserted or removed from a chassis, an actuator fixed to the chassis actuates the drive shaft such that the shutter opens or closes. In some embodiments, the cassette may prevent persons without proper authorization from accessing bills inside the cassette.

Abstract: A cassette for storing bills is described. The cassette includes a shutter, a link which engages the shutter; and a helicoidal drive shaft which engages the link. As the cassette is inserted or removed from a chassis, an actuator fixed to the chassis actuates the drive shaft such that the shutter opens or closes. In some embodiments, the cassette may prevent persons without proper authorization from accessing bills inside the cassette.

Abstract: A gaming machine with serial communications between components of the gaming machine and a controller. A power bus distributes power to the componetns attached via quick connects. High Frequesncy (HF) communications are transmitted over the power bus or in Radio Frequency (RF) wireless transmissions. The gaming machine enclosure prevents RF leakage, prohibits injection of unauthorized communications, and serves as a ground. The components may be physically and electrically secured in the enclosure via magnets. Game outcome decisions are exclusively decided by the controller. User inputs are provided to the gaming machine from a remote device, such as user I/O devices that fold out from a comfortable chair or other location convenient to game players.

Abstract: A skill game operates according to the look and feel of a game of chance. The skill game is, for example, a traditional game of chance modified so that a player's skill substantially determines the outcome of the game. In one embodiment, the skill game is a card game with face down cards and the chance elements of the card game are reduced or eliminated by providing a player of the skill game information about the face down cards. An example embodiment is wager acceptance, random prize determination, then skill game play. In one embodiment, the amount of skill required is adjustable to meet varying regulatory and gaming guidelines and/or operator goals. In one embodiment, the skill game pits players against each other and is played on a skill game machine that does not resemble a slot machine.

Abstract: A method of constructing a link progressive meter system to increase participation and generate additional player excitement during a progressive type game. Each interface or monitor to a gaming machine or monitored point can act and process decisions independently of other monitors. Each monitor contains in computer data memory the status of the entire network and this is replicated throughout the entire network. A method for a bonus game that may be implemented upon an individual gaming apparatus or upon a link progressive network connecting a plurality of gaming machines is described.

Abstract: A composite shift register timer for controlling a sequence of events occurring over a demand-response interface. The composite shift register comprises a primary shift register and a secondary shift register. The primary shift register is divided into successive portions which are selectively coupled together in successive pairs upon timely receipt of respective response signals. A first binary "1" is inserted into the first portion at the start of a predetermined sequence of events. The first "1" is clocked through to the end of the first portion where it initiates a demand and is stored pending the receipt of a corresponding response. A second binary "1" is clocked through the secondary shift register beginning with the initiation of each demand. The clocking of the second "1" continues until the receipt of a timely response to the initiated demand whereupon the secondary shift register is reset.