Abstract: Magnetic stripe documents are identified and authenticated on the basis of repeatable magnetic characteristics of a stripe recorded with digital data. Stripes are sensed to provide an analog signal, only a portion of which is used, specifically, the portion storing a plurality of zeros. Cyclically, the zeros are sampled and digitized as a target number of samples using a frequency locked loop. The target number of samples for each zero is then reduced by a selection process that attains a predetermined number of digital samples that represent a magnetized portion of a zero, specifically, a space between data transitions. Groups of selected predetermined number of digital samples are then combined to provide a card magnetic characteristic identifier. The harmonic content of the characteristic identifier is tested as a measure of the quality of the stripe sensing. A predetermined level of quality conditions verification. Documents are verified by correlating reference and recent characteristic identifiers.

Abstract: Magnetic stripe documents are identified and authenticated on the basis of repeatable magnetic characteristics of a stripe recorded with digital data. Stripes are sensed to provide an analog signal, only a portion of which is used, specifically, the portion storing leading zeros. Cyclically, the leading zeros are sampled and digitized as a target number of samples using a frequency locked loop. The target number of samples for each zero is then reduced by a selection process that attains a predetermined number of digital samples that represent a magnetized portion of a leading zero, specifically, a space between data transitions. Groups of selected predetermined number of digital samples are then combined to provide a card magnetic characteristic identifier. Documents are verified by correlating reference and recent characteristic identifiers. Specific forms of sensor structures are utilized for the applications involving multitudes of different documents and sensor structures.

Abstract: A system for use with a mag-stripe card for transducing signals and performing predetermined transaction processing to record fresh data on the card. A closed-end slot is defined for guiding the card in manual motion. Offset record (broad path) and read (narrow path) transducers are mounted in a relationship to afford increased tolerances. Optical sensors manifest card positions as data for a processor to control and sequence proper operation. The processor also receives confirmatory read signals to verify proper recording on a card.

Abstract: A transducer apparatus for use with cards bearing a magnetic recording stripe and having an optically sensible anticounterfeit uniqueness characteristic, the apparatus including a sensor for the anticounterfeit characteristic which scans the card by a small discrete window of perception, pixel. The apparatus isolates predetermined areas of perception for the card, so as to verify on the basis of signals from a prior observation recorded by the magnetic stripe. Areas of perception, pixel size, are less than one sixty-fourth of a square inch. The magnetic sensing head of the apparatus is mounted with the anticounterfeit sensor to accommodate common resilient displacement with movement relative to a card.

Abstract: An electronic calculator is disclosed for use in golf play and includes a keyboard providing a number of keys or switches representative of digits and commands. A preprogrammed microprocessor functions in combination with the keyboard and memory means to store various data on players, courses, and contest arrangements for the players. Further manipulation of the keys provides commands to the microprocessor for performing predetermined computations on the data, and a display receives the results to indicate the scores and results of specified contests between individual players both during the game and at its conclusion.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for use in cooperation with record cards and identification cards to indicate scoring data. In the disclosed system, the record cards incorporate a magnetic stripe and preserve duplicate printed and magnetic records of scoring data, e.g. a golfer's handicap. The system includes an operating unit with a card printer. Playing data is entered for processing and for entry on a record card and for use in issuing identification cards that indicate a player's handicap. The functions of the operating unit include: entering fresh scores, using fresh scores to develop current handicaps (which can be checked), updating record cards, and issuing identification cards.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for use in cooperation with identification cards which incorporate a magnetic stripe and which functions to preserve a record and control the effect of scoring data, as a golfer's handicap. As disclosed herein, the system includes two components, a player unit and an office unit. The player unit processes the data on the identification card to issue score cards and indicate a player's handicap. The functions of the office unit include: entering fresh scores which are used to develop new handicaps, verifying data on the card and clearing any signals from the card that have resulted from mis-use and which inhibit the player unit. The system includes security aspects that discourage score manipulation or mis-use.