ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER-IN TRANSFER-OUT FOR ELECTRONIC GAME MACHINES

Abstract

A device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a wagering transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the processor, and an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to the wagering transaction application. The wagering transaction application is configured to, through the electronic receiver, access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and update the available funds for wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to gaming systems, equipment, and methods used to provide wagering games, and, more particularly, to electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out for electronic game machines.

BACKGROUND

Gaming systems, machines, and methods used to provide wagering games may be electronically or manually implemented by instant lottery systems. An electronic implementation might be an electronic gaming machine such as a “slot machine,” “video lottery” or “bingo” systems that show the result of a play on a video display device at the player terminal. Other games may include table games, such as “blackjack,” “roulette” or “craps.” A gaming system may include a paper ticket generation mechanism for dispensing vouchers for winnings or remaining balances, or a mechanism for dispensing casino chips. For example, gaming equipment might include a printer for printing the voucher showing the player's balance or the dealer and dealer back for casino chips. The player may redeem the voucher or the player may use the ticket in another gaming terminal.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a wagering transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the processor, and an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to the wagering transaction application. The wagering transaction application is configured to, through the electronic receiver, access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and update the available funds for wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic device.

In another embodiment, an article of manufacture, includes a computer readable medium and computer-executable instructions carried on the computer readable medium. The instructions are readable by a processor. The instructions, when read and executed, cause the processor to detect an access to a gaming device, through an electronic receiver, access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and update the available funds for wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic device.

In yet another embodiment, a method of conduct electronic transfer-in and transfer-out of funds for wagering in a wagering gaming system includes detecting an access to a gaming device, through an electronic receiver, accessing a identifier from an electronic device, determining whether the identifier accurately represents the account, conducting a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and updating the available funds for wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic device.

In still yet another embodiment, a method for casino wagering includes, at a first electronic gaming machine (“EGM”), electronically receiving a first identifier electronically stored on an electronic device of a user of the first EGM, verifying the validity of the first identifier, accessing the account of available funds for wagering associated with the first identifier, conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering; detecting a command to terminate wagering on the first EGM, assigning a second identifier to the electronic device, and electronically sending the second identifier to the electronic device. The method includes, at a second EGM, electronically receiving the second identifier electronically stored on the electronic device, verifying the validity of the second identifier, accessing the available funds for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier, and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering. The first identifier is associated with an account of funds for wagering. The second identifier is based on at least the account of remaining funds for wagering after the wagering games are conducted.

In an additional embodiment, a method for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system, includes detecting, from a user, a deposit of wagering funds for wagering, creating an account of available wagering funds based on the deposit, determining an identifier based on at least the account of available wagering funds, assigning the identifier to an electronic device, dispensing the electronic device to the user. The electronic device configured to electronically store the identifier. The method includes, at an electronic gaming machine, electronically receiving the identifier electronically stored on the electronic device, verifying the validity of the second identifier, accessing the available funds for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier, and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its features and advantages, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of a system for electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out (“eTITO”) for electronic game machines;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an example eTITO device that may be provided by user;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example eTITO device that may be provided by an eTITO system;

FIG. 4 is a more detailed illustration of the interaction of components of an example embodiment of an eTITO system;

FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a method of initiating eTITO transactions in a wagering system; and

FIG. 6 is an example illustration of a method of conducting eTITO transactions in a wagering system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of a system 100 for electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out (“eTITO”) for electronic game machines. System 100 may include various components for accepting wagers, conducting games of skill and/or chance based on the wagers, and paying winners of such games. Any suitable set of such components may be used. For example, system 100 may include electronic gaming machines (“EGM”) 108, 110, casino kiosks 112, and/or casino cashiers 114. Although labeled as a cashier, casino cashier 114 may include a software module for conducting transactions for a cashier as described herein. EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114 may be communicatively coupled to a server such as Slot Accounting System (“SAS”) host 116. Each of SAS host 116, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114 may include modules, applications, libraries, or logic resident on a memory for execution by a processor, configured to conduct the operation of each such entity as described herein.

A user 103 may access various portions of the system 100 configured for interaction with users, such as EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114. User 103 may place wagers, move from machine to machine, redeem balances, collect prizes, or cash out. User 103 may use funding sources 104 to fund wagers. Available funding sources 104 may depend upon statute. Funding sources may include, for example, cash, a cash account, credit or bank accounts. User 103 may use an eTITO device 106 to keep track of the user's balances or wagers in system 100. In one embodiment, user 103 may use an existing device already in the possession of user 103 as an eTITO device 106. In another embodiment, user 103 may be issued eTITO device 106 by the casino or other entity providing system 100.

eTITO device 106 may include an electronic mechanism for user 103 to deposit, move, remove, or otherwise access funds from various devices of system 100, such as EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114. eTITO device 106 may include, for example, a mobile device with a means of capturing and presenting an identifier. Such a mobile device may include a tablet, mobile phone, smart phone, or any other suitable electronic device. The mobile device may include mechanisms for communicating with devices of system 100, such as mechanisms for presentation and reading of a quick response (“QR”) code or bar code, a near-field communication chip (“NFC”), radio-frequency identification (“RFID”) tag, or Bluetooth chip. Such mechanisms for communication may be able to accept and store an identifier 107. In one embodiment, identifier 107 may be configured to be unique. In such an embodiment, identifier 107 may be configured as a mechanism for preventing access or redemption of funds associated with the identifier by any other party or party other than the eTITO device 106.

EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to present a wagering game to a user, such as user 103, who may play a game on EGM 108, 110 for a chance to win a prize based upon the wager and, for example, a random event, a lottery drawing, a bingo game, or other casino-based transaction. EGMs 108, 110 may be implemented in any suitable manner according to the teachings of this disclosure. EGMs 108, 110 may be implemented, for example, in an electronic device such as a traditional wagering game cabinet or arcade gaming cabinet. EGMs 108, 110 may include a suitable display and I/O for presenting the game to the user and for transferring funds in or out of the device using eTITO. EGMs 108, 110 may be communicatively coupled with each other and a gaming server to provide, for example, a bingo game.

EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to accept a deposit of funds from user 103 using funding sources 104 or eTITO device 106. Upon a selected cash-out option, EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to issue an eTITO identification 107 to user 103 on eTITO device 106. Such an identification 107 may be issued using, for example, a bar code or QR code display, an NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or an RFID transmitter/receiver. EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to accept an eTITO-based identification from user 103 from eTITO device 106. Such acceptance may be made using, for example, a bar code or QR code reader, NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or RFID transmitter/receiver. Upon reception of information from eTITO device 106, EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to query SAS host 116 to verify the eTITO device 106, and to make available for wagering any funds associated with the eTITO device 106 and user 103. Upon receipt of funding such as cash, EGMs 108, 110, may be configured to query SAS host 116 for an eTITO identifier that may be sent to eTITO device 106 upon cash-out. EGMs 108, 110 EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to query SAS host 116 for such any such information through a protocol such as advanced funds transfer (“AFT”). Thus, a user may electronically deposit funds into EGMs 108, 110, and may electronically withdraw funds from EGMs 108, 110.

Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to present various self-serve funding and withdrawal options to users of system 100. Casino kiosk may include bill accepters, displays, chip or code readers and displays, eTITO device dispensers, or other input and output devices. In some embodiments of system 100, use of certain accounts in funding sources 104, issuance of eTITO devices 106, or cash payouts of available balances may require user 103 to access casino kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114, rather than an individual EGM 108, 110. Casino kiosk 112 may be communicatively coupled to electronic networks for accessing various accounts which user 103 may wish to include in funding sources 104. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to accept funding sources 104 such as cash, account numbers, an e-Wallet scheme, or an eTITO-based identification 107 from eTITO device 106. In one embodiment, a user 103 may be able to use the same mechanism to originally fund a wagering account in system 100 as to transport an identifier from machine to machine in system 100. For example, an eTITO device 106 configured with an e-Wallet mechanism may use an NFC chip transmitter/receiver on a mobile device to fund a wagering account at casino kiosk 112, wherein such funds are deposited from user's 103 bank or credit accounts. Subsequently, the user 103 may use the eTITO device 106 and associated NFC chip transmitter/receiver to receive and store an identifier which identifies the user 103 as user 103 moves between EGMs 108, 110, before cashing out. The user 103 may touch the eTITO device 106 to each machine to access funds for wagering, adding funds, or removing funds. The eTITO device 106 may contain an identifier to identify the device, user, and/or account. Such an identification may be read using, for example, a bar code or QR code reader, NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or RFID transmitter/receiver. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to accept an eTITO-based identification from user 103 from eTITO device 106. Such acceptance may be made using, for example, a bar code or QR code reader, NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or RFID transmitter/receiver. Upon reception of information from eTITO device 106, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to query SAS host 116 to verify the eTITO device 106, and to associate with the eTITO device 106 any funds presented by the user 103.

If user 103 does not have an eTITO device 106, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to issue an eTITO device 106 to user 103 after funds have been made available for wagering in system 100. Issuing such a device may be accomplished by, for example, a card writer configured to issue an eTITO device with a unique identifier electronically embedded and configured to share the identifier with casino devices. Such an eTITO device may be embodied by, for example, FIG. 3. Casino kiosk 112 may have one or more previously coded eTITO devices, and may be configured query SAS host 114 to notify which eTITO device identification will be associated with the user 103. In one embodiment, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to query SAS host 114 to determine an eTITO device identification to issue to user 103.

Upon a deposit of funds, or issuance of an eTITO device 106, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to issue an eTITO identification 107 to user 103 on eTITO device 106. Such an identification 107 may be issued using, for example, a bar code or QR code display, an NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or an RFID transmitter/receiver. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to query SAS host 116 for such an eTITO identifier. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to query SAS host 116 for such any such information through a protocol such as AFT.

Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to return funds deposited in system 100 user 103. Such funds may reflect funds originally deposited, wagering gains or losses, or other transactions conducted by user 103 while using system 100. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to determine eTITO identification 107 from eTITO device 106 and query SAS host 116 to verify the user and the account balance. After verification, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to return funds to user 103 in the manner selected by user 103. For example, funds may be transferred to an account of user 103. In another example, funds may be issued in the form of cash.

Casino cashier 114 may include software, applications, or modules configured to operate substantially similar to casino kiosk 112. Casino cashier 114 may include additional security, oversight, or other protection mechanisms. Policies set for system 100 may require some transactions to be handled by casino cashier 114 instead of casino kiosk 112. For example, cash payments may be required to be issued from casino cashier 114.

SAS host 116 may be configured to facilitate eTITO transactions between entities of system 100 in order to provide a ticketless, voucherless gaming and wagering experience for a user such as user 103. SAS host 116 may be communicatively coupled to EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112 and casino cashier 114. SAS host 116 may be communicatively coupled to various networks of funding sources, such as credit or cash accounts. SAS host 116 may be configured to access such funding sources upon request by a user 103 to fund an eTITO device for use in system 100.

SAS host 116 may be communicatively coupled to one or more sources of information for tracking a funded account for transferring funds between the elements of system 100. Such sources of information may include, for example, an account database 118 and an eTITO identification database 120. Account database 118 and an eTITO identification database 120 by any suitable number and kind of mechanisms for storing information, such as a file, record, data structure, or relational database. Account database 118 may include information regarding wagering balances of various users like user 103. The balances may reflect actions to fund or withdraw money from system 100, or results such as winning or losing funds in various EGMs 108, 110. eTITO identification database 118 may include information about registered, issued, or methods for determining unique identifiers for eTITO devices 106 associated with system 100. Entries in account database 118 may be linked to identifiers in eTITO identification database 120. SAS host 116 may be configured to associate accounts in account database 118 with an eTITO identifier in eTITO identification database 118, so that when a user 103 presents a given eTITO identifier 107 as part of an eTITO device 106 to an element of system 100, system 100 may recognize the balance available to user 103. SAS host 116 may be configured create or change such associations upon issuance of an eTITO device 106 or an eTITO identifier 107, a funding transaction, or a withdrawal transaction.

Each of EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, casino cashier 114, and SAS house 116 may include a processor coupled to a memory. For an example implementation, see processor 404 and memory 406 of FIG. 4, below. The processor in each device may be configured to execute different logic or instructions stored in the associated memory to perform one or more functions of the device as described herein. The processors may comprise, for example a microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other digital or analog circuitry configured to interpret and/or execute program instructions and/or process data. In some embodiments, the processors may interpret and/or execute program instructions and/or process data stored in the memories. The memories may be configured in part or whole as application memory, system memory, or both. The memories may include any system, device, or apparatus configured to hold and/or house one or more memory modules. Each memory module may include any system, device or apparatus configured to retain program instructions and/or data for a period of time (e.g., computer-readable media).

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an example eTITO device 202 that may be provided by user 103. eTITO device 202 may include, for example, a mobile phone, tablet, smartphone, or any other suitable electronic device. eTITO device 202 may include a processor and a memory, and may be configured to execute a variety of applications. eTITO device 202 may include any suitable mechanism for communicating with system 100 to conduct eTITO transactions. For example, eTITO device 202 may include camera 208, display 203, and/or wireless chip 210. Wireless chip 210 may include, for example, an NFC, RFID, or Bluetooth communications chip.

Given a funding transaction and access by eTITO device 202, a dispensing unit such as units 108, 110, 112, 114 may be configured to contact SAS host 116 to establish an account for the funds and associate a unique eTITO identification with the account. In one embodiment, the unique eTITO identification may be temporarily assigned to the eTITO device 202, such as the case with a QR code provided to and stored by eTITO device 202 electronically. In another embodiment, an eTITO identification may be based on a persistent identifier originating on the eTITO device 202, such as one associated with a read-only NFC chip. Wireless chip 210 may be configured to be a read/write chip or a read-only chip. The association of funds, accounts, and eTITO identifiers may be stored in databases 118, 120.

Identifier 206 may be received by eTITO device 202 from an entity of system 100, such as EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114. eTITO device 202 may be configured to receive identifier 206 by, for example, reading a visual display using a camera 208. Identifier 206 may be received by other mechanisms, such as a Bluetooth or wireless connection. In one embodiment, eTITO device 202 may be configured to receive new identifiers 206 upon particular transactions with system 100, such as cashing out of an EGM 108 to play another EGM 110.

In another embodiment, eTITO device 202 may contain an identifier that is embedded, persistent, or otherwise unchanging during interactions with system 100. For example, eTITO device 202 may include wireless chip 210 configured as read-only or other identifying hardware such as an RFID chip. The identification provided by wireless chip 210 may be included as part of, for example, an e-wallet scheme as noted in FIG. 1. In such a case, a built-in identifier provided by wireless chip 210 might not be changed while user 103 interacts with various components of system 100.

eTITO device 202 may include an application 204 for reading or providing an identifier. In one embodiment, application 204 may be provided by the entity that is operating system 100. Application 204 may be available for download to eTITO device 202 for free or minimal charge through any suitable application download service. Application 204 may be configured to provide or read identifiers, such a visual identifier 206 or embedded identifiers from wireless chip 210. User 103 may launch application 204 to read a QR code from, for example, casino kiosk 112 after depositing funds, so that user 103 may play at various EGMs 108, 110. When approaching a given EGM 108, user 103 may use application 204 to display the QR code 206 to fund play on EGM 108. In one embodiment, upon cashing out of the EGM 108 to play another EGM 110 or go to a kiosk 112, user 103 may use application 204 to read a new QR code reflecting an updated balance. In another embodiment, user 103 may simply cash out of EGM 108, and the same QR code 206 may be used to access another EGM 110 or kiosk 112. Thus, such an identifier as the QR code 206 may allow user 103 to uniquely identify a wagering account in order to: fund the wagering account at an EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114; place wagers at an EGM 108, 110; or refund the balance of a wagering account at a kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114.

Similarly, application 204 may control the access of wireless chip 210. User 103 may configure application 204 to share an identifier through NFC chip with an entity of system 100 to access a kiosk 112, casino cashier 114, or EGM 108, 110. Such an identifier may allow user 103 to uniquely identify a wagering account in order to: fund the wagering account at an EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114; place wagers at an EGM 108, 110; or refund the balance of a wagering account at a kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example eTITO device 302 that may be provided by system 100. For example, eTITO device 302 may be dispensed by a casino machine upon a player entering money into the machine and wishing to use an eTITO device 302 for wagering at various EGMs. eTITO device 302 may include, for example, a smartcard, player card, fob, or any other suitable electronic device. eTITO device 302 may include an identifying chip, storage, computer-readable memory, or other mechanism to communicate identifying information to system 100 to conduct eTITO transactions. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain identifiers that may be persistent during use by user 103 with system 100. In another embodiment, eTITO device 302 may be associated with a personal identification number which may unlock use of eTITO device 302. Such a personal identification number may be stored, for example, in the eTITO device 302 or in databases 118, 120 of system 100.

A user may obtain an eTITO device 302 upon entering a gaming premises, upon applying funds to system 100, or at any other suitable time. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 and an associated identifier may be presented to a user from a dispenser in, for example, EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114. Given a funding transaction, the dispensing unit 108, 110, 112, 114 may be configured to contact SAS host 116 to establish an account for the funds and associate an eTITO identification with the account. The association of funds, accounts, and eTITO identifiers may be stored in databases 118, 120.

In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain an NFC chip 308 for storing an identifier. In another embodiment, other mechanisms for storing an identifier on eTITO device may be used, such as an RFID chip. In yet another embodiment, an identifier may be printed on the front of eTITO device 302, such as in text 306. However, text 306 may not be machine-readable. Further, text 306 may be insecure compared to electronic mechanisms for storing the identifier. Text 306 may be tailored to an individual player, with name, affinity status, or other information displayed.

The identifier of eTITO device 302 may be configured to be read by, for example, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114. Such elements of system 100 may be configured with readers corresponding to the storage technology used on eTITO device 302. For example, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114 may include an NFC chip reader configured to read information such as the identifier of eTITO device 302 from the NFC chip 308.

In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain an identifier that is embedded, persistent, or otherwise unchanging during interactions with system 100.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed illustration of the interaction of components of an example embodiment of system 100. eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a may implement fully or in part eTITO device 106 of FIG. 1. Electronic device 400 may implement fully or in part an eTITO transaction handling element of FIG. 1 such as EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114.

System 100 may include one or more eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a configured to access an electronic device 400 to make transactions associated with wagering. eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a may be configured to make requests to and/or receive information from electronic device 400. Electronic device 400 may be communicatively coupled to SAS host 116 to authorize requested transactions and provide output to eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a.

Electronic device 400 may include an eTITO application 402 configured to handle interfacing with eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a and SAS host 116, and for determining actions to be taken with regard to eTITO transactions. Electronic device 400 may include a processor 404 coupled to a memory 406. eTITO application 402 may be configured to be stored within memory 406 for execution by processor 404.

Electronic device 400 may be configured to operate with any suitable number or type of eTITO device. FIG. 4 illustrates example eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a. Smartphone 202a may be an implementation of eTITO device 202 of FIG. 2. eTITO card 302a may be an implementation of eTITO device 302 of FIG. 3. eTITO RFID card 424 may include an eTITO device with an RFID chip configured to store an identifier. eTITO Bluetooth device 426 may include an eTITO device with storage for an identifier and a Bluetooth communication module configured to communicate the identifier. In various embodiments, eTITO devices and electronic device 400 may be configured with a limited set of the possible communications technologies illustrated herein.

Electronic device may include any suitable type or number of input/output modules for interfacing with eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a and/or user 103. For example, electronic device may include QR code display 408, QR code reader 410, RFID transmitter/receiver 412, NFC transmitter/receiver 414, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416, eTITO card dispenser 418, currency collector 420, and user interface 422. eTITO application 402 may be communicatively coupled to each such input/output module.

QR code display 408 may include any suitable mechanism for displaying a QR code. In one embodiment, mechanisms for communicating other types of bar codes may be used within electronic device 400. eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive an identifier from SAS host to be communicated to an eTITO device such as smartphone 202a. Such an identifier may be assigned by SAS host to a wagering balance or account of the user of smartphone 202a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to transform, embed, encode, or otherwise communicate the identifier from a QR code to be displayed on QR code display 408. Smartphone 202a may be configured to read the QR code with camera 208a or any other suitable mechanism, and thus obtain the identifier 206a assigned by SAS host.

QR code reader 410 may include any suitable mechanism for reading a QR code. For example, QR code reader 410 may be configured to read a QR code displayed by smartphone 202a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive the QR code and translate the QR code into an identifier of an account or wagering balance associated with smartphone 202a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to use such information in combination with a requested action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing funds, checking a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO application 402 may be configured to pass the resulting identifier to SAS host 110 for validation or further processing, along with a requested transaction.

RFID transmitter/receiver 412 may include any suitable mechanism for reading an RFID tag representing an identifier for an account or wagering balance. For example, RFID transmitter/receiver 412 may be configured to read the RFID tag of eTITO RFID card 424. eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive the RFID tag and translate the tag into an identifier of an account or wagering balance associated with eTITO RFID card 424. eTITO application 402 may be configured to use such information in combination with a requested action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing funds, checking a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO application 402 may be configured to pass the resulting identifier to SAS host 110 for validation or further processing, along with a requested transaction.

NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may include any suitable mechanism for reading or writing to or from an NFC device representing an identifier for an account or wagering balance. For example, NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be configured to read the wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a or wireless chip 308 of eTITO device 302a. In one embodiment, NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be configured to accept insertion of a device such as eTITO device 302a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive the information from the NFC chip and translate the tag into an identifier of an account or wagering balance associated with smartphone 202a or eTITO device 302a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to use such information in combination with a requested action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing funds, checking a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO application 402 may be configured to pass the resulting identifier to SAS host 110 for validation or further processing, along with a requested transaction. NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be configured to write an identifier to the wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a or NFC chip 308 of eTITO device 302a, assuming such NFC chips are configured in read/write mode. Such an identifier may be received from SAS host 110 to assign the associated eTITO device with an account or wagering balance.

Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 may include any suitable mechanism for communicating information with a Bluetooth device regarding identifiers for an account or wagering balance. For example, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 may be configured to send or receive information with eTITO Bluetooth device 426, including receiving or sending an identifier. eTITO application 402 may be configured to push such information to Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416, thus assigning an identifier to the Bluetooth device 426, or to receive such information so that it may be used to verify or authorize a transaction.

eTITO device dispenser 418 may include any suitable mechanism for dispensing an eTITO device such as eTITO device 302a to user 103. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302a may be encoded with an identifier 308a known to eTITO application 402. In another embodiment, eTITO application 402 may assign an identifier received from SAS host 116 to eTITO device 302a. eTITO application 402 may be configured dispense eTITO device 302a where a user 103 has no eTITO-enabled device. SAS host 116 may be configured to assign the identifier 308a of the eTITO device 302a to a balance corresponding to the funds that user 103 deposited. In one embodiment, SAS host 116 may send an identifier to be assigned to eTITO device 302a, and eTITO application 402 may dispense an eTITO device 302a pre-loaded with the identifier received from SAS host 116.

Currency collector 420 may be configured to receive cash 428 deposited by user 103. Currency collector 420 may be configured to notify eTITO application 402 with respect to the amount of cash collected. eTITO application 402 may be configured to communicate such information to SAS host 116 so that the funds may be associated with an available balance for the user. If no eTITO device has been used in conjunction with the deposit, eTITO application 402 may be configured to dispense an eTITO device 302a.

User interface 422 may be configured to provide user 103 options to make requests, conduct various specific transactions, access outside accounts for funding, or any other suitable task. Such requests 430 may include requests to cash out winnings from an individual machine using eTITO so that funds may be available for another machine, cash out winnings from the eTITO system 100 in the form of currency, get an eTITO device, check balances, or otherwise access account information.

eTITO application 402 may be configured to handle some of such requests by accessing SAS host 116. eTITO application 402 may be configured to send such requests along with an identifier indicating the account or wagering balance for which the request is made. SAS host 116 may be configured to consult its records such as those in its databases to authorize a requested transaction. SAS host 116 may be configured to issue identifiers for new or changed accounts or wagering balances.

System 100 and eTITO application 402 may be configured to provide additional security features. For example, eTITO application 402 may be configured to require user 103 to enter a personal identification number (“PIN”) or other code to load, unload, or use available funds associated with an eTITO device. Such a code may be used to provide additional security in communications methods wherein communications may be intercepted. For example, an eTITO Bluetooth device 426 may broadcast a signal with a range to reach more than one EGM. Thus, a PIN or other code may be used to securely select an individual EGM to which the user wishes to connect. If user 103 wishes to have a receipt of an eTITO transaction, eTITO application 402 may be configured to contact personnel operating system 100 to provide such a receipt. An identifier assigned to or associated with an eTITO device may or may not be unique. If such an identifier is not unique, then the identifier may be less secure. In one embodiment, the unique identifier may be based upon when a particular wagering session, addition of funds, or other transaction was conducted. In another embodiment, the unique identifier may be based upon a number of credits remaining. In yet another embodiment, the unique identifier may be based upon a user-selected PIN or other code.

If an identifier to be assigned to an eTITO device is unique and encoded with available credits, the identifier may be decoded upon receipt. The resulting decoded available credits may be compared against a record of available credits in, for example, account database 118. If a disparity exists between the two amounts of available credits, then SAS host 116 may be configured to not validate the eTITO device. Personnel operating system 100 may be notified to troubleshoot the discrepancy to detect system error, fraud, or other possible sources of the problem. If the identifier is unique and encoded with available credits, various parts of system 100 such as EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114 may be configured to provide user 103 an indication of the available credits without contacting SAS host 116. However, such a balance may be inaccurate as it has not been validated against the information stored by SAS host 116.

Game play or transactions associated with unique identifiers in system 100 may require elements of system 100 to be connected to SAS host 116 for validation and issuance of unique identifiers. In one embodiment, if connections to SAS host 116 are not open, eTITO application 402 may be configured to return a presented eTITO device without initiating play or transactions. If a non-unique identifier is used with a dispensed eTITO device 302a—in cases where connections to SAS host 116 are down, or where a user PIN is not used—user 103 may be warned concerning the security risks associated with a non-unique identifier.

If a unique identifier is used, cash-out options to remove all available funds from system 100 may be available at, for example, a casino kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114. If a non-unique identifier is used, cash-out options to remove all available funds from system 100 may be available at a smaller set of places in system 100, such as casino cashier 114.

If an eTITO device is based upon technology with a limited number of possible writes, SAS host 116 may determine how many times an identifier for the eTITO device has been written. If the number of writes exceeds a threshold determined to be the expected life of such a device, eTITO application 402 may be configured to not dispense such an eTITO device.

In operation, as part of wagering activity a user 103 may access system 100 configured to provide eTITO transactions. User 103 may approach, for example, an EGM 108, 110, a casino kiosk 112, or a casino cashier 114. User 103 may select an “add funds” option at one these elements of system 100. User 103 may, for example, insert currency into a currency collector 420. An eTITO application 402 running on the EGM 108, 110, a casino kiosk 112, or a casino cashier 114 may accept the funds and notify SAS host 116 that funds have been received.

If user 103 has an eTITO device, then the eTITO device may be interfaced with the element of system 100. For example, user 103 may place the wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a near NFC reader 414 of casino kiosk 112. Alternatively, the user 103 may place or a display of a unique identifier 206a (having a QR code) near QR code reader 410. eTITO application 402 may send the identifier to SAS host 116 to validate its existence. If an existing balance or account associated with the unique identifier exists in system 100, then SAS host 116 may validate its existence and allow transactions to be conducted, such as adding money or cashing out. If no such balance or account is associated with the unique identifier, then one may be created. Such a creation may be preceded by a prompt from eTITO application 402 advising user 103 that no account exists, and that one will be created associated with the presented identifier. If funds have been added by the user, they may be added to the new account, or added to an existing account which has been validated.

User 103 may have an eTITO capable device but not have an identifier yet assigned. For example, user 103 may have a smartphone 202a capable of displaying and reading QR codes, or a wireless chip 210a capable of storing unique identifiers. User 103 may install an application on smartphone 202a for reading QR codes specific to system 100, or to the entity operating system 100. After creating an account and/or depositing funds, user 103 may be prompted to place smartphone 202a near QR code display 408 or NFC transmitter/receiver 414 so that smartphone 202a may read the QR code or receive a unique identifier in wireless chip 210a. Smartphone 202a may thus be assigned a unique identifier known to system 100 and stored by SAS host 116, and be associated with an account or wagering balance.

User 103 may not have an eTITO capable device. In such a case, user 103 may access user interface 422 or currency collector 420 to, for example, obtain an eTITO device 302 from eTITO device dispenser 418. User 103 may deposit currency through currency collector 420 to initiate such generation, or user 103 may be prompted to do so after seeking an eTITO capable device through input on user interface 422. After receiving currency, eTITO application 402 may select an available eTITO device 302a and determine a unique identifier associated with the NFC chip 308a. Such a unique identifier may be resident upon the NFC chip 308a or may be received from SAS host 116. eTITO application 402 may send a notification of the deposited funds with the identifier to SAS host 116, which may register the available funds and associate them with the identifier.

User 103 may take the eTITO-enabled device containing a unique identifier registered with system 100 to an electronic device 400 configured as an EGM such as EGM 108. User 103 may use the eTITO-enabled device to access the EGM for wagering purposes. User 103 may use, for example, QR code reader 410, RFID transmitter/receiver 412, NFC transmitter/receiver 414, or Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 to access the unique identifier on the eTITO device. The access may be accomplished by, for example, touching the eTITO device to a reader on the EGM 108. Such access may make the user's previously loaded funds available for wagering on the EGM 108. eTITO application 402 may use the identifier presented by user 103 to query SAS host 116 to validate the amount of funds available. SAS host 116 may consult databases 118, 120 to validate the existence of the account and provide a balance of funds available for wagering on the EGM 108. The EGM 108 may present the balance of available credits to user 103. User 103 may make a series of wagers with the available funds. eTITO application 402 may record information regarding game play of user 103 for affinity programs, marketing, security, or other suitable purposes. Such information may be transmitted to SAS host 116. SAS host 116 may lock the funds associated with the unique identifier from use by other entities of system 100 while user 103 is accessing electronic device 400.

If user 103 attempts to use an eTITO device with an identifier that cannot be authenticated—for example, SAS host 116 has no record of the identifier, or user 103 cannot correctly enter the PIN—eTITO application 402 may reject the eTITO device use. A message may be displayed in user interface 422 explaining any related issues to the lack of authentication. If the eTITO device was inserted into an electronic device 400, the eTITO device may be returned to user 103. If the eTITO device cannot be authenticated due to a detected abuse, fraud, or other malevolent reason, the eTITO device may be kept by the electronic device 400.

When user 103 wishes to cease using EGM 108, the user 103 may select a “cash out” option on user interface 422. eTITO application 402 may send a notification of remaining funds to SAS host 116. SAS host 116 may record the number of credits available. In one embodiment, SAS host 116 may generate a new identifier to be transmitted to the eTITO device. eTITO application 402 may receive the new identifier, translate the identifier into a mechanism readable by the eTITO device, and prompt user 103 to provide the eTITO device to receive the new identifier. For example, upon selecting “cash out” user interface 422 may prompt user 103 to hold smartphone 202a near NFC transmitter/receiver 414. eTITO application 402 may notify SAS host 116 that user 103 is closing the session, and provide an updated balance of funds. SAS host 116 may record the balance of funds, determine a new identifier and associate it with the new balance of funds, and send the new identifier to eTITO application 402. eTITO application 402 may provide the new identifier to smartphone 202a through NFC transmitter/receiver 414. In another embodiment, the eTITO device may maintain the existing unique identifier. For example, upon selecting “cash out,” eTITO application 402 may notify SAS host 116 but not require user 103 to hold smartphone 202a near NFC transmitter/receiver 414.

User 103 may subsequently go to another element of system 100, such as EGM 110, kiosk 112, or cashier 114. User 103 may access the available funds by similarly providing the unique identifier on smartphone 202a to such elements. User 103 may add funds, make subsequent wagers on an EGM 110, or go to kiosk 112 or cashier 114 to retrieve the balance of the available funds from system 100.

To load additional funds, user 103 may use the eTITO device to access an EGM, kiosk 112, or cashier 114. The unique identifier stored on the eTITO device may be used to query SAS host 116 for available funds. SAS host 116 may provide an indication of available funds to be displayed by user interface 422. User 103 may add funds with, for example, currency collector 420. The amount of added currency may be sent by eTITO application 402 to SAS host 116, which may add the funds to the available balance. User 103 may make additional wagers or transactions on the system. User 103 may choose to leave and make a selection on user interface 422 accordingly. In one embodiment, SAS host 116 may optionally designate a new identifier to be used by the eTITO device. User 103 may be prompted to, for example, touch smartphone 202a or eTITO device 302a to NFC transmitter/receiver to obtain the new identifier and close the session.

To remove funds from system 100, user 103 may use the eTITO device to access cashier 114. The eTITO application 402 may obtain the unique identifier from the eTITO device through, for example, the user 103 touching smartphone 202a to NFC transmitter/receiver 414, and submit it to SAS host 116. SAS host 116 may access the available funds associated with the identifier and send verification to eTITO application 402. Cashier 114 may dispense cash to user 103 according to the available funds remaining.

FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a method 500 of initiating electronic transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a wagering system.

In step 505, it may be determined whether a user has an eTITO device. Such a determination may be made by prompting a user of an EGM, casino kiosk, or casino cashier. The determination may be made by a user taking direct action, such as placing an eTITO device within or within range of a reader or entering funds directly in a currency collector. If the user does not have an eTITO device, method 500 may continue at step 550. If the user does have an eTITO device, then in step 510 the user may be prompted to place an eTITO device within or within range of a reader.

In step 515, it may be determined with an eTITO device has been presented. If the device has not been presented, then step 510 prompting the user may be repeated. If the device has been presented, then in step 520 an identifier from the eTITO device may be determined. In step 525, the user may be prompted to enter a PIN associated with the eTITO device and an account for wagering balances. In step 530, the identifier may be validated against stored records, or against a mechanism for creating such an identifier.

In step 535, it may be determined whether the PIN and identifier are valid. If the PIN and identifier are not valid, in step 540 an error may be displayed and steps 510-535 may be repeated. If the PIN and identifier are valid, then method 500 may terminate. The user of the eTITO device may have successfully accessed a wagering system by electronically transferring in funds and may proceed with subsequent transactions.

In step 550, a user may be prompted to enter funds to create an eTITO account. In step 555, it may be determined whether the user has deposited or otherwise accessed funds for use with the eTITO account and with an eTITO device. If not, then steps 550-555 may be repeated. If so, then in step 560 the deposited funds may be validated, and records associated with the deposit may be stored. In step 565, the user may be prompted for a PIN to be used in conjunction with the eTITO account and with an eTITO device. In step 570, an identifier may be determined. For example, the identifier may be created based upon the deposited funds, an eTITO device, a start time for the transaction, or any other suitable factor. In one embodiment, the identifier may be a unique identifier. The identifier may be stored. In step 575, the identifier may be associated with an eTITO device. For example, the identifier may be stored on an eTITO device such as the device illustrated in FIG. 3. In step 580, the eTITO device may be dispensed to the user. Method 500 may terminate. The user of the eTITO device may have successfully accessed a wagering system and may proceed with subsequent transactions.

FIG. 6 is an example illustration of a method 600 of conducting electronic transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a wagering system. Method 600 may presuppose that a user has already accessed a gaming system and established an eTITO account by, for example, presenting an eTITO device, depositing funds and generating an eTITO device, or any other suitable action. An example of such actions may be found in method 500 of FIG. 5.

In step 605, it may be determined whether wagering game play has been selected with sufficient funds to conduct such game play. If so, then in step 610 wagering and associated game play may be conducted. If not, then in step 615 it may be determined whether or not a user has deposited funds. Step 615 may be implemented in similar fashion to step 555 of method 500. If funds have been deposited, then in step 620, the deposited funds may be validated and recorded. If not, the method may proceed to step 625.

In step 625, it may be determined whether a user has selected an option to cash out of a presently used machine. Such a user may wish to move, for example, from one EGM to another EGM, from a kiosk or cashier to an EGM, or from an EGM to a kiosk or cashier. If the user has not selected to cash out of the presently used machine, then the method may proceed to step 650. If the user has selected to cash out of the presently used machine, in step 630 the amount of available funds may be determined. In step 635, an identifier may be generated. Step 635 may be implemented in similar fashion to step 570 of method 500. In step 640, a user may be prompted to provide an eTITO device to receive the electronic transfer of funds out of the presently used machine. The eTITO device may already be resident in the machine, such as an undispensed eTITO device. In step 645, the identifier may be assigned to or stored in the eTITO device. The eTITO device may be dispensed if it is still reside tin the presently used machine. Method 600 may terminate, as user may now be in the possession of eTITO device associated with a balance of funds that may be used at other machines.

In step 650, it may be determined whether the user has chosen to remove all funds from the gaming system. If not, the method 500 may repeat beginning at step 605. If so, then in step 655, the available funds may be determined. In step 660, cash, currency, or other forms of payment may be issued or dispensed to provide user with the funds that were available in the eTITO account. Method 600 may terminate.

Methods 500 and 600 may be implemented using the system of FIGS. 1-4, or any other system operable to implement methods 500 and 600. As such, the preferred initialization point for methods 500 and 600 and the order of its steps may depend on the implementation chosen. In some embodiments, some steps may be optionally omitted, repeated, or combined. In some embodiments, some steps of methods 500 and 600 may be executed in parallel with other steps of methods 500 or 600. In certain embodiments, methods 500 and 600 may be implemented partially or fully in software embodied in computer-readable media.

For the purposes of this disclosure, computer-readable media may include any instrumentality or aggregation of instrumentalities that may retain data and/or instructions for a period of time. Computer-readable media may include, without limitation, storage media such as a direct access storage device (e.g., a hard disk drive or floppy disk), a sequential access storage device (e.g., a tape disk drive), compact disk, CD-ROM, DVD, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and/or flash memory; as well as communications media such wires, optical fibers, and other electromagnetic and/or optical carriers; and/or any combination of the foregoing.

Although the present disclosure has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made hereto without departing from the spirit and the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system, comprising:

a processor;

a memory coupled to the processor;

a wagering transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the processor;

an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to the wagering transaction application;

wherein the wagering transaction application is configured to: through the electronic receiver, access a first identifier from an electronic device, the electronic device configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering, the first identifier based on at least the account and the electronic device; determine whether the first identifier accurately represents the account; conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering; and update the available funds for wagering in the account.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is further configured to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the device; and

through the electronic transmitter, provide a confirmation to the electronic device.

3. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is further configured to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the device;

determine a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through the electronic transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic device.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the wagering transaction application is further configured to:

allow access to conduct a wagering transaction if the first identifier accurately represents the account;

deny access to conduct a wagering transaction if the identifier does not accurately represent the account; and

deny subsequent access to conduct a wagering transaction after detecting the command to terminate wagering transactions.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding funds for wagering to the account.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes initiating wagering game play.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based on the outcome of wagering game play.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein:

the electronic receiver is configured to receive a signal from a near field communication chip in the electronic device; and

the first identifier is communicated in the signal.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein:

the electronic receiver is configured to read a quick response code from the electronic device; and

the first identifier is communicated in the quick response code.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the electronic receiver comprises a camera configured to read a visual display of the quick response code from the electronic device.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is further configured to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the device;

determine a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through the electronic transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic device.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the first identifier is based at least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction application is configured to:

prompt a user for a security code;

detect an entered security code;

allow the wagering transaction to be conducted based upon the validity of the security code.

14. An article of manufacture, comprising:

a computer readable medium; and

computer-executable instructions carried on the computer readable medium, the instructions readable by a processor, the instructions, when read and executed, for causing the processor to: detect an access to a gaming device; through an electronic receiver, access a first identifier from an electronic device, the electronic device configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering, the first identifier based on at least the account and the electronic device; determine whether the first identifier accurately represents the account; conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering; and update the available funds for wagering in the account.

15. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further caused to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the gaming device; and

through an electronic transmitter, provide a confirmation to the electronic device.

16. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further caused to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the gaming device;

determine a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through an electronic transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic device.

17. The article of claim 16, wherein the processor is further caused to:

allow access to conduct a wagering transaction if the first identifier accurately represents the account;

deny access to conduct a wagering transaction if the identifier does not accurately represent the account; and

deny subsequent access to conduct a wagering transaction after detecting the command to terminate wagering transactions.

18. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding funds for wagering to the account.

19. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction includes initiating wagering game play.

20. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based on the outcome of wagering game play.

21. The article of claim 14, wherein:

the processor is further configured to receive, through the electronic receiver, a signal from a near field communication chip in the electronic device; and

the first identifier is communicated in the signal.

22. The article of claim 11, wherein the first identifier is based at least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.

23. The article of claim 11, wherein:

the processor is further configured to, through the electronic receiver, read a quick response code from the electronic device; and

the first identifier is communicated in the quick response code.

24. The article of claim 23, wherein configuring the processor to read the quick response code comprises configuring the processor to read a visual display of the quick response code from the electronic device.

25. The article of claim 14, further comprising an electronic transmitter, wherein the processor is further configured to:

detect a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the device;

determine a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through the electronic transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic device.

26. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further caused to:

prompt a user for a security code;

detect an entered security code;

allow the wagering transaction to be conducted based upon the validity of the security code.

27. A method of conduct electronic transfer-in and transfer-out of funds for wagering in a wagering gaming system, comprising:

detecting an access to a gaming device;

through an electronic receiver, accessing a first identifier from an electronic device, the electronic device configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering, the first identifier based on at least the account and the electronic device;

determining whether the first identifier accurately represents the account;

conducting a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering; and

updating the available funds for wagering in the account.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

detecting a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the gaming device; and

through an electronic transmitter, providing a confirmation to the electronic device.

29. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

detecting a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the gaming device;

determining a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through an electronic transmitter, providing the second identifier to the electronic device.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising:

allowing access to conduct a wagering transaction if the first identifier accurately represents the account;

denying access to conduct a wagering transaction if the identifier does not accurately represent the account; and

denying subsequent access to conduct a wagering transaction after detecting the command to terminate wagering transactions.

31. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding funds for wagering to the account.

32. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction includes initiating wagering game play.

33. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction includes adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based on the outcome of wagering game play.

34. The method of claim 27, further comprising receiving, through the electronic receiver, a signal from a near field communication chip in the electronic device, wherein the first identifier is communicated in the signal.

35. The method of claim 27, wherein the first identifier is based at least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.

36. The method of claim 27, further comprising, through the electronic receiver, reading a quick response code from the electronic device, wherein the first identifier is communicated in the quick response code.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein reading the quick response code includes reading a visual display of the quick response code from the electronic device.

38. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

detecting a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on the device;

determining a second identifier based on at least the account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device; and

through an electronic transmitter, providing the second identifier to the electronic device.

39. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

prompting a user for a security code;

detecting an entered security code;

allowing the wagering transaction to be conducted based upon the validity of the security code.

40. A method for casino wagering, including:

at a first electronic gaming machine (“EGM”): electronically receiving a first identifier electronically stored on an electronic device of a user of the first EGM, the first identifier associated with an account of funds for wagering; verifying the validity of the first identifier; accessing the account of available funds for wagering associated with the first identifier; conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering; detecting a command to terminate wagering on the first EGM; assigning a second identifier to the electronic device, the second identifier based on at least the account of remaining funds for wagering after the wagering games are conducted and the electronic device; and electronically sending the second identifier to the electronic device; and at a second EGM: electronically receiving the second identifier electronically stored on the electronic device; verifying the validity of the second identifier; accessing the available funds for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier; and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering.

41. A method for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system, comprising:

detecting, from a user, a deposit of wagering funds for wagering;

creating an account of available wagering funds based on the deposit;

determining an identifier based on at least the account of available wagering funds;

assigning the identifier to an electronic device, the electronic device configured to electronically store the identifier;

dispensing the electronic device to the user; and:

at an electronic gaming machine: electronically receiving the identifier electronically stored on the electronic device; verifying the validity of the second identifier; accessing the available funds for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier; and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for wagering.