Glossary- Vocabulary
Words that are used in
The Gaming Industry
ABS:(Acres Bonusing System)
AC ALTERNATING CURRENT
- AC VOLTAGE: - Either
voltage or current that varies smoothly from zero to a maximum value in one
direction, or polarity, and returns to zero. It then reverses its direction
(polarity) and rises to a maximum value in the opposite direction, and then
returns to zero to complete the cycle. This cycle is repeated continuously. The
number of cycles per second is its frequency, measured in hertz (Hz).
ACCESS PATH: The procedure used by a database
management system to access data stored in a database.
Access
time: The time a
computer takes to locate and transfer data to or from storage. Composed of seek
time and transfer rate.
ACCOUNT CONTROL
EXECUTIVE (ACE): This
software consists of the processes and databases used to define and maintain
configuration details, accounting information and reporting.
Accounting
Analysis System (AAS) The computer software system used to
provide a database of information. The AAS uses various menu options to create
and print reports. Accounting option the software option that displays
statistics accumulated in game play, such as the number of coins-in or the
number of credits won.
Address:
1) the unique number
assigned to each component of a larger system. 2) In data transmission, a code
for a specific terminal.
Active
components: Electronic
components such as semiconductors, transistors, diodes, etc., that can operate
on an applied electrical signal and change its basic characteristics (e. g.,
switching, amplification, rectification)
Active
Trim: The trimming of a
circuit element (resistor) to obtain a specific functional output
ADS: Accounting Data System
ADSC: Accounting Data System Communicator Used with the IGT Wide Area Progressive Security And
Accounting System to receive and transmit data between the ADS and CCOM.
Aging: The change in the properties of a
material over time and under varying conditions of humidity, temperature,
pressure, etc.
Aging
Period: A time period
during which information (usually video lottery ticket information) is held in
a readily accessible database for verification purposes.
Alternating
Progressive: A
progressive system in which there are two meters each associated with the top
award on the gaming machine(s). One meter is set to a higher base amount than
the other. During play on the machine(s), the meters both progress at the same
rate and an arrow, or other indicator, flashes back and forth between the two
meters. When. The jackpot is ultimately hit; the player wins whichever amount
the arrow is pointing at
AMPERE: - The unit of measurement of electrical
current flow, named after André Ampère, a 19th century French physicist. One
ampere is the value of current that will be maintained in a circuit with an
electromotive force of one volt and a resistance of one ohm. One ampere = 6.25
x 1018 electrons/second. See CURRENT.
AMPLIFICATION: The process of increasing the voltage,
current, or power of an electrical or electronic signal.
AMPLIFIER: An electronic circuit that draws power
from a supply voltage, or voltage source, to produce, at its output, an
increased reproduction of the signal existing at its input. The amplifying
component could be a transistor, vacuum tube, or an appropriate magnetic
device.
Analog: Varying smoothly and continuously over a range, rather than
changing in discreet jumps. For example, a 12-hour clock face is an analog
device that shows the time of day by continuously changing the position of the
dock's hands.
Analog
circuit: An electrical circuit that provides a
continuous relationship between its input and output / A circuit, comprised of
linear components, that provides a linear function.
ANALOG SIGNAL: An electrical signal that has
continuously varying voltages, frequencies, or phases.
ANALOG VOLTAGE: A gradually changing voltage. The term
is interchangeable with LINEAR VOLTAGE.
Alumina:
Aluminum Oxide: The primary compound in Alumina
(ceramic) substrates.
Archive: 1) to copy programs and data onto an auxiliary storage
medium, such as a disk or a tape, for long-term retention. 2) To store data for
anticipated normal long-term use. 3) A procedure for transferring
image information from an online optical storage medium to an offline medium.
ARMATURE: The moving part of a magnetic device
consisting of one or more coils that are electrically connected to create the Rota table section of a generator
Array: A group of elements or circuits arranged
in rows and columns on a substrate
Assembly: A group of components physically joined
to a PCB or ceramic board.
Asynchronous: Not synchronized by a mutual timing
signal or clock. Asynchronous Transmission a method of data transmission in
which the receiving and sending devices don't share a common timer, and no
timing data is transmitted. Each information character is individually
synchronized, usually by the start and stop of bits. The time interval between
characters isn't necessarily fixed.
Attendant: The person who has access to accounting,
diagnostics and other attendant functions by turning the attendant key switches
on the machine. An individual employed by a gaming establishment for the
purpose of recording accounting/diagnostic information, and clearing machine
lockup conditions. For example, performing a hand pay and clearing a jackpot
machine lockup using the RESET key switch
Attendant
Hand Pay: The balance paid by an attendant when an
award exceeds the hopper pay limit (an Operator set amount the hopper pays on a
single win or cash-out condition). For example, if the hopper pay limit is 400
coins and a winning combination appears on the pay line with an award amount of
800 coins, the hopper dispenses 400 coins into the coin tray and enters an attendant
pay lockup condition. An attendant pays the remaining 400 coins, and uses the
RESET key switch to clear the lockup condition.
Attendant
menu: The menu entered
by turning the attendant key switch that allows access to accounting,
diagnostics and other attendant functions. This menu appears on the screen and
shows what options are available.
Attract
mode: Visual and/or
music options intended to attract players when the machine is in the idle mode.
These include flashing lights, reel movement, and playing programmed music
selections. The attract mode is configured through software settings.
Autobet: An option that enables a player to wager
the same number of credits as the previous game simply by pressing the
Deal-Spin-Start switch. For example, if a machine accepts a maximum wager of 5
coins and a Player wagered 3 coins on the last game, pressing the SPIN REELS
(START) button automatically wagers 3 coins and starts the game cycle.
Autocycle: The machine automatically cycles through
each test without operator or attendant intervention.
Autohold: An option that, when selected in the self test mode,
automatically holds suggested winning combinations of cards and displays a HELD
message above the cards in a game.
Award
insert: A separate piece
of glass or film used when the exterior glass panel has an opening for an award
insert, such as "4000 coins
Background
color: The screen color
surrounding the game elements and the game-related information.
Backup: 1) A term pertaining to procedures or standby equipment
available for use in the event of failure or overloading of the normally used
procedures or equipment. 2) To make a copy of a program or data in case the
original is lost, damaged or otherwise inaccessible.
Bank
Controller Data Condenser: responsible for communication between DCNs and other system
components.
Banner: A setup or downloadable message, which is scrolled across
the main menu screen to attract or inform a player.
Bar
Machines: A collective term referring to flattop
machines, as opposed to upright machines.
Base
Amount: The starting
point for a progressive jackpot award. For example, the top award for a group
of machines linked to a single progressive jackpot controller continues to
climb until won. The progressive award then reverts to the base amount and
begins climbing again until won. .
Bars:
Bars are a common
symbol you'll see on many slot machines. It is usually a rectangular shape with
the word BAR printed on it. There are usually single, double, and triple bar
symbols on the reel.
Battery Backup: Auxiliary power provided to a computer
so that volatile information is not lost during a power failure. If machine
power is lost or turned off, configuration, accounting, diagnostic, and
last/previous game information (is protected by a battery on the CPU)
Battery RAM: A battery that preserves the clock
settings and the RAM contents when the power is off.
Baud: 1) A unit of data transmission speed. 2)
The maximum speed at which data can be sent down a channel, such as a telephone
line.
Belly
Glass: Frame mounted
glass located on the front door of an upright machine below the door buttons.
Frequently displays game graphics and/or pay table information, but can be
custom ordered. Sometimes found in homes with an Old Casino’s Name
Bet
Down: A screen button
that, when touched, decrements the number of credits wagered toward a game and
returns them to the credit meter. If the button remains touched, the bet will
continue to decrement at a determined rate until the bet reaches one.
Bet
Max: (Bet Five, etc.) A player panel
switch or screen button that wagers either the maximum number of credits the
machine will accept or, if insufficient credits exist, all remaining credits.
For example, if a five-coin machine has ten credits shown on the credit meter,
pressing this button wagers five credits and spins the reels. If only two
credits show on the credit meter, pressing this button wagers two credits, and
the Player is given the chance to insert more money to wager the maximum
allowed.
Bet
One: A player panel switch or screen button
that wagers one credit each time it is pressed. For example, if a five-coin
machine has ten credits shown on the credit meter, pressing this button wagers
one credit
Bet
Up: A screen button
that, when touched, increments the number of credits wagered toward a game and
decrements them from the credit meter. If the button remains touched, the bet
will continue to increment at a determined rate until the bet reaches maximum
coins-in or the credit meter reaches zero.
Bill
Acceptor: (same as bill
validator) Optional assembly that accepts valid paper bills and causes the host
machine to either dispense change or issue credits. A device which examines
inserted paper currency or coupons. Accepted bills or coupons register as
credits. Rejected bills or coupons are returned to the Player.
Bill
Aacceptor Pay Mode: The
available options are credit only (pays only in the form of credits), player
initiated (pays either credits or cash depending on the player initiated
selection) and noncredit.
Bill
Box: Located within the Bill Validator, the
box that bills are stored in after being accepted by the device. AKA Cash Can
Bill
Box Extractor: A device that is used to remove the Bill Box (Cash Can) from
the machine, without allowing access to the currency within the box.
Bill
Validator Head: The device
within the Bill Validator assembly that accepts or rejects paper currency. AKA
DBV Head
Bill
Validator: A device that
verifies and rejects, or accepts, currency for conversion into credits, coins,
or tokens
Bill
Validator Door: A keyed
door preventing unauthorized access to the bill validator module (bill head)
Bill
Validator Module: Often
referred to as the bill head (BV – DBV), a device within the bill acceptor
which compares inserted bills or coupons to programmed standards and either
accepts or rejects them.
Binary: Characterized by having two different
components or by having only two alternatives or values available.
Binary
system: 1) A number
system that uses only 0 and 1 as digits. 2) The representation of numbers in
the base-2 system, using only the two digits 0 and 1. A single binary digit - a
0 or a 1 - is called a bit.
Bit: 1) A contraction of binary digit. The
smallest unit of information that a computer can hold. The value of a bit is
either 1 or 0. 2) A unit of computer information expressed in base
2 numbering system.
Bit rate: The speed at which bits are transmitted,
usually expressed as bits per second or bps.
BITBLITZ: IGT propriety designed video controller on
the processor board, which provides unmatched speed, resolution and animation
capabilities.
Blank: The blank spaces that separate one symbol
from another on the slot machines reels.
Bond: An electrical interconnection, i. e.,
wire bond.
Bonus An adjustment built into the pay table
of a gaming machine to pay the player additional coins for a given win as a
reward for playing the maximum coins. For example, on a three coin multiplier
game, a particular combination might pay 100 coins with one coin played, 200
coins with two coins played, and 500 coins with the maximum of three coins
played. The 500-coin pay in this case contains a 200-coin bonus for playing
with the maximum coins.
Bonus
Bank™: An innovative
game combining special reel symbols (Bonus Bank™ insignias) with illuminated
displays embedded into the pay table glass. Bonus Bank™ symbols substitute for
any symbol to complete a win combination and act as an award multiplier.
Bonus
Button: Used for interaction with ABS. Allows the player to confirm receipt of
a bonus.
Bonus
Pay: Expanded pay for
top awards won with maximum coins bet, greater than a linear multiple of the
wager. If the top award multiplier (number of coins paid per coin bet) is 300
for one to four coins bet, it might be 900 for five (max) coin bet.
Bookkeeping
Meters:
Electromechanical and electronic (software) meters, which record accounting
information.
Boot: (same as power up) To start up a computer. Some of the
Newer Games take a very long time to boot up
Bps (bits per second) (same as bit rate) the
speed at which bits are transmitted, usually expressed as bits per second or
bps.
Browse: An option in various menus that allows the user to view data
in a tile without changing the information.
Buffer: 1) an area of memory set aside for the specific purpose of
holding data until it is needed. 2) A "holding area" of the
computer's memory where information can be stored by one program or device and
then read at a different rate by another.
Burn-in: The process in which a device is
electrically stressed by subjecting it to an elevated temperature and voltage
for an adequate period of time to cause the failure of a marginal device
Bus: 1) A path along which information is
transmitted electronically within a computer. 2) An electrical or electronic
connection between devices.
Bus
specification: The
specification describing the physical characteristics of the bus and the
protocol that governs the use of the bus.
Buy-A-Pay: A type of game in which the player
"buys" various paying combinations by playing more coins. Usually,
buy-a-pay games will pay their top award only if the maximum coins have been
played.
Byte: A unit of information consisting of a
fixed number of bits. A group of bits treated as a single unit.
Cabinet: Cabinet: The painted, powder coated, or laminated shell
that surrounds the metal enclosure on some machines, housing the machine
components
Cage A secure area in a casino used to handle
and store large amounts of money.
Candle: The multi-lamp assembly mounted to the
top of an upright cabinet or slant top, top box which displays machine mode and
game status information via flashing and steady illuminated lamps..
CAP Color Attribute PROM Contains color
definitions used to build images on the screen during each phase of a video
game. A complete set of video game chips includes a CAP, a set of CGs, and a game program EPROM.
Card: 1) A printed-circuit board that plugs into one of the
computer's expansion slots, allowing the computer to use one or more peripheral
devices such as disk drives. 2) A printed-circuit board or card connected to
the bus in parallel with other cards.
Card Box: (Player Tracking or PT unit) The card box (PT unit) has a
card reader that scans a member's card and sends the card ID number to the
system so the records can be accessed. It also has a display unit to greet the
member, show points, etc.
Card Cage: A sealed box in the machine that houses
the programmed information for the game type being played. Some requires a key
to access it. This is also called the lower module.
Card Reader: This is basically a player tracking
input function although LEDs (ERR and OK) are available as outputs for a reader
without a display. The magnetic stripe that uses a card with up to three
magnetically encoded tracks and a reader equipped with a magnetic head to read
card data. AKA The interface device in a machine which accepts a Payer Club
Card for the purpose of recording statistical information about a Player
Carousel: A collection of machines with a common jackpot linked
together via fiber-optic cables in one specific area or location. AKA a
collection of game surrounding a Change person – Passing Change down to the
Customer
Cash Cassette: Device within the bill acceptor where
bills are stored until removed. AKA Cash Can
CASH CREDIT: When credits show on the credit meter,
pressing this button causes the machine to dispense coins into the coin tray until
all credits are paid to the Player, subject to the hopper max pay limit
Cash Out: A switch that converts machine credits
to cash or payable vouchers. The Cash Out switch on the player panel activates
this machine function.
Cash Slip: A printed ticket from a video lottery
terminal (VLT) that is redeemed for cash in lieu of direct payment as with a
gaming machine.
Cathode
Ray Tube: (CRT) an electronic tube with a screen, such as a television picture
tube, Video Slot & Poker Games which information can be displayed.
CC
Cluster Controller: 1) A
down-line processor that collects data from a number of machines, then
transmits concentrated data over a single communications channel. 2) A
communication device that stores validates and forwards accounting and security
data to the central system. The most common cluster controllers are CVTs, LCTs,
and LCOMs. 3) An intelligent communications device at a remote site that is
responsible for polling the machines.
CCITT: Consultative Committee on International
Telegraphy and Telephony An international committee that sets standards and
make re-commendations for international communication.
Central
Computer: The central
processor located at a central site.
Central
Computer System: (CCS)
In linked games, monitors game machine operation and collects accounting and
security information.
Central
Processing Unit: (CPU)
the "brain" of the computer; the microprocessor that performs the
actual computations in machine language.
Central
Site: The physical place
where the central system is located.
Central
SYSTEM: The hardware at
the central site, along with the software used to operate and control the
retail sites.
Ceramic: An inorganic, nonmetallic material. Examples include alumina
or glass-ceramic. Ceramics are often used in forming ceramic substrates for the
packaging of semiconductor chips
Ceramic
Package: Hybrid package
enclosure consisting of an inorganic, nonmetallic material such as alumina. A
package constructed with a substrate base, a glass attached frame, and a
metalized ring for lid attachment; a low cost method for achieving hermeticity.
CFE: Communications Front-End 1) A processor
on the network that is between the Real Time System's processor and the cluster
controllers at the remote site. The CFE is responsible for communicating with
and polling the cluster controllers. When it is polled by the real time system
it responds with the data gathered from the CCs. 2) A computer system that
controls the transfer of data from the cluster controller to the central
system.
CG: Character Generator chip. A character
generator chip located on a processor board that generates images on video
monitors.
Character: Any symbol that has a widely understood
meaning and thus can convey information. Some characters include letters,
numbers and punctuation.
Checksum: The result of an arithmetic operation on
the number of bits in a sequence, used to verify the integrity of game data in
the EPROM. A stored or calculated value used to verify there is no data
corruption in memory
Chip: The individual circuit or component of a
silicon wafer. The leadless form of an electronic component part, either
passive or active, discrete or integrated.
Chip-and-wire: A hybrid assembly technology employing
face-up wire bonded chip devices.
Chip
carrier: An integrated
circuit package that is usually square and may possess a cavity for a chip in
the center and whose connections are typically on all four sides.
Chip-on-board: (COB): A configuration in which a chip is
directly attached (without any prior packaging) to a printed circuit board or
substrate by solder or conductive adhesives.
Clean
room: A manufacturing area where the air is
filtered to remove dust particles.
CIRCUIT: A single component or group of
interconnected components powered by a source of voltage and configured
according to specified rules. A circuit performs a specific or a predetermined
general task
Circuit
board: A board
containing embedded circuits and an attached collection of integrated circuits
(chips).
Circuitry: A network of wires, chips and resistors
and other electronic devices and connections.
CISC: Complex Instruction Set Computer. A type of central
processing unit found in the majority of personal computers. It requires
several clock pulses to complete one instruction.
Clear
Electronic Meters: The
process of electronically erasing values stored in the electronic period
(temporary) bookkeeping meters. Clearing the electronic meters ensures accurate
statistical recording when the machine is put in service. If data is corrupted,
it may be necessary to record & clear these meters.
Clerk
validation terminal: (CVT) a cluster controller that has a
keyboard and the ability to print sales reports. The cluster controller stores
the data collected from the machines located at a particular location. Used by
a cashier to validate printed cash-out tickets (for lottery games) prior to
cash redemption.
Clock: 1) A timing device that generates the basic periodic signal
used to control the timing of all operations in a computer. 2) A device that
records the progress of real time, or some approximate of it, and whose
contents are available to a computer program.
Clock
Chip: A special chip in
which parameter RAM and the current setting for the date and time are stored. A
battery powers this chip when the system is off, thus preserving the
information.
Clock
Speed: The rate at which
a microprocessor executes instructions.
Cluster
Controller: (CC) 1) A
down-line processor that collects data from a number of machines, then
transmits concentrated data over a single communications channel. 2) A
communication device that stores validates and forwards accounting and security
data to the central system. The most common cluster controllers are CVTs, LCTs,
and LCOMs. 3) An intelUgent communications device at the remote site that is
responsible for polling the machines.
CMOS: memory Complementary Metal Oxide
Semiconductor memory
Battery-powered
memory: used to store backup RAM data for most games. This is the primary
permanent memory storage, and is located in the card cage or the lower module.
Coaxial
Cable: A special type of
communications cable that permits transmission of data at high speed. Usually
employed by local networks.
COIL: A length of insulated wire wound around
a laminated iron or steel core, a ferrite or powdered iron core, or a
non-ferrous material such as ceramic aluminum, or plastic. A non-ferrous core
is called an "air core” since it is non-magnetic in nature.
Coin
Acceptor: A mechanical
device, which examines inserted coins, comparing the size & weight.
Accepted coins register as credits. Rejected coins are returned to the Player
Coin
Comparitor: An electronic coin acceptor mechanism
that receives and validates coins deposited in the machine. A coin comparitor
uses a sample coin against which incoming coins are compared for validity.
Coin
Chute: The pathway an
inserted and accepted coin follows to the hopper, or drop bucket
Coin
Drop Box: the container in the bottom of the
cabinet that catches and holds coins from the coin-in assembly. In bill
acceptors, the lower compartment where bills are deposited.
Coin
Drop-box sensor: switch this switch monitors the number
of tunes the drop (cash) door is opened.
Coin
Handling Bracket: The
mounting bracket holding the coin acceptor, coin diverter, and coin optics.
Coin
Head: The opening
through which coins and tokens are inserted into the machine.
Coin
Tray: Metal tray on a
machine where coins are paid out or returned.
Coin-In
Coins wagered: The
coin-in assembly receives, verifies, counts and appropriately routes coins
deposited in the machine. The coin-in meters
(Mechanical and software)
accumulate total coin-in numbers
Coin
Optics: Devices which
detect a passing coin and send a signal to the CPU. Typically, there are two
coin-in optics located directly below the coin acceptor, and one coin drop
optic located below the coin diverter Coin-Out Coins or credits won and paid,
or credits won and wagered. The coin-out meters (mechanical and software)
accumulate total coin-out numbers.
Communication: 1) the flow of information from one
point (the source) to another (the receiver). 2) The act of transmitting or
making known. 3) The process by which information is exchanged between
individuals through the use of a commonly accepted set of symbols.
Communication
Mode: An operating state
in which a serial card or port is prepared to exchange data and signals with a
modem or other type of data communication equipment (DCE).
Communication
System: Any one of
several system configurations linking machines and a control device (LCOM, CVT
or modem) via fiber-optic cables to a central computer for the purpose of
gathering accounting data.
Communications
Channel: The physical
means of connecting one location or device to another for the purpose of
transmitting and receiving data. Coaxial cables, fiber optics, microwave
signals, telephone lines and satellite communications all serve as
communication channels.
Communications
Front-End: (CFE) 1) A
processor on the network that is between the Real Time System's processor and
the duster controllers at the remote site. The CFE is responsible for
communicating with and polling the cluster controllers. When it is polled by
the real time system it responds with the data gathered from the CCs. 2) A
computer system that controls the transfer of data from the cluster controller
to the central system.
Communications
Protocol: A set of
communication rules that provides for error checking between devices and
ensures that transmitted data are not lost.
COMPONENT: An individual part or element of an
electrical or electronic circuit, which performs a designated function within
that circuit. It may consist of a single part, a combination of parts, or
assemblies.
CONDUCTOR: A metal material that allows electrical
current to flow and has essentially zero resistance
Configuration: 1) A general-purpose computer term that
can refer to the way a computer is set up. 2) The total combination of hardware
components that make up a computer system. 3) The software settings that allow
various hardware components of a computer system to communicate with one
another. .
Configure: To change software or hardware actions
by changing settings.
Contribution: The percentage of total play into a
machine that is applied to the progressive jackpots and reserve funds. The
number is divided by all locations on line based on the amount of play per each
game at that location.
Control
Character: A
non-printing character that controls or modifies the way information is printed
or displayed.
CPU: Central Processing Unit The major
component of a computer system with the circuitry to control the interpretation
and execution of instructions.
CRC: Cyclic Redundancy Check Signals, sent
between microprocessor devices, to verify the identity of each device in order
to prevent tampering or incorrect data being sent.
Credit: One credit is equal to the denomination
of the game being played. Games are played using credits for ease of displaying
the amount bet and won.
Credit
limit: The maximum
number of credits the machine will accumulate before causing either a
hopper-pay, hand-pay or cash-out ticket situation.
Credit
play: Allows all awards,
except the top award and hand pays, to accumulate on the Credits display rather
than dispensing from the hopper. Some game versions allow player-selected
credit or noncredit play.
Credits
cancelled: Credits
hand-paid (but not won), that are cashed out of the credit meter. These credits
could come from either a coin-in or a bill acceptor.
Credits
collected: The sum of
credits won and credits cancelled that are paid out during cash out.
CRT: Cathode-Ray Tube An electronic tube
with a screen, such as a television picture tube, upon which information can be
displayed.
CURRENT: The movement of electrons per second
through a conductor or a component. It is measured in amperes and is designated
by the letter, I. There are 6.25 x 1018 electrons per second in one ampere.
(1018 = a billion billion)Current
Contribution
Amount: The value of the
prize contribution at the current point of time.
Cursor: 1) the moving, sliding, or blinking
symbol on a CRT screen that indicates where the next
character will appear. 2) A symbol displayed on the video monitor in the
self-test mode indicating where the user's next action will take effect.
CVT: Clerk Validation Terminal A cluster
controller that has a keyboard and the ability to print sales reports. The duster
controller stores the data collected from the machines located at a particular
location. Used by a cashier to validate printed cash-out tickets (for lottery
games) prior to cash redemption.
Daisy
Chain: A method of
linking multiple machines together and to an external device. The first machine
is linked to the device, the second machine is linked to the first, the third
machine is linked to the second, and so on.
data Information: Data bits in the stream of bits being
sent from a computer to a peripheral device or another computer, the bits that
contain meaningful information.
Data bus: The path along which general information
is transmitted within the computer.
Data byte: The basic unit of data the computer sends to the printer.
Data communications: 1) the movement of encoded information
by means of electrical transmission systems. 2) The entire process and science
of enabling digital devices, such as computers, to communicate with each other.
Data encryption: A coding technique used to secure
sensitive data by mixing or jumbling the data according to a predetermined
format.
Database: A collection of information organized in
a form that can be readily manipulated and sorted by a computer user.
database
management system: A
software system for organizing, storing, retrieving, analyzing and modifying
information in a database.
day
meters: The data
resulting from the last daily poll of the machines. They provide the data on
the number of games played and won, dollars played and won, and other critical
information.
DC: Direct Current an electric current
flowing in one direction.
DCN: (Data Collection Node) an electronic
circuit board connected to each game in the Acres Bonusing System. ™ It handles
communication between the host and machine, receives bonus promotions from
bonus servers, and sends bonus-related information to bonus servers,
concentrator and the host.
DCS: Data Communication System One of several optional
communication systems whereby the machine sends selected data to an external
accounting device.
DCU: Data Collection Unit A device capable of collecting and
storing information (real-time data) from up to 32 card boxes. It also receives
data and messages from the FEC for transfer to the card boxes.
Decibel: The minimum change in sound intensity
the human ear can distinguish. A doubling of volume is a 10 dB increase. To
double volume in a stereo system requires a ten-fold increase in power output
(watts).
Decimal
Number: A numeral,
usually of more than one digit, representing a sum in which the quantity
represented by each digit is based on a radix of 10. The digits used are 0,1,
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
Decimal
System: The commonly
used form of number representation, in which numbers are expressed in the
base-10 system, uses the ten digits 0 through 9. Default a value, action, or
setting that a computer system assumes, unless the user gives an explicit
instruction to the contrary.
Degauss: To correct video display discoloration
by neutralizing the magnetic field of a video monitor using a special
degaussing tool.
Degaussing: The procedure of demagnetizing the
shadow mask of a computer monitor or TV screen and associated metal parts of a
picture tube to minimize picture distortion. This is usually accomplished by
means of a special degaussing coil through which a decaying alternating current
is applied to demagnetize the tube.
Delete: 1) to remove or eliminate, as to erase
data from a field or to eliminate a record from a tile. 2) A method of erasing
data.
Denomination: A factor that determines the monetary
value of one unit of credit./ Denomination: The specific monetary value for one
credit.
Diagnostics: The mode in which the machine can be
tested for module replacement. Tests for I/O (input/output), peripherals,
display devices, and other hardware may be included.
Dialog
Box: A window that appears over the main
screen to provide information to the user or to request information from the
user. The dialog box normally requires a response or acknowledgment from the
user.
Digital: Represented in a discrete
(noncontinuous) form, such as numerical digits or integers.
Digital
In digital systems: natural sounds and images are converted
into a series of numerical values (ones and zeros).
Digital
Circuit: A circuit
design consisting primarily of digital ICs
Digital-to-Analog
Converter: A device used
to convert digital signals into an analog form. Found commonly in compact disc
players. Digital-To-Analog Converter
(DAC) A device that
converts quantities from digital to analog form.
DIRECT CURRENT: - DC An electrical current or voltage
with a constant direction (polarity) with respect to a fixed reference. DC can
be either positive or negative.
DIGITAL VOLTAGE: A discontinuous or step-function
electrical pulse characterized by an instantaneous change from zero to some
finite level, either in a positive or negative direction with respect to a
reference
DIP
Switch: Dual In-line
Package Switch a small switch that can be manually set for one of two
different values (usually on or off). DIPswitches are used on PC boards for
setting up various machine configurations. Miniature switch or set of switches
has the same footprint as an integrated circuit chip.
Disk: A flat, magnetic surface, serving as a medium for storing
information.
Disk Operating
System: (DOS) an
operating system whose principal function is to manage files and communication
with one or more drives. Display a general term to describe what is seen on the
screen of the display device of a computer.
Display
Board: This is the
player tracking output accessory to the SMIB logic board. It contains an
encased vacuum fluorescent display, the driver and negative power supply for
the display, a VIP light, a display control chip and a connection to the logic
board.
Diverter: The portion of the coin-in assembly that
channels coins to either the hopper or the drop box. It’s a metal flap on the
coin chute used to route coins to the hopper or drop bucket depending on
specific conditions. If the level of coins in the hopper bowl is below an
Operator set amount, coins pass the diverter plate and are routed to the
hopper. When the hopper bowl reaches the set limit, the diverter plate is
positions so coins are routed to the drop bucket. The metal flap on the coin
chute, activated by a solenoid.
Diverter
Solenoid: An electronic
device the CPU signals to position the diverter plate.
Double
Up: An extended game
play available to the player to double his current winnings.
Download: To transfer files or information from
one computer to another, or from a computer to a peripheral device such as a
printer.
Drop: Coins or bills in the drop box. Drop:
Coins diverted to the drop chute when the hopper is full and routed to a bucket
in the machine stand or a special compartment in the cabinet. Drop is
the industry standard term describing the process that occurs when the hopper
has reached its fill limit and will no longer accept coins. When this happens,
a signal is sent to the CPU board. In turn, the CPU signals the diverter and
coins are no longer sent to the hopper. Instead, the diverter routes coins into
a container located in the stand, usually a bucket or similar collection
device. The drop condition will continue until enough coins have been paid from
the hopper to cancel the drop and return the hopper to coin accepting mode.
Drop
Box: A generic term that describes the
container used to collect money in the drop. It is usually a bucket or metal
box. In bill acceptors, the lower compartment where bills are deposited.
Drop
Door: The door normally
on the bottom of the machine or in the stand, which prevents access to the coin
drop.
Drop-Door
Sensor: Switch Monitors
the number of times the drop (cash) door is opened.
Drop
Hold Percentage: Also
referred to as coin room percentage. Expression used in some casinos to express
what percentage of the total drop of a gaming machine is money actually won.
Calculated as follows:
Total Drop - (Fills
+ Jackpots) = Drop
Drop
Optic: An optical sensor
that counts and records the number of coins diverted into the 'drop'.
Drop-In
Bar: (DIB) a physical
package format where the machine is set into a horizontal bar counter-top or
contained in a self-contained cabinet.
Dual-Monitor
Module: Optional video
monitor assembly made to attach to and work with a video machine.
DUART/UART: Dual Universal Asynchronous Receiver/
Transmitter and Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter A communication IC
that can interface between a microprocessor and a serial channel.
E-Squared: See EEPROM.
EEPROM: Electrically Erasable Programmable
Read-Only Memory Many Slot & Video machines (IGT) utilize an EEPROM chip on the
motherboard to store backup game data.
EGM: Electronic Gaming Machine (same as VGD)
A physical machine that collects and dispenses credits, and houses the games.
Eighty-six: Permanently barring someone from playing
in the casino
ELECTRODES: Conductive metallic strips normally
inserted into an electrolyte to provide the chemical action needed to convert
chemical energy into electrical energy
ELECTROMOTIVE FORCE: (EMF) the electrical force that exists
across the terminals of an electrical generator, or battery. When connected to
a load in a closed circuit, this force produces a voltage across the load and
causes current to flow in that circuit. EMF is measured in volts and designated
with the letter E (supply voltage) or V (load voltage).
ELECTRON: Considered to be the smallest unit of
electrical charge
Electron
Beam: The electrons
emitted by the cathode in a picture tube are focused into a beam that is
deflected line-by-line across the phosphor screen to produce an image.
Electron
Gun: The source of the
electron beam in a picture tube comprising a cathode plus several focusing
electrodes that collimate and focus the electron beam into a spot on the
screen. In a color tube there may be three electron guns usually integrated
into a single unit (unitized gun), or a single gun for the three colors.
ELECTROSTATIC
CHARGE: The accumulation
of electrons on the surface of a nonconducting material when it is rubbed by
another nonconducting material.
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE: (ESD) A transfer of an electrostatic
charge between a material with an excess of electrons and a material with a
deficiency of electrons.
Electromechanical
Meters: The physical
meters (or counters) which record and store accounting information. Usage
varies by jurisdiction and machine options. Commonly used meters are coin in,
coin out, drop coin, and attendant pay.
Electronic
Funds Transfer: (EFT) a
cashless method of paying for goods or services. Electronic signals between
computers are used to adjust the accounts of the parties involved in a
transaction. Commonly used to make periodic payments, such as insurance
premiums.
Enable: To activate, usually with a software
command.
Enclosure: The metal body that houses internal
machine components. The enclosure is often installed in a cabinet.
Encryption: The password used to encrypt a message
in communications.
Enter
key: A key that confirms an entry or
sometimes a command.
EPROM: Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory A
non-volatile medium for program instructions. Game programs and video graphics
are stored on EPROMs.
Error: A data processing problem. The machine
enters the tilt mode, an error message displays and game play is suspended
until the problem is corrected.
Escalator: In slant-top and flattop machines, the
part of the hopper that carries coins up to the coin tray.
ESD: Electrostatic Discharge The discharge of
electrical energy that occurs when a charged body comes into close proximity to
an object of lesser or opposite charge.
Ethernet: A high-speed local area network that
consists of a cable technology and a series of communication protocols. It is a
registered trademark of the Xerox Corporation.
Ethernet
Cable Systems: A system
of high-performance coaxial cables widely used in the communications industry.
Eurocredit: A coin-in / credit system used in some
gaming machines that allows the player to insert coins over and above the
maximum number that is playable on a per-game basis. There is an
operator-selectable maximum credit limit on the Euro credit machines and
players can insert coins at their discretion until this limit is reached. Euro
credit machines are most popular in casinos outside the U. S.
Euro Noncredit: A credit mode where once the maximum bet
is reached; all inserted coins are accumulated as credits in the credits meter
up to the credit limit. Any single win greater than the hopper limit is hand
paid. All other wins are paid from the hopper to the coin tray. The credit
limit is set in self-test.
Event
Log: Allows an operator
or attendant to view metered events recorded by the machine.
Exception Log: A paper record of all reported abnormal
events generated on a Wide Area Progressive System.
Exception
Message: A message that
is printed on the exception printer for any abnormal conditions that cause
status to alter from normal.
Expanded
Pay Table Glass: The
lower glass on a machine that shows an extension of the upper glass pay table.
Expanded
Reel: The term used to
describe an electronic slot machine in which the number of reel stops in the
computer program is greater than the number of stops on the actual reels of the
slot machine.
Eye in the Sky: The cameras, usually in bubbles, located
throughout the casino that enable surveillance to observe all areas of the
casino.
FCON: Fiber Converter An electronic device
that converts fiber-optic light signals to electrical signals for 4-wire
transmission.
Feature
Glass: The upper glass
on the main door. This glass usually has the game's paytable or theme
FEC: Front-End Controller A dedicated
computer that polls machine data from the DCUs for transfer to the Transaction
Processor (TP). It also sends information from the TP back through the DCUs to
the card boxes. All messages and data, whether received or sent by the FEC,
must be in RS-232 computer readable code.
Fiber: A device for branching fiber-optic
communication runs or amplifying a fiber run that exceeds 80 feet.
Fiber
Optics: The transmission
of information with light energy as the transmission carrier and plastic or
glass as the medium.
Fiber-Optic
Cable: A transmission
medium that carries pulses of light over strands of glass. Fiber optics can
carry hundreds of millions of bits per second over thousands of miles. Since
the glass fibers are carrying light, they do not receive outside interference
and do not lose appreciable strength. Fiber-optic transmission reduces errors
in transmission. A fiber-optic cable contains two glass strands. Each strand or
fiber is covered in a sheath made of plastic.
Fiber-Optic
Interface Board: Any one
of several optional PC boards that convert electronic digital data to light for
fiber-optic transmission.
Field: A single piece of information, the
smallest unit normally manipulated by a database management system. A record is
made up of one or more fields.
Field
Service Manual: (FSM) An IGT service publication covering machine
hardware, including: installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, disassembly
and assembly, parts lists, wiring diagrams and schematics.
Field
Service Supplement: An IGT service publication that describes
hardware and software specific to a certain machine or jurisdiction.
File: Any named ordered collection of
information stored on a disk.
Filename: The name that identifies a file.
Fill: Coins are coins added to the hopper of a
gaming machine that has become empty as a result of player wins. An Operator
set amount.
Firmware: Programs stored permanently in
read-only. A computer program (software) stored in a hardware device (EPROM,
EEPROM, PROM, or ROM).
Flip
Chip: A method of
mounting chips (ICs) without using wire bonds Memory (ROM).
Flat
Pack: A microcircuit package having its leads
extending from the sides and parallel to the base, often used to achieve
surface mountability.
FLASH: Also referred to as programmable and
erasable read only memory, which is a device, that allows data to be
re-written.
Flash
Card: A credit-card-sized memory device used
in the LCD unit for bonus game and attract message storage.
FLATTOP: A type of machine with a flat top,
designed for installation in a bar cabinet. The game is viewed from above the
machine while the player is typically seated.
Floppy
Disk: A disk made of flexible plastic, as
opposed to a hard disk made of metal.
Fluorescent
Flasher: Controls the
fluorescent lights on the machine that indicate the pla