[37 Pa.B. 3381]
[Saturday, July 21, 2007]
[Continued from previous Web Page] (ii) A copy of all source code for programs that cannot be reasonably demonstrated to have any use other than in a slot machine, on electronically readable, unalterable media.
(iii) A copy of all graphical images displayed on the slot machine including reel strips, rules, instructions and paytables.
(iv) A mathematical explanation of the theoretical return to the player, listing all assumptions, all steps in the formula from the first principles through to the final results of all calculations including bonus pays and, when a game requires or permits player skill in the theoretical derivations of the payout return, the source of strategy.
(v) Hardware block diagrams of the major subsystems.
(vi) A complete set of schematics for all subsystems.
(vii) A wiring harness connection diagram.
(viii) A technical and an operator manual.
(ix) A description of security methodologies incorporated into the design of the slot machine including, when applicable, encryption methodology for all alterable media, auto-authentication of software and recovery capability of the slot machine for power interruption.
(x) For meters required by this subpart or technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website, a cross reference of product meters to the required meters, if necessary.
(xi) A description of tower light functions indicating the corresponding condition.
(xii) A description of error conditions and the corresponding action required by the operator.
(xiii) A description of the use and function of available dip switch settings or configurable options.
(xiv) A description of the pseudo random number generator or generators used to determine game outcome, including a detailed explanation of operational methodology, and a description of the manner by which the pseudo random number generator and random number selection process is impervious to outside influences, interference from electro-magnetic, electrostatic and radio frequencies, and influence from ancillary equipment by means of data communications. Test results in support of representations shall be submitted. For the purposes of this section, ''game outcome'' means the results of a wager.
(xv) Specialized hardware, software or testing equipment, inclusive of technical support and maintenance, needed to complete the evaluation, which may include an emulator for a specified microprocessor, PCs, extender cables for CPU boards, target reel strips and door defeats. The testing equipment and services required by this paragraph shall be provided at no cost to the Board.
(xvi) A compiler, or reasonable access to a compiler, for the purpose of building applicable code modules.
(xvii) Program storage media including EPROMs, EEPROMs and any type of alterable media for slot machine software.
(xviii) Technical specifications for any microprocessor or microcontroller.
(xix) A complete, comprehensive and technically accurate description of the manner in which the slot machine was tested for compatibility and compliance with the central control computer and protocol specifications approved by the Department including the ability to communicate with the central control computer for the purpose of transmitting auditing program information, real time information retrieval and activation and disabling of slot machines.
(xx) Additional documentation requested by the Board relating to the slot machine.
(7) In the case of a modification to a slot machine prototype, including a change in theme, the following additional information:
(i) A complete, comprehensive and technically accurate description of the proposed modification to the slot machine prototype, accompanied by applicable diagrams, schematics and specifications.
(ii) When a change in theme is involved, a copy of the graphical images displayed on the slot machine including reel strips, rules, instructions and paytables.
(iii) When a change in the manner in which the theoretical payout percentage is achieved is involved, a mathematical explanation of the theoretical return to the player, listing all assumptions, all steps in the formula from the first principles through to the final results of all calculations including bonus pays and, when a game requires or permits player skill in the theoretical derivations of the payout return, the source of strategy.
(iv) A complete, comprehensive and technically accurate description of the manner in which the slot machine was tested for compatibility and compliance with the central control computer and protocol specifications approved by the Department including the ability to communicate with the central control computer for the purpose of transmitting auditing program information, real time information retrieval and activation and disabling of slot machines.
(v) Additional documentation requested by the Board relating to the modification of the slot machine.
(8) In the case of a slot monitoring system, casino management system, player tracking system, wide area progressive system, gaming voucher system, external bonusing system, cashless funds transfer system, automated gaming voucher, coupon redemption or jackpot payout machine, coupon system or any other equipment or system required to be tested and approved under subsection (c):
(i) A technical and an operator manual.
(ii) A description of security methodologies incorporated into the design of the system to include, when applicable, password protection, encryption methodology and its application, auto-authentication, network redundancy, back-up and recovery procedures.
(iii) A complete schematic or network diagram of the system's major components accompanied by a description of each component's functionality and a software object report. The description must disclose the functions performed by each component.
(iv) A description of the data flow, in narrative and in schematic form, including specifics with regard to data cabling and, when appropriate, communications methodology for multisite applications.
(v) A list of computer operating systems and third party software incorporated into the system together with a description of their interoperability.
(vi) System software and hardware installation procedures.
(vii) A list of available system reports.
(viii) When applicable, features for each system which may include patron and employee card functions, promotions, reconciliation procedures and patron services.
(ix) A description of the interoperability testing including test results for each submitted system's connection to, as applicable, slot machines, voucher, coupon redemption and jackpot payout machines, computerized systems for counting money, vouchers and coupons. This list must identify the tested products by manufacturer, model and software identification and version number.
(x) A narrative describing the method used to authenticate software.
(xi) All source code.
(xii) A complete, comprehensive and accurate description, accompanied by applicable diagrams, schematics and specifications, of the creation of a voucher and the redemption options available.
(xiii) A complete, comprehensive and technically accurate description, accompanied by applicable diagrams, schematics and specifications, of the creation of a coupon and the redemption options available.
(xiv) Any specialized hardware, software or other equipment, inclusive of technical support and maintenance applicable thereto, required by the Slot Lab to conduct the testing and approval process contemplated by the act, this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website. The testing equipment and services required by this paragraph shall be provided at no cost to the Board.
(xv) Additional documentation requested by the Board related to the equipment or system being tested.
(9) In the case of a modification to any of the systems identified in paragraph (8), the following additional information:
(i) A complete, comprehensive and technically accurate description of the proposed modification to the system, accompanied by applicable diagrams, schematics and specifications.
(ii) A brief narrative disclosing the purpose for the modification.
(iii) Additional documentation requested by the Board relating to the modification.
(j) At the conclusion of testing of a prototype or modification by the Slot Lab, but prior to a decision to approve a prototype or modification, the Board may require a trial period of scope and duration as it deems appropriate to assess the operation of the prototype or modification in a live gaming environment. The conduct of the trial period shall be subject to compliance by the licensed manufacturer, licensed manufacturer designee, applicable licensed suppliers, and the slot machine licensee with specific terms and conditions as may be required by the Board, which may include development and implementation of product specific accounting and internal controls, periodic data reporting to the Board and compliance with technical standards on trial periods or the prototype or modification adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website. The Board may authorize the receipt of compensation by a licensed manufacturer, licensed manufacturer designee or licensed supplier during the trial period. The Board may order termination of the trial period if it determines that the licensed manufacturer, licensed manufacturer designee, applicable licensed suppliers or the slot machine licensee conducting the trial period has not complied with the terms and conditions required by the Board or that the product is not performing as expected.
(k) At the conclusion of testing of a prototype or modification, the Slot Lab will report to the Board the results of its testing. Upon receipt of the Slot Lab's report, the Board will:
(1) Approve, approve with conditions or reject the submitted prototype or modification.
(2) Require additional testing or a trial period under subsection (j).
(l) Board approval of a prototype or modification does not constitute a guarantee of the prototype or modification's safety.
(m) A slot machine licensee is prohibited from installing in its licensed facility a slot machine or associated equipment, or modification thereto, required to be tested and approved under subsection (c) unless the equipment, device or software has been approved by the Board. A slot machine licensee may not modify, alter or tamper with an approved slot machine or associated equipment. A slot machine or associated equipment installed in a licensed facility in contravention of this requirement will be subject to seizure by the Board.
(n) Notwithstanding subsection (m), the Board may authorize installation of a modification to a slot machine prototype or associated equipment prototype on an emergency basis to prevent cheating or malfunction, upon the written request of a licensed manufacturer. The request must expressly detail the name and employer of any persons to be involved in the installation of the modification and the manner in which it is to be effected. Within 15 days of receipt of any authorization to install an emergency modification, the manufacturer shall submit the modification for full testing and approval in accordance with this subpart.
(o) A slot machine licensee shall immediately notify the Board of any known or suspected defect or malfunction in any slot machine or associated equipment installed in its licensed facility. The slot machine licensee shall comply with instructions issued by the Board with regard to the continued operation of the slot machine or associated equipment.
(p) Concurrent with the initial receipt of slot machines, an applicant for, or holder of, a slot machine license shall file a slot machine master list as required by § 463a.5 (relating to slot machine master list).
(q) The testing of equipment, devices or software under this subpart may require the dismantling of the product and testing that may result in damage to, or destruction of, one or more systems or components. Once submitted for testing, equipment, devices or software will not be returned to the manufacturer.
§ 461a.5. Slot machine conversions.
A slot machine licensee shall:
(1) Maintain complete and accurate records of all conversions.
(2) Give prior notice of a slot machine conversion to the Slot Lab in writing.
(3) Notice the Department in accordance with § 463a.6 (relating to notice to central control computer system).
§ 461a.6. Revocations and additional conditions.
The Board may revoke the approval of or impose additional conditions on a slot machine prototype, associated equipment prototype, or modification thereto, if the equipment, device or software meets either of the following criteria:
(1) The equipment, device or software is not in compliance with the act, this subpart or technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(2) The slot machine, or modification thereto, is not compatible with, or compliant with the central control computer and protocol specifications approved by the Department or is unable to communicate with the central control computer for the purpose of transmitting auditing program information, real time information retrieval and activation and disabling of slot machines.
§ 461a.7. Slot machine minimum design standards.
(a) A slot machine may not be set to pay out less than the theoretical payout percentage, which may not be less than 85% or equal or exceed 100%. The theoretical payout percentage for the total value of slot machine wagers will be calculated using the following:
(1) The defined set of all symbols that will be displayed using spinning reels or video displays, or both.
(2) The finite set of all possible combinations which shall be known as the cycle of the game. All possible combinations in a slot machine cycle shall be independent of each other and of all possible combinations from cycles in other slot machines.
(3) The value of each winning combination that corresponds with the set from paragraph (2) which, whether by reason of skill or application of the element of chance or both, may deliver or entitle the person or persons playing the slot machine to a jackpot.
(4) A payout of merchandise or anything of value provided a cash equivalent award for the merchandise is offered. The value of the cash equivalent will contribute to the calculation of the theoretical payout percentage.
(5) A payout in the form of an annuity will contribute to the calculation of the theoretical payout percentage by dividing the initial or reset amount of the jackpot payout by the number of years over which the jackpot will be paid.
(6) The odds of any winning combination may not exceed 50 million to 1.
(b) The calculation of the theoretical payout percentage will not include:
(1) The amount of any progressive jackpot in excess of the initial or reset amount.
(2) A cash or noncash complimentary issued under § 465.8 (relating to complimentary services or items).
(3) A payout of merchandise or anything of value when a cash equivalent award is not offered.
(c) A play offered by a slot machine may not have a theoretical payout percentage which is less than, when calculated to one hundredth of a percentage point, the theoretical payout percentage for any other play offered by that slot machine which is activated by a slot machine wager in a lesser amount than the slot machine wager required for that play. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the theoretical payout percentage of one or more particular plays may be less than the theoretical payout percentage of one or more plays which require a lesser wager provided that:
(1) The aggregate total of the decreases in the theoretical payout percentage for plays offered by the slot machine is not more than 1/2 of 1%.
(2) The theoretical payout percentage for every play offered by the slot machine is equal to or greater than the theoretical payout percentage for the play that requires the lowest possible wager that will activate the slot machine.
(d) In addition to the requirements of subsections (a), (b) and (c), the volatility of a slot machine must verify that the theoretical payout percentage equals or exceeds the minimum payout requirement of 85% within 10 million plays. The criteria used to calculate the volatility must be in accordance with technical standards applicable to volatility under § 461b.1 (relating to slot machine minimum design standards).
(e) The selection from the set of all possible combinations of symbols shall be made applying a pseudo random number generator. At a minimum, a pseudo random number generator must adhere to the following criteria:
(1) The random selection process must meet a 95% confidence interval.
(2) A random number generator must pass a standard chi-squared test for goodness of fit.
(3) Each possible slot machine combination which produces winning or losing slot machine outcomes must be available for random selection at the initiation of each play.
(4) A slot machine payout percentage that may be affected by reason of skill must meet the theoretical payout requirements of this subpart when evaluated by the Board using a method of play that will provide the greatest return to the player.
(5) Once a random selection process has occurred, the slot machine must:
(i) Display an accurate representation of the randomly selected outcome.
(ii) Not make a secondary decision which affects the result shown to the person playing the slot machine.
(f) A slot machine is prohibited from automatically altering any function of the slot machine based on internal computation of the hold percentage.
(g) The available winning combinations and applicable rules of play for a slot machine shall be available at all times the slot machine is idle to the patron playing the slot machine. The award schedule of available winning combinations may not include possible aggregate awards achievable from free plays. A slot machine that includes a strategy choice must provide mathematically sufficient information for a patron to use optimal skill. Information regarding a strategy choice need not be made available for any strategy decisions whenever the patron is not required, in addition to the initial wager, to make an additional wager and, when as a result of playing a strategy choice, the patron can not lose any credits earned thus far during that game play.
(h) Slot machines approved for use in a licensed facility must be equipped with the following meters that comply with the technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website:
(1) Coin in. A meter that accumulates the total value of all wagers, whether the wager results from the insertion of currency, gaming vouchers, coupons, downloaded credits, credits won or any other means. This meter must:
(i) Not include subsequent wagers of intermediate winnings accumulated during game play sequence such as those acquired from ''double up'' games.
(ii) For multigame and multidenomination/multigame slot machines, monitor the information necessary, on a per paytable basis, to calculate a weighted average actual payout percentage.
(2) Coin out. A meter that accumulates the total value of all amounts directly paid by the slot machine as a result of winning wagers, whether the payout is made directly from the printer by issuance of a gaming voucher, directly to a credit meter or by any other means. This meter may not record amounts awarded as the result of an external bonusing system or a progressive payout.
(3) Attendant paid jackpots. A meter that accumulates the total value of credits paid by an attendant resulting from a single winning alignment or combination, the amount of which is not capable of being paid by the slot machine itself. This meter may not record amounts awarded as the result of an external bonusing system or a progressive payout. This meter is to record only amounts specifically listed in the manufacturer's par sheet.
(4) Attendant paid cancelled credits. A meter that accumulates the total value of all amounts paid by an attendant resulting from a player initiated cash-out that exceeds the physical or configured capability of the slot machine.
(5) Bill in. A meter that accumulates the total value of currency accepted. The slot machine must also have a specific meter for each denomination of currency accepted that records the number of bills accepted for each denomination.
(6) Voucher in--cashable/value. A meter that accumulates the total value of cashable gaming vouchers accepted by the slot machine.
(7) Voucher in--cashable/count. A meter that accumulates the total number of cashable gaming vouchers accepted by a slot machine.
(8) Voucher out--cashable/value. A meter that accumulates the total value of cashable gaming vouchers issued by the slot machine.
(9) Voucher out--cashable/count. A meter that records the total number of cashable gaming vouchers issued by a slot machine.
(10) Voucher out--noncashable/value. A meter that accumulates the total value of noncashable gaming vouchers issued by the slot machine.
(11) Voucher out--noncashable/count. A meter that records the total number of noncashable gaming vouchers issued by the slot machine.
(12) Cashable electronic in. A meter that accumulates the total value of cashable credits electronically transferred to the slot machine by means of an external connection between the slot machine and a cashless funds transfer system.
(13) Noncashable electronic in. A meter that accumulates the total value of noncashable credits electronically transferred to the slot machine by means of an external connection between the slot machine and a cashless funds transfer system.
(14) Coupon in--cashable/value. A meter that accumulates the total value of cashable coupons accepted by the slot machine.
(15) Coupon in--cashable/count. A meter that accumulates the total number of cashable coupons accepted by the slot machine.
(16) Coupon in--noncashable/value. A meter that accumulates the total value of noncashable coupons accepted by the slot machine.
(17) Coupon in--noncashable/count. A meter that accumulates the total number of noncashable coupons accepted by the slot machine.
(18) Slot machine paid external bonus payout. A meter that accumulates the total value of additional amounts awarded as a result of an external bonusing system and paid by the slot machine.
(19) Attendant paid external bonus payout. A meter that accumulates the total value of additional amounts awarded as a result of an external bonusing system and paid by a slot attendant.
(20) Slot machine paid progressive payout. A meter that accumulates the total value of credits paid as a result of progressive awards paid directly by the slot machine. This meter may not record awards paid as a result of an external bonusing system.
(21) Attendant paid progressive payout. A meter that accumulates the total value of credits paid by a slot attendant as a result of progressive awards that are not capable of being paid by the slot machine. This meter may not include awards paid as a result of an external bonusing system.
(22) Additional requirements. Other meters required by technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(i) A slot machine that does not meter one or more of the events required to be metered under subsection (h) may be approved when a slot machine licensee's system of internal controls establishes that the meter is not required to capture all critical transactions occurring on the slot machine.
(j) The meters required under subsection (h) must continuously and automatically increment in units equal to the denomination of the slot machine or, in the case of a slot machine configured for multidenomination play, must display the required information in dollars and cents.
(k) A slot machine approved for use in a licensed facility must be equipped with the following noncumulative meters:
(1) Credits wagered. A meter, visible from the front exterior of a slot machine, known as a credit wagered meter that advises the patron of the total value of amounts wagered in a particular game or round of slot play.
(2) Win meter. A meter, visible from the front exterior of the slot machine, known as a win meter that advises the patron of the total value of amounts won in the immediately concluded game or round of slot play.
(3) Credits paid. A meter, visible from the front exterior of the slot machine, known as a credits paid meter that advises the patron of the total value of the last:
(i) Cash out initiated by the patron.
(ii) Attendant paid jackpot.
(iii) Attendant paid cancelled credit.
(4) Credit meter. A meter, visible from the front exterior of the slot machine and specifically labeled as a credit meter, which advises the patron as to the number of credits or monetary value available for wagering on the slot machine. The credit meter need not distinguish between cashable credits and noncashable credits.
(l) A slot machine must have a meter which stores the number of games played, in the manner and for a duration specified in this subpart or in technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website, since the following events:
(1) Power reset.
(2) Door close.
(3) Game initialization (random access memory (RAM) clear).
(m) A slot machine must be equipped with a device, mechanism or method for retaining the total value of all meters required under subsection (h) for 72 hours subsequent to a power loss.
(n) The required meters on a slot machine must be accessible and legible without access to the interior of the slot machine.
(o) A slot machine must be equipped with a tower light capable of effectively communicating the status of the slot machine in accordance with technical standards on tower lights and error conditions under § 461b.2 (relating to slot machine tower lights and error conditions).
(p) A slot machine must be equipped with a device, mechanism or method for detecting, displaying and communicating to a slot monitoring system error conditions. The error conditions detected, displayed and communicated by a slot machine, and the method to be utilized to clear the message with regard to the error condition, must be in accordance with technical standards on tower lights and error conditions under § 461b.2.
(q) A slot machine must, in accordance with section 1324 of the act (relating to protocol information), comply with the comprehensive protocol specifications necessary to enable the slot machine to communicate with the Department's central control computer as that protocol is amended or supplemented, for the purpose of transmitting auditing program information, real time information retrieval and slot machine activation and disabling.
(r) A slot machine must lock up and preclude further play whenever a jackpot occurs that is not able to be paid completely by the slot machine and requires a hand pay. When the jackpot occurs, the slot machine can offer a predetermined number of double-up wagers before the slot machine locks up.
(s) Printers incorporated into a slot machine must be:
(1) Designed to allow the slot machine to detect and report a low paper level, paper out, presentation error, printer failure and paper jams.
(2) Mounted inside a lockable compartment within the slot machine.
(t) Seating made available by a slot machine licensee for use during slot play must be fixed and stationary in nature. Slot seating must be installed in a manner that effectively precludes its ready removal by a patron but permits controlled removal, for example for American With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (42 U.S.C.A. §§ 12101--12213) purposes, by slot operations department personnel.
(u) Unless a slot machine licensee's slot monitoring system is configured to automatically record all of the information required by this subsection, the slot machine licensee shall be required to physically house in each slot machine the following entry authorization logs:
(1) A machine entry authorization log that documents each time a slot machine or any device connected thereto which may affect the operation of the slot machine is opened. The log must contain, at a minimum, the date, time, purpose for opening the slot machine or device and the signature and license or permit number of the person opening and entering the slot machine or device. Each log must have recorded thereon a sequence number and the manufacturer's serial number or the asset number corresponding to the slot machine in which it is housed.
(2) A progressive entry authorization log that documents each time a progressive controller not housed within the cabinet of the slot machine is opened. The log must contain, at a minimum, the date, time, purpose for accessing the progressive controller and the signature and license or permit number of the person accessing the progressive controller. Each log must be maintained in the progressive controller unit and have recorded thereon a sequence number and the manufacturer's serial number of the progressive controller.
(v) A slot machine must be equipped with a lock controlling access to the card cage door securing the microprocessor, the key to which must be different from any other key securing access to the slot machine's components including its belly door or main door, bill validator or slot cash storage box. Access to the key securing the microprocessor shall be limited to a supervisor in the slot operations department and that department shall establish a sign out and sign in procedure with regard to this key.
(w) A slot machine must be equipped with a mechanism for detecting and communicating to a slot monitoring system any activity with regard to access to the card cage door securing its microprocessor.
§ 461a.8. Gaming vouchers.
(a) A slot machine licensee may utilize gaming vouchers and a gaming voucher system that has been tested and approved by the Board under § 461a.4 (relating to submission for testing and approval).
(b) The design specifications for a gaming voucher, the expiration terms applicable thereto, the voucher verification methodologies utilized and any limitation on the value of a gaming voucher must be in compliance with technical standards on gaming vouchers under § 461b.3 (relating to gaming vouchers).
(c) The design specifications for a gaming voucher system must be in compliance with technical standards on gaming voucher systems under § 461b.3.
(d) Prior to issuing a gaming voucher, a slot machine licensee shall establish a system of internal controls for the issuance and redemption of gaming vouchers. The internal controls shall be submitted and approved by the Board under § 465.3 (relating to internal control systems and audit protocols) and address:
(1) Procedures for assigning a slot machine's asset number and identifying other redemption locations in the system, and enabling and disabling voucher capabilities for slot machines and redemption locations.
(2) Procedures for issuance, modification and termination of a unique system account for each user in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(3) Procedures used to configure and maintain user passwords in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(4) Procedures for restricting special rights and privileges, such as administrator and override capabilities, in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(5) The duties and responsibilities of the information technology, internal audit, slot operations and finance departments, respectively, and the level of access for each position with regard to the gaming voucher system.
(6) A description of physical controls on all critical hardware such as locks and surveillance, including the location and security protocols applicable to each piece of equipment.
(7) Procedures for the backup and timely recovery of critical data in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(8) Logs used to document and maintain the details of Board-approved hardware and software modifications upon implementation.
(e) The system of internal controls required to be submitted and approved by the Board under subsection (d) must also include the procedures to be applied in the following instances:
(1) The slot machine licensee chooses to pay a patron the value of a gaming voucher notwithstanding the fact that the gaming voucher system is inoperable rendering it unable to determine the validity of the gaming voucher at the time of payment.
(2) The slot machine licensee chooses to pay a patron the value of a gaming voucher notwithstanding the fact that the gaming voucher system failed to verify and electronically cancel the gaming voucher when it was scanned.
(f) At the end of each gaming day, the gaming voucher system must generate reports and the reports must be provided to the finance department, either directly by the system or through the information technology department. The report, at a minimum, must contain the following information:
(1) A report of all gaming vouchers that have been issued which includes the asset number and the serial number of the slot machine, and the value, date and time of issuance of each gaming voucher.
(2) A report of all gaming vouchers that have been redeemed and cancelled by redemption location, including the asset number of the slot machine or location if other than a slot machine, the serial number, the value, date and time of redemption for each voucher, the total value of all gaming vouchers redeemed at slot machines, and the total value of all gaming vouchers redeemed at locations other than slot machines.
(3) The unredeemed liability for gaming vouchers.
(4) The readings on gaming voucher related slot machine meters and a comparison of the readings to the number and value of issued and redeemed gaming vouchers, as applicable.
(5) Exception reports and audit logs.
(g) A slot machine licensee shall immediately report to the Board evidence that a gaming voucher has been counterfeited, tampered with, or altered in any way which would affect the integrity, fairness, reliability or suitability of the gaming voucher.
(h) Upon presentation of a gaming voucher for redemption at a slot machine, the total value of which gaming voucher cannot be completely converted into an equivalent value of credits that match the denomination of the slot machine, the slot machine must perform one of the following procedures:
(1) Automatically issue a new gaming voucher containing the value that cannot be completely converted.
(2) Not redeem the gaming voucher and immediately return the gaming voucher to the patron.
(3) Allow for the additional accumulation of credits on an odd cents meter or a meter that displays the value in dollars and cents.
(i) A slot machine licensee that utilizes a system or a slot machine that does not print a test gaming voucher that is visually distinguishable from a valid gaming voucher whenever the slot machine is tested on the gaming floor must have in place internal controls approved by the Board under § 465.3 for the issuance of test currency from the cashiers' cage and the return and reconciliation of the test currency and any gaming vouchers printed during the testing process.
(j) Except as provided in subsection (n) with regard to employee redemption of gaming vouchers, a gaming voucher shall be redeemed by a patron for a specific value of cash, slot machine credits, or, at the request of the patron, a check issued by the slot machine licensee in the amount of the gaming voucher surrendered. Notwithstanding the forgoing, a slot machine licensee may not permit a gaming voucher that is presented for redemption to be redeemed if it knows, or has reason to know, that the gaming voucher:
(1) Is materially different from the sample of the gaming voucher approved by the Board.
(2) Was previously redeemed.
(3) Was printed as a test gaming voucher.
(k) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (j), if a patron requests to redeem a gaming voucher by mail, the slot machine licensee may effectuate the redemption. However, the gaming voucher may only be redeemed by a cage supervisor in accordance with internal controls approved by the Board under § 465.3, which include the following:
(1) Procedures for using the gaming voucher system to verify the validity of the serial number and value of the voucher, which, if valid, must be immediately cancelled electronically by the system.
(2) Procedures for the issuance of a check equal to the value of the voucher.
(l) Gaming vouchers redeemed at cashiering locations shall be transferred to the finance department on a daily basis. Gaming vouchers redeemed by slot machines shall be counted in the count room and forwarded to the finance department upon the conclusion of the count process. Gaming vouchers redeemed at automated gaming voucher redemption machines shall be forwarded to finance upon the conclusion of the cashiers' cage reconciliation process. Finance department representatives with no incompatible functions shall perform, at a minimum, the following:
(1) On a daily basis:
(i) Compare gaming voucher system report data to any count room system report data available for that gaming day to ensure proper electronic cancellation of the gaming voucher.
(ii) Calculate the unredeemed liability for gaming vouchers, either manually or by means of the gaming voucher system.
(2) On a weekly basis, compare appropriate slot machine meter readings to the number and value of issued and redeemed gaming vouchers per the gaming voucher system. Meter readings obtained through a slot monitoring system may be utilized to complete this comparison.
(m) A slot machine licensee shall provide written notice to the Slot Lab of any adjustment to the value of any gaming voucher. The notice shall be made prior to, or concurrent with, the adjustment.
(n) Employees of a slot machine licensee who are authorized to receive gratuities under § 465.20 (relating to acceptance of tips or gratuities from patrons) may only redeem gaming vouchers given as gratuities at a cashiers' cage. Gaming vouchers valued at more than $100 shall only be redeemed at the cashiers' cage with the approval of the supervisor of the cashier conducting the redemption transaction.
(o) A gaming voucher system must be configured to alert a slot machine licensee to any malfunction. Following a malfunction of a system, a slot machine licensee shall notify the Board within 24 hours of the malfunction and may not utilize the system until the malfunction has been successfully eliminated. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board may permit a slot machine licensee to utilize the system prior to its being successfully restored, for a period not to exceed 72 hours, provided that:
(1) The malfunction is limited to a single storage media device, such as a hard disk drive.
(2) In addition to the malfunctioning storage media device, the system contains a backup storage media device not utilized in the normal operation of the system. The backup device must immediately and automatically replace the malfunctioning device to permit a complete and prompt recovery of all information in the event of an additional malfunction.
(3) Continued use of the malfunctioning system would not inhibit the ability to perform a complete and prompt recovery of all information, and would not otherwise harm or affect the normal operation of the system.
(p) Other than a modification to a gaming voucher system required on an emergency basis to prevent cheating or malfunction and approved by the Board under § 461a.4(m), a modification to a gaming voucher system may not be installed without the gaming voucher system having undergone the testing and approval process required under § 461a.4.
§ 461a.9. Coupons.
(a) A slot machine licensee may utilize coupons and a coupon system that has been tested and approved by the Board under § 461a.4 (relating to submission for testing and approval) and complies with technical standards on coupon systems adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(b) The design specifications for a coupon, the expiration terms applicable thereto, the coupon verification methodologies utilized, and any limitation on the value of a coupon must be in compliance with technical standards on coupons adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(c) A coupon shall be designed and manufactured with sufficient graphics or other security measures, to permit the proper verification of the coupon. A coupon must contain, at a minimum, the following information:
(1) The name or trade name of the slot machine licensee. If the slot machine licensee is affiliated with a casino licensee in any other jurisdiction with an identical or similar name or trade name, the name of the Pennsylvania location must be evident on the coupon.
(2) The value of the coupon, in both numbers and words.
(3) A unique serial number, which is automatically generated by the system in accordance with this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(4) The locations where the coupon may be redeemed and restrictions regarding redemption.
(5) An indication of the date on which the coupon becomes invalid.
(6) A bar code or magnetic strip which enables the coupon system to establish the validity of the coupon and its value in accordance with this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(d) Prior to issuing a coupon, a slot machine licensee shall establish a system of internal controls for the issuance and redemption of coupons. The internal controls shall be submitted to, and approved by the Board under § 465.3 (relating to internal control systems and audit protocols).
§ 461a.10. Automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machines.
(a) A slot machine licensee may utilize an automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine that has been tested and approved by the Board under § 461a.4 (relating to submission for testing and approval).
(b) Automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machines may be located on or proximate to the gaming floor of a licensed facility and must be subject to surveillance coverage under § 465.10 (relating to surveillance system; surveillance department control; surveillance department restrictions). Each automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must have imprinted, affixed or impressed on the outside of the machine a unique asset identification number.
(c) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must have the capability of establishing the validity of a gaming voucher or coupon by comparing the instrument's unique serial number, automatically generated by the respective gaming voucher or coupon system in accordance with this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website with electronic records within the gaming voucher system or coupon system.
(d) The methods utilized to comply with the requirements of subsection (c) shall be submitted to and approved by the Board under § 461a.4 in the context of the testing of a gaming voucher system or coupon system.
(e) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine may function as a bill breaker changing bills of one denomination into bills of a smaller denomination.
(f) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must contain a lockable gaming voucher, coupon and currency storage box which retains any gaming vouchers, coupons or currency accepted by the machine. The gaming voucher, coupon and currency storage box located inside the machine must also have imprinted, affixed or impressed thereon the asset identification number of the corresponding machine.
(g) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must have, at a minimum, the following:
(1) One lock securing the compartment housing the storage box and one lock securing the storage box within the compartment, the keys to which must be different from each other. The key to the lock securing the compartment housing the storage box shall be controlled by the slot operations department. The key to the lock securing the storage box within the compartment shall be controlled by the finance department.
(2) One lock securing the compartment housing the currency cassettes, the key to which shall be controlled by the finance department.
(3) One lock securing the compartment housing the coin storage container, the key to which shall be controlled by the finance department.
(4) One lock securing the contents of the storage box, the key to which must be different from the keys referenced in paragraphs (1)--(3). This key shall be controlled by an employee of the finance department other than the employee controlling the keys referenced in paragraphs (1)--(3).
(h) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must be designed to resist forced illegal entry. The slot machine licensee shall secure all input/output ports on an automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine.
(i) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine's currency cassettes must be designed to preclude access to its interior. Access to each currency cassette shall be controlled by the finance department.
(j) Access controls relating to the operating system or applications of the automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine, and ancillary systems, applications and equipment associated with the reconciliation thereof, must employ security measures that require authentication of the user and recording and maintaining of data regarding access and modifications made. Authentication must be in accordance with this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(k) A gaming voucher or coupon accepted by an automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine shall be cancelled immediately upon exchange in a manner that effectively prevents its subsequent redemption by the cashiers' cage, another automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine or its acceptance in a slot machine bill validator. The methods utilized to comply with this requirement must be in accordance with this subpart and technical standards adopted by the Board and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and posted on the Board's website.
(l) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must be designed to be impervious to outside influences, interference from electro-magnetic, electro-static and radio frequencies and influence from ancillary equipment.
(m) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must include a means to protect against transaction failure and data loss due to power loss.
(n) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must detect, display and record electronically the following error conditions: power reset; door open; door just closed and system communication loss. These error conditions may be automatically cleared by the automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine when the condition no longer exists and upon completion of a new transaction.
(o) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must detect, display and record electronically the error conditions in paragraphs (1)--(4). These error conditions must disable the automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine and prohibit new transactions and may only be cleared by either the finance department or slot operations department.
(1) Failure to make payment, if the gaming voucher or coupon is not returned and no receipt is issued.
(2) Failure to make complete payment if a receipt for the unpaid amount is not issued.
(3) Bill validator failure.
(4) Printer failure due to printer jam or lack of paper.
(p) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must be designed to evaluate whether sufficient funds are available before stacking the voucher and completing the transaction.
(q) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must be capable of maintaining synchronization between its real time clock and that of the gaming voucher system and coupon system.
(r) An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must be equipped with electronic digital storage meters that accumulate the following information. The information must be readily available through system reports. When a value is maintained, the value must be in dollars and cents.
(1) Physical coin out. The total value, by denomination, of coins paid by the automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine.
(2) Voucher in--value. The value of cashable gaming vouchers accepted.
(3) Voucher in--count. The number of cashable gaming vouchers accepted.
(4) Coupon in--value. The value of cashable coupons accepted.
(5) Coupon in--count. The number of cashable coupons accepted.
(6) Bill in. The value of currency accepted by the automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine. An automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machine must also have specific meters for each denomination of currency accepted that records the number of bills accepted.
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