Method and system for localized authentication of gaming machine

Abstract

A generic, self-contained gaming device is transportable to various jurisdictions for use. The gaming device when associated with a terminal or gaming machine is configured and authenticated for use in the installed location to present one or more wagering games. The gaming device verifies associated components of the terminal or machine, and contacts a local authority, such as gaming regulator or licensed entity. The local authority provides authorization to operate. The gaming device is then activated to operate in a mode complying with local rules and regulations. In one embodiment, the gaming machine may generate location information and transmit that information to the authority. Authorization to operate may comprise an activation code causing the gaming device to operate in a particular mode, or executable code causing the gaming device to operate as required by governing rules and regulations where the gaming device is located.

1 . A method of enabling operation of a gaming machine comprising: 
 providing a gaming device comprising a housing, a controller located in said housing configured to generate game information and to control one or more associated game components;    associating said gaming device with a gaming terminal including gaming machine components;    initiating said gaming device;    verifying said gaming machine components associated with said gaming device;    transmitting identification information from said gaming device to an authority;    receiving authorization information from said authority at said gaming device;    activating said gaming device for operation in accordance with local rules and regulations of a jurisdiction where said gaming device is located; and    presenting one or more games.    
     
     
         2 . The method in accordance with  claim 1  including the step of generating location information and transmitting said location information from said gaming device to said authority.  
     
     
         3 . The method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said authorization information comprises an authorization code.  
     
     
         4 . The method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said authorization information comprises computer executable program code for execution by said gaming device.  
     
     
         5 . The method in accordance with  claim 1  further including the steps of periodically confirming the authorization of said gaming device with said authority and, if said authorization is not confirmed, disabling said gaming device from presenting further games.  
     
     
         6 . A method of configuring a gaming machine for operation comprising: 
 providing a gaming device comprising a gaming machine controller mounted in a housing;    associating said gaming device with a gaming machine platform to create a gaming machine, said gaming machine platform comprising a gaming machine housing and one or more gaming machine components, said gaming machine components, when controlled by said controller, being configured to present one or more games to a player of said gaming machine;    activating said gaming device;    verifying said components of said gaming machine with said controller and, if verified, activating said components;    transmitting identification information from said gaming device to a remote local authority and, if verified, receiving authorization from said remote local authority at said controller; and    activating said gaming machine for presentation of one or more games.    
     
     
         7 . The method in accordance with  claim 6  wherein said one or more components are selected from the group consisting of: a bill acceptor, a coin acceptor, a ticket printer, a display, and a push-button.  
     
     
         8 . The method in accordance with  claim 6  including the step of configuring said controller to operate said gaming machine in a particular configuration in accordance with said authorization.  
     
     
         9 . The method in accordance with  claim 8  including the step of receiving a configuration code from said remote local authority.  
     
     
         10 . The method in accordance with  claim 6  wherein said step of verifying comprises determining if said controller is authorized to control said components.  
     
     
         11 . The method in accordance with  claim 6  including the step of assembling said gaming machine platform from modular components.