Slot Machines of today still look like the trusty one arm bandits they started out as, but on the inside a different story unfolds as modern types operate on a totally different concept in which every action is controlled by a centralized computer predetermining every move. No longer is the outcome controlled by the spinning reels.

Special motors we call “step motors” enable the system to stop and start each reel at the point that was determined by the central computer. Unlike the common electric motor “step motors” use short digital pulses that are computer controlled enabling them to work with much greater precision than the old electrical motors that can be found in the older Slot machine models.

Do not get the wrong idea, even with a centralized computer at the heart of the system the outcome of the spins are still very random as a random number generator is used to determine the points where the reels should stop. If it ever was possible to predict the outcome it is not any longer as it would take years to calculate this and require super human speed to stop the reels at the right time.

When somebody uses the Slot Machine, numbers between one and several billions are spit out by the random number generator. This process repeats hundreds of times per second and by the time the arm is pulled back, or the stop button pushed, already the next set is calculated and pre-determined. A small program is used by the central computer to control the reels making them stop where they are supposed to.

Since Slot Machines switched to using computerized systems to operate a lot more features became possible making life easier for both the players and the casino operators. Using a computer system to control the Slot Machines enables the player to simply deposit money to it straight from his account rather than having to drop in a coin at every turn. The Arm has become nothing more than a novelty as the player does not need it to play any longer. A simple push on a button is enough to get the same results. However, for nostalgic reasons a lot of Slot Machines still come equipped with an arm intended for users who do not respond well to change.

Switching to a computerized system made things easier for manufacturers also, as they now can easily fine-tune the machine ensuring it exactly pays out the percentages that it is supposed to. Last but not least, for operators of Casinos the switch to the digital versions of the Slot Machine has also been a blessing as they can now manage all the machines using one system and keeping track of wins and losses have become easier than ever for both the players and the casino operators.

In conclusion, we can safely say that Slot Machines finally have arrived to the modern age, and once again are part of today’s technology and are set to remain a part of the gambling entertainment industry for years to come.

M.A.H.