Patent ID: 6439996
Filing Date: 2002-08-27
Classification: G07F

Abstract:
A key for use with a gaming machine for authorizing access to a gaming machine control system for controlling the presentation of games on said gaming machine and performance of at least one other restricted function of the gaming machine via the control system, the key comprising:a body; connection means for connection of the key to a communication port mounted to a control system housing enclosing the control system wherein the control system housing is located within an interior of the gaming machine and wherein at least a main door of the gaming machine is opened to access the control system housing, the connection means being couple to the body; non-volatile memory means, the non-volatile memory means being coupled to the body and being configured to authorize the control system to allow a user to perform at least one restricted function; and modifiable memory means coupled to the body for receiving information from the control system; wherein the at least one restricted function comprises at least one of changing paytables, changing games, verifying firmware, verifying software, automatically performing at least one designated function within the gaming machine, downloading to media from an external source and clearing RAM within the control system.