Abstract

The invention comprises apparatus and a method for accepting, validating and recording betting information from slips. The micro-computer processes the information for various games, ROM memories being provided for the game sub-routine and RAM memories for storing slip betting data and game formats or portions thereof used in processing. The invention may comprise a terminal for correcting and transferring the betting information to a remote computer. The bets are accepted by an agent through keyboard means which also initiate printout of information stored on tape cassette means, journal printout, printout of totals and acceptance or rejection of bet. The slips are read by an optical reader and a calendar clock supplies time information for inclusion in the betting information stored. Display means enable the agent to supervise the processing and the capacity of the terminal may be increased by adding further memory chips.The invention is explained in connection with the games of Boloteca and Esportiva with the principles being applicable to other mark-sense betting slips.