Most manufacturers have updated their random number generators since about ’97. Most use a type of ‘bucket’ or ‘bubble’ algorithm to generate their values, for which there would be no way to compromise using a method similar to Harris’.

If that wasn’t bad enough, they all operate on a closed system. There is no outside access to any of the machines or networks they operate on. You have to be a regulator or casino operator to touch it, and even then the production software cannot be manipulated in any way without setting off alarms.

In short, Harris was a genius in his design, but a buffoon in his execution. He got greedy and he paid the appropriate price.

Now, should someone get inventive with RF emitters… Just be patient when you do.

PS – john, I have such code, but you couldn’t use it to accomplish anything. Even with the actual random number generator, unless you know what the initial seed was, you’re dead in the water. And knowing that the jackpot would trigger in 10,000,000 plays won’t help you, either.

Majority of slot machines we’ve encountered are still running old code / software. One example is the “snooker” game with the little circle mouse device. I’ve seen it rebooting several times, perhaps Harris’s ghost still lives on!!

Log onto Youtube and type in the word BEARDEBEAR to view a promotional video film on how slot machines were manufactered in 1978 to cool music. Can you spot the two mistakes in the film.