Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that a LPM that has not 'paid out' for some time has a greater chance of paying out if I continue playing?
The outcome of each game is randomly determined and therefore it is impossible to know when a LPM is going to pay.
What does the Installation process entail?
The gaming area installation takes approximately 3-4 days to complete and includes the following:
Electrical
Sunslots will fit new electrical plug points as per National Electrical standard. Gaming equipment will be connected on a dedicated circuit to avoid interference with the site's equipment.
A Certificate of Compliance will be completed for the work carried out in the gaming area.
Communication
A dedicated dual SIMM 3G Router is used to establish and maintain uninterrupted communication between the Site Data Logger (SDL) and legislated Central Electronic Monitoring System (CEMS) to ensure continuous operation of the machines at site. The router installation is completed once a signed approval letter is received from the site owner acknowledging the related monthly communication cost which is for his/her own account. All data cabling used is to the required specification and installations are completed to the required standard in order to maintain long term communication stability.
Painting
The gaming area would be painted in the provincial Route Operator colours to maintain uniformity across all its sites within the network.
Flooring
High quality, long lasting brown vinyl flooring will be installed which is easy to clean and maintain. The installation process would require screeting to be done in most cases to ensure the floor is level.
Premises Gaming Equipment
With the Limited Payout Machines (LPMs), Sunslots would also install bases, branded chairs, license frames, Gaming Rule signage and a Site Data Logger (SDL). Some establishments allow under 18 patrons into the primary business, IN this case the gaming area should be cordoned off with partitioning as to ensure the machines are not visible to the U18 patrons visiting the site. It is also noted that should a drywall or any other installation be required to ensure compliance with the provincial Gambling Board requirements, this would be for the site owners account. An outdoor illuminated sign will also be provided and installed in accordance with municipal regulations, and once approved by the relevant provincial Gambling Board.
Testing
The installation process is concluded with testing of the LPMs to ensure all metering and events are captured accurately. This would be forwarded to the provincial Gambling Board for reference and a date would be set for final testing and site inspection by the Board.
Is it true that machines have a different program for different numbers of coins/credits you play and therefore you have a better chance of winning if you play three coins/credits rather than only one coin/credit?
The number of coins/credits played per spin has no effect on the randomness of the game - it merely affects the value of the winnings, not the frequency of winning combinations.
Do you offer any technical assistance?
All machines are prepared and tested at our technical warehouse before they are placed at any venue for game play. Routine maintenance is conducted regularly to ensure that all LPMs operate optimally at all times. All faults and queries are able to be lodged, and the majority resolved, via our Technical Support Call Centre which operates daily between 08:00 and 02:00. All faults that are unable to be resolved by our Technical Support Agents are then referred to our Field Technicians who are dispatched to resolve the fault as quickly as possible. Our Field Technicians are also on call daily between 08:00 and 02:00, 365 days a year.
Can premises employees predict when a machine is going to pay out?
No. The outcome of each game is randomly determined and therefore it is impossible to know when a machine is going to pay. The core responsibilities of premises employees are to interact with and educate customers on our games, as well as to attend to LPM payouts.
What rules govern the operation of Limited Payout Machines?
As with casinos, all LPM operators are regulated by local Provincial Gambling Boards. In addition thereto they are also monitored at all times by a legislated, certified and South African Bureau of Standards and National Gaming Board approved monitoring system. In addition thereto, the LPM cabinets and games including their return to player percentage, are also approved and certified, not only by a certified testing house, but also by the relevant Provincial Gambling Board. Should any illegal access to the LPM, or changes to its software, be detected by the monitoring system, the LPM will immediately be de-activated.
Can Premises Managers 'loosen' or 'tighten' the LPM at the flip of a switch?
LPMs have a computer chip in them, which determines the return to player [RTP%]. These computer chips must comply with National Regulations and Standards and are tested and approved by the Provincial Gambling Board. To change the RTP% on a LPM the computer chip must be exchanged during a highly regulated and controlled process. All computer chips and Random Number Generators must be sealed in a 'logic box' inside the LPM. The change process is recorded, strictly audited and controlled by both internal and external Gambling Board Auditors.
What is my 'chance of winning'?
There is no 'set' pattern of combinations on any LPM - your chance of winning or losing is the same for every game, regardless of the previous wins or loses.
