Last modified: 2014-06-26
Abstract
In this research an Ethernet-based lotto betting machine is developed, tested and deployed as an embedded web-client in a network. The device’s hardware mainly comprises a microcontroller, an Ethernet network interface shield, a keypad for input and an LCD screen output. The web-client sends requests to a remote Windows-Apache-MySQL-PHP (WAMP) server using PHP scripts. The Apache webserver serves the requests by querying the MySQL database where user identification, player-tokens and winning number records are stored and sends bet receipt SMS messages directly to users. To access the system a player enters a pre-purchased token number that allows them several chances via keypad. The remote server checks the token for authenticity, allows the user to enter a 6-digit number and registers the number in the database. It then sends a bet acknowledgement SMS while the LCD displays system transaction messages. This system eliminates the use of paper in betting slips, receipts and associated spoilt paper. It also replaces most human processes with inherent machine speed-up and continuous service availability. The system also reduces customer loitering and queuing, consequently eliminating crowding and associated environmental hazards. The system therefore potentially exhibits some positive sustainable environmental impact.