Section 350. Critical memory

A. Critical memory shall be used to store all data that is considered vital to the continued operation of the electronic pull-tab device. Critical memory storage shall be maintained by a methodology that enables errors to be identified and corrected in most circumstances. This methodology may involve signatures, checksums, partial checksums, multiple copies, timestamps, and/or use of validity codes. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. All electronic meters required in 11VAC15-40-410 E;

2. Current unused credits;

3. Electronic pull-tab device or game configuration data;

4. Recall of all wagers and other information necessary to fully reconstruct the game outcome associated with the last 10 plays;

5. Software state, which is the last state the electronic pull-tab device software was in before interruption; and

6. Error conditions that may have occurred on the electronic pull-tab device that may include:

a. Memory error or control program error;

b. Low memory battery, for batteries external to the memory itself or low power source;

c. Program error or authentication mismatch; and

d. Power reset.

B. Comprehensive checks of critical memory shall be made continually to test for possible corruption. In addition, all critical memory:

1. Shall have the ability to retain data for a minimum of 180 days after power is discontinued from the electronic pull-tab device. If the method used is an off-chip battery source, it shall recharge itself to its full potential in a maximum of 24 hours. The shelf life shall be at least five years. Memory that uses an off-chip back-up power source to retain its contents when the main power is switched off shall have a detection system that will provide a method for software to interpret and act upon a low battery condition;

2. Shall only be cleared by a department certified memory clear method; and

3. Shall result in an error if the control program detects an unrecoverable memory error.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 29, Issue 03, eff. November 7, 2012.

Statutory Authority

§ 18.2-340.15 of the Code of Virginia.