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2006
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Wireless and wireline technology
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Managed Services
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Europe
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Italy
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The State Monopolies Autonomous Administration (AAMS) is the government body that oversees the Italian gaming industry. The industry was too open to tax evasion and machine tampering and, as a result, the government was experiencing a shortfall in tax returns and consumers were at risk of being exposed to uncertified equipment. AAMS recognized the need for tightened security in the industry and built a strict set of regulations to control all gaming activity in Italy.
To put these regulations into effect, AAMS required remote monitoring technology and a central communications network and, in July 2004, the agency put out a tender for the management of all NewSlots. Ericsson partnered with HBGConnex (HBG), a major player in the Italian gaming industry, and the two signed a contract for the monitoring of 15 000 machines over an initial period of six years.
Ericsson was responsible for building a hierarchical network structure connecting the NewSlots to a control center that, in turn, was connected to AAMS's central administration system. Ericsson has built a secure network with machine-to-machine (M2M) technology at its core, connecting all NewSlot devices to the central service center through M2M modules. Through the network, AAMS can verify that gaming activities and NewSlot models meet regulations and provide authorization for new machines, as well as calculate and collect tax duties.
As partners, Ericsson and HBG support AAMS with a reliable information gathering and monitoring system, which enables a transparent view of the countrywide situation in the gaming market. Anna Maria Barbarito, Director, Entertainment Apparatus Office, AAMS, outlines some key benefits: "The service center controls the consistency of the data and sends information on tax payments to AAMS and to the game operators on a twice monthly basis, ensuring that everyone receives up-to-date and reliable information".
Experience in working with a range of vertical industries means that Ericsson can adapt to very specific needs and through an understanding of AAMS's business processes and extensive knowledge of mobile technologies, a customized solution has been developed. The success of the project is testimony to the inherent flexibility of Ericsson equipment and showcases Ericsson's ability to provide and operate remote machine control under strict regulations, ensuring the highest levels of security and operability. The system not only meets all of AAMS's current requirements, but it has been designed to include future-proof functionality and accommodate evolving needs.
contact center, based on the Solidus eCare™ system, improving the customer service.
Read the Success Story (PDF)
