Machine That May Solve Off-Course Problem

Chronicle (Levin), 31 August 1949, Page 2

Machine That May Solve Off-Course Problem

Press Association)

(Per

DUNEDIN, August 30. It seems possible that electronics may be used to solve the problems of introducing the off-course betting system in New Zealand. A report received in Dunedin today indicated that two recent arrivals in the Dominion from Europe have patented a machine which wouid make possible tlie transmission of investments made under the ofE-course betting system recently approved by the eleetors of the country. This machine, it is believed, would make possible the transmission of investments direet from branch offices throughout the country to the totalisators on the various courses. The elaim is made that it would be capable of handling 30,000 sueh messages every t.Qn.xpinutes. It is .un^erstood that the., machine has been undergoing trials and that it has been demonstrated to the PostmasterGeneral, Mr. sHackett. Electronics are today being nsed for involved calculations and many remarkalile machines have been evolved. Although such machines would undoubtedlv be eostl,y to install for New Zealand's- off-conrse beeting system, they would solve the serious- labour problem the scheme must ereate. "I have witnessed an experiment with the electronic totalisator iq Auckland and I was greatly impressed with the machine," said Mr. Hackett in a telephone interview tonight. "The electronic totalisator appears to the human eye to operate faster than lightning."

Mr. Hackett did not sav whetlier'the new deviee would be adopted. It is expected, however, that legislation to cover the establishment of ofE-course betting will be before the House soon and the Governmeut's plans will then be made known.