JP2020110467A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of executing a suitable backup process.SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine includes: a microcomputer for performance control; and a 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to a second backup storage unit 95AK004 capable of storing backup data. The microcomputer for performance control can execute a first backup process (process of transfer to a backup memory board) for storing manufacturer confirmation data in the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to a 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003. The control microcomputer for performance control can execute a second backup process (process of transfer to the backup memory board) for storing store confirmation data in the second backup storage unit 95AK004 with a priority different from that of the first backup process, the second backup process having a shorter execution time than the first backup process.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure23-1

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Patent Document 1 discloses a batch backup process that collectively backs up first information when a backup condition that periodically occurs is satisfied, and a second backup when a backup condition that regularly occurs is satisfied. A gaming machine that performs a divided backup process of dividing information and backing it up is disclosed.

JP, 2017-23552, A

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, for example, the possibility of power failure during backup processing is not taken into consideration, and there is a possibility that suitable backup processing cannot be performed.

An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of executing a suitable backup process.

(1) The gaming machine according to the present invention,
A gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like),
Control means (for example, a production control microcomputer 120, etc.),
Storage means capable of storing backup data (for example, the backup memory board 14 or the like),
The control means is
Based on the establishment of the first backup condition, a first backup process of storing the first backup data (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data, etc.) in the storage means (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data of the backup memory substrate 14). Transfer processing, etc.)
Based on the establishment of the second backup condition, a second backup process (for example, backup memory) having a shorter execution time than the first backup process for storing the second backup data (for example, store confirmation data) in the storage means. It is possible to execute processing such as transfer of shop confirmation data to the board 14 in a priority order different from that of the first backup processing (for example, backup of shop confirmation data is better than backup of manufacturer confirmation data). It is performed in a short execution time, and the processing priority is high).

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The information indicated by the first backup data stored in the storage means is not notified on the gaming machine (for example, the log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data is not displayed on the pachinko gaming machine 1).
The information indicated by the second backup data stored in the storage means can be notified on the gaming machine (for example, the log information indicated by the store confirmation data is displayed on the pachinko gaming machine 1),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
Based on the second backup data stored in the storage unit, information indicated by the second backup data (for example, log information indicated by the store confirmation data) can be displayed on the display unit (for example, the image display device 5). A display control means (for example, a production control microcomputer 120),
Information indicated by the first backup data stored in the storage means (for example, log information indicated by manufacturer confirmation data) is not displayed on the gaming machine (for example, log information indicated by manufacturer confirmation data is Not displayed on the pachinko machine 1),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The storage means is
A first storage area in which the first backup data is written and in which the second backup data is not written (for example, a 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to a 1-3 backup storage unit 95AK003);
A second storage area in which the second backup data is written and in which the first backup data is not written (for example, the second backup storage unit 95AK004).
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
The first storage area has a first number (for example, three) of storage areas in which the same first backup data is written (for example, 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to 1-3st backup storage unit 95AK003). Have
The second storage area has a second number (for example, one) of storage areas (for example, the second backup storage unit 95AK004, etc.) smaller than the first number in which the same second backup data is written.
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above,
A first control means (for example, the main board 11),
A second control unit (for example, a production control microcomputer 120 or the like) that is the control unit,
The second control means executes the first backup processing and executes the second backup processing when only the second control means of the first control means and the second control means is reset. No (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up in step 95AKS112, but the store confirmation data is not backed up),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(7) In the gaming machine of (6) above,
The second control means executes the first backup processing and the second backup processing when both the first control means and the second control means are reset (for example, steps 95AKS106 and 95AKS107, etc.). ),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

(8) In the gaming machine of (6) or (7) above,
When the voltage supplied to the second control means is less than or equal to a predetermined value, a signal supply means (for example, an electric power supply) that can supply a predetermined signal (for example, an interruption signal) that does not cause the second control means to operate. Disconnection detection circuit 95AK010, etc.,
Whether the first control means and the second control means are both reset or not, based on whether or not the predetermined signal is supplied after the power is turned on. It is possible to specify whether or not only the data has been reset (for example, processing after 95AKS104),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram showing various control boards and the like mounted on a pachinko gaming machine. It is the block diagram which shows the various circuits and the like which are loaded in the production control baseplate. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a backup memory board, etc. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a display result determination table. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control main processing and the figure which shows processing priority. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a CPU exception event occurrence process and an example of a VDP error interrupt process. It is the flowchart which shows one example of the timer interruption processing for production control. It is the figure which shows the contents example of the production control command for game. It is the figure which shows the contents example of the production control command which becomes the test command. It is a figure which shows the example of setting of the receiving order of a test command, and the process to perform. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting of a backup control table. It is a figure which shows the specific example which displays a maintenance history screen. It is a figure which shows the specific example which displays a maintenance history screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example when a setting change/confirmation history selection operation is performed. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 41AK. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 42AK. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 42AK. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 43AK. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 44AK. It is explanatory drawing of the characteristic part 45AK. It is explanatory drawing of the backup storage part in the characteristic part 95AK, and the manufacturer confirmation data and the store confirmation data as backup data. It is a flowchart of a backup process in the characteristic unit 95AK. It is a block diagram of an effect control microcomputer and a power failure detection circuit in a characteristic part 95AK. It is a timing chart showing a state when the pachinko gaming machine is reset. It is the timing chart which shows the circumstances when the production control microcomputer is reset. It is a flowchart at the time of power-on of the effect control microcomputer in the characteristic part 95AK. It is a flow chart which shows the power failure date and time recording processing in the modification of the characteristic part 95AK. It is an explanatory view for explaining record timing of log information of a power failure date and time in a modification of characteristic part 95AK.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board 2 and a gaming machine frame 3. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame that rotatably supports the gaming machine frame 3. The game board 2 is a gauge board that constitutes a game board surface. The gaming machine frame 3 is an underframe for fixing the gaming board 2. On the game board 2, a game area surrounded by guide rails and the like is formed. The game ball (game medium) launched from the launch device passes through the launch passage and is driven into the game area. A glass door frame having a glass window is rotatably provided in the gaming machine frame 3.

At a predetermined position on the game board 2, a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, an image display device 5, a normal winning ball device 6A, a normal variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7, The normal symbol display device 20, the first holding display device 25A, the second holding display device 25B, the general drawing holding display device 25C, the passage gate 41, etc. are provided. In addition, a windmill, a large number of obstacle nails, a general winning opening, an outlet, and the like may be provided on the game board surface in the game area. A game effect lamp 9 is provided in the periphery of the game area. Speakers 8L and 8R are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3.

At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) is provided. The hit ball operation handle is operated by a player or the like to shoot the game ball toward the game area, and the resilience of the game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount (rotation amount). At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, an upper plate (hit ball supply plate) for holding (reserving) game balls and a lower plate (remaining ball) for retaining (reserving) surplus balls etc. from the upper plate. A ball storage dish) is provided. A stick controller 31A is attached to a member forming the lower plate, and a push button 31B is provided to a member forming the upper plate.

On the screen of the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the image display device 5, etc., variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is performed. These variable displays are based on the occurrence of the first starting prize due to the game ball passing (entering) the first starting winning opening formed on the normal winning ball device 6A, or on the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B. Execution is possible based on the occurrence of the second start winning due to the game ball passing (entering) the formed second start winning opening. The first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are respectively configured by using, for example, 7-segment or dot-matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes), etc., and are identified in the special symbol game as an example of the variable display game. Special symbols (special symbols) that are information (special identification information) are variably displayed (variable display). The image display device 5 is configured by using, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device), and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. On the screen of the image display device 5, the special symbols by the first special symbol display device 4A in the special symbol game (first special symbol or first special symbol) and the special symbols by the second special symbol display device 4B (second symbol) Corresponding to each variable display of 2 special symbol or 2nd special symbol), the ornamental symbol which is the identification information (decorative identification information) is variable in the ornamental symbol display area which is a plurality of variable display parts such as three. Is displayed. The variable display of the decorative pattern is also included in the variable display game. As an example, on the screen of the image display device 5, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged.

A reserved storage display area 5H is arranged on the screen of the image display device 5. In the hold storage display area 5H, a hold display for displaying the variable number of the variable display corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold storage number) in a specifiable manner is performed. The hold display may be any display that can be displayed in correspondence with the hold storage of information regarding variable display. A hold display using the first hold display 25A and the second hold display 25B may be performed together with the hold storage display area 5H or instead of the hold storage display area 5H.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of various substrates and peripheral devices. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is equipped with various boards such as a main board 11, a performance control board 12, a lamp output board 13, a backup memory board 14, and a performance data memory board 16 as shown in FIG. 2, for example. Besides, a relay board 15, a relay board 17 for effect control, a voice output board 18, a driver board 19 and the like are also mounted. Further, various boards such as a power board, a payout control board, an information terminal board, a firing control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board may be mounted. Various control boards are not only electronic circuit boards such as printed wiring boards on which conductor patterns are formed and electric components are mounted, but also electric components are mounted (mounted) on electronic circuit boards to realize specific electrical functions. It is a concept including an electronic circuit mounting board configured as described above.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is configured so that the power from the AC power source, which is an external power source (commercial power source), can be supplied to the electric components including various control boards such as the main board 11 and the performance control board 12 by the power supply board. Has been done. The power supply board includes, for example, a rectifier circuit for converting alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC), a power supply circuit for converting a predetermined direct current voltage into a specific direct current voltage (for example, direct current 12V, direct current 5V, etc.), I have it. The power supply voltage generated by the power supply board may be supplied to the main board 11, the effect control board 12, and the like via the drawer relay board.

On the main board 11, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, etc. are mounted. On the main board 11, signals acquired from various detection switches such as the gate switch 21, the starting port switches (the first starting port switch 22A and the second starting port switch 22B), and the count switch 23 are transmitted via the switch circuit 110. It is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100. The gate switch 21 detects a game ball (gate passing ball) that has passed through the passing gate 41. Based on the detection of the gate passing sphere by the gate switch 21, the variable display of the normal symbol can be executed by the normal symbol display device 20. The first starting opening switch 22A detects a game ball that has passed (entered) at the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A. The second starting port switch 22B detects a game ball that has passed (entered) at the second starting winning port formed on the normally variable winning ball device 6B. The count switch 23 detects a game ball that has passed (entered) at the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7. When a game ball that has passed through various winning openings such as a first starting winning opening, a second starting winning opening, and a big winning opening is detected, the number of prize balls determined in advance corresponding to each winning opening As a game ball is paid out.

On the main board 11, a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 is transmitted to a solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory and a solenoid 82 for a special winning opening door via a solenoid circuit 111. The solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in a state in which the game ball does not easily pass (or does not pass) and a state in which it easily passes (or passes) through the second start winning port formed in the normally variable winning ball device 6B. It can be changed to and. The solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door allows the special winning opening formed in the special variable winning ball device 7 to be changed between a state in which the game ball cannot pass and a state in which the game ball can pass. From the main board 11, a command signal for performing display control of the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the ordinary symbol display device 20, etc. is transmitted.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, a ROM 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a RAM 102 for providing a game control work area. , A CPU 103 that executes a game control program to perform a control operation, a random number circuit 104 that updates numerical data indicating a random number value independently of the CPU 103, and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105. It is equipped with. As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101 to execute a process for controlling the progress of a game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, various random number values used to control the progress of the game are controlled by, for example, a random number circuit 104 or a game random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102. The numerical data shown is counted (generated) so that it can be updated. The random number used to control the progress of the game is also called a game random number.

On the main board 11, a setting key 51 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, and a setting function that functions as a setting switch for changing a set value such as a winning probability (ball-out rate) of a big hit in the setting change state. The changeover switch 52 is connected. The setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 may be installed at a predetermined position of the main board 11, or may be installed outside the main board 11, for example, at a predetermined position of the power supply board. The setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 are provided on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and cannot be operated unless the gaming machine frame 3 that can be opened by a predetermined key operation is opened. Only the staff in possession can operate it. Since the setting key 51 requires key operation, only the staff having a key for operating the setting key 51 can operate among the staff in the game arcade. The setting key 51 is a switch that can be turned on and off by a predetermined key operation, and is also a switch that can perform an operation (for example, a pushing operation) different from the switching operation.

Various sensors, such as a door opening sensor 90 that detects opening of a glass door frame that covers the front surface of the game board 2 so as to be openable and closable, are connected to the main board 11, and based on detection signals output from these sensors. It also has a function of determining the occurrence of various abnormalities (errors). The reset signal, the power-off signal, and the clear signal from the power supply board are taken into the switch circuit 110 of the main board 11 and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100. A display monitor 29 is arranged in the center of the back surface of the main board 11, and a display changeover switch 30 is arranged beside the display monitor 29. The display monitor 29 may be configured using a 7-segment LED display device, for example. The display monitor 29 and the display changeover switch 30 are arranged on the front surface when the main board 11 is viewed when the back side of the game board 2 is viewed with the gaming machine frame 3 opened.

The main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) is provided with respective winning openings (first big winning opening, second big winning opening, second starting winning opening, first starting winning opening, general winning opening, hereinafter, "entry area". (Also referred to as “”), the number of game balls entering the game is totaled, and various winning information such as continuous ratios and winning ratios are displayed on the display monitor 29. By displaying such prize information, it is possible to confirm various prize information such as consecutive ratios and winning ratios after installation in the game hall. On the maker side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, it is usual that the gaming board surface is designed so that the gaming ball enters the general winning opening at a predetermined frequency (passes the test). In addition, when performing the test, it is confirmed (verified) whether or not the game ball has entered the general winning opening at a predetermined frequency. Further, even after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed, whether or not the adjustment has been made, what kind of adjustment has been made, and as a result of the adjustment, the game ball enters the general winning opening as often as designed. Is checked (verified). Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to recognize the presence or absence of the adjustment and the contents after the installation.

The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, and based on the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, the image display device 5 and the speakers 8L, 8R. , Game effect lamp 9, effect motor 60, effect LED 61, and other effect devices, various circuits for controlling effect operation by various effect electric parts are mounted. The effect control board 12 displays images on the image display device 5, outputs sounds from the speakers 8L and 8R, lights the light-emitting members that configure the game effect lamp 9 and the effect LEDs 61, and effects motor 60 that moves the effect movable member. It has a function of determining the control content for causing the electric parts for production to execute a predetermined production operation such as the drive operation of. On the production control board 12 shown in FIG. 2, electronic components such as a production control microcomputer 120, an external ROM 121, and an external RAM 121 are mounted.

The effect control board 12 has a wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, a wiring for transmitting an illumination signal to the lamp output board 13, and a backup memory board 14 for backup. Wiring for transmitting a control signal and the like, wiring for transmitting an effect data signal to and from the effect data memory board 16 are connected. Wirings for transmitting various signals are also connected to the sound output board 18 and the driver board 19 via the effect control relay board 17. The information signal transmitted to the audio output board 18 may include an audio signal (sound effect signal) that specifies audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R. The information signal transmitted to the driver board 19 may include a drive control signal indicating a command or control data for moving the production movable member by driving the production motor 60. The information signal transmitted to the driver board 19 may include a lighting signal indicating light emission data for lighting the effect LED 61. Wiring for receiving the motion detection signal may be connected to the production control board 12. The motion detection signal may include a detection signal indicating that the motion of the player using the stick controller 31A has been detected. The motion detection signal may include a detection signal indicating that the motion of the player using the push button 31B has been detected.

The lamp output board 13 is a lamp output board provided separately from the effect control board 12, and a driver IC or the like that supplies a drive current to the game effect lamp 9 or the like in accordance with an illumination signal from the effect control board 12. Is installed. The backup memory board 14 is a board for storing backup data, which is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and is capable of executing backup data write processing and read processing according to a backup control signal from the effect control board 12. It is configured. In the backup data writing process, the backup data is written and stored in the backup data memory. In the backup data reading process, the backup data stored in the backup data memory is read and transmitted to the performance control board 12 or the like. The effect data memory board 16 is a board for effect data storage provided separately from the effect control board 12, and is configured to be able to execute effect data read processing in accordance with effect data control signals from the effect control board 12. ing. In the effect data read processing, the effect data stored in the effect data memory is read and transmitted to the effect control board 12 or the like. The effect data memory board 16 is equipped with an effect data memory capable of storing effect data. In the effect data memory, a storage area for storing various image data representing a display image on the image display device 5, a storage area for storing various audio data indicating sounds output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the effect motor 60. A storage area for storing various motor data indicating the drive control content of, a storage area for storing various light emission data indicating the lighting control content of the game effect lamp 9 and the effect LED 61 may be provided in advance. The effect data memory may be, for example, a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory such as a NAND ROM, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any of the above may be used.

The effect control relay board 17 is installed in a back pack or the like attached to the back surface of the game board 2, and relays various signals transmitted from the effect control board 12 to the sound output board 18 and the driver board 19. The back pack may be attached to the central portion on the back surface side of the game board 2, and an opening facing the image display device 5 may be formed in the center thereof. The back pack may be provided so as to cover a part or all of the main board 11, the lamp output board 13, the audio output board 18, and the driver board 19 from the rear side. On the rear surface side of the back pack, an effect control board box in which a part or all of the effect control board 12, the backup memory board 14, and the effect data memory board 16 are housed may be attached. The main board 11 may be housed in a board case together with a setting key 51 and a setting changeover switch 52 that can be operated by an attendant at a game hall. In this case, the display monitor 29 and the display changeover switch 30 arranged on the main board 11 may be housed in the board case. The setting key 51, the setting changeover switch 52, and the display changeover switch 30 may be exposed through an opening formed on the back surface of the substrate case so that they can be operated without opening the substrate case. The sound output board 18 is a board for sound output provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R, which are sound output devices, according to the sound signal from the effect control board 12. Various circuits are installed. The driver board 19 is a drive control board provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on the information signal from the effect control board 12, a drive signal for the effect motor 60 and a lighting signal for the effect LED 61. A driver IC to be supplied is mounted.

A security cover may be attached to cover the board case containing the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 from the back side when the gaming machine frame 3 is closed. In the state where the gaming machine frame 3 is closed, the board case accommodating the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 is covered with a security cover from the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As a result, the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 become inoperable when the gaming machine frame 3 is closed. In the state where the gaming machine frame 3 is opened, the security cover may be separated from the board case so that the operation of the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 is allowed. The setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 cannot be operated from the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 when the gaming machine frame 3 is closed. Further, by covering the board case including the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 with the security cover, it is possible to prevent a problem that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is operated from the inside of the gaming island or the like.

The control signal transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The production control command may include a display control command. The display control command is used to control the image display operation in the image display device 5. The production control command may include a voice control command. The voice control command is used to control the voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R. The production control command may include a lighting control command. The lighting control command is used to control the lighting operation of the game effect lamp 9 and the effect LED 61. The movable control command is used to control the operation of the movable production member by the driving force of the production motor 60. Each of these commands may separately configure the effect control command, or a combination of some or all of them may configure the effect control command.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and has a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a game control program to perform a control operation, and a numerical data that indicates a random number value independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 for performing and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105 are provided. Note that the random number circuit 104 is not limited to the one incorporated in the game control microcomputer 100, and may be one externally attached to the game control microcomputer 100.

As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101 to execute a process for controlling the progress of a game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101 to read fixed data, the CPU 103 writes variable data to the RAM 102 to temporarily store various data, and the variable data write operation to store various data to the RAM 102. A variable data read operation for reading out, a receiving operation in which the CPU 103 receives various signals from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I/O 105, and a CPU 103 to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I/O 105. The transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed. The random number circuit 104 may be any one that counts numerical data indicating a part or all of various random number values used to control the progress of the game.

In the ROM 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100, in addition to the game control program, various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game are stored. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables, etc. prepared for the CPU 103 to make various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, in the ROM 101, table data forming a plurality of command tables used by the CPU 103 to transmit control signals as various control commands from the main board 11, and a variation pattern table storing a plurality of types of variation patterns are configured. The table data and the like to be stored are stored.

FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of various circuits mounted on the production control board 12. Of the electronic components such as the production control microcomputer 120, the external ROM 121, and the external RAM 122 mounted on the production control board 12, some or all of the electronic components can be attached and detached by inserting and removing connector pins into and from the connector socket. The other components may be mounted so as to be mountable by soldering or the like. Connectors 150 to 156 are mounted on the production control board 12 together with these electronic components. The effect control microcomputer 120 includes a CPU 131, an internal ROM 132, an internal RAM 133, a watchdog timer 134, a timer circuit 135, an interrupt controller 136, a serial communication circuit 137, a clock circuit 138, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 140, and a voice processing circuit. A plurality of electronic components such as 141, a lamp control circuit 142, and a motor control circuit 143 are included. The effect control microcomputer 120 may be any effect control microprocessor that integrates these electronic components. The CPU 131 executes control processing according to a computer program for effect control. The internal ROM 132 fixedly stores a basic program of control processing executed by the CPU 131, such as firmware, system setting data unique to the effect control microcomputer 120, and the like. The internal RAM 133 provides a work area for the CPU 131. The watchdog timer 134 has a counter circuit that counts up or down based on the setting of a built-in register, and when the measurement time exceeds the monitoring time (time-out time) and a time-out occurs, a time-out signal becomes a time-out signal. Generate a signal. The CPU 131 periodically clears and restarts the watchdog timer 134. When the watchdog timer 134 cannot be cleared because the processing of the CPU 131 is delayed due to some trouble or the like and the measurement time exceeds the monitoring time, a timeout signal is generated and the processing by the CPU 131 is reset.

The timer circuit 135 is, for example, a circuit in which a 4-bit programmable counter (CH0 to CH3) is built in, and is a circuit capable of generating a real-time interrupt and measuring time. The timer circuit 135 starts counting down at a predetermined cycle from a count initial value preset for each channel, and when there is a channel with a count value of "00", sets an interrupt flag corresponding to that channel to an ON state. To do. At this time, if the interrupt is permitted, the timer circuit 135 causes the interrupt controller 136 to generate an interrupt request to the CPU 131. The timer circuit 135 may have a function as an RTC (Real Time Clock). The RTC can measure the current date and time and output date and time information including date information and time information.

The interrupt controller 136 is a circuit capable of controlling various interrupt requests and the like generated in the effect control microcomputer 120. The interrupt controlled by the interrupt controller 136 includes a plurality of types of interrupts such as an X class interrupt (XIRQ), an I class interrupt (IRQ), a software interrupt (SWI), and an illegal opcode trap (ILGOP). You may stay. The interrupt controller 136 includes an interrupt control register for setting permission/prohibition of interrupt and priority of interrupt for each type of interrupt. For example, the interrupt controller 136 may be provided with interrupt control registers corresponding to various interrupts such as serial reception interrupt setting, timer interrupt setting, and V sync interrupt setting. The V sync interrupt is an interrupt that matches the timing at which the vertical synchronizing signal is output from the VDP 140 that draws an effect image or the like on the image display device 5. In the interrupt control register corresponding to each interrupt, internal information data indicating whether the corresponding interrupt is permitted or not (interrupt permission/prohibition data) and internal information data indicating the priority of the corresponding interrupt (interrupt priority Data) and can be set. As for the permission/prohibition of interruption, for example, if the value of the interruption permission/prohibition data is “0”, the corresponding interruption is set to the permitted state, and if the value of the interruption permission/prohibition data is “1”, the corresponding interruption is prohibited. Set to state. The interrupt priority is set by, for example, a 16-step (4-bit) numerical value according to the interrupt priority data, and in the case of “0000 (=0H)”, the corresponding interrupt priority becomes the highest, and “1111 The priority of the interrupt corresponding to the case of (=FH) is the lowest. The interrupt control register is not limited to the serial reception interrupt setting, the timer interrupt setting, and the V sync interrupt setting, and includes, for example, an external interrupt, a serial transmission interrupt, and an interrupt by a random number fetch of a random number circuit. An interrupt control register may be provided in correspondence with an arbitrary interrupt related to control of production.

The internal information data set in the interrupt control register is set in advance in a predetermined area (program management area or the like) of the internal ROM 132. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on, the CPU 131 sets the serial communication circuit 137, sets random number generation, sets internal reset operation, etc. according to the set contents such as the program management area. At this time, the internal information data of the interrupt control register corresponding to various interrupts such as serial reception interrupt setting, timer interrupt setting, and V-sync interrupt setting for the interrupt controller 136 is set. As a result, settings such as serial reception interrupt, timer interrupt, and V sync interrupt are made. For example, in the interrupt control registers for serial reception interrupt setting, timer interrupt setting, and V sync interrupt setting, all the interrupt permission/prohibition data of the internal information data show a value of "0", Reception interrupt, timer interrupt, and V sync interrupt are all set to the enabled state. Further, the interrupt priority data of the internal information data is such that the serial reception interrupt has a higher priority than the timer interrupt, and the timer interrupt has a higher priority than the V sink interrupt. Are set to the corresponding 4-bit values. A reset controller may be provided inside or outside the interrupt controller 136. The reset controller controls various resets generated in the effect control microcomputer 120. Resets controlled by the reset controller include system resets and user resets. The system reset occurs when a low level signal is input to the SRST terminal for a certain period. For user reset, when a low level signal is input to the URST terminal for a certain period, a time-out signal of the watchdog timer 134 is generated, an out-of-designated area prohibition (IAT) signal is generated, an interval reset signal is output. When it occurs, it occurs due to a predetermined user reset factor.

The serial communication circuit 137 is a circuit capable of transmitting and receiving communication data to and from various boards and circuits other than the production control board 12 by a serial communication method. The serial communication circuit 137 may be capable of transmitting and receiving communication data compatible with a plurality of types of serial communication standards such as UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter), SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), and I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). The serial communication circuit 137 may include a plurality of communication processing units including a receiving unit, a transmitting unit, a communication control unit, a serial communication data register, a serial status register, a serial control register, and the like. UART is an asynchronous serial communication standard, and transfers communication data using start bits and stop bits. In this case, the clock signal line is unnecessary, but the communication speed (baud rate) is relatively low. SPI and I2C are clock synchronous serial communication standards, and transfer communication data using a clock signal. In this case, a clock signal line is required, but the communication speed (baud rate) is relatively high. In the case of SPI, signal lines corresponding to the clock signal, the transmission data signal, the reception data signal, and the slave selection signal are provided. In the case of I2C, signal lines corresponding to the clock signal and the data signal are provided. The plurality of communication processing units included in the serial communication circuit 137 may have different hardware configurations according to the plurality of types of serial communication standards. The clock circuit 138 is a circuit that generates a clock signal to be supplied to each circuit of the effect control microcomputer 120, such as the CPU 131 and the VDP 140. For example, the clock circuit divides the external clock input to the clock input terminal to generate an internal system clock signal, and supplies the internal system clock signal to each circuit of the effect control microcomputer 120.

The VDP 140 determines the control content of image display in the image display device 5 based on a display control command from the CPU 131, register setting, and the like. For example, the VDP 140 performs control for executing variable display of decorative symbols and various effect displays by determining switching timing of effect images displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. The VDP 140 is an image processor having an image data processing function such as a high-speed drawing function, a moving image data separation function, and a video decoding function. The VDP 140 may be a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or a microprocessor for image processing more commonly called a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The audio processing circuit 141 can generate an audio signal used for audio output by the speakers 8L and 8R based on a command or register setting from the CPU 131 or the VDP 140. The lamp control circuit 142 can generate an illumination signal according to a lighting mode (lighting mode) such as lighting, turning off, and blinking of a light emitting member such as the game effect lamp 9 and the effect LED 61. The motor control circuit 143 can generate a drive control signal used to drive the effect motor 60.

The external ROM 121, as specific contents of the effect control by the effect control microcomputer 120, various types of data such as instruction codes, management data, table data, effect control patterns, etc., which form a system program or a user program executed by the CPU 131. Is fixedly stored. The external RAM 122 temporarily stores various data as an auxiliary area of the internal RAM 133. The connectors 150 to 156 are configured by using, for example, receptacles, and have a configuration of a wiring connection device capable of detachably connecting various signal wirings. The connectors 150 to 156 enable various signals to be output via different paths such as different wiring patterns on the production control board 12. The connector 150 is a main board wiring connector port to which main board wiring electrically connected to the main board 11 can be connected. The connector 151 is a power supply wiring connector port to which power supply wiring electrically connected to a power supply unit such as a power supply board can be connected. The connector 152 is a connector port for effect relay wiring to which effect relay wiring electrically connected to an effect relay portion such as the effect control relay board 17 can be connected. The connector 153 is a frame lamp wiring connector port to which a frame lamp wiring electrically connected to the lamp output board 13 or a frame lamp portion provided with a part or all of the game effect lamp 9 can be connected. is there. The connector 154 is a backup wiring connector port to which a backup wiring electrically connected to a backup unit such as the backup memory substrate 14 can be connected. The connector 155 is a connector port for effect data wiring to which effect data wiring electrically connected to an effect data section such as the effect data memory board 16 can be connected. The connector 156 is a connector port for inspection wiring to which inspection wiring electrically connected to an information processing device for inspection, testing, or development (personal computer or the like) can be connected. The information processing device for inspection may be any device that functions as an inspection device for the pachinko gaming machine 1 by executing a specific software program, for example. In this way, the connector 156 is an electronic component used as a connection member to which the inspection device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is connected.

The connector 156 enables connection of inspection wiring, for example, at the trial production stage, the development stage, or the production stage of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the production control microcomputer 120 ships in response to a test command different from the production control command. The previous inspection process may be made executable. The inspection process before shipment is performed, for example, before the completion of the software program during trial manufacture or development, and internal parameters and input/output signals when the production control microcomputer 120 executes a part or all of the program code, It may include verifiable processing. The verification environment in which the inspection process is executed before shipment may be, for example, an execution environment corresponding to a state in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed on the gaming machine installation island, or the pachinko gaming machine 1 alone is a personal computer. It may be an execution environment in which the operating status can be confirmed by connecting to an information processing device such as. Further, the connector 156 can be connected with inspection wiring at the recovery stage of the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, so that read processing of backup data can be executed in response to a test command different from the production control command. Good. Alternatively, the connector 156 may be removed, for example, at the shipping stage of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Alternatively, the connector 156 is mounted only on a predetermined model, such as a demo or test model other than the model in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed in the game hall, and is a model (mass production machine) that is mass-produced and installed in the game hall. It may not be mounted. It suffices that a land on which the connector 156 can be mounted is formed on the board surface of the performance control board 12. When the connector 156 is removed or not mounted, the copper foil pattern of the land where the connector 156 is not mounted may be soldered. The soldering process is a process of applying solder to the exposed portion of the copper foil pattern, and may be performed using, for example, a cream solder printing machine or may be performed by any method that does not use the cream solder printing machine. .. Depending on whether the connector 156 is mounted or not, the soldering process in the same process may be performed, or the soldering process in different processes may be performed. When the soldering process in the same process is performed, it is not necessary to prepare a plurality of patterns of metal masks used in a cream solder printing machine for applying solder to the lands, so that it is possible to prevent an increase in cost required to prepare the substrate. By soldering unmounted lands on which electronic components such as the connector 156 are not mounted, oxidation of the copper foil pattern is prevented, problems such as disconnection due to corrosion of the wiring pattern are prevented, and board quality is appropriately maintained. be able to.

When the electronic component such as the connector 156 is not mounted, the copper foil pattern of the land on which the electronic component is not mounted is not limited to the one that is subjected to the soldering process and covered, and for example, a resist that is an insulating film is applied. It may be coated. In this way, by covering the land on which electronic components are not mounted by any method, it is possible to prevent oxidation of the copper foil pattern, prevent problems such as disconnection due to corrosion of the wiring pattern, and maintain the board quality appropriately. I wish I could. On the other hand, the land on which the electronic component is not mounted may not be covered by soldering or the like. For example, when the land is soldered, solder as a conductor may adhere to the copper foil pattern, which may cause an unintended short circuit or current path in the wiring pattern. Therefore, the land on which electronic components are not mounted does not undergo soldering to prevent solder from adhering to the copper foil pattern, prevent problems such as short circuit of the wiring pattern and changes in the current path, and ensure proper board quality. Can be maintained. By performing the insulating film treatment instead of the solder treatment, it is possible to prevent the adhesion of the solder to the copper foil pattern, prevent the defects such as the short circuit of the wiring pattern and the change of the current path, and appropriately maintain the quality of the substrate. You may do it.

FIG. 4A shows a configuration example of various circuits mounted on the backup memory substrate 14. The backup memory board 14 is provided with a memory controller 200, an RTC 201, a serial communication circuit 202, an inspection connection unit 203, backup data memories 210A to 210D, and a connector 220. As described above, the backup memory substrate 14 is provided with the backup data memories 210A to 210D as a plurality of backup data storage units. The memory controller 200 is capable of executing backup data write processing and read processing according to the backup control signal from the effect control board 12. The RTC 201 is capable of measuring the current date and time and supplying date and time information including date information and time information to the memory controller 200. The serial communication circuit 202 is a circuit capable of transmitting and receiving communication data to and from the effect control board 12 by a serial communication method. The serial communication circuit 202 only needs to be capable of transmitting and receiving communication data corresponding to a specific serial communication standard such as SPI. The serial communication circuit 202 only needs to include a communication processing unit having a hardware configuration compatible with such a specific serial communication standard. The inspection connecting portion 203 may be formed as a specific conductor portion including a terminal capable of inputting and outputting an inspection signal, such as a test point. When the inspection connection unit 203 is a test point, a test probe is brought into contact with the inspection connection unit 203 to input/output an inspection signal between the inspection device and the production control microcomputer 120 of the production control board 12. Alternatively, it is only necessary that the backup data can be read. The inspection connection unit 203 inputs an inspection signal between the inspection device and the memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 or the backup data memories 210A to 210D without the intervention of the effect control microcomputer 120 of the effect control board 12. It may be possible to output or read backup data. In this way, the inspection connection unit 203 can provide an interface for performing data communication with the inspection device, which is an external device, on the backup memory substrate 14.

The backup data memories 210A to 210D may be partially or entirely configured by using a non-volatile ferroelectric memory such as FRAM (registered trademark) (Ferroelectric RAM), or partially or entirely SRAM (Static RAM) with a battery. May be used. The backup data memories 210A to 210D may be partially or entirely configured by using a flash memory such as a NAND-ROM, an EEPROM, or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). A non-volatile ferroelectric memory called FRAM (registered trademark) has a memory cell using a ferroelectric film as a capacitor insulating film, and a memory written in the memory cell even when the operating power supply is turned off. No data is lost. The configuration using FRAM (registered trademark) does not require a battery backup for holding data, and has high-speed writing, high rewriting frequency, and low power consumption as compared with a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory, an EEPROM, or an HDD. As a result, it is possible to prevent an increase in installation area, simplify the device configuration, improve operation efficiency, and appropriately store and save backup data. Further, it is not necessary to dispose of the battery, it is possible to prevent the stored contents from being lost due to the replacement of the battery, and it is possible to properly store and save the backup data. The backup data memories 210A to 210D may be backed up by a backup power supply mounted on the power supply board. In this way, the backup data memories 210A to 210D can retain the stored contents even when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. The backup data memories 210A to 210D may be capable of holding the stored contents without using a backup power source, for example, when part or all of them are configured by using FRAM (registered trademark). Alternatively, the backup data memories 210A to 210B may be able to hold the stored contents by using a backup power source, for example, when a part or all of the backup data memories 210A and 210B are configured by using SRAM with a battery.

In the backup memory substrate 14, various log information is stored and stored in the log area provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D using the date and time information output by the RTC 201. The memory controller 200 can execute a writing process and a reading process of stored data in the backup data memories 210A to 210D in accordance with an instruction or an instruction sent from the effect control microcomputer 120 of the effect control board 12. In this case, by executing a writing process and a reading process of stored data indicating log information including date and time information, an operation history, a setting history, and a history of a plurality of electronic components used for a game or effect in the pachinko gaming machine 1. It suffices if the error history can be stored so that it can be verified afterwards.

FIG. 4B shows a configuration example for connecting the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14. The effect control board 12 includes a connector 154 that is attachable to and detachable from the connector 220 of the backup memory board 14. The backup memory board 14 includes a connector 220 that is attachable to and detachable from the connector 154 of the effect control board 12. By coupling the connector 154 and the connector 220, the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 can be physically and electrically connected. The connector 154 provided on the production control board 12 includes terminals TM01 to TM06. The connector 220 provided on the backup memory board 14 includes terminals TM11 to TM16. The terminals TM01 to TM06 included in the connector 154 and the terminals TM11 to TM16 included in the connector 220 have corresponding terminals (for example, terminals TM01 and TM11) physically and electrically when the connectors 154 and 220 are coupled. It is sufficient if it is connected to.

The terminal TM01 provided in the connector 154 of the production control board 12 can provide a specific voltage such as VD1. The terminal TM02 included in the connector 154 of the production control board 12 can receive the VD1 of the specific voltage used for confirming the connection with the backup memory board 14. For example, the specific voltage VD1 output from the terminal TM01 included in the connector 154 of the effect control board 12 is supplied to the terminal TM11 included in the connector 220 of the backup memory board 14. The terminals TM11 and TM12 of the connector 220 may be short-circuited on the substrate of the backup memory substrate 14. Therefore, when the connector 154 and the connector 220 are coupled, a voltage corresponding to VD1 is supplied from the terminal TM12 of the connector 220 on the backup board 14 to the terminal TM02 of the connector 154 on the production control board 12. It On the other hand, in the unconnected state where the connector 154 and the connector 220 are not coupled, no voltage is supplied to the terminal TM02 of the connector 154 in the effect control board 12.

In the effect control board 12, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 determines the voltage value at the terminal TM02 of the connector 154 in order to confirm the connection state with the backup memory board 14. In this case, if the voltage value of the terminal TM02 is a high voltage value corresponding to VD1, it can be determined that the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 are connected (connected state). On the other hand, if the voltage value of the terminal TM02 is a low voltage value corresponding to the non-supply of voltage, it can be determined that the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 are not connected (unconnected state). In this way, the connection state between the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 may be confirmed based on the voltage at the terminal TM02 which serves as a connection confirmation member. The connection state is not limited to the one that confirms the connection state based on the terminal voltage, but may be the one that confirms the connection state based on the input state of the specific signal. Alternatively, the connection state may be confirmed by using a switch or a sensor as a connection confirmation member.

The terminals TM03 to TM06 included in the connector 154 of the production control board 12 are wired and connected to the serial communication circuit 137 included in the production control microcomputer 120. The terminals TM13 and TM14 provided in the connector 220 of the backup memory board 14 are wire-connected to the serial communication circuit 202. Therefore, the wirings connected to the terminals TM03 and TM04 of the connector 154 and the terminals TM11 and TM12 of the connector 220 are connected to the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the backup memory board via the serial communication circuit 137 and the serial communication circuit 202. An electrical connection is provided between the fourteen backup data memories 210A to 210D so that the stored data can be transferred. The terminals TM15 and TM16 included in the connector 220 of the backup memory board 14 are wire-connected to the inspection connecting portion 203. Thereby, the wirings connected to the terminals TM05 and TM06 of the connector 154 and the terminals TM15 and TM16 of the connector 220 are for inspection of the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the backup memory board 14 via the serial communication circuit 137. An electrical connection is provided so as to enable transmission/reception of inspection signals and transfer of stored data with the connection unit 203.

The backup memory board 14 is configured to be removable from the effect control board 12. Thus, for example, in the case of the pachinko gaming machine 1 that does not use the backup data memories 210A to 210D, the backup memory board 14 can be removed, and the flexibility of the device configuration can be increased and the manufacturing cost can be increased. Can be prevented. Further, since the backup memory board 14 can be removed to read and analyze the stored data, the work load of inspecting the stored data can be reduced. The RTC included in the timer circuit 135 of the effect control microcomputer 120 provided on the effect control board 12 may provide the current time for timing adjustment for executing an effect in which a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 1 are interlocked. Yes, relatively high precision is required. On the other hand, the RTC 201 of the backup memory substrate 14 needs only to be able to specify the context of the storage processing executed on the backup data memories 210A to 210D, so that the RTC 201 should be of relatively low precision and sufficiently satisfy the application. You can In this way, the RTC 201 of the backup memory substrate 14 need only have a relatively low accuracy, so that an increase in manufacturing cost can be prevented. The configuration and the function of the backup memory board 14 may be configured to be included in the effect control board 12. For example, the configurations and functions of the backup data memories 210A to 210D may be realized by the external RAM 122. Even in this case, for example, the wiring pattern on the effect control board 12, or the switch or the sensor may be used as the connection confirmation member to confirm the connection state.

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game is played using a game ball as a game medium, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined value is determined based on a player performing a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) on a hitting ball operation handle provided in a lower right position of the game machine frame 3 in the pachinko game machine 1. A game ball as a game medium is shot toward the game area by a launch motor or the like provided in the hit ball launching device. When a game ball flowing down the game area passes (enters) various winning openings, the game ball as a prize ball is paid out. For example, based on that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41, it becomes possible to execute the universal figure game by the normal symbol display device 20. In the ordinary figure game, the ordinary symbols are variably displayed, and when a particular ordinary symbol which is a regular figure hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the display result of the ordinary symbol becomes "normal symbol hit". When the ordinary symbols are variably displayed, and the ordinary symbols other than the ordinary symbols which are the regular symbols lost symbols are stopped and displayed, the display result of the ordinary symbols becomes "the regular symbols lost". In the case of "universal hit", the opening control is performed to open the normally variable winning ball device 6B for a predetermined period, and the second start winning port is opened. When the game ball passes through the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the first starting winning occurs. When the game ball passes through the second start winning hole formed in the normally variable winning ball device 6B, the second starting prize is generated. The variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols can be executed based on the occurrence of the first start prize and the second start prize. The special symbol includes a jackpot symbol and a deviating symbol, and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "big hit", and when the deboned symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result. Is the "miss". When the variable display result of the special design or the decorative design is "big hit", the special winning opening is opened and the game ball is easily passed (entered), which is advantageous for the player. It becomes a big hit game state.

The advantageous state is not limited to the big hit game state, and may include a special game state such as a time saving state or a probability variation state. In addition, the upper limit number of round games that can be executed in the big hit game state is the first round number (for example, "15") that is larger than the second round number (for example, "7"), and can be executed in the time saving state. The maximum number of times of variable display is the first number (eg, “100”) that is greater than the second number (eg, “50”), and the jackpot probability in the probability variation state is higher than the second probability (eg, 1/50). 1 probability (for example, 1/20), and the number of consecutive chans, which is the number of times it is repeatedly controlled to the jackpot gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is larger than the second consecutive chan number (for example, "5"). It may include that a gaming situation becomes more advantageous to the player, such as a part or all of the situation that one consecutive chan number (for example, "10") is reached.

Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes the game control main processing.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of game control main processing executed by the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 on the main board 11. In the game control main processing, interruption prohibition is set (step S1). Then, necessary initial setting is performed (step S2). The initial settings include stack pointer settings, internal device (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.) register settings, settings for making the RAM 102 accessible, and the like.

After the initial setting, it is determined whether the recovery condition is satisfied (step S3). The recovery condition can be satisfied when the clear switch is off, there is backup data, and the backup RAM is normal. The clear switch is mounted on, for example, a power supply board, and when the power is turned on while the clear switch is on, a clear signal in the on state is input to the game control microcomputer 100 via the input port. If such a clear signal is not input, it may be determined in step S3 that the clear switch is off. The backup data can be stored in the RAM 102 which is a backup RAM for game control. When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped due to an unexpected power failure or the like (power interruption), the CPU 103 executes the power supply stop time process immediately before the power supply is stopped and thus the operation cannot be performed. In this power supply stop process, a process of turning on a backup flag indicating that data is backed up in the RAM 102, a data protection process of the RAM 102, and the like are executed. The data protection process includes a process of adding an error detection code (checksum, parity bit, etc.) and a process of backing up various data. The data to be backed up includes various data (including various flags, various timer states, etc.) for advancing the game, as well as the state of the backup flag and the error detection code. In step S3, it may be determined whether the backup flag is on, and if it is on, it may be determined that there is backup data. The backup data stored in this way is determined, for example, using a parity bit or a checksum, to determine whether or not the power supply is stopped and restarted. If they match, the backup RAM may be determined to be normal in step S3.

When the restoration condition is satisfied (step S3; Yes), the restoration process (step S4) and the setting confirmation process (step S5) are executed. In the recovery process of step S4, the work area is set based on the stored contents of the RAM 102 (contents of backed up data). As a result, the game state is restored when the power supply is stopped, and when the special symbol is being changed, it is sufficient that the change of the special symbol can be restarted from the state before the restoration. When the restoration condition is not satisfied (step S3; No), the initialization process (step S6) and the setting change process (step S7) are executed. In the initialization process of step S6, a RAM clear process for clearing the flag, counter, and buffer stored in the RAM 102 is performed, and an initial value is set in the work area.

In the setting confirmation process of step S5, it is determined whether or not a predetermined setting confirmation condition is satisfied. For example, the setting confirmation condition is that the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is ON and the setting key 51 is ON at the start of power supply when the setting confirmation process of step S5 is executed. Applies when both are met. When the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is off or when the setting key 51 is off, it is determined that the setting confirmation condition is not satisfied, and the setting confirmation process ends. When the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is ON and the setting key 51 is ON, it is determined that the setting confirmation condition is satisfied. The setting confirmation process in step S5 is executed when the recovery condition including the clear switch being turned off is satisfied in step S3. Therefore, since the setting confirmation condition can be satisfied only when the clear switch is off, it can be included in the setting confirmation condition that the clear switch is off. In the setting confirmation process of step S5, when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied, the setting confirmation state in which the set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be confirmed is set, and the setting is performed from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. A confirmation start command is sent. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the setting confirmation state, it may be in a game stopped state in which the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. When the game is stopped, the game ball is launched by operating the hit ball operation handle, the detection of the game ball by the various switches is stopped, and the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, ordinary symbols In the display device 20, it may be controlled so as to stop the display of the off symbol and the like, or to display a game stop state different from the off symbol. In the setting confirmation state, the set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be confirmed by the display on the display monitor 29. When ending the setting confirmation state, the game stop state accompanying this is ended, and the setting confirmation end command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12.

In the setting change process of step S7, it is determined whether or not a predetermined setting change condition is satisfied. For example, the setting change condition is that the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is ON and the setting key 51 is ON at the start of power supply when the setting change process of step S7 is executed. Applies when both are met. The setting change condition may include that the clear switch is on. In the setting change process of step S7, when the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is off, the setting key 51 is off, or the clear switch is off, the setting change condition is satisfied. It is determined that there is not, and the setting change processing ends. When the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is ON, the setting key 51 is ON, and the clear switch is ON, it is determined that the setting change condition is satisfied. .. When the setting change condition is satisfied, the setting change state in which the set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be changed is set, and the setting change start command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. .. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the setting change state, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be in the game stopped state as in the setting confirmation state. In the setting change state, the set value is displayed on the display monitor 29, and each time the operation of the setting changeover switch 52 is detected, the numerical value displayed on the display monitor 29 is sequentially updated and displayed. For example, each time the operation of the setting changeover switch 52 is detected, the set value is updated as “1”→“2”→“3”→“1”→... After that, based on the fact that the setting key 51 is turned off by an operation by a staff member in the game hall or the like, the setting value displayed on the display monitor 29 is stored (updated) in the backup area of the RAM 102 and the display monitor 29 is also displayed. To turn off. As a result, a staff member of the game hall is notified that the new set value is stored in the backup area of the RAM 102. When ending the setting change state, the game stop state accompanying it ends, and the setting change end command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12.

On the production control board 12 side, when the setting confirmation start command or the setting change start command is received, control may be performed to notify that the setting is being confirmed or the setting is being changed. For example, a predetermined image may be displayed on the image display device 5, a predetermined sound may be output from the speakers 8L and 8R, or a light emitting member such as the effect LED 61 may be caused to emit light in a predetermined manner. When the setting is being confirmed or the setting is being changed, the operation of pressing the operation button for performance such as the push button 31B is detected, and "maintenance mode" is displayed to shift to the maintenance mode. You may comprise. The “maintenance mode” is, for example, date and time setting in the RTC of the timer circuit 135, history of various error occurrences (record of when and what kind of error occurred), setting change history (when set value is changed, This is a mode in which you can check the record of the changed settings). When the setting key 51 is turned off and the setting confirmation process and the setting change process are completed, the maintenance mode may be completed.

Thus, when the setting key 51 is turned on when the power is turned on (in addition, when the output signal from the door opening sensor 90 is turned on), if the clear switch is turned on, the initialization process of step S6 and step S7 are performed. When the clear switch is turned off, the setting confirmation process of step S5 is executed together with the restoration process of step S4 to control the setting confirmation state. On the other hand, when the setting key 51 is off when the power is turned on, if the clear switch is on, the initialization process of step S6 is executed, while the setting change state is not controlled and the clear switch is turned on. If it is off, the recovery process of step S4 is executed, but the setting confirmation state is not controlled.

After executing the setting confirmation process of step S5 or the setting change process of step S7, a random number circuit setting process is executed (step S8). The random number circuit setting process is a process by which the numerical data indicating the game random number can be updated by initializing the random number circuit 104. It should be noted that the random number circuit 104 may be capable of autonomously updating the numerical data indicating the game random number without the CPU 103 performing the random number circuit setting process. Subsequently, an interrupt initial setting process is executed (step S9). The interrupt initial setting process is a process in which permission/prohibition of interrupt and priority can be set according to an interrupt factor generated in the game control microcomputer 100. For example, the CPU 103 may read the interrupt initial setting information stored in a predetermined area (such as the program management area) of the ROM 101, and set the permission/prohibition of interrupt or the priority according to the read value for each interrupt factor. .. The interrupt initial setting process includes a process of generating a regular timer interrupt every predetermined time (2 milliseconds, etc.) by setting the CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 100. You may stay. After that, the interrupt permission is set (step S10), and then the loop processing is started. After that, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (2 milliseconds, etc.), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute a timer interrupt process. Upon receiving the interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepting the interrupt request, the CPU 103 executes the game control timer interrupt process.

The game control timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 103 may include a switch process, a main side error process, an information output process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process process, a normal symbol process process, and a command control process. .. The switch process is a process in which the CPU 103 determines the presence or absence of a detection signal received from various switches via the switch circuit 110. The main-side error process is a process of diagnosing the abnormality of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and issuing a warning if necessary according to the diagnosis result. The information output processing is, for example, big hit information (information indicating the number of times of big hits or the like) supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, start information (information indicating the number of start winnings, etc.), This is a process that enables output of data such as probability variation information (information indicating the number of times the probability has changed). The game random number update process is a process that allows at least a part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side to be updated by software. The special symbol process process is a process that enables management of execution and suspension of a special figure game, control of a big hit game state and a small hit game state, control of a game state, and the like. Ordinary symbol process processing, based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41) execution and hold management of the general game, variable winning ball based on "universal figure" This is processing that enables the opening control of the device 6B and the like to be realized. The command control process is a process that enables the production control command set for transmission to be transmitted to a sub-side control board such as the production control board 12.

In the special symbol process process included in the game control timer interrupt process, first, the start winning determination process is executed. After the start winning determination process is executed, one of a plurality of processes is selected and executed according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 102. The processing that can be selected according to the value of the special figure process flag is special symbol normal processing, variation pattern setting processing, special symbol variation processing, special symbol stop processing, big hit opening preprocessing, big hit opening processing, big hit opening post processing, It suffices to include some or all of the processing according to the program for game control, such as big hit ending processing, small hit opening preprocessing, small hit opening processing, and small hit ending processing.

In the starting winning determination process, it is determined whether or not the first starting winning and the second starting winning are generated, and when they are generated, the setting for updating the number of reserved memories is performed. The number of reserved memories indicates the number of times variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols which have not been started yet is performed. In the special symbol normal process, it is determined whether to start the execution of the special symbol game. Further, in the special symbol normal processing, it is determined whether or not the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is "big hit". Further, in the special symbol normal process, the setting of the fixed special symbol in the special symbol game is performed corresponding to the variable display result. In the fluctuation pattern setting process, the fluctuation pattern is determined based on the variable display result and the like. In the special symbol variation process, settings for varying the special symbol, settings for measuring the elapsed time from the start of variation, and the like are performed. In the special symbol stop processing, the variation of the special symbol is stopped, and the fixed special symbol that is the variable display result is stopped and displayed (derived).

In the big hit opening pre-processing, the variable display result corresponds to "big hit", and settings for opening the big winning opening in the big hit game state are performed. In the big hit open process, it is determined whether or not to return the big winning opening that was opened in the big hit game state to the closed state. In the jackpot opening post-processing, after returning the special winning opening to the closed state, it is determined whether or not the number of times the round has been executed has reached the upper limit value. Settings for ending the jackpot gaming state are made. In the big hit ending process, after waiting until the waiting time corresponding to the execution period of the ending effect for notifying the end of the big hit gaming state has elapsed, settings for starting the probability variation control and the time saving control are performed. In the small hit opening pre-processing, the variable display result corresponds to "small hit", and settings for opening the special winning opening in the small hit game state are performed. In the process of opening the small hit, it is determined whether or not to return the big winning opening that was opened in the small hit game state to the closed state. In the small hit end process, after waiting until the waiting time corresponding to the period during which the effect operation for informing the end of the small hit game state is executed, the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 before becoming the small hit game state Settings are made to continue.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is configured to change the winning probability (ball-out rate) of a big hit according to a set value. In the special symbol normal process of the special symbol process process, by using the display result determination table (winning probability) according to the set value, it is possible to change the jackpot winning probability (ball-out rate). The set value consists of three levels from "1" to "3", "1" has the lowest payout rate, and the higher the value in the order of "1", "2", "3", the higher the payout rate. .. That is, when "1" is set as the set value, the advantage is the lowest for the player, and the higher the value in the order of "2" and "3", the higher the advantage in stages. The winning probability of the small hit may be the same regardless of the set value.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a display result determination table corresponding to each set value. The display result determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 101, and is a table in which a hit determination value to be compared with the random number value MR1 for display result determination is set. In each display result determination table, the variable special figure designation buffer value is "1" (first), that is, the first special symbol (special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 4) is the target of variable display. If and, the variable special map designation buffer value is "2" (second), that is, the second special symbol (special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 4) is the target of variable display For each of these cases, a determination value for a big hit and a determination value for a small hit are set. 6A shows a display result determination table corresponding to the setting value "1", FIG. 6B shows a display result determination table corresponding to the setting value "2", and FIG. The display result determination table corresponding to the setting value "3" is shown.

When using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value of "1", if the variable special figure designation buffer value is "1" (first), that is, the first special symbol is targeted for variable display. If the set value is “2” or “3”, the jackpot is won with a lower probability (1/320 in the non-probable variation, 1/32 in the probable variation). When the set value is "1" and the variable special map designation buffer value is "1" (first), some of the judgment values are set as the judgment values corresponding to the small hits, and the set values are When it is "1", the small hit is won with the same probability (1/99) as when the set values are "2" and "3". When the fluctuation special map designation buffer value is "2" (second), the same judgment value as when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is "1" (first) is used as the judgment value corresponding to the big hit. It is set, even when the second special symbol is targeted for variable display, the same probability as when the first special symbol is targeted for variable display (1/320 for non-probability change, probability change time) 1/32) wins the big hit. When the set value is "1" and the variable special map designation buffer value is "2" (second), half of the judgment values are set as the judgment value corresponding to the small hit, Similar to the case where the value is “2” or “3”, the small hit is won with a higher probability (1/2) than when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

When using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value “2”, the variation special figure designation buffer value is “1” (first), which is higher than the setting value “1”. You win the jackpot with a probability (1/300 when uncertain change, 1/30 when uncertain change). When the setting value is "2" and the variation special figure designation buffer value is "2" (second), the variation special figure designation buffer value is "1" (second) as the determination value corresponding to the big hit. The same judgment value as in the case of 1) is set, and even when the second special symbol is targeted for variable display, the same probability as when the first special symbol is targeted for variable display. (1/300 when uncertain changes, 1/30 when uncertain changes) wins the big hit. When using the display result determination table corresponding to the set value “3”, the set values are “1” and “2” when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “1” (first). The probability of winning is 1/280 when there is a non-probability change and 1/28 when there is a probability change. When the setting value is "3" and the variation special figure designation buffer value is "2" (second), the variation special figure designation buffer value is "1" (second) as the determination value corresponding to the big hit. The same judgment value as in the case of 1) is set, and even when the second special symbol is targeted for variable display, the same probability as when the first special symbol is targeted for variable display. (1/280 for non-probable changes, 1/28 for non-probable changes).

The CPU 103 refers to the display result determination table corresponding to the set value, and when the value of MR1 matches any of the hit determination values corresponding to the big hit, determines that the special symbol is a big hit. When the value of MR1 matches any of the hit determination values corresponding to the small hit, it is determined to be a small hit for the special symbol. As a result, a big win or a small win is determined with a probability according to the set value. The “probability” here indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit and the probability (ratio) of a small hit. Determining whether to make a big hit is to decide whether to control the big hit gaming state, the big symbol as a stop symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. It's also about deciding whether or not to do it. Determining whether to make a small hit is to determine whether to control the small hit game state, the small stop symbol in the first special symbol display 4A or the second special symbol display 4B It is also to decide whether or not to make a winning design. The winning probability of the small hit may be different depending on the set value. For example, similar to the winning probability of the big hit, the winning probability of the small hit may increase as the set value increases in the order of “1”, “2”, and “3”. The setting difference of the winning probability of the small hit may be the same as the setting difference of the winning probability of the big hit. If the winning probability of the small hit at the setting value "1" is set to 1/100, the winning probability of the small hit at the setting value "2" is designed to be 1/93.75, and the setting value "3" is set. The winning probability of the small hit in 1 may be set to 1/87.5. When a small hit is not provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1, a display result determination table excluding the hit determination value corresponding to the small hit may be used. The big hit judgment table and the small hit judgment table are provided separately, and the judgment of the big hit is a case where it is a variable display of the first special symbol and a variable display of the second special symbol irrespective of the variation special figure designation buffer value. In this case, a small table is determined for each of the cases where the variation special map designation buffer value is "1" (first) and "2" (second). You may make it perform using. It may be configured such that the ranking of the advantages changes according to the gaming state. For example, it is applied to a gaming machine configured to be controlled to a high probability/high base state, maintain the high probability/high base state until the next big hit occurs, and to obtain a certain amount of prize balls in a small hit game. In that case, when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, a small hit occurs with a high probability of 1/2 and it can be a period in which a prize ball can be easily obtained, so a specific game state (in this example, In high probability/high base state), unlike other gaming states, big hits are unlikely to occur (high probability/high base state is easy to continue). Set value “1” is the most advantageous setting. May be. When applied to a gaming machine in which the probability variation state ends based on the fact that a certain number of times (probability variation end number) is displayed after being controlled to the probability variation state (high probability state), the same probability variation end number For example, the probability change continuation rate (rate of continuous vacation) may be configured to increase in the order of set value “1”<set value “2”<set value “3”. The set values that can be set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be two or four or more.

When the variable display result of the special design or the decorative design is “big hit”, the big hit type may be set. For example, multiple types of opening modes (number of rounds and maximum open period) of the special winning opening and game states after the big hit game state (normal state, time saving state, probability variation state, etc.) are prepared, and the jackpot type is set according to these. May be done. As the big hit type, a big hit type that can obtain many prize balls, a big hit type with few prize balls, or a big hit type that hardly obtains prize balls may be provided. In order to determine the big hit type to any one of a plurality of big hit types A to big hit type C based on the random number value MR2 for big hit type determination when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit” You may provide the jackpot classification determination table referred. In the jackpot type determination table, the determination value may be assigned such that the determination ratio of the jackpot type is different depending on whether the setting value is “1” to “3”. For example, when the set value is "1", the percentage determined as the big hit type C is high, and when the set value is "2", the percentage determined as the big hit type B is high and the set value is "3". In the case of, the determination value may be assigned such that the proportion determined in the big hit type A is high.

The fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period in the big hit game may be set for each big hit type. The fanfare period, for example, on the main board 11 side, is a period in which the big hit opening pretreatment of special symbol process processing is executed, and after the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the production control board 12, the big hit game state is started. It is a period in which the fanfare production as the production operation to be notified is executed. In the interval period, for example, on the main board 11 side, the big hit opening post-processing of the special symbol process processing is executed, and on the effect control board 12 side, after the round in which the special winning opening is opened is completed, Is a period in which an interval effect is executed as an effect operation for notifying the start of the round. The ending period, for example, the main board 11 side, is a period during which the big hit end processing of the special symbol process processing is executed, the effect control board 12 side, the ending effect as a directing operation to notify the end of the big hit game state is executed It is a period to be done. As an example, the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period may be set to be longest in the case of big hit type A, longest in the case of big hit type B, and shortest in the case of big hit type C. .. If the ratio of the jackpot type C when the set value is "1" is high, the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period are likely to be relatively short. If the setting value is “3” and the rate of determination as the big hit type A is high, the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period are likely to be relatively long. The average period of the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period may be made longer in the order of the set values “1”<“2”<“3”.

It is configured such that the winning probability (ball-out rate) of the big hit increases in the order of the set value “1”<“2”<“3”, and at the same time, the set value is “1”<“2”<“3”. The order may be such that the average period of the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period becomes longer. With such a configuration, when the winning probability (ball-out rate) of the big hit is set high, the fanfare period, the interval period, and the average period of the ending period can be lengthened, that is, the progress of the game can be delayed, and gambling Can be prevented from becoming too high. During the big hit game, a big hit medium suggestion effect that suggests a set value may be configured to be executable. The suggestion during big hit can be executed during the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period. As a result, the interest of the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period can be increased. Further, by directing the interest of the player to the suggestive effect during the big hit, it is possible to make the duration of each period less noticeable. In the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period, a common effect may be executed regardless of the length of the set period. In this case, it is desirable that an effect (for example, display of a still image) that is not easily noticed by the players is commonly executed. The fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period may be fixedly set regardless of the set value. Any one of a plurality of types of fanfare periods, interval periods, and ending periods having different predetermined periods may be determined by lottery. In this case, a table is used in which the judgment values are set such that the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period in which a relatively long period is set are selected in the descending order of the big hit type A<B<C. Therefore, the average period of the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period can be made longer in the order of the set values “1”<“2”<“3”.

The number of time saving control and probability variation control may be different for each big hit type, and in the case of a specific big hit type, the high accuracy control and the time saving control executed after the end of the big hit game state are the big hit game. After the end of the state, it may be continuously executed until a big hit occurs again. In the case of such a specific big hit type, a big hit game state occurs continuously without going through the normal state, that is, a so-called condominium state. In addition to or instead of the configuration in which the jackpot rate differs for each set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the probability variation continuation rate (consecutive unit rate) may be different for each set value. The number of rounds during the big hit game, the presence/absence of time saving control and probability variation control, and the number of times of control may be made different for each big hit type to make the advantages different. In this case, the effects during the round may be different for each jackpot type, or may be the same regardless of the jackpot type. Depending on the set value that has been set, there may be one or more jackpot types that cannot be determined among the jackpot type A, the jackpot type B, and the jackpot type C. That is, if the determination rate of the jackpot type differs depending on the set value, one of the jackpot types is not determined (the determination rate is 0%), or the specific jackpot type is 100%. Includes determining by percentage. The fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period may be different regardless of the type of big hit. For example, the fanfare period, the interval period, and the ending period according to the set value may be uniformly determined depending on which of the set values “1” to “3”. Further, for example, depending on which one of the set values “1” to “3” is set, a lottery process is performed with a selection probability according to the set value, and a fanfare period, an interval period, and an ending period are determined. You may. It suffices if the enjoyment of the game can be improved by changing the determination rate of the big hit type when the variable display result is “big hit” according to the set value that has been set. The jackpot type may be determined using the random number value MR1 for display result determination. The smaller the set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the more advantageous it may be for the player. The playability may be changed according to the set value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

The execution rate of normal reach or super reach may differ depending on the set value, so that the set value may be suggested by the frequency at which normal reach or super reach is executed. Regardless of whether the setting is changed when the power is turned on, the period until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (30 times in this example) may be set as the special period. Using the RTC of the game control microcomputer 100, a special period may be set in a predetermined time zone (for example, from 10 am to 11 am). The period until the first big hit occurs may be the special period. In the special period, the rate of normal reach loss is higher than in the non-special period, and even if the variation pattern determination table is used in which the determination values are assigned such that the difference in the rate of normal reach loss between the set values becomes large. Good. As a result, in the special period, it becomes easier to recognize the difference in the frequency of executing the normal reach than in the non-special period (that is, it becomes easier to recognize the suggestion of the set value), so that the game is motivated to play in the special period. It is possible to enhance the enjoyment of the game.

In addition, it may be possible to execute arbitrary setting suggestive effects at different ratios according to the set values. For example, in the case of the specific setting value, the determination value of the effect determination table is assigned so that the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a higher rate than in the case of the setting value other than the specific setting value. In this case, in a range where the set value is other than the specific set value, a limit is set as a limit that the execution ratio of the setting suggestive effect is lower than in a range where the set value is the specific set value. There may be provided a setting suggestion effect that can be executed at a predetermined rate when the setting value is the specific setting value and is not executed when the setting value is other than the specific setting value. Thus, in the range where the set value is the specific set value, the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a predetermined rate. On the other hand, in a range where the set value is other than the specific set value, a limit is set as a limit that the setting suggestive effect is not executed.

Depending on whether it is a special period or not, it may be possible to execute arbitrary setting suggestion effects at different ratios. For example, in the case of the special period, the determination value of the effect determination table is assigned so that the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a higher rate than in the case of the period other than the special period. In this case, in a range other than the special period, a limit is set as a limit that the execution rate of the setting suggestive effect is lower than that in the range being the special period. There may be provided a setting suggestion effect that can be executed at a predetermined rate in the case of the special period and is not executed in the period other than the special period. As described above, the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a predetermined rate in the range of the special period. On the other hand, in a range other than the special period, a limit is set as a limit that the setting suggestion effect is not executed.

It is not limited to whether it is a special period or not, and it may be possible to execute an arbitrary setting suggestion effect at different rates depending on whether or not an arbitrary special condition is satisfied. For example, when the special condition is satisfied, the determination value of the effect determination table is assigned so that the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a higher rate than when the special condition is not satisfied. In this case, in the range where the special condition is not satisfied, a limit is set as a limit that the execution rate of the setting suggestive effect is lower than that in the range where the special condition is satisfied. There may be provided a setting suggestion effect that can be executed at a predetermined rate when the special condition is satisfied, and is not executed when the special condition is not satisfied. In this way, the setting suggestion effect can be executed at a predetermined ratio within the range where the special condition is satisfied. On the other hand, in the range where the special condition is not established, a limit is set as a limit that the setting suggestion effect is not executed. The special condition may be any condition that can be established according to the progress or history of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the result of the judgment or determination of the game, or the progress or history of the production in the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the production. It may be any condition that can be satisfied in accordance with the judgment or determination of. The effect is not limited to the setting suggestion effect, and any effect may be executable at a different ratio depending on whether or not a preset condition is satisfied, and whether such a condition is satisfied or not. The performance mode may be determined at different rates depending on whether or not the execution timing may be determined at different rates depending on whether or not such a condition is satisfied. .. Further, an arbitrary effect may be provided with a limit as a limit that a specific effect is not executed in a range where a preset limit condition is satisfied, or compared with a range where the limit condition is not satisfied. A limit may be set as a limit that the execution ratio decreases and the execution is difficult.

Next, the operation of the effect control board 12 will be described. In the effect control board 12, when power supply from the power supply board is started, the effect control microcomputer 120 is activated, and the CPU 131 executes effect control main processing. The program for executing the effect control main process may be stored in advance in one or both of the internal ROM 132 and the external ROM 121. As described above, the program for executing the effect control main process may be partially or entirely stored in advance in the internal ROM 132 or the external ROM 121.

FIG. 7A is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control main process executed by the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 mounted on the effect control board 12. In the effect control main process, an initialization process is executed (step S21). In the initialization process of step S21, one or both of the external RAM 122 and the internal RAM 133 are cleared to set various initial values, and the register settings of the timer circuit 135 are initialized. Following the initialization processing, the initial operation control processing is executed (step S22). In the initial operation control process of step S22, control for performing the initial operation of the production movable member such as control for driving the production motor 60 to return the production movable member to the initial position and control for confirming the operation is executed. .. After the initial operation control processing, power-on information processing is executed (step S23). In the power-on information processing at step S23, a storage process of log information including the power-on date and time may be executed. The data indicating the log information is written and stored as backup data in the log areas provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14. The CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 transmits a control signal corresponding to the backup command for power-on to the backup memory board 14 via the serial communication circuit 137. In the backup memory board 14, the memory controller 200 responds to the backup command indicated by the control signal received via the serial communication circuit 202, and writes the log information including the power-on date and time using the date and time information acquired from the RTC 201. It suffices to execute the processing. In the information processing at power-on of step S23, the setting and control may be restored based on the log information stored in the log area by executing the backup restoration process.

After power-on information processing, interrupt initialization processing is executed (step S24). In the interrupt initialization process of step S24, it is sufficient that the interrupt priority controlled by the interrupt controller 136 can be initialized. The priority order of the interrupts controlled by the interrupt controller 136 may be set based on the interrupt priority data stored in advance in a program management area provided in one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132. For example, the serial reception interrupt has a higher priority than the effect control timer interrupt, and the effect control timer interrupt has a higher priority than the V sync interrupt, so that the priority of the interrupt is higher. Should be set. Then, after setting the interruption permission (step S25), the loop processing is started.

FIG. 7B shows an example of setting the processing priority in the effect control microcomputer 120. The processing priority in the effect control microcomputer 120 may be determined in advance based on specifications of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the priority of interrupts controlled by the interrupt controller 136. As an example, the CPU exception event occurrence process has the highest priority, then the VDP error interrupt process has the highest priority, and then the process according to the interrupt priority order controlled by the interrupt controller 136. The processing priority may be set in advance so that the priority becomes. The VDP error interrupt process may be executed based on the occurrence of an interrupt factor that can be controlled by the interrupt controller 136. In this case, for example, by the interrupt initial setting process of step S24, the priority order of the VDP error interrupt may be set to be the highest. The CPU exception event occurrence process is a process executed by the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 when an exception event due to an abnormality in the internal state occurs. The exceptional event of the CPU 131 may occur when an undefined instruction that is not defined in the instruction set is decoded. The exceptional event of the CPU 131 may occur when an invalid operation such as division by zero or overflow is executed. The exceptional event of the CPU 131 may occur when a storage protection violation in the virtual memory has occurred. The exceptional event of the CPU 131 may occur in the case of a TLB (Translation Lookaside Buffer) miss in which translation from a virtual address to a physical address is abnormal. The VDP error interrupt process is a process executed when the VDP 140 of the effect control microcomputer 120 issues an error interrupt request due to an abnormality in the internal state or the like. The VDP 140 error interrupt request may be generated in response to an exceptional event of the VDP 140, as in the case of the CPU 131. In addition, the VDP 140 error interrupt request may be generated when the setting of the clock signal (dot clock) used for display control of the image display device 5 is abnormal. The VDP 140 error interrupt request may be issued when the decoding of the moving image data is abnormal. The VDP 140 error interrupt request may be issued when the audio data is abnormally decoded. The VDP 140 error interrupt request may be generated in response to a system reset in the VDP 140. In this way, the CPU exception event occurrence process is executed when an exception event of the CPU 131 occurs. The VDP error interrupt process is executed when an error interrupt request of the VDP 140 is generated. Therefore, when the event occurrence condition according to the internal state of the CPU 131 is satisfied, the CPU exception event occurrence time process is executed. When the event occurrence condition according to the internal state of the VDP 140 is satisfied, the VDP error interrupt process is executed. The CPU exception event occurrence process and the VDP error interrupt process can be executed when an event occurrence condition that can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control device or the processing device such as the CPU 131 or the VDP 140 is satisfied.

FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing an example of CPU exception event occurrence processing. In the CPU exception event occurrence processing, first, exception preprocessing is executed (step S41). In the pre-exception process of step S41, for example, the control information for executing the instruction code is saved in a predetermined area (such as a stack area) of the internal RAM 133. The control information for executing the instruction code may include the stored value of the program counter (PC) and the value of the program status word (PSW). Subsequent to the pre-exception process, the exceptional backup process is executed (step S42). In the exceptional backup process of step S42, a process of storing log information including exceptional event information is executed. In this case, the control signal corresponding to the backup command for the occurrence of the exceptional event is transmitted to the backup memory board 14. The backup instruction for the occurrence of an exceptional event may include exceptional event information that can identify the exceptional event that has occurred in the CPU 131. The exceptional event information may indicate the type of exceptional event in a distinguishable manner. When the memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 receives the backup command for the occurrence of the exceptional event, the date and time information acquired from the RTC 201 may be used to execute the writing process of the log information including the exceptional event information.

After the exceptional backup process, other exceptional processes are executed (step S43). In step S43, the exception handling routine may be started by accessing the vector table and jumping to the obtained exception handler address. At this time, the stored value of the internal register (general-purpose register or the like) of the CPU 131 may be saved. When the exception event can be resolved by the exception processing routine, or when the exception event cannot be resolved and a reset occurs, the same backup process as in step S42 is executed to resolve the exception event or it can be resolved. You may make it possible to memorize the log information when there is no log. When the exceptional process ends, the exceptional post-process is executed (step S44), and the CPU exceptional event occurrence process ends. In the post-exception process of step S44, it is possible to return to the process before the occurrence of the exception event by restoring the stored value of the internal register (general-purpose register or the like) of the CPU 131 and restoring the control information for executing the instruction code. Good.

FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing an example of the VDP error interrupt processing. In the VDP error interrupt process, first, an error interrupt preprocess is executed (step S51). In the error interrupt preprocessing of step S51, the control information for executing the instruction code is saved in a predetermined area (stack area or the like) of the internal RAM 133, for example. Following the error interrupt pre-process, an error interrupt backup process is executed (step S52). In the error interrupt backup process of step S52, a log information storage process including VDP error information is executed. In this case, the control signal corresponding to the backup command for the VDP error occurrence is transmitted to the backup memory substrate 14. The backup command at the time of VDP error occurrence may include VDP error information that can identify the error that occurred in the VDP 140. The VDP error information may indicate the type of VDP error in a distinguishable manner. When the memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 receives the backup command when the VDP error occurs, the memory controller 200 may execute the log information writing process including the VDP error information using the date and time information acquired from the RTC 201.

After the error interrupt backup processing, other error interrupt processing is executed (step S53). In step S53, for example, depending on the interrupt factor corresponding to the VDP error, the process may branch to the interrupt processing routine by jumping to the acquired interrupt handler address. At this time, the stored value of the internal register (general-purpose register or the like) of the CPU 131 may be saved. If the VDP 140 is capable of autonomously executing the recovery process from the internal error, it may wait until the notification of the completion of the recovery or the notification of the reset occurrence due to the inability to recover. When receiving these notifications, the backup process similar to that of step S52 may be executed to store the log information when the VDP 140 recovers from the error state or when it cannot recover. When the error interrupt process ends, the error interrupt post process is executed (step S54), and the VDP error interrupt process ends. In the error interrupt post-processing of step S54, it is possible to return to the processing before the VDP error occurrence by restoring the stored value of the internal register (general-purpose register or the like) of the CPU 131 and restoring the control information for instruction code execution. And it is sufficient.

The CPU exception event occurrence processing includes the exception time backup processing in step S42. The VDP error interrupt process includes the error interrupt backup process in step S52. In the exceptional backup process of step S42, as backup data indicating log information, data including exceptional event information regarding the CPU 131 among the plurality of electronic components is stored in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14 in the log. A writing process for writing in the area is executed. In the error interrupt backup process of step S52, data including VDP error information regarding the VDP 140 among the plurality of electronic components is provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14 as backup data indicating log information. A writing process for writing in the log area is executed. The CPU exception event occurrence time process is executed when the occurrence condition of the event corresponding to the internal state of the CPU 131 is satisfied and when the exception event of the CPU 131 occurs. The VDP error interrupt process is executed when an error interrupt request of the VDP 140 is generated as a condition for occurrence of an event according to the internal state of the VDP 140 is satisfied. In this way, when the condition for occurrence of an event corresponding to the internal state of the control device or the processing device such as the CPU 131 or the VDP 140 is satisfied, information regarding a plurality of electronic components is written in the storage area such as the log area. A writing process for storing can be executed.

After the interrupt permission is set in step S25 of the effect control main process, a timeout occurs in a predetermined channel of the timer circuit 135 every predetermined time (2 milliseconds, etc.), so that the interrupt controller 136 notifies the CPU 131. Then, an interrupt request signal corresponding to the timer interrupt for effect control is output. The CPU 131 that receives the interrupt request signal and accepts the interrupt request starts execution of the effect control timer interrupt process.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 131. In the effect control timer interrupt processing, command analysis processing is executed (step S71). In the command analysis process of step S71, for example, after reading various effect control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer, the read effect is read. Settings and control corresponding to control commands are performed. Following the command analysis processing, effect control process processing is executed (step S72). In the effect control process processing, for example, an effect image display operation in the display area of the image display device 5, a voice output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation of a light emitting member such as the game effect lamp 9 and the effect LED 61, an effect motor 60. The control for operating various effect devices, such as the driving operation of, is performed. In addition, regarding the control contents of the production operation using various production devices, various determinations regarding production according to the production control command transmitted from the main board 11 or the elapsed time or the detection result depending on the progress situation of the game or the production. Decisions, settings, etc. are made.

After the effect control process processing, effect random number updating processing is executed (step S73). In the production random number updating process in step S73, at least a part of the production random numbers used on the production control board 12 side is updated by software. After the random number updating process for effect, the effect mode changing process is executed (step S74). For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be controlled in three types of effect modes, effect mode A to effect mode C, and depending on which effect mode is controlled, for example, the background screen of the image display device 5 is Differently, the types of characters that appear in the notice production and the reach production may be different. Control for changing from the current effect mode to a different effect mode may be performed when the effect mode change condition is satisfied. For example, based on the date and time information acquired from the RTC included in the timer circuit 135, when a specific date or time comes, the effect mode change condition may be satisfied and the effect mode may be changed. Alternatively, the production mode may be changed when the lottery process using the random numbers for production is executed and the production mode change condition is satisfied according to the determination result.

Following the effect mode changing process, an error notification process is executed (step S75). In the error notification processing of step S75, control for notifying various errors that have occurred in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed. The notification by such control may include left-handed notification and full tank notification. The left-handed notification is a notification that prompts the player to perform a left-handed operation based on, for example, the total number of times the game ball has been detected to pass through a passage gate provided in the right area of the game area. The left-handed notification is, for example, a notification by displaying characters such as "Aim for the left!" on the image display device 5, a notification by turning on all the game effect lamps 9, and a notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R. The notification may be included, or a combination of some or all of these may be included. The full tank notification is a notification that prompts the player to cancel the full tank state based on the elapsed time that the full tank state has continued when the full tank state of the surplus ball storage dish (lower plate) is detected. .. The full tank notification is, for example, a notification by displaying characters such as "the lower plate is full!" on the image display device 5, a notification by turning on all the game effect lamps 9, and a notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R. May be included, or a combination of some or all of these may be included. In addition, the error notification process is performed by display, lighting, light emission, sound output, or a combination of some or all of these in accordance with the occurrence of an error designated by the game control error designation command transmitted from the main board 11. It suffices if the control includes notification of various errors that have occurred. Alternatively, regardless of the game control error designation command, when it is determined that an error relating to electronic components including the rendering device has occurred, depending on the processing result of the CPU 131, display, lighting or light emission, sound output, or Control for notifying various errors that have occurred may be performed by a combination of some or all of these.

After the error notification processing, maintenance mode processing is executed (step S76). In the maintenance mode process of step S76, control is performed so that the maintenance history screen and the setting change/confirmation history screen can be displayed. The maintenance history screen, for example, when the setting confirmation display corresponding to the setting confirmation state or the maintenance mode menu screen is displayed, detection of an operation that is an operation performed by an attendant at the game arcade on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. It can be displayed when it is determined that the maintenance history selection operation is performed based on the result. When displaying the maintenance history screen, all the log information is read from the log areas provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14. The image display device 5 displays a maintenance history screen including the read log information as history information. The setting change/confirmation history screen can be displayed when it is determined that the setting change/confirmation history selection operation has been performed based on the detection result of the operation of the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B, which is an operation performed by an attendant in the game arcade. Become. When the setting change/confirmation history screen is displayed, all setting change and setting confirmation log information is read from the log area provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory board 14. The image display device 5 displays a setting change/confirmation history screen including the read setting change and setting confirmation log information as history information. It should be noted that the maintenance history screen and the setting change/confirmation history screen may be displayed based on the detection result of the operation that is performed by the person in charge at the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1, unlike the staff at the game arcade. Good. The maintenance history screen and the setting change/confirmation history screen are screens that the player of the pachinko gaming machine 1 cannot see during the game, and may be screens that can be confirmed by the game staff or the person in charge of the manufacturer. Good.

After the maintenance mode process, the current time setting process is executed (step S77). In the current time setting process of step S77, control for setting the current date and current time is performed. In this case, the setting information of the current date and the current time can be input based on the detection result of the operation of the stick controller 31A and the push button 31B, which is an operation performed by an attendant in the game arcade. For example, the hour signal indicating the set time, the minute signal indicating the minute, the second signal indicating the second, the year signal indicating the year, the month signal indicating the month, the day signal indicating the day, and the day signal indicating the day of the week, The CPU 131 sequentially receives. It suffices that the setting of the current date and the current time measured by the RTC of the timer circuit 135 can be changed by updating the stored information of the RTC in the timer circuit 135 according to these received signals. In addition, by updating the storage information of the RTC 201 provided on the backup memory board 14 according to the input setting information, the setting of the current date and the current item measured by the RTC 201 may be changed. When the current time setting process ends, the date and time information storing process is executed (step S78). In the date/time information storage processing in step S78, control is performed to store and store the date/time information in a temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 at a predetermined cycle (eg, every 100 milliseconds). The date and time information stored in the temporary area should be able to be stored as log information indicating the power cut date and time when the RAM clear notification command or the power failure recovery designation command is received from the main board 11. After performing the effect control backup process (step S79), the effect control timer interrupt process ends. In the production control backup process of step S79, when preset backup conditions are satisfied, backup data indicating various log information is stored in the log areas provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14. A storage process of storing and storing is executed. In this case, the log information to be stored may be information including a part or all of the operation history, the setting history, the error history, and the like regarding a plurality of electronic components used for a game or an effect in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Further, the log information may include date and time information indicating the stored date and time.

FIG. 10 shows an example of contents of a production control command transmitted for a game from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 to the production control microcomputer 120 of the production control board 12. In the following, the subscript H indicates that it is a hexadecimal number. The effect control command that can be received by the effect control microcomputer 120 has a 2-byte structure, the first byte is MODE data indicating the command classification, and the second byte is EXT data indicating the command type. The first bit (bit 7) of the production control command upper data (MODE data) is always set to "1", and the lower bit of the production control command (EXT data) is always set to "0". To be done. The effect control command is not limited to the 2-byte structure, and a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used, for example. The production control command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 as the game progresses. The effect control microcomputer 120 receives any of the effect control commands as the game progresses. In this way, the effect control command is a game effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 to the effect control microcomputer 120 of the effect control board 12 in accordance with the control related to the progress of the game. Is.

The fluctuation start command 80XXH specifies that fluctuation starts for either the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is a plurality of special symbols. XXH which is the lower data (EXT data) of the fluctuation start command may be 01H at the fluctuation start of the first special symbol and 02H at the fluctuation start of the second special symbol, for example. The variation pattern designation command 81XXH designates the variation pattern of the decorative pattern variably displayed on the image display device 5 in correspondence with the variable display of the special symbol. XXH, which is the lower data (EXT data) of the variation pattern designation command, indicates a value corresponding to the variation pattern. The display result designation command 8CXXH designates the display result of variable display. XXH, which is lower data (EXT data) of the display result designation command, indicates a value corresponding to the display result of the variable display. The symbol confirmation command 8F00H specifies to end the fluctuation of the symbol. The RAM clear notification command 9000H notifies that the content stored in the RAM 102 has been cleared due to the initialization in the game control microcomputer 100 when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on. The setting change start command 9100H specifies the start of a setting change state in which the set value can be changed when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started by turning on the power. The power failure recovery designation command 9200H specifies execution of power failure recovery processing corresponding to power failure recovery. The setting change end command 93XXH specifies the end of the setting change state. In the setting change end command, for example, EXT data corresponding to the setting value newly set by the change may be set. For example, the command 9300H specifies that the setting value is set to "1", the command 9301H specifies that the setting value is set to "2", and the command 9302H sets the setting value to "3". Specifies that it is set. Alternatively, as the setting change end command, only the command 9300H in which the EXT data is 00H is prepared, and the end of the setting change state may be designated by the command 9300H regardless of the setting value newly set by the change. Alternatively, a setting value designation command for designating a setting value set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be prepared as an effect control command different from the setting change end command. The setting value designation command corresponds to the fluctuation start at each time of the special figure game, in addition to the case where the setting change end command is transmitted, for example, the first fluctuation start command and the second fluctuation start command are transmitted. And may be transmitted. Further, for example, every time the fluctuation display is started ten times in the special figure game, the setting value designation command may be transmitted as the fluctuation display is executed a predetermined number of times. Instead of these, or in addition to these, the set value designation command may be transmitted along with the transmission of the hit start designation command and the hit end designation command. A setting value designation command may be transmitted along with the transmission of the customer waiting demo designation command.

The setting confirmation start command 9400H designates the start of a setting confirmation state in which the set value can be confirmed when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started by turning on the power. The setting confirmation end command 9401H specifies the end of the setting confirmation state. The gaming state designation command 95XXH designates the current gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the command 9500H is a first game state designation command corresponding to a game state (low base state, normal state) in which time saving control is not performed, and a command 9501H is a game state in which time saving control is performed (high base state, time saving state). The second game state designation command corresponding to. The game control error designation command 96XXH designates the occurrence of an error (abnormality) relating to the game control in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the type of the generated error (abnormality). In the game control error designation command, by setting the EXT data corresponding to each error (abnormality), it is possible to specify which error (abnormality) has been determined to have occurred on the production control board 12 side. The occurrence of the specified error (abnormality) may be notified by error notification processing. The customer waiting demonstration designation command 9F00H designates display of a customer waiting demonstration screen (display of demo screen) such as display of effect image corresponding to stop of progress of game in customer waiting state. The hit start designation command A0XXH designates display of an effect image showing the start of the big hit game state or the small hit game state. The special winning opening open designation command A1XXH specifies that the special winning opening is in the open state in the big hit game state or the small hit game state. After the special winning opening opening designation command A2XXH, in the big hit game state or the small hit gaming state, specifies that it is a period during which the big winning opening changed from the open state to the closed state. The hit end designation command A3XXH designates the display of the effect image at the end of the big hit game state or the small hit game state. The background designation command B0XXH designates the display state of the background screen according to the game state or the like. The first reserve storage number designation command C1XXH designates the first reserve storage number. The first reserved storage number is a variable display reserved number corresponding to the first special symbol display device 4A among the reserved storage numbers, and has a value of, for example, “0” to “4”. The second reserve storage number designation command C2XXH designates the second reserve storage number. The second hold storage number is a variable display hold number corresponding to the second special symbol display device 4B among the hold storage numbers, and is, for example, any value of “0” to “4”. The prize determination result designation command C3XXH specifies the prize determination result. The winning determination result is a game in which the first starting opening switch 22A detects a game ball that has passed (entered) the first starting winning opening, and the second starting opening switch 22B has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening. Whether or not the variable display result is a "big hit" by using the numerical data indicating the game random numbers extracted from the game random counter provided in the predetermined area of the random number circuit 104 or the RAM 102 when the sphere is detected It shows the result of the determination of, the result of the determination of the variation pattern, and the like. That is, whether the winning determination result is a result of determining whether or not to control to an advantageous state such as a jackpot gaming state or a specific variation pattern before determining whether or not to control to an advantageous state The result of determining whether or not is shown.

FIG. 11 shows an example of contents of a production control command which is a test command that can be received by the production control microcomputer 120 of the production control board 12. The production control command, which is a test command, also has a 2-byte structure like the production control command for games. The production control command serving as a test command has upper data (MODE data) set to any of F0H to F3H. These upper data (MODE data) are values that are not used in the game production control command, and may be prepared in advance as a dedicated command for performing various inspections. The test command is not limited to the 2-byte test command, and a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used. The test command is not included in the effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 as the game progresses. The test command is transmitted from the inspection device as an external device connected to the inspection connection unit 203 provided on the connector 150, 156 or the backup memory substrate 14 via the signal wiring, and the test command of the effect control substrate 12 is transmitted. Based on the reception by the production control microcomputer 120, the inspection process or the like corresponding to the received command can be executed. In this way, the production control command as the test command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 to the production control microcomputer 120 of the production control board 12 as the game progresses. Unlike the control command, it is an effect control command for inspection that enables execution of inspection processing for performing various inspections.

The black screen display command F000H causes the image display device 5 to display a black screen for testing. The black screen for testing is a screen for display inspection in which the display color is black. The ROM check screen command F005H displays the execution result and version information of the inspection process of various ROMs such as the external ROM 62AK120 on the screen of the image display device 5. The red display command F020H causes the image display device 5 to display a red screen which is a screen for display inspection in which the display color is red. The green display command F021H causes the image display device 5 to display a green screen which is a screen for display inspection in which the display color is green. The blue display command F022H causes the image display device 5 to display a blue screen which is a screen for display inspection whose display color is blue. The white display command F023H causes the image display device 5 to display a white screen, which is a screen for display inspection in which the display color is white. The black display command F024H causes the image display device 5 to display a black screen which is a screen for display inspection in which the display color is black. The RTC value type designation command F1XXH designates the type of RTC value. XXH, which is lower data (EXT data) of the RTC value type designation command, indicates a value corresponding to the RTC value type, such as year, month, day, day of the week, hour, minute, and second. The RTC numerical value setting command F2XXH sets specific contents and numerical values for the RTC value type specified by the RTC value type specifying command F1XXH. XXH, which is the lower data (EXT data) of the RTC numerical value setting command, indicates a value corresponding to a specific numerical value for year, month, day, hour, minute, second, and corresponds to the day of the week from Sunday to Saturday. Indicates the value.

The check process etc. designation command F3XXH designates execution of various check processes which are inspection processes. For example, XXH, which is the lower data (EXT data) of the check processing specification command, indicates a unique value that is different between one check processing and another check processing, or a value that is common to a plurality of types of check processing. There are cases and cases. The check processing etc. designation command F3XXH constitutes a plurality of test commands, and if a combination of a plurality of test commands is received in a predetermined order, various check processing or the like to be an inspection processing can be executed. Good. In addition, a plurality of types of orders are predetermined as the order of receiving a plurality of test commands that are predetermined corresponding to various check processes that are inspection processes, and the order of receiving a combination of a plurality of test commands is determined. It suffices to be able to execute different inspection processes and the like depending on the type of.

FIG. 12 shows a setting example of the reception order of test commands by the reception order list and the processing to be executed. As processes that can be executed by combining a plurality of test commands, backup clear, external RAM check (short), external RAM check (long), and backup inspection are prepared in advance. FIG. 12A shows the order of receiving a combination of a plurality of test commands when executing the backup clear process. FIG. 12B shows the order of receiving a combination of a plurality of test commands when executing the external RAM check (short) process. FIG. 12C shows the order of receiving a combination of a plurality of test commands when the external RAM check (long) process is executed. FIG. 12D shows the order in which a combination of a plurality of test commands is received when the backup inspection process is executed. In the reception order shown in FIGS. 12A to 12D, a combination of a plurality of test commands is received in an order from top to bottom, and when all the reception orders match, a corresponding process is executed.

The backup clear process is a process of initializing the storage content of backup data. The backup data is, for example, storage data of a log area provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory board 14 and indicates various log information. The external RAM check (short) process and the external RAM check (long) process are inspection processes for checking whether or not data writing and reading can be appropriately performed on the storage area of the external RAM 122. The external RAM check (short) process is a process that can be executed in a shorter time than the external RAM check (long) process, and may include any process content that is more simplified than the external RAM check (long) process. .. The backup inspection process is an inspection process executed based on the stored content of backup data. In this case, the backup data read from the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14 may be output to an inspection device as an external device.

The external RAM check (short) process and the external RAM check (long) process are inspection processes capable of inspecting the state of the electronic component called the external RAM 122. The backup inspection process is an inspection process that makes it possible to confirm information about various electronic components based on the stored content of backup data indicating log information. In this way, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 can execute the inspection process that enables or confirms the state of the electronic component by combining the plurality of test commands. A combination of a plurality of test commands according to the reception order is configured by a check processing etc. designation command in which all higher order data (MODE data) of the reception command is F3H. In this way, the combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the inspection process is configured as a combination of the effect control commands for inspection different from the effect control commands for game received as the game progresses. .. Therefore, the inspection process for inspecting the state of the electronic component is not executed based on the reception of the game production control command. As a result, it is possible to surely prevent the inspection process for inspecting the state of the electronic component from being erroneously executed based on the game effect control command received as the game progresses, and perform an appropriate inspection. You can Further, for example, since the possibility that the inspection process is erroneously executed during the progress of the game is reduced, it is possible to prevent the trouble caused by misunderstanding that the game machine is damaged due to the incorrect execution of the inspection process, It is possible to prevent the disadvantage of the player due to the interruption and improve the reliability of the inspection process.

The combination of a plurality of test commands received when executing the backup clear process includes the command that becomes F311H among the check process etc. specifying commands. A combination of a plurality of test commands received when executing the external RAM check (short) process includes a command that becomes F312H among the check process specifying commands. The combination of the plurality of test commands received when executing the external RAM check (long) process includes the command that becomes F313H among the check process specification commands. The combination of the plurality of test commands received when the backup inspection process is executed includes the command that becomes F314H among the check process specification commands. None of these commands is included in the combination of the plurality of test commands received when executing other processing. In this way, a combination of multiple test commands received to execute a specific inspection process does not include a unique test command that is not included in a combination of multiple test commands received to execute another inspection process. May be included. For example, when the command to be F303H, the command to be F304H, etc. of the check processing etc. designation command is to be executed, any of backup clear processing, external RAM clear (short) processing, external RAM clear (long) processing, and backup inspection processing is executed. Even included in the combination of multiple test commands received. As described above, the combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the specific inspection process includes the common test command that is also included in the combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the other inspection process. You can leave. In addition, for example, the command that becomes F37FH among the check processing specification commands is the last received test command in the combination of the plurality of received test commands, regardless of which processing is executed. Thus, the test command received last in the combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the specific inspection process is the last test in the combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the other inspection process. It may be the same command as the received test command. Note that the first received test command in a combination of a plurality of test commands is not limited to a unique command, and at least one received in a common order in a combination of a plurality of test commands corresponding to a plurality of types of inspection processing. Partial test commands may be unique commands. Further, the test command received last in a combination of a plurality of test commands is not limited to a common command, and at least one received in a common order in a combination of a plurality of test commands corresponding to a plurality of types of inspection processing. Partial test commands may be common commands. The combination of the plurality of test commands received to execute the inspection process may be configured as a combination of a larger number of commands than the game effect control commands received as the game progresses. In this case, the inspection process for inspecting the state of the electronic component is not executed by the number of effect control commands received for gaming. As a result, it is possible to surely prevent the inspection process for inspecting the state of the electronic component from being erroneously executed based on the game effect control command received as the game progresses, and perform an appropriate inspection. You can Further, for example, since the possibility that the inspection process is erroneously executed during the progress of the game is reduced, it is possible to prevent the trouble caused by misunderstanding that the game machine is damaged due to the incorrect execution of the inspection process, It is possible to prevent the disadvantage of the player due to the interruption and improve the reliability of the inspection process. As a combination of a plurality of test commands, there are a plurality of types in the order of receiving the test commands. Then, as an inspection process such as an external RAM check (short) process, an external RAM check (long) process, and a backup inspection process, different processes can be executed depending on the type of the order in which a combination of a plurality of test commands is received. .. Further, the inspection process for inspecting the state of the electronic component differs depending on the combination of the plurality of test commands. As a result, various inspection processes for inspecting the state of the electronic component can be executed and appropriate inspection can be performed.

In the production control backup process executed in step S79 of the production control timer interrupt process, it is determined whether a preset backup condition is satisfied. Then, when it is determined that the backup condition is satisfied, a backup process for storing and storing the backup target data according to the satisfied backup condition is executed. As the backup condition, a plurality of different conditions may be set according to the occurrence of an event including various changes and settings in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The backup control table indicating a plurality of backup conditions may be stored in advance in a predetermined area (a program management area or the like) provided in one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132, for example. The backup target data may include different data depending on backup conditions. Alternatively, the backup target data may include data common to a plurality of backup conditions. Regardless of which backup condition is satisfied, backup target data indicating log information including date and time information may be stored. A batch backup and a split backup may be prepared as backup methods for storing the backup target data. In the case of a batch backup, the backup target data for one backup is stored in the interrupt process based on the occurrence of one timer interrupt for effect control. In the case of divided backup, the backup target data for one backup is stored in the interrupt process based on a plurality of timer interrupts for effect control.

The backup process for storing and storing the backup target data according to the backup condition is performed every time the performance control timer interrupt process is executed when the backup condition is satisfied in the performance control backup process in step S79. It may be executable or may be collectively executable at the time of power interruption when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. When it is determined that the backup condition is satisfied in the production control backup process when the backup process is collectively executed when the power is cut off, for example, a backup indicating log information including date and time information is provided in a predetermined area of the external RAM 122. The target data is stored.

FIG. 13 shows a setting example of the backup control table 120T that provides a plurality of backup conditions and the like. The backup control table 120T is configured such that a backup condition, a backup method, a division method, a storage area bit number, a multiplicity, and a verification method can be set for each backup target data indicating the contents of the log information. When the backup method is divided backup, “automatic” or “every 100 KB” can be designated as the divided method. The division method is a method or method of dividing the backup target data when executing the division backup, and it is sufficient that the number of divisions and the data capacity at the time of division can be specified. For example, when the division method is “automatic”, the number of divisions is determined according to the data capacity of the backup target data every time the backup process is executed. Alternatively, different numbers of divisions and different data capacities at the time of division may be determined according to the processing loads on the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14. The storage area bit number is a processing unit of storage data in a log area, which is a storage area for storing log information in the backup data memories 210A to 210D provided on the backup memory substrate 14, and in this example, indicates 8 bits. "8" or "3" indicating 3 bits can be designated. The multiplicity is a degree of mirroring in which backup target data indicating the same log information is distributed and stored while overlapping in different log areas, and whether or not the data is mirrored for storage and storage in the case of mirroring are stored. The number of times can be specified. For example, when the multiplicity is "1", mirroring is not performed, and backup target data indicating the same log information is stored and backed up only once. When the multiplicity is “2”, the mirroring is performed twice, and the backup target data indicating the same log information is stored twice in different storage areas for backup. When the multiplicity is “3”, the mirroring is performed three times, and the backup target data indicating the same log information is stored in different storage areas three times for backup. By increasing the multiplicity, it is possible to improve redundancy (availability) and enhance reliability of stored data.

The verification method that can be set for each backup target data is a method that verifies whether the backup process, which is the storage process of the backup target data, was performed correctly, and specifies whether or not to make a judgment by majority with error detection. It is possible. When the verification method is error detection, when the backup target data is read from the log area, any error detection process using parity, checksum, or hash value is executed to verify the correctness of the stored data. I wish I could. If the verification method is majority with error detection, error detection processing using parity, checksum, or hash value, etc., as well as multiple log areas in which backup target data indicating the same log information multiplexed by mirroring are stored Compare stored data. As a result of this comparison, if the stored contents match in a predetermined number of log areas among the plurality of log areas, it is sufficient to determine that the backup processing has been performed correctly and to verify the validity of the stored data. For example, when the parities, checksums, or hash values calculated from the storage data in the plurality of log areas match, it can be determined that the backup processing has been correctly performed for each log area. If the parity, checksum or hash value calculated from the storage data in multiple log areas do not match, if the number of log areas for which the same parity, checksum or hash value is calculated is the majority, It may be determined that the log area has been backed up correctly (judgment by majority). The “predetermined number of log areas” that is a condition for determining that backup processing has been performed correctly is not limited to a majority of log areas, and is a preset fixed value (such as “2”) regardless of the multiplicity. Alternatively, it may be a variable value determined according to the multiplicity, the backup method, the division method, or the like. Instead of the majority decision, when the execution result of the error detection process first becomes normal, it may be determined that the backup process has been performed correctly.

Data to be backed up are system data, production control error data, player history data, received command data, setting value change time data, power saving setting data, current time change data, power cut time data, store name setting data, production output amount. Data and performance history data are included. Note that the backup target data may include some of these. The system data only needs to include effect control data stored in a predetermined area (effect control data holding area or the like) provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. The production control error data is data indicating an error that occurs during execution of production control. The player history data is data about the player acquired by the pachinko gaming machine 1. The received command data is data indicating the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. The set value change time data is data indicating the date and time when the set value was changed. The set value change time data may include data indicating the date and time when the set value is confirmed, or the set value check time data may be generated separately from the set value change time data. The power saving setting data is data related to power saving control that can be set by an attendant at the game arcade. The power saving control is set, for example, by operating a knob of an output amount changeover switch provided on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 when the power saving function setting screen is displayed on the image display device 5. It suffices if it is possible to change the presence or absence of the function and the type (power saving mode). Alternatively, when a test command for power saving setting is input, a power saving function setting screen may be displayed on the image display device 5 to change the presence or absence of the power saving function and the function (power saving mode). The current time change data is data indicating that the setting of the current date and time measured by the RTC has been changed. The setting of the current date and time measured by the RTC may be one or both of the setting of the RTC included in the timer circuit 135 of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the setting of the RTC 201 provided on the backup memory board 14. Good. The power-off time data is data indicating the date and time when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 was stopped. The store name setting data is data indicating a store name setting that can be set by an attendant at a game arcade. The effect output amount data is data indicating the setting of the output amount such as the volume and the light emission amount that can be set by the player or the like. The effect history data is data indicating a history of effects executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition, the number of rotations indicating the number of times of variable display counted from a specific timing, the number of big hits indicating the number of big hits counted for each kind of big hit, the number of consecutive chans indicating the number of big hits that have occurred without being controlled to a normal state, the player Any information according to the specifications of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the progress of control, such as performance customization indicating the character selection contents and performance theme of the performance image set by, the mission achievement status indicating the achievement status of a predetermined mission, etc. It suffices if the data indicating the can be stored as backup target data.

The backup condition that can be set for each data to be backed up may be any occurrence condition of an event that can occur with the progress of a game or production, such as setting, control, determination, and detection in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the production control backup process executed in step S79 of the production control timer interrupt process, it is preset in accordance with the processing result by the control device or the processing device such as the CPU 131 of the production control microcomputer 120 or the VDP 140. It may be determined whether or not any of the backup conditions is satisfied. For example, in the error notification process executed in step S75, the effect device is controlled by determining the reception result of the game control error designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or by determining various detection results. When an error related to the included electronic component occurs, control for notifying the error is performed. In this case, in the production control backup process, it is determined that the backup condition when the error occurs is satisfied, and production control error data is created. In this way, when it is determined in the production control backup process that the backup condition is satisfied, the control signal corresponding to the backup command for production control backup is transmitted to the backup memory board 14. The backup command for production control backup may include the backup target data. When the memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 receives the backup command for backup during production control, the log information including the backup target data may be written using the date and time information acquired from the RTC 201. By storing the error information regarding the electronic components including the rendering device, it becomes easy to identify the defect and improve the performance.

The production control backup process is executed in step S79 of the production control timer interrupt process based on the occurrence of the production control timer interrupt. Then, when the occurrence condition of the event corresponding to the processing result by the control device or the processing device such as the CPU 131 or the VDP 140 is satisfied, the backup condition set for each backup target data regarding the plurality of electronic components including the rendering device is satisfied. Backup processing for storing the backup target data is executed. As described above, when the event occurrence condition regarding a plurality of electronic components is satisfied, and when the event occurrence condition according to the processing result of the control device or the processing device such as the CPU 131 or the VDP 140 is satisfied, the log area or the like is stored. It is possible to execute a writing process for writing and storing information regarding a plurality of electronic components in the area.

The backup condition that can be set for each backup target data may include a write condition that is different from the event occurrence condition corresponding to a plurality of electronic components. For example, for the player history data, the backup condition is satisfied at the time of updating the data regarding the player regardless of whether or not an event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components has occurred. For the received command data, the backup condition may be satisfied when the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, even if an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components does not occur. With respect to the store name setting data, the backup condition is satisfied when the name of the store corresponding to the game arcade is set, regardless of whether or not an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components has occurred. The system data is stored regardless of whether the backup condition is satisfied at the time of updating the data due to the occurrence of an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components, and whether or not the event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components occurs. The backup condition may be met when updating data. In this way, the backup process for storing the backup target data is executed even when the backup condition as the write condition different from the occurrence condition of the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components is satisfied. When a writing condition different from such a generation condition is satisfied, a writing process for writing and storing game-related information different from information regarding a plurality of electronic components in a storage area such as a log area. Can be performed. When an event corresponding to a defect in an electronic component occurs, backup data including game-related information is stored, so it is possible to easily specify the relationship between the progress of a game or performance and the defect in the electronic component. It is possible to easily grasp the situation of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

When the data to be backed up is the production control error data, the backup condition is not limited to the case where the error occurs only, and the backup condition including the time when the error is recovered may be set. For example, in the error notification process executed in step S75, the effect device is controlled by determining the reception result of the game control error designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or by determining various detection results. When an error related to the included electronic component occurs, control for notifying the error is performed. In this case, in the production control backup process, it is determined that the backup condition when the error occurs is satisfied, and production control error data is created. After that, when no error is detected in the electronic component that is the target of the error notification, it is determined that the error has been recovered. Even at the time of error recovery by such determination, it is possible to determine that the backup condition is satisfied in the production control backup process and create the production control error recovery data. The effect control error recovery data created in this way is included in the backup command for effect control backup and is transmitted to the backup memory substrate 14, like the effect control error data. When the memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 receives the backup command for backup during production control, the log information including the backup target data may be written using the date and time information acquired from the RTC 201. In addition to production control error data, production control error recovery data can also be stored as backup data, so that a history of production control error occurrences and recovery can be stored for subsequent verification, and pachinko game machines 1 The situation of can be easily grasped.

In the power-on information processing in step S23 of the effect control main processing, a backup restoration processing for restoring the setting and control based on the log information stored in the log area may be executed. In the backup restoration process, verification may be performed by a verification method according to the backup target data to determine whether the stored data is normal. For example, when the verification method is a majority decision with error detection, if the execution result of the error detection process is normal in a predetermined number of log areas among the plurality of log areas in which backup target data indicating the same log information is stored, It is determined that the stored data is normal. Thus, if the stored data is normal, the data recovery process using the stored data in the log area is performed. On the other hand, when the stored data is not normal, the initial value setting using the initial data different from the stored data in the log area is performed. The initial data may be, for example, data stored in one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132 and used when the initialization process is executed in step S21 of the game control main process. As a result, even if the backup target data cannot be stored correctly, it is possible to set the initial value using the initial data according to the recovery from the power failure. Instead of the initial data, special data corresponding to the case where the stored data is not normal may be used. Unlike the initial data, the special data may be data that is suitable for restoring settings and controls. Depending on the backup target data determined that the stored data is not normal, whether to use the initial data or the special data may be different. For example, if the backup target data is system data, when it is determined that the stored data is not normal, data recovery using special data is performed. On the other hand, if the backup target data is the performance output amount data, when it is determined that the stored data is not normal, data restoration using the initial data is performed. Whether to use the initial data or the special data is set in advance based on the update frequency and update data amount of the backup target data, the importance of the data, the target component, the target control, a combination of some or all of these, and the like. It only has to be decided. The backup restoration process may be executable when a preset data restoration condition is satisfied in the production control backup process. The data recovery condition may be satisfied when, for example, a power failure recovery designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received.

In the production control backup process, it may be determined whether or not the backup memory board 14 is connected to the production control board 12. In this case, the voltage value at the terminal TM02 of the connector 154 may be determined. Depending on the determination result of the connection state, whether or not to execute the storage process may be different, or the storage process with different contents may be executed. For example, when the backup memory board 14 is not connected to the effect control board 12, the storage process of storing and storing the log information in the log area is not executed. In this way, a limit may be set as a limit that storage processing is not performed within a range where a preset limit condition that the backup memory substrate 14 is not connected to the effect control substrate 12 is satisfied. On the other hand, it is sufficient that the storage process can be executed in a range in which the backup memory substrate 14 is connected to the effect control substrate 12 and the restriction condition is not satisfied. As a storage process of different contents, when the backup memory board 14 is not connected to the effect control board 12, a predetermined area of the external RAM 122 is used as a log area to store and store backup data indicating various log information. Processing may be performed. In this case, the data capacity to be stored as backup target data may be reduced as compared with the case where the backup memory board 14 is connected to the effect control board 12. For example, production control error data and received command data become backup target data, and storage processing that stores log information is executed when backup conditions are met, while system data and player history data are backup target data. Alternatively, the storage process for storing the log information may not be executed even if the backup condition is satisfied. In this way, within the range in which the preset memory board 14 is not connected to the effect control board 12 and the preset restriction condition is satisfied, a limit is set as a limit to reduce the data capacity stored by the storage process. May be. On the other hand, in a range in which the backup memory board 14 is connected to the effect control board 12 and the restriction condition is not satisfied, the data capacity to be stored by the storage process is not reduced, and the backup corresponding to all the backup conditions is performed. The target data may be stored and stored. The process is not limited to the storage process, and for any process or control in the pachinko gaming machine 1, a limit may be set as a limit that a specific process or control is not executed within a range where a preset limit condition is satisfied. Alternatively, a limit may be set as a limit that the processing amount and the control amount are reduced as compared with the range where the limiting condition is not satisfied.

14 and 15 show a specific example of displaying the maintenance history screen. When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, the setting confirmation processing is executed in step S5 of the game control main processing, and when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied, the main board 11 sets the effect control board 12 A confirmation start command is transmitted. When this setting confirmation start command is received, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120, as shown in FIG. 14(A), for example, when the maintenance mode process is executed in step S78 of the effect control timer interrupt process. Display the setting confirmation. The setting confirmation display is, for example, a character display such as "setting confirmation" on the image display device 5. The setting confirmation display includes a character display such as "Press the push button to switch to the maintenance mode" on the image display device 5. Thus, in the setting confirmation display, a display prompting an operation for shifting to the maintenance mode is displayed. At this time, when it is detected that the attendant of the game arcade or the person in charge of the manufacturer presses the push button 31B, the image display device 5 displays a maintenance mode menu screen as shown in FIG. Enter maintenance mode. On the maintenance mode menu screen, choices of "maintenance history", "setting change/confirmation history", and "current time setting" are displayed, as well as the current time.

When the “maintenance history” option 012IW106 is selected on the maintenance mode menu screen, the image display device 5 switches to the maintenance history screen display as shown in FIG. On the maintenance history screen, the date and time and the log contents are displayed in association with each other, and the latest log information is displayed in order so as to be ranked higher. As an example, a VDP error indicating that an internal state abnormality has occurred in the VDP 140, an illegal prize winning error indicating that an illegal prize is detected at the winning holes such as the first special winning opening and the second special winning opening, a count switch Log information of switch abnormality error indicating that abnormality of various switches such as 23 is detected, prize ball abnormality error indicating that prize ball abnormality is detected, magnet error indicating that abnormal magnetism is detected, and further probability change failure The log information indicating that is detected is displayed. When the maintenance history screen has a plurality of pages, when the next page is selected, the screen shifts to the second page of the maintenance history screen as shown in FIG. 14(D). In this case, the log information of the start of setting change and the end of setting change, the log information of the power-off date and time and the power-on date and time, and the log information of the left-handed notification and the full tank notification are displayed. If there is a next page, the next page is selected, and the screen shifts to the third page of the maintenance history screen as shown in FIG. At this time, the log information indicating the start of setting confirmation and the end of setting confirmation, the log information indicating that the current time was set during the maintenance mode during the setting confirmation, and the log indicating that the RAM clearing by the initialization process was executed Information is displayed. When the operation of selecting the next page is further performed, the screen shifts to the fourth page of the maintenance history screen as shown in FIG. Here, the log information of the RWM abnormality error indicating that some kind of RAM abnormality has occurred at the time of turning on the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the log information of the power-off date and time and the power-on date and time corresponding to the date and time after that are displayed. .. Since an RWM abnormal error has occurred due to these log information, a staff member at the game arcade temporarily turns off the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 and then turns on the clear switch to turn on the power again and execute the initialization process. It can be confirmed afterwards that the RAM has been cleared. Further, CPU exception event log information indicating that an exception event has occurred in the CPU 131, and log information on a power cutoff date and a power-on date and time corresponding to a later date and time are displayed. Due to these log information, a CPU exception event occurred, so the staff at the game arcade stopped the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1, but when the power was turned on the next day, the CPU exception event no longer occurred. You can confirm that afterwards.

Note that, on the third page of the maintenance history screen as shown in FIG. 15(E), the log information indicating that the current time has been set indicates an earlier time than the log information indicating that the setting confirmation has started. Log information is displayed. For example, the setting confirmation is started at 09:36:28 on 2018/03/21 (Wednesday), whereas the setting of the current time is 09:36: on 2018/03/21 (Wednesday). It is supposed to be 16. As described above, the inconsistency of the date and time before and after the setting of the current time occurs because the date and time information after the setting is read and the log information is recorded when the current time is set. In this example, the log information is recorded in the log area in the order in which the log information is generated, and the log information is displayed in the order in which the log information is generated even when the date and time do not match before and after the current time setting.

In addition to displaying the maintenance history screen, or instead of displaying the maintenance history screen, a two-dimensional bar code may be displayed on the image display device 5 so that log information can be acquired. For example, a two-dimensional barcode displayed on the image display device 5 is photographed using a photographing device connected to the inspection device. By photographing such a two-dimensional barcode, log information can be provided to the inspection device. In addition, the log information may be output using any output method such as display output, wireless output, infrared output, audio output, ultrasonic output, or a combination of some or all of these. The information output is not limited to log information, and any information output can be performed using any output method such as display output, wireless output, infrared output, audio output, ultrasonic output, or a combination of some or all of these. I wish I had it.

The log information that can be displayed on the maintenance history screen may be all of the log information shown in the backup data or a part of the log information shown in the backup data. For example, on the maintenance history screen, it is possible to display log information corresponding to the occurrence condition of an event that can be established according to the internal state of the control device, such as an exceptional event of the CPU 131. Further, the maintenance history screen can display log information corresponding to an occurrence condition of an event that can be satisfied according to the internal state of the processing device, such as an error interrupt request of the VDP 140. On the maintenance history screen, log information corresponding to the occurrence condition of a specific event that can be established according to the processing result by the CPU 131, such as the occurrence of an error in the backup process during production control, the time change, and the determination of the power-on again, can be displayed. Is. On the other hand, on the maintenance history screen, log information corresponding to the occurrence conditions of events other than specific events, such as data update of player history data during production control backup processing, power saving setting, determination of name setting, etc. is displayed. do not do. In this way, the log information stored as backup data may include log information that is not displayed on the maintenance history screen. Alternatively, log information that is not displayed on the normal maintenance history screen but can be displayed on the special maintenance history screen may be provided. The special maintenance screen may be displayed according to an arbitrary detection result such as a detection result of a predetermined operation of the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. In this case, the operation procedure for the stick controller 31A and the push button 31B is not required to be notified to the staff at the game hall, and may be one that can be recognized by the person in charge of the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The detection result is not limited to the detection result, and any special maintenance history screen can be displayed according to any control or processing. In this way, a limit may be set as a limit that the log is not displayed on the maintenance history screen in the range of the log information of a specific type among the log information of a plurality of types. The log information other than the specific type may be displayed on the maintenance history screen. Alternatively, within a range of a specific type of log information among a plurality of types of log information, a limit may be set as a limit that the log information can be displayed only on a special maintenance history screen and is not displayed on a normal maintenance history screen.

FIG. 16 shows a specific example in which a setting change/confirmation history selection operation is performed during the maintenance mode. 16B is displayed in response to the detection of the operation of pressing the push button 31B by a person in charge of the game arcade or a person in charge of the manufacturer when the setting confirmation display as shown in FIG. 16A is displayed. The maintenance mode menu screen as shown in is displayed. Then, the option 012IW107 of "setting change/confirmation history" is selected and operated. In this case, the image display device 5 switches to display the setting change/confirmation history screen as shown in FIG. On the setting change/confirmation history screen, the date and time, whether the setting is changed or confirmed, and the changed setting value or the confirmed setting value are displayed in association with each other so that the latest log information is at the top. They are displayed in order. If the “current time setting” option is selected and operated while the maintenance mode menu screen is displayed, the image display device 5 switches to display the current time setting screen. In the current time setting screen, year, month, day, day of the week, hour, minute, or second items are selected by tilting the stick controller 31A left and right, and numbers for each item are selected by tilting the stick controller 31A before and after. To be done. After the current time setting screen is displayed, when the staff member of the game arcade or the person in charge of the manufacturer presses the push button 31B, the current date and time is set to the date and time currently displayed.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 41AK)
FIG. 17 shows an example of executing a backup process for the characteristic part 41AK. In this case, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 executes the program read from one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132, so that the memory writing processing unit 41AKM10 and the occurrence event information creation processing unit 41AKM21 to 41AKM23. It has a function. In addition, a writing flag 41AKF1 and a backup data buffer 41AKB1 are provided in a predetermined area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. The backup data buffer 41AKB1 includes a plurality of buffer areas including buffer areas 41AKB11 to 41AKB13. The backup data memories 210A to 210C of the backup memory substrate 14 are provided with backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. The backup storage unit 41AKA1 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 41AKA11 to 41AKA13 as log areas. The backup storage unit 41AKA2 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 41AKA21 to 41AKA23 as log areas. The backup storage unit 41AKA3 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 41AKA31 to 41AKA33 as log areas.

The occurrence event information creation processing unit 41AKM21 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the CPU internal error 41AKC1. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the exceptional backup process in step S42 of the CPU exceptional event occurrence process, and is data indicating log information including exceptional event information. Good. The occurrence event information creation processing unit 41AKM22 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the backup process at the time of error interrupt in step S52 of the VDP error interrupt process, and may be data indicating log information including VDP error information. Good. The occurrence event information creation processing unit 41AKM23 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the production control error determination 41AKC3. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the effect control backup process in step S79 of the effect control timer interrupt process, and is data indicating log information including effect control error data. If The backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing units 41AKM21 to 41AKM23 is temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 41AKB1 in the order of creation. For example, the backup data created first is written and stored in the buffer area 41AKB11, the backup data created next is written and stored in the buffer area 41AKB12, and the backup data created subsequently is written in the buffer area 41AKB13. Stored.

When there is backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 41AKB1, the memory writing processing unit 41AKM10 reads and acquires this. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. In this execution example, the same backup data is redundantly distributed and stored in the three backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3 in correspondence with the multiplicity of "3". For example, the backup data read and acquired from the buffer area 41AKB11 of the backup data buffer 41AKB1 includes the backup storage area 41AKA11 of the backup storage unit 41AKA1, the backup storage area 41AKA21 of the backup storage unit 41AKA2, and the backup storage area 41AKA31 of the backup storage unit 41AKA3. It is stored by copying and writing. At the start of writing backup data to the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3, the writing flag 41AKF1 is set to the ON state. At the end of the writing of the backup data, the writing flag 41AKF1 is cleared and turned off. When the writing flag 41AKF1 is off, the memory writing processing unit 41AKM10 permits writing of new backup data, and reads the backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 41AKB1. On the other hand, when the writing flag 41AKF1 is on, writing of new backup data is prohibited, and the backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 41AKB1 is not read.

For example, with respect to the backup data read from the buffer area 41AKB11 of the backup data buffer 41AKB1 and acquired, when the writing in the log area is completed and the writing flag 41AKF1 is turned off, the backup data temporarily stored in the next buffer area 41AKB12. Can be read. At this time, the backup data read and acquired is copied and written into the backup storage area 41AKA12 of the backup storage unit 41AKA1, the backup storage area AKA22 of the backup storage unit 41AKA2, and the backup storage area 41AKA32 of the backup storage unit 41AKA3. Remembered. When the writing in the log area is completed and the writing flag 41AKF1 is turned off, the backup data temporarily stored in the next buffer area 41AKB13 can be read. In this case, the backup data read and acquired should be copied and written in the backup storage area 41AKA13 of the backup storage unit 41AKA1, the backup storage area 41AKA23 of the backup storage unit 41AKA2, and the backup storage area 41AKA33 of the backup storage unit 41AKA3. Remembered in.

The backup storage unit 41AKA1 is provided as one continuous storage area by, for example, assigning continuous addresses to the backup storage areas 41AKA11 to 41AKA13. The backup storage unit 41AKA2 is provided as one continuous storage area, for example, by assigning consecutive addresses to the backup storage areas 41AKA21 to 41AKA23. The backup storage unit 41AKA3 is provided as one continuous storage area, for example, by assigning consecutive addresses to the backup storage areas 41AKA31 to 41AKA33. When the writing flag 41AKF1 is on, writing of new backup data is prohibited. As a result, if the first occurrence condition and the second occurrence condition among the occurrence conditions of the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components are satisfied and the backup data writing process corresponding to one condition is being executed, , The backup data write process corresponding to the other condition is not executed.

For example, if the conditions for generating the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied, and if the backup data writing process corresponding to the CPU internal error 41AKC1 is being executed, the writing flag 41AKF1 must be ON. Accordingly, the backup data write processing corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 is not executed. Alternatively, if the conditions for the occurrence of the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied and the backup data writing process corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 is being executed, the writing flag 41AKF1 is turned on. In response to this, the writing process of the backup data corresponding to the CPU internal error 41AKC1 is not executed. Which writing process is executed first may be determined in accordance with the backup data creation order. The writing process is also executed in the same manner when the conditions for occurrence of the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 and the effect control error determination 41AKC3 are satisfied, or when the conditions for the effect control error determination 41AKC3 and the CPU internal error 41AKC1 are satisfied. You can control it. As described above, when a plurality of occurrence conditions are satisfied, the range in which the backup data write process corresponding to one condition is being executed is the limit that the backup data write process corresponding to the other condition is not executed. As a limit is set. As long as the backup data writing process corresponding to one condition is not being executed, the backup data writing process corresponding to the other condition can be executed.

Note that the order of creating the backup data may be determined according to the processing priority in the effect control microcomputer 120. For example, when the conditions for generating the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied, the priority of the CPU exception event occurrence processing is higher than the priority of the VDP error interrupt processing, and therefore the occurrence event information creation processing unit. The backup data created by the 41AKM 21 may be executed before the backup data created by the incident event information creation processing unit 41AKM22. When the occurrence conditions of the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 and the effect control error determination 41AKC3 are satisfied, the priority of the VDP error interrupt process is higher than the priority of the effect control timer interrupt process, so that the event information is created. The creation of backup data by the processing unit 41AKM22 may be executed before the creation of backup data by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 41AKM23.

The generation condition of the CPU internal error 41AKC1 can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control device such as an exceptional event of the CPU 131. The generation condition of the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 can be satisfied according to the internal state of the processing device, such as the error interrupt request of the VDP 140. The generation condition of the production control error determination 41AKC3 can be established according to a processing result by the CPU 131, such as a determination when an error occurs in the production control backup process. Therefore, when the conditions for the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied, the backup data writing process can be executed with priority over the condition for the production control error determination 41AKC3. become.

For example, when the occurrence conditions of the CPU internal error 41AKC1 are satisfied a plurality of times, the backup data is created in the order in which those occurrence conditions are met, and the writing process can be executed in the order of the backup data creation. When the occurrence conditions of the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied a plurality of times, the backup data is created in the order in which those occurrence conditions are met, and the writing process can be executed in the order of creating the backup data. When the occurrence conditions of the production control error determination 41AKC3 are satisfied a plurality of times, the backup data is created in the order in which the occurrence conditions are met, and the writing process can be executed in the order of the backup data creation. In these cases, the writing is prohibited when the writing flag 41AKF1 is ON, so that if the writing process corresponding to the previous generation condition is being executed, the writing corresponding to the next generation condition is performed. Do not execute embedded processing. As described above, when the first occurrence condition or the second occurrence condition is satisfied multiple times among the occurrence conditions of the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components, the range in which the writing process corresponding to the previous occurrence condition is being executed Then, a limit is set as a limit that the writing process corresponding to the next generation condition is not executed. As long as the writing process corresponding to the previous generation condition is not being executed, the writing process corresponding to the next generation condition may be executed.

When a plurality of generating conditions are satisfied, whether or not any one of the writing processes is executed may be determined in accordance with the order in which the generating conditions are satisfied. For example, when another generating condition is satisfied during execution of the writing process corresponding to the generating condition that has been satisfied first, the writing process corresponding to the generating condition that is satisfied later may not be executed. Alternatively, whether or not any of the writing processes is executed may be determined according to the processing priority when a plurality of generating conditions are satisfied. For example, when the conditions for the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied at the same time, the processing priority of the CPU exception event occurrence processing is higher than the processing priority of the VDP error interrupt processing. The write process corresponding to the error 41AKC1 may be executed and the write process corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 may not be executed. Further, when a plurality of occurrence conditions are satisfied, the overwrite process may be executed according to the process priority. For example, when the conditions for the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2 are satisfied at the same time, the processing priority of the CPU exception event occurrence processing is higher than the processing priority of the VDP error interrupt processing. The writing process corresponding to the error 41AKC1 may be executed as an overwriting process for overwriting the stored data by the writing process corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2.

When a plurality of backup conditions are satisfied as a plurality of occurrence conditions, the creation order of backup data and whether or not to perform a writing process may be determined according to the content of the backup target data. For example, if the backup condition at the time of an error that the backup target data is the production control error data and the backup condition at the time of receiving the command that the backup target data is the received command data are satisfied at the same time, the backup condition at the time of the error occurrence It is also possible to execute the writing process corresponding to (1) first and the writing process corresponding to the backup condition at the time of command reception later. Alternatively, the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the error occurs may be executed, and the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the command is received may not be executed. In this case, the information regarding the malfunction of the electronic component including the rendering device is preferentially stored, so that the possibility of appropriately dealing with the malfunction of the electronic component is increased. Alternatively, the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the command is received may be executed first, and the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the error occurs may be executed later. Further, the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the command is received may be executed, and the writing process corresponding to the backup condition when the error occurs may not be executed. In this case, since the information regarding the reception status of the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 is preferentially stored, the possibility of being able to appropriately cope with the control defect relating to the game is increased.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 42AK)
FIG. 18 shows an example of execution of backup processing relating to the characteristic part 42AK. In this case, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 executes the program read from one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132, so that the memory writing processing units 42AKM11 to 42AKM13 and the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 to. It has the function of 42AKM23. The backup data memories 210A to 210C of the backup memory substrate 14 are provided with backup storage units 42AKA11 to 42AKA13, backup storage units 42AKA21 to 42AKA23, and backup storage units 42AKA31 to 42AKA33. The backup storage unit 42AKA11 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 42AKA111 to 42AKA113 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA12 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 42AKA121 to 42AKA123 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA13 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 42AKA131 to 42AKA133 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA21 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 42AKA21 to 42AKA213 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA22 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 42AKA221 to 42AKA223 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA23 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 42AKA231 to 42AKA233 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA31 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 42AKA31 to 42AKA313 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA32 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 42AKA321 to 42AKA323 as log areas. The backup storage unit 42AKA33 includes a plurality of backup storage areas including the backup storage areas 42AKA331 to 42AKA333 as log areas.

The occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the CPU internal error 42AKC1. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the exceptional backup process in step S42 of the CPU exceptional event occurrence process, and is data indicating log information including exceptional event information. Good. The occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM22 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the backup process at the time of error interrupt in step S52 of the VDP error interrupt process, and may be data indicating log information including VDP error information. Good. The occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM23 creates backup data indicating occurrence event information corresponding to the occurrence of the production control error determination 42AKC3. The backup data created at this time is, for example, data created by executing the effect control backup process in step S79 of the effect control timer interrupt process, and is data indicating log information including effect control error data. If The backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing units 42AKM21 to 42AKM23 can be stored in parallel in the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3.

The memory writing processing unit 42AKM11 acquires the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. The memory writing processing unit 42AKM12 acquires the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM22. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. The memory writing processing unit 42AKM13 acquires the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM23. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3.

Also in this execution example, the multiplicity corresponds to "3". The same backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 is redundantly distributed and stored in the three backup storage units 42AKA11 to 42AKA13. The same backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM22 is redundantly distributed and stored in the three backup storage units 42AKA21 to 42AKA23. The same backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKA23 is redundantly distributed and stored in the three backup storage units 42AKA31 to 42AKA33. For example, the backup data first acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 is stored in the backup storage area 42AKA111 of the backup storage unit 42AKA11, the backup storage area 42AKA121 of the backup storage unit 42AKA12, and the backup storage area 42AKA131 of the backup storage unit 42AKA13. , Is stored by copying and writing. The backup data acquired next from the event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 is stored in the backup storage area 42AKA112 of the backup storage unit 42AKA11, the backup storage area 42AKA122 of the backup storage unit 42AKA12, and the backup storage area 42AKA132 of the backup storage unit 42AKA13. It is stored by copying and writing. The backup data further acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 is the backup storage area 42AKA113 of the backup storage unit 42AKA11, the backup storage area 42AKA123 of the backup storage unit 42AKA12, and the backup storage area 42AKA133 of the backup storage unit 42AKA13. It is stored by copying and writing.

In the backup storage units 42AKA11 to 42AKA13 and the backup storage units 42AKA21 to 42AKA23, for example, different addresses are assigned between the backup storage areas 42AKA111 to 42AKA113 and the backup storage areas 42AKA21 to 42AKA213, and the backup storage areas 42AKA121 to 42AKA123 and the backup storage areas 42AKA121 to 42AKA23. Different addresses are assigned to the storage areas 42AKA221 to 42AKA223, and different addresses are assigned to the backup storage areas AKA131 to 42AKA133 and the backup storage areas 42AKA231 to 42AKA233 to provide different storage areas. In the backup storage units 42AKA21 to 42AKA23 and the backup storage units 42AKA31 to 42AKA33, for example, different addresses are assigned between the backup storage areas 42AKA21 to 42AKA213 and the backup storage areas 42AKA311 to 42AKA313, and the backup storage areas 42AKA221 to 42AKA223 are backed up. Different addresses are assigned to the storage areas 42AKA321 to 42AKA323, and different addresses are assigned to the backup storage areas AKA231 to 42AKA233 and the backup storage areas 42AKA331 to 42AKA333 to provide different storage areas. In the backup storage units 42AKA31 to 42AKA33 and the backup storage units 42AKA11 to 42AKA13, for example, different addresses are allocated between the backup storage areas 42AKA311 to 42AKA313 and the backup storage areas 42AKA111 to 42AKA113, and the backup storage areas 42AKA321 to 42AKA323 and the backup storage areas 42AKA11 to 42AKA13. Different addresses are assigned to the storage areas 42AKA121 to 42AKA123, and different addresses are assigned to the backup storage areas AKA331 to 42AKA333 and the backup storage areas 42AKA131 to 42AKA133 to provide different storage areas. Note that different storage areas may be provided by using physically different storage devices. The memory write processing units 42AKM11 to 42AKM13 can execute backup data write processing in parallel with each other. As a result, when the first occurrence condition and the second occurrence condition among the occurrence conditions of the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components are satisfied, while the backup data writing process corresponding to one condition is being executed, the other condition is satisfied. It is possible to execute the writing process of the backup data corresponding to the condition.

For example, when the conditions for occurrence of the CPU internal error 42AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 are satisfied, the memory write processing unit 42AKM12 is executing the backup data write processing corresponding to the CPU internal error 42AKC1 even while the memory write processing unit 42AKM12 is executing. Can execute the write processing of the backup data corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2. When the conditions for occurrence of the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 and the effect control error determination 42AKC3 are satisfied, the memory write processing unit 42AKM12 executes the memory write process even while the backup data write process corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 is being executed. The part 42AKM13 can execute a backup data writing process corresponding to the production control error determination 42AKC3. When the conditions for producing the production control error determination 42AKC3 and the CPU internal error 42AKC1 are satisfied, the memory writing processing unit 42AKM13 performs the memory writing process even while the backup data writing process corresponding to the production control error determination 42AKC3 is being executed. The unit 42AKM11 can execute the writing process of the backup data corresponding to the CPU internal error 42AKC. In this way, when a plurality of occurrence conditions are met, the backup data write process corresponding to the other condition can be executed even within the range where the backup data write process corresponding to the one condition is being executed. I wish I could. As long as the backup data write process corresponding to one condition is not being executed, it is naturally enough that the backup data write process corresponding to the other condition can be executed.

The condition for generating the CPU internal error 42AKC1 can be established according to the internal state of the control device such as an exceptional event of the CPU 131. The generation condition of the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 can be satisfied according to the internal state of the processing device such as the error interrupt request of the VDP 140. The generation condition of the production control error determination 42AKC3 can be established according to a processing result by the CPU 131, such as a determination when an error occurs in the production control backup process. Therefore, when the condition for generating the CPU internal error 42AKC1 or the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 is satisfied, the backup data writing process can be executed with priority over the condition for generating the effect control error determination 42AKC3. May be. For example, when the backup data is created, the creation order is determined according to the processing priority in the effect control microcomputer 120, so that the backup data write processing by the memory write processing units 42AKM11 to 42AKM13 is also created in the creation order. It may be executed with the following priority.

FIG. 19 shows an execution example different from the case of FIG. 18 regarding the backup processing relating to the characteristic part 42AK. In this execution example, when the occurrence conditions of the CPU internal error 42AKC1 are satisfied a plurality of times, the backup data is created in the order in which the occurrence conditions are met, and the write processing can be executed in the backup data creation order. .. In this case, a writing flag 42AKF1 and a backup data buffer 42AKB1 are provided in a predetermined area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. The backup data buffer 42AKB1 includes a plurality of buffer areas including buffer areas 42AKB11 to 42AKB13. The occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 creates backup data in the order in which the CPU internal error 42AKC1 occurs. For example, when the occurrence conditions of the CPU internal errors X1 to Xn corresponding to n times are satisfied as the CPU internal errors 42AKC1 of a plurality of times, the occurrence event information creation processing unit 42AKM21 causes the backup data Y1 corresponding to the occurrence conditions of each time. ~Yn are created and temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 42AKB1. For example, the backup data created first is written and stored in the buffer area 42AKB11, the backup data created next is written and stored in the buffer area 42AKB12, and the backup data created subsequently is written in the buffer area 42AKB13. Stored. When there is backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 42AKB1, the memory writing processing unit 42AKM11 reads and acquires this. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 42AKA11 to 42AKA13. At the start of writing backup data to the log area, the writing flag 42AKF1 is set to the ON state. At the end of writing the backup data, the writing flag 42AKF1 is cleared and turned off. When the writing flag 42AKF1 is off, the memory writing processing unit 42AKM11 permits writing of new backup data, and reads the backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 42AKB1. On the other hand, when the writing flag 42AKF1 is on, writing of new backup data is prohibited, and the backup data temporarily stored in the backup data buffer 42AKB1 is not read.

Even if the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 occurrence conditions are met multiple times, the backup data may be created in the order in which those occurrence conditions are met, and the writing process may be executed in the backup data creation order. Even when the occurrence conditions of the production control error determination 42AKC3 are satisfied multiple times, the backup data may be created in the order in which the occurrence conditions are satisfied, and the writing process may be executed in the order of the backup data creation. .. In these cases, the writing is prohibited when the writing flag provided corresponding to the VDP error interrupt 42AKC2 and the effect control error determination 42AKC3 is ON, so that the previous occurrence condition is met. If the writing process is being executed, the writing process corresponding to the next generation condition is not executed. As described above, when the first occurrence condition or the second occurrence condition is satisfied multiple times among the occurrence conditions of the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components, the range in which the writing process corresponding to the previous occurrence condition is being executed Then, a limit is set as a limit that the writing process corresponding to the next generation condition is not executed. As long as the writing process corresponding to the previous generation condition is not being executed, the writing process corresponding to the next generation condition may be executed.

When a plurality of generating conditions are satisfied, whether or not any one of the writing processes is executed may be determined in accordance with the order in which the generating conditions are satisfied. For example, when another generating condition is satisfied during execution of the writing process corresponding to the generating condition that has been satisfied first, the writing process corresponding to the generating condition that is satisfied later may not be executed. Alternatively, whether or not any of the writing processes is executed may be determined according to the processing priority when a plurality of generating conditions are satisfied. For example, among the exceptional events of the CPU 131, an exceptional event with a high processing priority and an exceptional event with a low processing priority may be set in advance. If the conditions for the occurrence of the CPU internal error 42AKC1 are satisfied a plurality of times at the same time, the writing process corresponding to the exceptional event having the high processing priority is executed, and the writing process corresponding to the exceptional event having the low processing priority is performed. It may not be executed. Further, when a plurality of occurrence conditions are satisfied, the overwrite process may be executed according to the process priority. For example, when the condition for generating the CPU internal error 42AKC1 is satisfied a plurality of times at the same time, the writing process corresponding to the exceptional event having the high processing priority is the stored data by the writing process corresponding to the exceptional event having the low processing priority. It may be executed as an overwriting process for overwriting.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 43AK)
FIG. 20 shows an example of executing a backup process for the characteristic part 43AK. In this case, the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 executes the program read from one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132, whereby the functions of the memory writing processing units 43AKM11 and 43AKM12 and the occurrence event information creation processing. Functions of the units 43AKM21 and 43AKM22 are provided. The backup data memories 210A to 210C of the backup memory substrate 14 are provided with the backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13 as well as the backup storage unit 43AKA21. The backup storage unit 43AKA11 is an 8-bit storage area, and is provided with backup storage areas 43AKA111 to 43AKA113 as log areas. The backup storage unit 43AKA12 is an 8-bit storage area, and includes backup storage areas 43AKA121 to 43AKA123 as log areas. The backup storage unit 43AKA13 is an 8-bit storage area, and includes backup storage areas 43AKA131 to 43AKA133 as log areas. On the other hand, the backup storage unit 43AKA21 is a 3-bit storage area, and includes backup storage areas 43AKA21 to 43AKA213 as log areas. The 8-bit storage area is a storage area in which writing processing and reading processing of storage data can be executed in 8-bit units. The 3-bit storage area is a storage area in which a writing process and a reading process of stored data can be performed in units of 3 bits.

The occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 creates backup data corresponding to the case where the backup condition of the storage area bit number being "8" and the multiplicity being "3" is satisfied. The memory writing processing unit 43AKM11 acquires the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log areas of the backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13. The same backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 is redundantly distributed and stored in the three backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13, which are 8-bit storage areas. For example, the backup data first acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 is stored in the backup storage area 43AKA111 of the backup storage unit 43AKA11, the backup storage area 43AKA121 of the backup storage unit 43AKA12, and the backup storage area 43AKA131 of the backup storage unit 43AKA13. , Is stored by copying and writing. The backup data acquired next from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 is stored in the backup storage area 43AKA112 of the backup storage unit 43AKA11, the backup storage area 43AKA122 of the backup storage unit 43AKA12, and the backup storage area 43AKA132 of the backup storage unit 43AKA13. It is stored by copying and writing. The backup data further acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 is the backup storage area 43AKA113 of the backup storage unit 43AKA11, the backup storage area 43AKA123 of the backup storage unit 43AKA12, and the backup storage area 43AKA133 of the backup storage unit 43AKA13. It is stored by copying and writing.

The occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22 creates backup data corresponding to the case where the backup condition of the storage area bit number "3" and the multiplicity "1" is satisfied. The memory writing processing unit 43AKM12 acquires the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22. The backup data acquired at this time is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and stored in the log area of the backup storage unit 43AKA21. For the backup storage unit 43AKA21 which is a 3-bit storage area, the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22 is smaller than the backup data storage area created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21. It is stored in the area. Specifically, a 3-bit storage area that corresponds to a storage area bit number of “3” and becomes storage data in 3-bit units smaller than the 8-bit unit of the 8-bit storage area is used. In addition, the multiplicity corresponds to “1”, and single backup data is stored without being distributed without mirroring. For example, the backup data initially acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22 is stored by being written in the backup storage area 43AKA211 of the backup storage unit 43AKA21 without copying. The backup data acquired next from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22 is stored by being written in the backup storage area 43AKA212 of the backup storage unit 43AKA21 without copying. The backup data further acquired from the occurrence event information creation processing unit 22 is stored by being written in the backup storage area 43AKA213 of the backup storage unit 43AKA21 without copying.

In the backup control table 120T, when the backup target data is any one of system data, effect control error data, player history data, received command data, and set value change time data, the storage area bit number is “8” and is large. Severity is designated as "3". On the other hand, when the data is any one of the power saving setting data, the current time change data, the power off time data, the store name setting data, and the production output amount data, the storage area bit number is “3” and the multiplicity is “1”. Is set to. For example, when the backup condition that the backup target data corresponds to the system data is satisfied, the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 is stored in the backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13 by the memory writing processing unit 43AKM11. It is written and stored in the log area. On the other hand, when the backup target data satisfies the backup condition corresponding to the power saving setting data, the backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM22 is small in the backup storage unit 43AKA21 by the memory writing processing unit 43AKM12. It is written and stored in the log area. In this way, when writing the first information corresponding to the first generation condition, the same backup data is stored in the plurality of log areas in the backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13. On the other hand, when writing the second information corresponding to the second generation condition, the backup data is stored in a small log area in the backup storage unit 43AKA21.

For example, the occurrence condition at the time of power saving change, in which the backup target data is the backup condition corresponding to the power saving setting data, is less frequently satisfied than the occurrence condition at the time of data update, which is the backup condition of the backup target data corresponding to the system data. As described above, the second occurrence condition may be one that is less frequently satisfied than the first occurrence condition. The event corresponding to the occurrence condition that is frequently satisfied affects the storage of the log information regarding other events when the log information cannot be properly stored, for example, when noise occurs during the writing process. Is likely to give. An event corresponding to an occurrence condition that is rarely satisfied is less likely to affect the storage of log information regarding another event, as compared with an event corresponding to an occurrence condition that is frequently satisfied. Therefore, when the log information corresponding to the occurrence condition that is frequently satisfied is written, by storing the same backup data in a plurality of log areas, it is possible to prevent the trouble caused by the abnormality in the stored data from spreading. On the other hand, when the log information corresponding to the occurrence condition that is rarely satisfied is written, by storing the backup data in the small log area, it is possible to prevent the storage data capacity from increasing.

The power-saving setting data can be set by an administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1, such as an attendant of a game hall. As described above, the second information corresponding to the second occurrence condition may be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The data that can be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be reset by the administrator even if a problem occurs in the setting contents, and there is a possibility that the player of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be disadvantaged. Low. On the other hand, for example, data corresponding to the occurrence condition of an event that occurs according to the progress of a game or production is impossible or difficult to reset, and there is a high possibility that the player will be disadvantaged or distrusted. Shows information about. Therefore, when the log information corresponding to the occurrence condition that cannot be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is written, the same backup data is stored in a plurality of log areas, so that verification can be accurately performed when an abnormality occurs. The nature is enhanced. On the other hand, when the log information corresponding to the occurrence condition that can be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is written, the backup data is stored in a small log area, so that the storage data capacity can be prevented from increasing. The information that can be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to the information shown in the power saving setting data, but the RTC information shown in the current time change data, the store name information shown in the store name setting data, It may be information of volume and light amount shown in the effect output amount data, or a combination of some or all of these. In addition, when a projector is used as the rendering device, information about display settings by the projector may be included in the information that can be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Note that the display setting information by the projector can be set by a person in charge at the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1, unlike the staff at the game arcade. As described above, the manager of the pachinko gaming machine 1 may include a person in charge of the game hall, or may include a person in charge of the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Not limited to the projector, the information about the setting regarding the effect frequency using a specific effect device may be included in the information that can be set by the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

In the backup storage units 43AKA11 to 43AKA13 that are 8-bit storage areas, different backup storage areas may be provided depending on the type of log information indicated in the backup data. For example, the backup storage area when the backup target data is the received command data may be provided as a storage area different from the backup storage area when the backup target data is the effect control error data. A backup storage area corresponding to an exceptional event of the CPU 131 or an error interrupt request of the VDP 140 may be provided inside or outside the backup storage area corresponding to the effect control error data. In this way, when the backup storage area according to the type of log information is provided in the 8-bit storage area, the memory write processing unit 43AKM11 determines that the backup storage area is determined according to the established backup condition. The backup data created by the occurrence event information creation processing unit 43AKM21 may be written in and stored in the.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 44AK)
FIG. 21 shows a configuration example regarding the characteristic unit 44AK. In this configuration example, a first effect control board 44AK12A and a second effect control board 44AK12B are provided. The first effect control board 44AK12A and the second effect control board 44AK12B may have the configurations and functions of the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 in the above-described embodiment. A first control unit 44AK10A, a first backup storage unit 44AK11A, and a connector 44AK13A are mounted on the first effect control board 44AK12A. A second control unit 44AK10B, a second backup storage unit 44AK11B, and a connector 44AK13B are mounted on the second effect control board 44AK12B. The connector 44AK13A of the first effect control board 44AK12A is connected to the connector 44AK13B of the second effect control board 44AK12B. The connector 44AK13B of the second effect control board 44AK12B is connected to the connector 44AK11B of the first effect control board 44AK12A. The first control unit 44AK10A and the second control unit 44AK10B may each have a part or all of the configuration and function of the effect control microcomputer 120 in the above-described embodiment. For example, the first control unit 44AK10A has a configuration and functions related to the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120, and the second control unit 44AK10B has a configuration and functions related to the VDP 140 of the effect control microcomputer 120. The first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B may each have a part or all of the configuration and function of the backup memory board 14 in the above-described embodiment. For example, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A has a configuration and functions related to the backup data memories 210A and 210B of the backup memory substrate 14, and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B includes a configuration related to the backup data memories 210C and 210D of the backup memory substrate 14. It has a function.

In the first effect control board 44AK12A, when the first control unit 44AK10A has the configuration and functions related to the CPU 131 in the above-described embodiment, for example, the serial communication circuit 137 of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the effect data memory board 16 effect. A process for controlling the first electronic component such as a data memory is executed. In this case, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A stores backup data indicating log information regarding the first control unit 44AK10A. In the second effect control board 44AK12B, when the second control unit 44AK10B has the configuration and function related to the VDP 140 in the above embodiment, for example, the sound processing circuit 141, the lamp control circuit 142, the motor control circuit of the effect control microcomputer 120. 143, the image display device 5, and the like, a process for controlling the second electronic component is executed. In this case, the second backup storage unit 44AK11B stores backup data indicating log information regarding the second control unit 44AK10B. As described above, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A can store information about the first control unit 44AK10A, and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B can store information about the second control unit 44AK10B.

When the first control unit 44AK10A has the configuration and functions related to the CPU 131, the log information including the exceptional event information of the CPU 131 is obtained by executing the exceptional time backup process of step S42 in the CPU exceptional event occurrence process. It is stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. When the second control unit 44AK10B has a configuration and functions related to the VDP 140, the log information including the VDP error information of the VDP 140 is executed by performing the error interrupt backup process of step S52 in the VDP error interrupt process. Is stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B. Thus, when the log information is stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A, the exceptional backup process in the CPU exceptional event occurrence process is executed. On the other hand, when the log information is stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, VDP error allocation is performed as a process different from the case where the log information is stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. Backup processing at the time of error interruption in the interruption processing may be executed. In addition, arbitrary storage processing different from each other is performed when the log information is stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and when the log information is stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B. May be.

In the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A, log information including exceptional event information of the CPU 131 is stored. On the other hand, in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, log information including the VDP error information of the VDP 140 is stored as information different from the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. Alternatively, in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A, for example, log information regarding an error that has occurred in the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B is stored. On the other hand, in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, for example, log information regarding an error that has occurred in the image display device 5 is stored. In addition, in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, log information regarding arbitrary different electronic components may be stored.

The log information corresponding to the event occurrence condition relating to the first control unit 44AK10A may be stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. In addition to or instead of this, log information may be stored. The log information corresponding to the event occurrence condition regarding the 2 control unit 44AK10B may be stored. In the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, log information corresponding to the occurrence condition of the event related to the second control unit 44AK10B may be stored. In addition to or instead of this, the first control Log information corresponding to the event occurrence condition relating to the unit 44AK10A may be stored. When both log information is stored in both log areas, even if a storage error occurs in one log area, an inspection such as analysis can be performed using the log information stored in the other log area. It becomes possible and the reliability of stored data is improved. The configuration and the function of the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 and the configuration and the function of the VDP 140 of the effect control microcomputer 120 are not limited to those divided into the first control unit 44AK10A and the second control unit 44AK10B. For example, the configuration and function of the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 may be divided into the first control unit 44AK10A and the second control unit 44AK10B. Alternatively, the first control unit 44AK10A and the second control unit 44AK10B may be provided corresponding to a plurality of CPUs. The first control unit 44AK10A may have a configuration and a function related to the CPU, and the second control unit 44AK10B may have a configuration and a function related to the light emission control.

The first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B are different from the first effect control board 44AK12A in which the first control unit 44AK10A is mounted and the second effect control board 44AK12B in which the second control unit 44AK10B is installed. For example, it may be mounted on the backup memory substrate 14. In this case, log information about the electronic component called the first control unit 44AK10A mounted on the first effect control board 44AK12A and log information about the electronic component called the second control unit 44AK10B installed on the second effect control board 44AK12B. Can be stored in the log areas of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B mounted on the common backup memory board 14. As described above, the backup data indicating the log information regarding the plurality of electronic components provided on the plurality of control boards may be stored in the log area of the storage device provided on the common backup memory board. Alternatively, the first backup memory board on which the first backup storage unit 44AK11A is mounted and the second backup memory board on which the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is mounted are the first effect control board 44AK12A and the second effect control board 44AK12B. It may be provided as a different substrate.

For example, the storage data capacity of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A is 1 MB (megabyte). On the other hand, the storage data capacity of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is 512 KB (kilobytes). In this way, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B may be configured as storage devices different from each other in that the storage data capacities are different. Alternatively, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A is configured using a nonvolatile ferroelectric memory such as FRAM (registered trademark). On the other hand, the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is configured using, for example, an SRAM with a battery. When a nonvolatile ferroelectric memory such as FRAM (registered trademark) is used, the stored data can be erased by inputting a specific signal such as a clear signal. When the SRAM with a battery is used, the stored data can be erased by removing the battery, for example, in addition to inputting the specific signal. Alternatively, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B may have different storage data transmission methods. For example, the storage data of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A is transmitted by the serial communication system, and the storage data of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is transmitted by the parallel communication system. The combination of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B with the serial communication system and the parallel communication system can be arbitrarily changed. In this case, the serial communication system may be capable of transmitting and receiving communication data compatible with the serial communication standard, which has a higher communication speed than the parallel communication system, or the serial communication standard, which has a lower communication speed than the parallel communication system. Corresponding communication data may be transmitted and received. The transmission speed of the stored data may be different depending on the configuration of the data line (whether shared or not), the hardware configuration of the communication circuit, or a combination thereof regardless of the serial communication standard. As described above, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B differ in the method of realizing the backup function, the difference in the material forming the memory cells, the method of erasing the stored data, and the stored data. Both storage units may be configured as storage devices different from each other in that the transmission method or the transmission speed of the stored data is different. In addition, the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B may be configured as storage devices different from each other due to arbitrary differences. In the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B, the storage data capacity, the backup function realizing method, the memory cell forming material, the storage data erasing method, and any other device configuration and storage function Some or all of them may be configured as a common storage device. The first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B can have any combination of configurations and functions.

The first backup storage unit 44AK11A can hold the stored contents without using a backup power supply, as in the case of being configured using FRAM (registered trademark), for example. In this case, the second backup storage unit 44AK11B can hold the stored contents by using a backup power source, as in the case where the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is configured by using an SRAM with a battery. In such a configuration, part or all of the log information stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B may be stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. When some log information is stored, the target log information is based on update frequency, update data amount, data importance, target component, target control, or a combination of some or all of these. , It may be predetermined. In a storage device capable of holding stored contents by using a backup power supply, the stored data is erased when the backup power supply disappears. Therefore, the stored data in the storage device that can retain the stored content by using the backup power supply is stored in the storage device that can retain the stored content without using the backup power supply to ensure the loss of the stored data. It can be prevented.

Whether to display on the maintenance history screen depending on whether the log information is stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A or the log information stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B. The settings may be different. For example, the log information stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A can be displayed on the maintenance history screen, while the log information stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is displayed on the maintenance history screen. It may be set not to be displayed. Even in this case, if the log information stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is also stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A, substantially all log information is stored. It can be displayed on the maintenance history screen. However, since the log information stored in the log area of the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is not the read target when the maintenance history screen is displayed, the log information stored in the log area of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A. Handling is different from. Not limited to the display of the maintenance history screen, the setting of whether or not to read the log information is different between the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B when performing arbitrary output. Good. As described above, the range of log information stored in one of the log areas of the first backup storage unit 44AK11A and the second backup storage unit 44AK11B is not a read target when performing output. May be provided. On the other hand, in the range of the log information stored in the other log area, it may be a read target when outputting.

The configuration and functions of the effect control board 12 and the backup memory board 14 in the above-described embodiment are as follows: the first effect control board 44AK12A provided with the first controller 44AK10A and the first backup storage section 44AK11A; This is realized by a configuration divided into a second effect control board 44AK12B provided with a second backup storage unit 44AK11B. In this case, for example, separate developers share the development of the configuration and functions of the first effect control board 44AK12A and the development of the configuration and functions of the second effect control board 44AK12B, and proceed in parallel. be able to. This reduces the burden of development work and prevents an increase in manufacturing cost.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 45AK)
FIG. 22 shows a setting example of the inspection designation command for the characteristic part 45AK. The inspection designation command is included in a plurality of test commands received when executing backup inspection processing, for example. FIG. 22A shows a setting example 45AK01 of the inspection output command and the inspection specifying command that can specify the communication method. The output unit for inspection may be any connector as long as it can select and specify a connector used as a signal output unit for inspection from, for example, the connectors 152 to 156. The inspection output section may be capable of inputting/outputting the inspection signal and outputting the read signal corresponding to the backup data. The communication method may be parallel or serial, and in the case of serial, any serial communication standard such as UART, SPI, and I2C may be selected and designated. As the inspection designation commands in the setting example 45AK01, a plurality of inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4 are prepared in advance. The plurality of inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4 may have different designation contents of the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 and the communication method.

The connector 152 is wire-connected to the effect control relay board 17, and can output control signals for a plurality of electronic components such as the driver circuit mounted on the driver board 19, the effect motor 60, and the effect LED 61. The connector 153 is wire-connected to the lamp output board 13 and can output a control signal for an electronic component such as a driver circuit mounted on the lamp output board 13. The connector 154 is wire-connected to the backup memory board 14 and can output control signals for a plurality of electronic components such as the RTC 201, the serial communication circuit 202, and the backup data memories 210A to 210D mounted on the backup memory board 14. The connector 155 is hard-wired to the performance data memory board 16 and can output control signals for a plurality of electronic components such as a plurality of performance data memories mounted on the performance data memory board 16. As described above, the connectors 152 to 155 can output control signals for a plurality of electronic components. On the other hand, the connectors 152 to 155 are designated as any of the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 by the inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4, and thus read signals of backup data indicating the log information read from the log area. It is possible to output a read signal according to the stored information. Since the connector 156 is wired and connected to the inspection device of the pachinko gaming machine 1, control signals for electronic components are not output. On the other hand, the connector 156 can output a read signal according to the stored information, such as a read signal of backup data indicating the log information read from the log area. For example, the connector 156 becomes an output terminal of the read signal according to the log information by being designated as one of the inspection output units 45AKC to 45AKC4 by the inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4.

The inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 that can be specified by the inspection specification commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4 may include a part of the connectors 152 to 156 or all of the connectors 152 to 156. The inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 may include connectors common to each other, or may include connectors different from other inspection output units. For example, the effect relay wiring connector 152 can input and output a plurality of types of control signals and detection signals according to the specifications of various circuits mounted on the effect control relay board 17, the audio output board 18, and the driver board 19. It suffices that it is configured and included in the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 of the inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4. On the other hand, for example, the frame lamp wiring connector 153 is configured to be capable of inputting and outputting a parallel signal, and is included in the inspection output unit 45AKC1 of the inspection specifying command 45AKA1 in which parallel is specified as the communication method. On the other hand, the connector 153 is not included in the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 of the inspection specification commands 45AKA2 to 45AKA4 in which any one of the serial communication standards is specified as the communication method. Further, for example, the backup wiring connector 154 is configured to be able to input/output a signal conforming to the SPI serial communication standard, and the inspection output unit 45AKC3 of the inspection specifying command 45AKA3 in which the SPI serial communication standard is specified as the communication method. include. On the other hand, the connector 154 is not included in the inspection output units 45AKC1, 45AKC2, and 45AKC4 of the inspection specification commands 45AKA1, 45AKA2, and 45AKA4 in which parallel or UART or I2C serial signal standard is specified as the communication method. As described above, the connectors 152 to 155 capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components include the connector 152 capable of outputting signals by a plurality of signal systems and the connectors 153, 154 capable of outputting signals by a specific signal system. May be included. Further, the connectors 152 to 156 that can be designated as the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 of the inspection designation commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4 output connectors 152 to 155 that can output control signals for a plurality of electronic components and control signals for the electronic components. And a connector 156 that is not provided. By specifying the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 by the inspection specification commands 45AKA1 to 45AKA4, a signal output unit corresponding to a plurality of types of received information is selected from a plurality of mutually different signal output units such as the connectors 152 to 156. Then, the inspection information corresponding to the inspection signal, such as the read signal of the backup data, can be output.

The CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 can execute various lottery processes related to the presence/absence of the effect and the effect mode, such as the lottery process of the notice effect. Based on the lottery result of such lottery processing, control signals corresponding to various control information are output. For example, when it is determined that a specific notice effect is to be executed as a result of the notice effect lottery, the control signal for reading the pattern data of the notice effect control pattern corresponding to the notice effect is the connector for the effect data wiring. It is output from 155 and transmitted to the effect data memory board 16 via the effect data wiring. In this case, according to the pattern data of the read-out notice effect control pattern that has been read, a control signal (voice signal) for controlling the sound output by the speakers 8L and 8R and a control signal for controlling the drive state of the effect motor 60. The (drive control signal) and the like are output from the effect relay wiring connector 152 and transmitted to the effect control relay board 17 via the effect relay wiring. Further, a control signal (electric decoration signal) for controlling the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9 is output from the connector 153 for frame lamp wiring and transmitted to the lamp output board via the frame lamp wiring. On the other hand, the backup wiring connector 154 can output a control signal for electronic components such as the backup data memories 210A to 210D provided on the backup memory substrate 14, but this control signal is a lottery result by the lottery process. It is not output based on. As described above, the connectors 152 to 155 capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components include connectors 152, 153, 155 capable of outputting control signals based on the lottery result, and a connector 154 different from these. There is.

It suffices that the connectors 152, 153, 155 can output control signals based on the lottery result and can output control signals that do not depend on the lottery result. As an example, when the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, a control signal for controlling the demonstration effect is output from the connectors 152, 153, 155 without executing the lottery process. It Among these, the connector 152 for effect relay wiring is a control signal (voice signal) for controlling the sound output by the speakers 8L and 8R and a control signal (drive control signal) for controlling the drive state of the effect motor 60. It is possible to output a control signal according to the control information of the speakers 8L and 8R as the production devices, the production motor 60, and the production LED 61. The frame lamp wiring connector 153 can output a control signal according to the control information of the game effect lamp 9 as a production device, such as a control signal (electric decoration signal) for controlling the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9. is there. On the other hand, the connector 155 for effect data wiring can output a control signal according to control information of an electronic component different from the effect device, such as a control signal for controlling the reading process of the effect data memory. In addition, the connector 154 for backup wiring can output a control signal according to control information of an electronic component different from the production device, such as a control signal for controlling the reading process and the writing process of the backup data memories 210A to 210D. Is. As described above, the connectors 152 to 155 capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components are connectors 152 and 153 capable of outputting control signals according to the control information of the rendering device, and control signals for electronic components other than the rendering device. And connectors 154 and 155 capable of outputting

FIG. 22B shows a setting example 45AK02 of the inspection designation command capable of designating the inspection output data. The inspection output data can be designated by selecting some or all of the data stored in the log areas of the backup data memories 210A to 210D provided on the backup memory substrate 14 as backup data indicating log information. If The inspection output data is output from one of the connectors 152 to 156 designated as one of the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 by the inspection designation command 45AKA1 to 45AKA4. As the inspection designation command in the setting example 45AK02, a plurality of inspection designation commands 45AKB1 to 45AKB12 are prepared in advance. The plurality of inspection designation commands 45AKB1 to 45AKB12 have different inspection output data.

The inspection designation command 45AKB1 designates system data as inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB2 designates the effect control error data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation 45 command AKB3 designates the player history data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB4 designates the received command data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB5 designates the setting change time data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB6 designates the power saving setting data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB7 designates the current time setting data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB8 designates the power-off time data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB9 designates the store name setting data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB10 designates the effect output amount data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB11 designates the effect history data as the inspection output data. The inspection designation command 45AKB12 designates all stored data as inspection output data.

The backup data that can be output by designating it as the inspection output data may indicate information about a plurality of electronic components or game-related information about a game. For example, when the production control error data is designated as the inspection output data by the inspection designation command 45AKB2, the backup data including the production control error data can be output, and the error that has occurred in the electronic component including the production device can be specified. Backup data is output.

On the other hand, if the player history data is designated as the inspection output data by the inspection designation command 45AKB3, it becomes possible to output the backup data including the player history data, and whether an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components has occurred. Regardless of whether or not the data regarding the player is updated, the backup data at the time of data update is output. When the received command data is designated as the inspection output data by the inspection designation command 45AKB4, backup data including the received command data can be output, regardless of whether or not an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components has occurred. Backup data at the time of receiving the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 is output. When the store name setting data is designated as the inspection output data by the inspection designation command 45AKB9, the backup data including the store name setting data can be output, regardless of whether or not an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components has occurred. Instead, the backup data when the name of the store corresponding to the game hall is set is output. When the system data is designated as the inspection output data by the inspection designation command 45AKB1, the backup data including the system data can be output. Backup data including system data is stored regardless of whether or not an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components has occurred and backup data at the time of updating data due to an event corresponding to a plurality of electronic components. It includes backup data when data is updated. About system data By outputting backup data at the time of updating data, backup data when an event corresponding to multiple electronic components occurs and whether or not an event corresponding to multiple electronic components occurs The backup data at the time of updating the data are output. In this way, it is possible to output information about electronic parts, game-related information about games, or general information unrelated to electronic parts or games according to the specified contents of the inspection output data by the inspection specifying command. .. It should be noted that the content specified by the inspection output data by the inspection specification command is not limited to the information about the electronic component according to an arbitrary detection result such as a detection result of a predetermined operation of the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. The output information may be switchable, such as game-related information about a game or general information that is not related to electronic parts or games. Not limited to the detection result, it is possible to switch output information such as information about electronic parts, game related information about games, or general information not related to electronic parts or games according to arbitrary control or processing. I wish I had it.

(About transformation and application)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to have all the technical features shown in the above-mentioned embodiment, and it is possible to solve at least one problem in the related art, and the part described in the above-mentioned embodiment It may be provided with the structure of.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 may not perform variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols. As an example, a variable winning device provided in the game area is opened (closed state (second state)) based on the detection of a game ball that has passed through (entered) a start winning opening provided in the game area ( (1st state), when the game ball that has entered the inside of the variable winning apparatus enters a specific area (V winning opening) of the plurality of areas, it is controlled to a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player. It may be configured to.

In the above-described embodiment, the “proportion” and “probability” at which various kinds of decisions are made are, for example, 70:30, and the probability of each decision result is 0% (not decided) or 100% (always May be set so that it is not determined), and at least one of the determination results may be 0% (not determined) or 100% (certainly determined). It may be set. For example, in the case of making various decisions, if the proportion of any one of the plurality of decision results is higher than the proportion of other decision results, the proportion of one decision result is It may be included that it is 100%, and that the ratio of other determination results is 0%. When the ratio of 1 is 100%, the ratio of other determinations is 0%. Further, when the ratio of the other determination result is 0%, if the ratio of the 1 determination result is a predetermined ratio other than 100% and not 0%, the ratio of the 1 determination result is the other determination result. Will be higher than the ratio.

In addition, various effects including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation in the image display device, the voice output operation in the speaker, and the lighting operation in the game effect lamp and the effect LED. The operation and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the game machine of the present invention is not limited to a pay-out type game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as a prize based on the occurrence of a prize, and encloses the game medium to score points based on the occurrence of a prize. It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives a.

The present invention can be applied not only to the pachinko gaming machine 1 but also to a slot machine or the like. The slot machine is, for example, an arbitrary gaming machine that performs a predetermined game such as a variable display of symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information, and can give a predetermined game value based on the game result, and more specifically, The game can be started by setting a predetermined bet number (the number of medals or the number of credits) for one game, and a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (designs) that can be identified by each ( One game is ended by displaying and displaying the display results of a plurality of reels, etc., and a prize is awarded according to the display result (for example, cherry prize, watermelon prize, bell prize, replay prize, BB prize, RB prize, etc.). Is a gaming machine that is capable of generating. In such a slot machine, the hardware resources including the effect moving mechanism provided on the front side of the slot machine and the software for performing a predetermined process cooperate with each other, so that the pachinko machine shown in the above-described embodiment is operated. The gaming machine 1 may be configured to have all or some of the features of the gaming machine 1.

The slot machine is not limited to one in which the bet amount is set by using medals and credits as a gaming value, and only a slot machine in which a bet number is set by using a gaming ball as a gaming value or only credits as a gaming value. It may be a fully creditable slot machine in which the bet amount is set by using. When a game ball is used as a game medium, for example, one medal can be made to correspond to five game balls. For example, when 3 is set as the bet number, 15 game balls are used for the bet number. Is equivalent to the one that sets. The pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine are not limited to those that use only one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and gaming balls. For example, a plurality of types such as medals and gaming balls may be used. It may be one that can be used together with the gaming value. For example, a slot machine can set a bet number and play a game using any of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, and when a winning occurs, a plurality of medals and game balls etc. can be played. Any type of gaming value may be payable.

The programs and data for realizing the present invention are limited to a form in which they are distributed and provided by a removable recording medium to a computer device included in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 or a slot machine. However, it may be distributed by pre-installing in a storage device such as a computer device in advance. Furthermore, the program and data for implementing the present invention may be distributed by being downloaded from another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

The game execution mode is not limited to that executed by mounting a removable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing the program and data downloaded via a communication line in the internal memory or the like. Alternatively, a hardware resource on the side of another device on the network connected via a communication line or the like may be directly used. Furthermore, the game may be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

(Explanation on Problem Solving Means and Effects of Characteristic Section 41AK)
A gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 capable of playing a game, and capable of controlling a plurality of electronic components, such as control means such as a microcomputer 120 for production control, and power supply to the gaming machine are stopped. Even if the storage content can be held and information about a plurality of electronic components can be stored, for example, a storage unit such as backup data memories 210A to 210D is provided, and the control unit can control the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components. When the generation condition is satisfied, for example, a writing process by the memory writing processing unit 41AKM10 can be executed as the writing process for writing the information into the storage unit, and the storage unit includes, for example, the backup storage areas 41AKA11 to 41AKA13. A storage area in which the first information corresponding to the first occurrence condition is written and a storage area in which the second information corresponding to the second occurrence condition is written are provided as one continuous area, such as the backup storage unit 41AKA1. For example, when the first occurrence condition and the second occurrence condition are satisfied, such as the write prohibition when the writing flag 41AKF1 is ON, while the process of writing the information corresponding to one condition is being performed, the other Do not execute the process of writing the information corresponding to the condition. As described above, since the process of writing the information corresponding to the other one is not executed during the process of writing the information corresponding to one of the first occurrence condition and the second occurrence condition, the conflict of the information writing process is avoided. It This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The generation condition may be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means, such as the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2. In this way, when the generation condition according to the internal state of the control means is satisfied, the writing process for writing the information about the electronic parts in the storage means is executed to store the information about the electronic parts including the control means. be able to. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The first occurrence condition can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means such as the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2, and the second occurrence condition is determined by the control means such as the effect control error determination 41AKC3. It is possible to be satisfied according to the processing result. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the first occurrence condition is satisfied, the writing process is executed with priority over the case where the second occurrence condition is satisfied. It may be possible. In this way, when the first occurrence condition that can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means is satisfied, the writing is given priority over the case where the second occurrence condition that can be satisfied according to the processing result by the control means is satisfied. By executing the plug-in process, the priority of the write process is set while avoiding the conflict of the write process of the information about the electronic component. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When the first occurrence condition or the second occurrence condition is satisfied a plurality of times, the next condition is determined according to the execution information indicating that the process of writing the information corresponding to the previous condition, such as the writing flag 41AKF1, is being executed. The process of writing the corresponding information may be restricted. By restricting the process of writing information according to such execution information, conflict of processes can be easily avoided. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

In the writing process, the same information may be stored in a plurality of storage areas such as the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. By thus storing the same information in a plurality of storage areas, the reliability of the information can be improved. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When the write condition different from the generation condition is satisfied, the control means writes the game-related information different from the information about the plurality of electronic components in the storage means, for example, a backup process according to the setting of the backup control table 120T. Etc. may be executable. Thus, if the process of writing the game-related information corresponding to the writing condition different from the generation condition becomes executable, various information can be stored and managed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, output means capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components, such as connectors 152 to 155, and capable of outputting a read signal according to stored information in the storage means may be provided. Since such output means can output the control signal and the read signal, it is possible to prevent the device configuration from becoming complicated and the manufacturing cost from increasing. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, a connector 156 that can output a control signal for a plurality of electronic components, such as connectors 152 to 155, and a read signal that is different from the first output device and that can output a read signal according to stored information in a storage unit. And second output means such as. As described above, if the first output means can output the control signal and the second output means can output the read signal, confusion of the output signals can be prevented. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

(Explanation on Problem Solving Means and Effects of Characteristic Section 42AK)
A gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 capable of playing a game, and capable of controlling a plurality of electronic components, such as control means such as a microcomputer 120 for production control, and power supply to the gaming machine are stopped. Even if the storage content can be held and information about a plurality of electronic components can be stored, for example, a storage unit such as backup data memories 210A to 210D is provided, and the control unit can control the event corresponding to the plurality of electronic components. When the occurrence condition is satisfied, as the writing process for writing the information into the storage unit, for example, the writing process by the memory writing processing units 42AKM11 to 42AKM13 can be executed, and the storage unit can be, for example, the backup storage areas 42AKA111 to 42AKA113. A storage area in which the first information corresponding to the first occurrence condition is written, such as a backup storage unit 42AKA11 including the backup storage area 42AKA21, the backup storage area 42AKA21 including the backup storage areas 42AKA21, and the backup storage area 42AKA31 including the backup storage areas 42AKA31 to 42AKA313 , The storage area in which the second information corresponding to the second generation condition is written is provided as a different area, and the first generation condition and the second generation condition such as the memory write processing by the memory write processing units 42AKM11 to 42AKM13. When is satisfied, it is possible to execute the process of writing the information corresponding to the other condition while the process of writing the information corresponding to the one condition is being executed. In this way, since the process of writing the information corresponding to the other one can be executed even while the process of writing the information corresponding to one of the first occurrence condition and the second occurrence condition is being executed, the efficiency of the process of writing the information can be improved. .. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The generation condition may be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means, such as the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2. In this way, when the generation condition according to the internal state of the control means is satisfied, the writing process for writing the information about the electronic parts in the storage means is executed to store the information about the electronic parts including the control means. be able to. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The first occurrence condition can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means such as the CPU internal error 41AKC1 and the VDP error interrupt 41AKC2, and the second occurrence condition is determined by the control means such as the effect control error determination 41AKC3. It is possible to be satisfied according to the processing result. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the first occurrence condition is satisfied, the writing process is executed with priority over the case where the second occurrence condition is satisfied. It may be possible. In this way, when the first occurrence condition that can be satisfied according to the internal state of the control means is satisfied, the writing is given priority over the case where the second occurrence condition that can be satisfied according to the processing result by the control means is satisfied. By executing the plug-in process, the priority of the write process is set while avoiding the conflict of the write process of the information about the electronic component. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When the first occurrence condition or the second occurrence condition is satisfied a plurality of times, the next condition is determined according to the execution information indicating that the process of writing the information corresponding to the previous condition, such as the writing flag 41AKF1, is being executed. The process of writing the corresponding information may be restricted. By restricting the process of writing information according to such execution information, conflict of processes can be easily avoided. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

In the writing process, the same information may be stored in a plurality of storage areas such as the backup storage units 41AKA1 to 41AKA3. By thus storing the same information in a plurality of storage areas, the reliability of the information can be improved. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When the write condition different from the generation condition is satisfied, the control means writes the game-related information different from the information about the plurality of electronic components in the storage means, for example, a backup process according to the setting of the backup control table 120T. Etc. may be executable. Thus, if the process of writing the game-related information corresponding to the writing condition different from the generation condition becomes executable, various information can be stored and managed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, output means capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components, such as connectors 152 to 155, and capable of outputting a read signal according to stored information in the storage means may be provided. Since such output means can output the control signal and the read signal, it is possible to prevent the device configuration from becoming complicated and the manufacturing cost from increasing. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, a connector 156 that can output a control signal for a plurality of electronic components, such as connectors 152 to 155, and a read signal that is different from the first output device and that can output a read signal according to stored information in a storage unit. And second output means such as. As described above, if the first output means can output the control signal and the second output means can output the read signal, confusion of the output signals can be prevented. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

(Explanation on Problem Solving Means and Effects of Characteristic Section 43AK)
A gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 capable of playing a game, and capable of controlling a plurality of electronic components, such as control means such as a microcomputer 120 for production control, and power supply to the gaming machine are stopped. Even if the storage content can be retained and information about a plurality of electronic components can be stored, for example, the storage means such as the backup data memories 210A to 210D is provided, and the control means, when the write condition is satisfied, As the writing process for writing the information in the storage unit, for example, the writing process by the memory writing processing units 43AKM11 and 43AKM12 can be executed, and when writing the first information corresponding to the first generation condition, for example, the backup storage unit When the same information is stored in a plurality of storage areas such as 43AKA11 to 43AKA13 and the second information corresponding to the second occurrence condition is written, the information is stored in a storage area smaller than the plurality of storage areas such as the backup storage unit 43AKA21. Memorize In this way, by providing the case where the same information is stored in a plurality of storage areas and the case where the information is stored in a storage area smaller than the plurality of storage areas, various information corresponding to the information about a plurality of electronic components can be obtained. Memories are made. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When it is determined that the stored information is normal in a predetermined number of storage areas among the plurality of storage areas that store the same information as the first information, restoration is performed based on the stored information, such as restoration by information processing at power-on. The process may be executable. In this way, since the restoration process is executed when the stored information is determined to be normal in the predetermined number of storage areas, the reliability of restoration based on the stored information is improved. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When it is determined that the stored information corresponding to the second information is abnormal, it may be possible to execute an initial process for setting the initial information, such as initial value setting by power-on information processing. In this way, the initial process for setting the initial information is executed, so that it is possible to prevent a malfunction when it is determined that the abnormality is present. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The second generation condition may be less frequently satisfied than the first generation condition, such as a backup condition when power saving is set. In this way, various storages are performed by providing the second occurrence condition that is less frequently satisfied. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The second information may be setting information that can be set by the administrator of the gaming machine, such as power saving setting data. In this way, by storing the setting information that can be set by the administrator of the gaming machine, various kinds of storage are performed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, connection wiring connecting the control means and the storage means, such as wiring connected to the terminals TM03 and TM04 of the connector 154 and the terminals TM13 and TM14 of the connector 220, and the terminals TM01 and TM02 of the connector 154 and the terminal TM11 of the connector 220, for example. , TM12 may be provided with a connection confirmation wiring capable of confirming the connection state between the control means and the storage means. In this way, the reliability of the memory is improved by providing the connection confirmation wiring capable of confirming the connection state. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, output means capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components, such as connectors 152 to 155, and capable of outputting a read signal according to stored information in the storage means may be provided. Since such output means can output the control signal and the read signal, it is possible to prevent the device configuration from becoming complicated and the manufacturing cost from increasing. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, a first output unit capable of outputting control signals for a plurality of electronic components such as connectors 152 to 155, and a read signal corresponding to stored information in the storage unit, unlike the first output unit such as connector 156, can be output. Second output means may be provided. As described above, if the first output means can output the control signal and the second output means can output the read signal, confusion of the output signals can be prevented. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

(Explanation on Problem Solving Means and Effects of Characteristic Section 44AK)
A gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 capable of playing a game, for example, a first controller 44AK10A, a first controller capable of controlling a first electronic component, and a second controller 44AK10B, for example. , Second control means capable of controlling the second electronic component, and memory contents can be retained even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and information relating to the first control means and the second control means can be stored, for example, A storage unit such as backup data memories 210A to 210D is provided, and when a write condition is satisfied, a writing process for writing information to the storage unit can be executed, and the storage unit stores information related to the first control unit. First storage means capable of, for example, the first backup storage section 44AK11A, and unlike the first storage means, second storage means capable of storing information about the second control means, such as the second backup storage section 44AK11B. Including and As described above, unlike the first storage unit capable of storing information about the first control unit, the second storage unit capable of storing information about the second control unit is provided, so that various storages according to the control unit are provided. Is done. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

When writing the information regarding the first control means, it may be possible to execute, for example, the CPU exception event occurrence processing or the VDP error interrupt processing as the processing different from the case where the information regarding the second control means is written. In this way, by performing different processing, various types of storage according to the control means are performed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The first storage means is capable of storing information relating to an occurrence event corresponding to the first electronic component, such as log information including exception event information of the CPU 131, and the second storage means is capable of storing VDP error interrupt information of the VDP 140, for example. It may be possible to store information regarding an occurrence event according to the second electronic component, such as log information including the log information. In this way, by storing the information on the occurrence event according to different electronic components, various storages according to the electronic components are performed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The first control means can be installed as a board different from the first storage means, for example, on the first effect control board 12A, and the second control means is a board different from the second storage means, for example, the second effect. It may be installable on the control board 12B or the like. In this way, by installing the control means and the storage means on different substrates, maintenance work is facilitated and a flexible device configuration is possible. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The first storage means can hold the stored contents by using a backup power supply, for example, when using an SRAM with a battery, and the second storage means uses a backup power supply, for example, when using FRAM (registered trademark). The stored content may be retained without being used, and the second storage means may be able to store a part of the stored content in the first storage means. As described above, the certain storage content in the first storage unit is also stored in the second storage unit, so that the reliability of the storage is improved. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, connecting wires connecting the first controlling means and the second controlling means to the storing means, such as wires connected to the terminals TM03 and TM04 of the connector 154 and the terminals TM13 and TM14 of the connector 220, and the terminal TM01 of the connector 154, A connection confirmation wiring capable of confirming a connection state between the first control unit and the second control unit and the storage unit, such as a wiring connected to the terminals TM11 and TM12 of the TM02 and the connector 220, may be provided. In this way, the reliability of the memory is improved by providing the connection confirmation wiring capable of confirming the connection state. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, when the display unit such as the image display device 5 is provided and the maintenance history screen is displayed, the storage information of the second storage unit may be output by the display of the display unit. In this way, the stored information is output by the display, so that the stored content can be easily confirmed. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

For example, unlike the first output means such as the connectors 152 to 155 capable of outputting control signals for the first electronic component and the second electronic component, and the first output means such as the connector 156, reading according to the stored information of the storage means. A second output means capable of outputting a signal may be provided. As described above, if the first output means can output the control signal and the second output means can output the read signal, confusion of the output signals can be prevented. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

(Explanation on Problem Solving Means and Effects of Characteristic Part 45AK)
A gaming machine capable of playing a game, such as a pachinko gaming machine 1, capable of controlling electronic components, such as control means such as a microcomputer 120 for production control, and a connector capable of outputting a control signal, such as a connector. And output means such as 152 to 155. The output means can output a control signal according to at least a part of the control information based on the lottery result by the control means, for example, a first connector 152, 153, 155 or the like. The output unit and the second output unit different from the first output unit include, for example, a connector 154. As described above, by providing the second output means different from the first output means capable of outputting the control signal based on the lottery result, various signals are output. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The second output means outputs the control signal through a route different from the first output means in the same substrate as the first output means, for example, when a connector 154 different from the connectors 152, 153, 155 is installed. It may be possible. In this way, since the control signal is output via different paths, the reliability of various signal outputs can be enhanced. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The second output means may be able to output a control signal according to the control information of the rendering device, for example, when the connector 152 is designated as one of the inspection output units 45AKC1 to 45AKC4. In this way, by outputting the control signal according to the control information of the rendering device, various signals are output. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The second output unit may be capable of outputting a control signal of a signal system different from that of the first output unit, such as a communication system according to the output section setting example 45AK01. In this way, by outputting control signals of different signal systems, various signals are output. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

A mounting member, for example, a connector 156, which can mount a connecting unit to which the inspection device of the gaming machine is connected may be provided, and the mounting member may be soldered when the connecting unit is not mounted. By performing such a soldering process, disconnection due to oxidation or corrosion can be prevented even when not mounted. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The control means can execute, for example, a backup inspection process or the like as the inspection process for outputting the inspection information on the electronic component based on the received information. For example, the output unit for inspection 45AKC1 to 45AKC4 or the like outputs a plurality of types of received information according to the received information. The inspection information may be output by different output means. In this way, the inspection information is output by the output unit according to the received information, so that the flexibility of information output is enhanced. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

The output means may be capable of outputting information about electronic components such as effect control error data and game-related information about games such as system data and received command data. In this way, by outputting the information about the electronic parts and the game-related information about the game, various information is output. This makes it possible to manage information appropriately.

(Explanation regarding the characteristic part 95AK)
You may change the content of any one of the said embodiment and the said characteristic parts 41AK-45AK into the characteristic part 95AK. The characteristic part 95AK will be described below.

(Backup storage, backup data, etc.)
In the characteristic unit 95AK, as shown in FIG. 23-1, a 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to a 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 and a second backup storage unit 95AK004 are prepared.

The 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 is provided in the backup data memory 210A, and includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 95AK001A, 95AK001B, 95AK001C,... As log areas.

The 1-2nd backup storage unit 95AK002 is provided in the backup data memory 210B, and includes a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 95AK002A, 95AK002B, 95AK002C,... As log areas.

The 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 is provided in the backup data memory 210C, and has a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 95AK003A, 95AK003B, 95AK003C,... As log areas.

The second backup storage unit 95AK004 is provided in the backup data memory 210D and has a plurality of backup storage areas including backup storage areas 95AK004A, 95AK004B, 95AK004C,... As log areas.

The first-first backup storage unit 95AK001 to the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003 and the second backup storage unit 95AK004 are among the plurality of backup data backed up by the above-described embodiment and the characteristic units 41AK-45AK. At least a part is stored (backed up) as either manufacturer confirmation data or store confirmation data. It should be noted that it is optional to allocate the plurality of backup data to the manufacturer confirmation data or the store confirmation data, and the following is an example thereof.

The manufacturer confirmation data is data confirmed by the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and includes, for example, defect identification data. The failure identification data is data for identifying the failure causing the failure by checking the behavior of the failed pachinko gaming machine 1 when the pachinko gaming machine 1 fails (1) Backup data having the CPU exception event occurrence as a backup condition (backup data created and backed up in the CPU exception event occurrence process; also referred to as CPU exception event occurrence data), and (2) VDP error interrupt request occurrence There is backup data as backup conditions (backup data created and backed up by the VDP error interrupt process, also referred to as VDP error data). Further, as defect specifying data, (3) system data, (4) received command data, (5) production output amount data, and (6) production history, which are created and backed up in the above-described production control backup process. There is data etc. The manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1 collects the failed pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 whose image is no longer displayed on the image display device 5) and analyzes the log information indicated by the data. The behavior of the pachinko gaming machine 1 before the failure can be specified, and the malfunction that causes the failure of the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be searched by the specified behavior.

The manufacturer confirmation data may include other data. For example, the manufacturer confirmation data may be player history data, store name setting data, or the like. From these data, it is possible to grasp the tendency of the player who has played the game with the pachinko gaming machine 1, the tendency of the player for each region, and the like.

The manufacturer confirmation data is created by the first occurrence event information creation processing unit (not shown) similarly to the characteristic unit 41AK and the like, and is backed up by the first memory writing processing unit (not shown) in the 1-1 backup. The storage unit 95AK001 to the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003 are written. The first occurrence event information creation processing unit and the first memory writing processing unit are similar to the occurrence event information creation processing unit and the memory writing processing unit such as the characteristic unit 41AK, from one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132. It is configured by the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 that executes the read program.

The first occurrence event information creation processing unit, when any backup condition of each data of the manufacturer confirmation data is satisfied, sets the backup data indicating the log information according to the satisfaction of the backup condition to the manufacturer confirmation data. And stores it in a first backup data buffer provided in a predetermined area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 (for example, each processing of FIGS. 8A and 8B, step S79, etc.). The second memory writing processing unit reads the backup data (manufacturer confirmation data) stored in the first backup data buffer one by one, and transfers the backup data to the backup memory substrate 14 (writing as in the characteristic unit 41AK). The transfer or writing of backup data may be restricted by turning on/off the middle flag 41AKF1).

The memory controller 200 of the backup memory substrate 14 stores the transferred backup data in each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 (stores the same data in each storage unit). Specifically, the memory controller 200 stores (backs up) the same manufacturer confirmation data in each of the backup storage area 95AK001A, the backup storage area 95AK002A, and the backup storage area 95AK003A, and similarly, the backup storage areas 95AK001B to 95AK003B, respectively. , The same manufacturer confirmation data is stored in the backup storage areas 95AK001C to 95AK003C, respectively (sequentially from the top of the backup storage area in FIG. 23-1). Thus, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up with the multiplicity of 3.

The log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data is not displayed on the pachinko gaming machine 1 (image display device 5) or the like. The manufacturer confirmation data is read by the manufacturer (outside the store) by using, for example, a data reading device connected to the connectors 152 to 156 (a dedicated reading device including a jig dedicated to the connectors 152 to 156). (The reading may be performed by using the inspection designation command of 45AK). As a result, the manufacturer confirmation data can be read by using the connector for other purposes.

The store confirmation data is data indicating log information that can be confirmed by an attendant of a store (gaming hall) in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed (particularly, data displayed on a display unit such as the image display device 5 by a predetermined operation). . On the other hand, the log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data is more difficult to confirm than the log information indicated by the store confirmation data because the log information indicated by the display means etc. cannot be confirmed). For example, the maintenance mode history screen (Fig. 14, FIG. 15) and information (log information) displayed on the setting change/confirmation history screen (FIG. 16). As store confirmation data, here, based on (1) production control error data (“switch error error”, “prize ball error error”, “magnet error”, “illegal winning error”, etc.) described above. Data), (2) Setting value change time data (It is preferable to include the setting value after change and the change start time or end time data) ("Setting change completed", "Setting change started" , (Data that is the basis for setting change/confirmation history, etc.), (3) Setting value confirmation time data (which may include setting value data at the time of setting value confirmation) ("Setting confirmation completed", Based on "Started setting confirmation", data that is the basis for setting change/confirmation history, etc., (4) Power saving setting data, (5) Current time change data ("Time set") Data) and (6) power-off time data (data that is the basis of “power-off” and the like). The store confirmation data includes error information data (production control error data) and data capable of specifying the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 by a store clerk (setting value change time data, setting value confirmation time data, etc.), Should be included. Note that the date and time may be identifiable in each time data (the same applies below).

As backup data, (1) RAM clear time data indicating the RAM clear time as the backup condition (data that is the basis of "RAM clear" etc.), and (2) Power ON as the backup condition. Power-on time data indicating the time of (the data that is the source of "power-on", etc.), (3) When the accessory is provided, the movement of the accessory is restricted (for example, when the accessory is operated, The time (including the date and time; the same applies hereinafter) and the content of the setting change are indicated by using the setting change of the movement of the role object when the object may hit the equipment around the pachinko gaming machine 1) as a backup condition. First setting change data, (4) Second setting change data indicating the time and contents of the setting change with the setting change such as the volume and the execution frequency of various effects instructed by the management computer of the store as the backup condition, (5 ) At least one of the game progress data indicating the fact that the condition is satisfied, the time, and the like may be prepared using the predetermined condition related to the game such as "probability change failure" as a backup condition, and these may be included in the store confirmation data.

In the characteristic part 95AK, the CPU confirmation event occurrence data and the VDP error data are not included in the store confirmation data (therefore, they are not displayed on the maintenance mode history screen or the setting change/confirmation history screen. In FIG. "VDP error", "CPU exception event" in FIG. 15 and the like are not displayed). This is because these data do not need to be confirmed by store employees. On the other hand, the specific backup data such as the power saving setting data may be included in both the manufacturer confirmation data and the store confirmation data.

The store confirmation data is created by the second occurrence event information creation processing unit (not shown) and written in the second backup storage unit 95AK004 by the second memory writing processing unit (not shown). The second occurrence event information creation processing unit and the second memory writing processing unit are similar to the occurrence event information creation processing unit and the memory writing processing unit such as the characteristic unit 41AK, from one or both of the external ROM 121 and the internal ROM 132. It is configured by the CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 that executes the read program.

The second occurrence event information creation processing unit creates backup data indicating log information corresponding to the establishment of the backup condition as the store confirmation data when any one of the data items of the store confirmation data is satisfied. , A second backup data buffer provided in a predetermined area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 (for example, step S79). The second memory writing processing unit reads the backup data (manufacturer confirmation data) stored in the second backup data buffer one by one, and transfers the backup data to the backup memory substrate 14 (writing as in the characteristic unit 41AK). The transfer or writing of backup data may be restricted by turning on/off the middle flag 41AKF1).

The memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 stores the transferred backup data in the second backup storage unit 95AK004. Specifically, the memory controller 200 stores (backs up) store confirmation data in the backup storage area 95AK004A, and similarly stores the store confirmation data in the backup storage area 95AK004B, the backup storage area 95AK004C,. They are stored one by one (sequentially from the top of the backup storage area in FIG. 23-1). In this way, the store confirmation data is backed up with a multiplicity of 1.

(Backup processing)
The CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 may perform the backup process shown in FIG. 23-2 at an appropriate timing. The backup process is executed for each timer interrupt. The backup process is, for example, after the process of creating backup data based on the establishment of the backup condition and storing the backup data in the first or second backup data buffer during the performance control backup process in step S79. This is a process to be executed (a process to be executed even when the backup condition is not satisfied), and is executed by the CPU 131 functioning as the first or second memory write processing unit.

In the backup processing shown in FIG. 23-2, the CPU 131 (second memory writing processing unit) first determines whether to back up the store confirmation data (step 95AKS001). The determination is made based on whether store confirmation data as backup data is stored in the second backup data buffer (if store confirmation data is stored, store confirmation data is determined to be backed up). It should be noted that performing the backup means that a backup condition (hereinafter, also referred to as a second backup condition) for backing up the store confirmation data (log information) is satisfied.

When the store confirmation data is stored in the second backup data buffer, that is, when the store confirmation data is backed up (step 95AKS001: Yes), the CPU 131 (second memory writing processing unit) stores the store confirmation data. Is written in the second backup storage unit 95AK004 (step 95AKS002). Specifically, the CPU 131 (second memory writing processing unit) transfers the store confirmation data stored in the second backup data buffer to the backup memory substrate 14 together with a storage instruction to the second backup storage unit 95AK004. (The transferred store confirmation data is deleted from the second backup data buffer). The memory controller 200 of the backup memory substrate 14 stores (writes) the transferred store confirmation data in the second backup storage unit 95AK004 according to the storage instruction. As a result, the store confirmation data is backed up. If multiple store confirmation data are stored, all store confirmation data shall be transferred sequentially from the oldest stored data (store confirmation data originally has a small amount of data, (There is no problem even if it exists) In one backup process, one store confirmation data may be transferred.

When the store confirmation data is not stored (step 95AKS001; No), or after step 95AKS002, the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) determines whether to back up the manufacturer confirmation data (step 95AKS003). The determination is made based on whether the manufacturer confirmation data as backup data is stored in the first backup data buffer (when the manufacturer confirmation data is stored, it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up). ). It should be noted that performing the backup can be said to satisfy a backup condition (hereinafter, also referred to as a first backup condition) for backing up the manufacturer confirmation data (log information).

When the manufacturer confirmation data is stored in the first backup data buffer, that is, when the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up (step 95AKS003: Yes), the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) executes the first It is determined whether the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the backup data buffer (the data stored in the past if there is more than one, the same for backup processing) has already been written to the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001. (Step 95AKS004). The determination is, for example, the state of the first written flag (a flag that is turned on when the manufacturer confirmation data has been transferred to the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001) provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. Done by.

If it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data has not been written in the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 (step 95AKS004; No) because the first written flag is off, etc., the CPU 131 (first memory writing process) Part) performs a writing process for writing the manufacturer confirmation data into the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 (step 95AKS005). Specifically, the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) causes the backup memory substrate 14 to store the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer together with a storage instruction to the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001. (Note that the manufacturer confirmation data remains in the first backup data buffer even after the transfer). The transfer is basically once, but if the data amount of the manufacturer confirmation data is larger than a predetermined standard, or if a divided backup is set for the manufacturer confirmation data, the CPU 131 The (first memory writing processing unit) divides the manufacturer confirmation data and transfers a part of the divided data to the backup memory substrate 14. In this case, the information capable of specifying the transferred data is held in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133, and the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) refers to the information in step 95AKS005 executed again thereafter. And transfer the remaining data. Further, the storage instruction includes information indicating that the manufacturer confirmation data is divided and transferred, and the number of times of transfer. When all the manufacturer confirmation data to be written is transferred, the first written flag is turned on. The memory controller 200 of the backup memory board 14 stores (writes) the transferred manufacturer confirmation data in the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK003 according to the storage instruction (the manufacturer confirmation data is divided into a plurality of times). When it is transferred, it is stored in multiple times. As a result, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up in the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001.

If it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data has already been written to the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 (step 95AKS004; Yes) because the first written flag is ON (step 95AKS004; Yes), the CPU 131 (first memory writing) is executed. The processing unit) determines whether or not the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer has been written in the first-second backup storage unit 95AK002 (step 95AKS006). The determination is, for example, the state of a second written flag (a flag that is turned on when the manufacturer confirmation data has been transferred to the 1-2 backup storage unit 95AK002) provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. Done by.

When it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data has not been written in the 1-2 backup storage unit 95AK002 (step 95AKS006; No) because the second written flag is off, etc., the CPU 131 (first memory writing process) Part) performs a writing process for writing the manufacturer confirmation data into the 1-2nd backup storage part 95AK002 (step 95AKS007). Specifically, the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) causes the backup memory substrate 14 to store the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer together with a storage instruction to the 1-2 backup storage unit 95AK002. (Note that the manufacturer confirmation data remains in the first backup data buffer even after the transfer). The transfer is basically once, but when the divided transfer is performed in step 95AKS005, the manufacturer confirmation data is transferred in the same manner as in step 95AKS005. After the transfer of the manufacturer confirmation data to be written is completed, the second written flag is turned on. The memory controller 200 of the backup memory substrate 14 stores (writes) the transferred manufacturer confirmation data in the 1-2nd backup storage unit 95AK002 according to the storage instruction. As a result, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up in the first-second backup storage unit 95AK002.

When it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data has already been written in the 1-2 backup storage unit 95AK002 (step 95AKS006; Yes) because the second written flag is ON, etc., the CPU 131 (first memory write) is executed. The processing unit) determines whether or not the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer has been written in the first to third backup storage unit 95AK003 (step 95AKS008). The determination is, for example, the state of a third written flag (a flag that is turned on when the manufacturer confirmation data has been transferred to the 1-3 backup storage unit 95AK003) provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133. Done by.

If it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data has not been written to the first to third backup storage units 95AK003 (step 95AKS008; No) because the third written flag is off, etc., the CPU 131 (first memory writing process). Part) performs a writing process for writing the manufacturer confirmation data into the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003 (step 95AKS009). Specifically, the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) causes the backup memory substrate 14 to store the manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer together with a storage instruction to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003. (Note that the manufacturer confirmation data remains in the first backup data buffer even after the transfer). The transfer is basically once, but when the divided transfer is performed in step 95AKS005, the manufacturer confirmation data is transferred in the same manner as in step 95AKS005. After the transfer of the manufacturer confirmation data to be written is completed, the third written flag is turned on. The memory controller 200 of the backup memory substrate 14 stores (writes) the transferred manufacturer confirmation data in the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 according to the storage instruction. As a result, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up in the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003.

If it is determined that the manufacturer confirmation data is already written in the first to third backup storage units 95AK003 (step 95AKS008; Yes) because the third written flag is ON, etc., the manufacturer confirmation data Since the backups to all of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 have been completed, the CPU 131 (first memory writing processing unit) sets the end of the backup (step 95AKS010). The end setting deletes the manufacturer confirmation data (oldest manufacturer confirmation data stored in the first backup data buffer) from the first backup data buffer, and also sets the first written flag to the third written Turn off the flag. As a result, it is possible to prevent the processing for the manufacturer confirmation data from being performed in the next backup processing by the timer interrupt.

After the processing of any of steps 95AKS005, 95AKS007, 95AKS009, and 95AKS010, or when the manufacturer confirmation data is not backed up (step 95AKS003: No), the backup processing ends.

As described above, in the backup process, first, the store confirmation data is backed up first, and then the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up. Therefore, the store confirmation data backup process (transfer or write process) is performed. ) The priority of the process execution is higher than the backup process (transfer or write process) of the manufacturer confirmation data. The backup process (transfer or write process) of the one store confirmation data is completed by one backup process of the timer interrupt, but the one backup process (write process) of the manufacturer confirmation data is the first process. -1 backup storage unit 95AK001 to 1-3 backup storage unit 95AK003 requires a minimum of three timer interrupt backup processes, so the process execution time of the store confirmation data backup process (write process) is It is shorter than the backup process (writing process) of the vendor confirmation data.

(Power detection circuit 95AK010 etc.)
As shown in FIG. 23-3, a power failure detection circuit 95AK010 for supplying a power failure signal to the effect control microcomputer 120 may be provided. The power failure detection circuit 95AK010 is mounted on the effect control board 12 here, but may be mounted on a board outside the effect control board 12.

A direct current voltage (a drive voltage for driving the effect control microcomputer 120) from the power supply board is applied to the effect control board 12. The DC voltage is commonly applied to the effect control microcomputer 120 and the power failure detection circuit 95AK010. During normal operation, a voltage of 12 V is applied to the effect control microcomputer 120 and the power failure detection circuit 95AK010 as the DC voltage. The power failure detection circuit 95AK010 supplies a power failure signal to the effect control microcomputer 120 and stops the operation of the effect control microcomputer 120 when the applied DC voltage is 8 V or less.

For example, when the power is turned on, the DC voltage from the power supply board may gradually increase and become unstable, but the effect control microcomputer 120 may operate at 3 V, for example. In such a case, after the power is turned on, if the DC voltage exceeds 3V during the unstable period in which the DC voltage is not stable, the effect control microcomputer 120 will start operating at this point. Therefore, after the power is turned on, the power interruption detection circuit 95AK010 continuously supplies the power interruption signal to the performance control microcomputer 120 until the DC voltage exceeds 8V which is likely to be stable (when it is 8V or less). It is possible to prevent the control microcomputer 120 from starting to operate (so-called rising to execute the initialization process of step S21 in FIG. 7).

FIG. 23-4 shows a state in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 (main board 11 and effect control board 12) including such an electric power failure detection circuit 95AK010 is reset (reset accompanied by powering off and on). The power interruption signal is an active low signal (a signal that becomes Low (ON) when the DC voltage is 8V or less and becomes High (OFF) when the DC voltage exceeds 8V). The power interruption signal may be active high.

When the reset is performed at the timing of (a) in FIG. 23-4, the DC voltage supplied from the power supply board to the production control board 12 (production control microcomputer 120) is lowered and reaches 8 V (a). At the timing, the power failure detection circuit 95AK010 starts supplying the power failure signal. Assuming that the backup condition is satisfied by the start of this supply, the first occurrence event information creation processing unit (CPU 131) causes the backup data (including the date and time information) indicating the log information indicating the start of the reception of the power interruption signal ( (Hereinafter, also referred to as power failure signal reception start data) is created as manufacturer confirmation data, stored in the first backup data buffer, and transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 by the first memory write processing unit (CPU 131) for backup ( The power failure signal reception start data may be backed up as store confirmation data or other data). The production control microcomputer 120 to which the power interruption signal is supplied stops its operation, and then the power is turned off when the DC voltage becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage (a voltage at which the production control microcomputer 120 cannot operate). That is, the effect control microcomputer 120 becomes non-operation from the timing (a). Along with the reset operation, the drive voltage supplied from the power supply board to the main board 11 also drops, and the main board 11 is also turned off (not operating) at a predetermined timing.

After that, at the timing of (C), the power supply from the power supply board is restored, and the DC voltage supplied from the power supply board to the production control board 12 gradually rises, but the DC voltage exceeds 8V (D). The power interruption signal is supplied until the timing. After the timing when the DC voltage exceeds 8 V and the power interruption signal is turned off (d), the effect control microcomputer 120 starts operating. Further, at the timing of (d), it is assumed that the backup condition is satisfied by the end of reception of the power failure signal, and the first occurrence event information creation processing unit (CPU 131) causes the log information ( Backup data indicating the date and time information (hereinafter also referred to as power cut signal reception end data) is created as manufacturer confirmation data, stored in the first backup data buffer, and stored in the first memory write processing unit (CPU 131). The data is transferred to the backup memory substrate 14 and backed up (the power interruption signal reception end data may be backed up as store confirmation data or other data). When the power supply from the power supply board is restored, the main board 11 also starts to operate at a predetermined timing, and the production control command (RAM clear notification command, setting change start command, etc.) when the power is turned on is (e) timing. Is supplied to the production control board 12.

FIG. 23-5 shows a state in which the main board 11 is not cut off (power is turned off) and the effect control microcomputer 120 (effect control board 12) is reset. The effect control microcomputer 120 restarts (resets) itself due to a difference in operation failure, for example, communication between the CPU 131 and the VDP 130 or communication between the CPU 131 and the effect data memory board or the like is not good. Further, the effect control microcomputer 120 may be reset due to noise on the reset terminal, an accelerator error, or a program error. In such a case, even if the effect control microcomputer 120 changes from operation to non-operation to operation, the DC voltage from the power supply board does not change at 12V, the main board 11 continues to operate, and the power interruption signal is off. It will remain as it is (not received).

When the entire pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. 23-4 is reset (the same applies when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on) and when only the effect control microcomputer 120 of FIG. 23-5 is reset. , The former is different in that it receives an interruption signal, but the latter does not receive an interruption signal. That is, depending on whether or not the power failure signal reception start data and the power failure signal reception end data are backed up, the mode of powering on the production control microcomputer 120 (normal power-on of the entire pachinko gaming machine 1 or power-on by resetting). Or whether only the effect control microcomputer 120 is reset).

(Processing after power-on of the production control microcomputer 120)
In response to the power-on of the effect control microcomputer 120 in the pachinko gaming machine 1 including the power failure detection circuit 95AK010 (the direct current voltage at which the CPU 131 is operable is applied) (or after reset), the CPU 131 23-6 may be executed.

In the processing of FIG. 23-6, the CPU 131 first monitors the power failure signal and determines whether or not a change in the power failure signal from ON to OFF is detected (step 95AKS101). When detected (step 95AKS101; Yes), the process of backing up the power failure signal reception end data is performed as described above (step 95AKS102).

When the change is not detected (step 95AKS101; Yes), after step 95AKS102, it is determined whether or not the power failure signal is being received (step 95AKS103), and if it is being received (step 95AKS103; Yes), Return to step 95AK101. Therefore, as long as the power interruption signal is received, the subsequent processing is not performed and the effect control microcomputer 120 does not start up.

When the power failure signal is not being received (step 95AKS103; No), the CPU 131 determines whether there is a backup of the power failure signal reception end data and the power failure signal reception start data (step 95AKS104), and when there is a backup (step 95AKS104). 95AKS104; Yes), because the pachinko gaming machine 1 is reset as a whole (reset accompanied by power off and on) or the power is turned on (normal power on), when power is turned on from the main board 11. When the production control command is waited to be received (step 95AKS105) and the production control command is received, backup data indicating log information when the power is turned on (for example, RAM clear time data when receiving the RAM clear notification command, setting change start command reception) Time setting value change time data, setting value confirmation time data when the setting confirmation start command is received, power-on time data, etc.) are backed up to the second backup storage unit 95AK004 as store confirmation data (step 95AKS106).

Thereafter, the received command data indicating the log information including the production control command at the time of power-on from the main board 11 is backed up in each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 as manufacturer confirmation data. (Step 95AKS107). After that, initialization processing (step S21) or the like according to the effect control command from the main board 11 is performed (when a power failure recovery designation command is received, power failure recovery processing is performed).

If there is no backup of the power failure signal reception end data or the power failure signal reception start data (step 95AKS104; No), it means that only the effect control board 12 side (game control microcomputer 120) has been reset, so the CPU 131 , An initial screen (for example, an image notifying that only the effect control board 12 side has been reset) is displayed on the image display device 5 via the VDP 140 (step 95AKS111), and the effect control board 12 side (for game control) Backup data indicating log information (including date and time information) indicating that only the microcomputer 120) has been reset is backed up in each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 as manufacturer confirmation data. (Step 95AKS112). After that, an initialization process (step S21) or the like corresponding to the fact that the production control command at the time of power-on is not supplied from the main board 11 is performed (for example, production execution is restarted based on the production control command received thereafter).

In addition, when the CPU 131 receives a command other than the effect control command at power-on in step 95AKS 105 or fails to receive the effect control command for a predetermined period after waiting for reception, the CPU 131 moves to the effect control board 12. Only the DC voltage of is reduced and reset, and the main board 11 itself determines that the power supply is ensured and the power is not cut off (the power cut signal is supplied even in this case), and the fact is confirmed by the manufacturer. Data may be backed up to each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 (not backed up as store confirmation data). Further, the processing of step 95AKS111 is executed and so on. After that, initialization processing (step S21) or the like is performed in response to the fact that the production control command at the time of power-on is not supplied from the main board 11 (for example, when a command other than the production control command at the time of power-on is received, Command, if production control command is not received for a predetermined period after waiting for reception, production execution is restarted based on the production control command received thereafter).

Through the above processing, the effect control microcomputer 120 is in a mode of power-on of the effect control microcomputer 120 (normal power-on of the entire pachinko gaming machine 1 (including power-on accompanied by reset)). , The main board 11 can be processed according to whether the power is turned on by resetting only the production control microcomputer 120 which is not cut off. In the case of the normal power-on of the entire pachinko gaming machine 1, It is possible to back up both the store confirmation data and the manufacturer confirmation data, and when only the production control microcomputer 120 is reset, only the manufacturer confirmation data can be backed up. Furthermore, in the case of the normal power-on of the entire pachinko gaming machine 1, the store confirmation data is backed up before the manufacturer confirmation data as in steps 95AKS106 and 95AKS107, so the store confirmation data backup priority is set. (Priority) is higher than the backup of manufacturer confirmation data.

(Effect of feature part 95AK)
Conventionally, backup data was backed up without distinguishing between manufacturer confirmation data and store confirmation data, so store confirmation data was stored in the same process as manufacturer confirmation data (for example, Some data as store confirmation data is stored in each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003, like the manufacturer confirmation data). However, the processing time at the time of backing up the manufacturer confirmation data may be long as described above, and if the store confirmation data is backed up in such a processing time, the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be turned off by the store staff or the like. The possibility that the cut-off timing (power cut-off timing) will overlap with the backup period is higher than when the processing time for backup of the store confirmation data is shortened. Further, if the processing time at the time of backup is long, it is likely to overlap with the timing of occurrence of an event such as resetting only the effect control microcomputer 120. If the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned off during the backup, or if only the production control microcomputer 120 is reset, the store confirmation data is not backed up well, for example, the store confirmation data indicates. In some cases, log information could not be displayed on the maintenance history screen. In such a case, the clerk or the like may feel distrust because the log information that should be displayed in the maintenance history scene is not displayed. For example, when the staff repeatedly turns on and off the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 continuously (for example, when the behavior of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is strange, such an operation can be performed), conventionally, the power is turned on. The power may be turned off while backing up the time data, and the log information indicating that the power was turned on (powered on) could not be backed up successfully. The date and time) may not be displayed on the maintenance history screen. In such a case, the staff member has a distrust of whether the pachinko gaming machine 1 is operating normally. In the characteristic part 95AK, the time required for backup of the store confirmation data (transfer and write time) is set shorter than that of the manufacturer confirmation data, so that the above inconvenience is less likely to occur. Furthermore, the backup of the store confirmation data has a higher priority than the backup of the manufacturer confirmation data and is performed with priority, so the time from the satisfaction of the backup conditions to the completion of the backup is also shorter (both Even if the data backup conflicts, the completion of the backup of the store confirmation data will not be delayed), and this also makes it difficult for the inconveniences described above to occur. On the other hand, since the manufacturer confirmation data is the one that the manufacturer confirms (the attendants cannot confirm it, which is more difficult to confirm than the store confirmation data), the power is turned off during backup, etc. Even if the data is lost, the above problem does not occur. In this way, the backup confirmation data backup time is shorter than the manufacturer confirmation data backup time, and the store confirmation data backup priority is higher than the manufacturer confirmation data priority. By increasing the value (backup processing in FIG. 23-2, steps 95AKS106 and 95AKS107 in FIG. 23-6), the store confirmation data and the manufacturer confirmation data can be backed up according to the purpose of use, and the backup can be suitably performed. In addition, the backup process for the store confirmation data and the manufacturer confirmation data is different (the execution time, the number of writings, and the number of backup storage units are different), and the store confirmation data is better than the manufacturer confirmation data. Also, since it is easy to confirm the log information indicated by each data (here, the former can be confirmed on the pachinko gaming machine 1, while the latter cannot be confirmed), it is possible to appropriately use each data. It is possible (the data that does not need to be confirmed in the store can be used as the manufacturer confirmation data, and the item that the staff can confirm in the store can be used as the store confirmation data), and a suitable backup is realized.

In particular, when the first-first backup storage unit 95AK001 to the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003 and the second backup storage unit 95AK004 are configured by one FRAM (registered trademark), data is stored in each of the storage units 95AK001 to 95AK003. This takes time (since data is serially stored in the order of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001→the 1-2nd backup storage unit 95AK002→the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003). On the other hand, in the above, the store confirmation data is stored in the backup storage unit (here, only one, but may be two) smaller than the manufacturer confirmation data. You can shorten the time. Thereby, the backup can be favorably performed.

Further, the data amount of the store confirmation data may be smaller than the data amount of the manufacturer confirmation data (the write amount to the backup storage unit may be reduced once). The time required for data backup can be shortened, and backup can be performed appropriately.

Further, by the processing of FIG. 23-6, the effect control microcomputer 120 causes the effect control microcomputer 120 to be powered on (whether the entire power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is normally turned on, or the effect control microcomputer). The processing can be performed according to the reset of 120 only (whether the main board 11 or the like is not disconnected), and when the power of the entire pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the store confirmation data and the manufacturer confirmation data In the case where only the production control microcomputer 120 is reset, only the manufacturer confirmation data can be backed up. Thereby, in the case of resetting only the effect control microcomputer 120, it is possible to prevent the reset log information from being displayed on the maintenance history screen by backing up the log information of the reset as the store confirmation data. Normally, the reset of only the production control microcomputer 120 is not directly related to the progress of the game and is often a minor one. Therefore, if the operator is informed, it causes an extra distrust. Therefore, the reset is displayed on the maintenance history screen. By preventing the backup from being performed, it is possible to preferably perform backup.

(Modification)
Various modifications can be made to the above configuration. Although a modified example is illustrated below, at least a part of the plurality of modified examples described below may be combined.

(Modification 1)
The CPU 131 of the effect control microcomputer 120 may perform, for example, the power interruption date/time recording process of FIG. 23-7. The processing may be executed instead of or in addition to the date/time information storage processing in step S78 (for example, next to the date/time information storage processing).

In the process, the CPU 131 first sets a temporary storage enable flag (provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133, which is the same for the flag and the timer) indicating that the temporary storage of the date and time information from the timer circuit 135 (RTC) is permitted. It is confirmed whether (ON) or not (step 012IWS841). If the temporary storage enabled flag is set, the CPU 131 confirms whether or not the temporary storage timer for measuring the time for temporarily storing the date and time information from the timer circuit 135 (RTC) has timed out (step 012IWS842). ). If the temporary storage timer has timed out, the CPU 131 reads the date and time information from the timer circuit 135 (RTC), and stores the read date and time information in the temporary area provided in the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 (step 012IWS843). Further, the CPU 131 sets a value corresponding to 100 ms in the temporary storage timer (step 012IWS844).

Although the date and time information is stored in the temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 every 100 ms, if the previous date and time information is stored in the temporary area, new date and time information is updated every 100 ms. Is overwritten and stored in the temporary area.

If the temporary storage enable flag is not set (N in step 012IWS841), the CPU 131 receives the initialization designation command (RAM clear notification command above) or the restoration command (power failure restoration designation command above). It is confirmed (step 012IWS845). If the initialization designation command or the command at the time of restoration is received, does the CPU 131 store the log information of the previous power-on date and time in the log area provided in the backup data memories 210A to 210D of the backup memory board 14. It is confirmed whether or not (step 012IWS846). If the log information of the last power-on date and time is not stored (N in step 012IWS846), the process proceeds to step 012IWS849. If the log information of the previous power-on date and time is stored (Y in step 012IWS846), the CPU 131 reads the date and time information stored in the temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133, and the read date and time information is the power cut date and time. Log information (manufacturer confirmation data and/or store confirmation data) in the log area (manufacturer confirmation data and/or store confirmation data storage area) provided in the backup data memory 210A to 210D of the backup memory substrate 14 as Is stored (step 012IWS847). Then, the process proceeds to step 012IWS849.

If neither the initialization designation command nor the command at the time of restoration is received (N in step 012IWS845), the CPU 131 sends other commands (however, such as a setting confirmation start command and a setting change start command when the power is turned on). It is confirmed whether or not a command (excluding a command) is received (step 012IWS848). If another command is received, for example, if a variation pattern designation command or a display result designation command is received, the process proceeds to step 012IWS849.

In step 012IWS849, the CPU 131 sets the temporary storage enabled flag (step 012IWS849). Further, the CPU 131 sets a value corresponding to 100 ms in the temporary storage timer (step 012IWS844).

Note that the temporary storage enable flag, when set in step 012IWS849, is maintained until the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped or the system reset of the CPU 131 occurs. Then, when the effect control main process is started due to the power-on of the gaming machine, the system reset, or the like, it is reset by the initialization process.

FIG. 23-8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the recording timing of log information of the power cut date and time. As shown in FIG. 23-8, when the CPU 131 is being activated, the CPU 131 determines Y in step 012IWS841 of the power failure date/time recording process, and executes the processes of steps 012IWS842 to S844, thereby performing 100 ms. Date and time information is temporarily stored in a temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 for each time.

Next, when the power supply to the game machine is stopped or the system of the CPU 131 is reset, the initialization process is executed, and the temporary storable flag is reset, even if the CPU 131 returns to the activated state, the power cut date and time In step 012IWS841 of the recording process, it is determined to be N, the temporary storage of date and time information every 100 ms is not executed, and the last stored date and time information is maintained in the temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133.

If the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and then the power supply to the gaming machine is started, at least the initialization designation command or the command at the time of restoration should be received. Therefore, in this example, as shown in FIG. 23-8(1), the date and time information maintained in the temporary area is read out on the condition that the initialization designation command or the command for restoration is received, and the read out date and time. The log information is stored in the log area with the information as the power cut date and time (Y in step 012IWS845, see step 012IWS847). Then, after that, the temporary storage enable flag is set, and the temporary storage of the date and time information for every 100 ms is restarted (see steps 012IWS849 and S850). However, in this example, although the log information of the power-on date and time is also recorded (see step 012IWS203), if the log information of the power-on date and time before the occurrence of the power interruption is not recorded, Since there is a possibility that some abnormality has occurred, in this case, the log information of the power interruption date and time is configured not to be recorded (see N in step 012IWS846).

On the other hand, if a system reset or the like of the CPU 131 occurs, the power supply to the gaming machine itself is not stopped, but a command at power-on such as an initialization designation command or a command for restoration from the gaming control microcomputer 100. Is not sent. Therefore, in this example, as shown in FIG. 23-8(2), when the initialization designation command and the command at the time of recovery are not received, it is determined that the gaming machine itself is not powered off. Then, the log information is controlled not to be recorded with the date and time information maintained in the temporary area as the power cut date and time. In this case, as shown in FIG. 23-8(2), based on the reception of other commands (excluding the commands such as the setting confirmation start command and the setting change start command transmitted at power-on), For example, the temporary storage enable flag is set based on the reception of the variation pattern designation command or the display result designation command, and the temporary storage of the date and time information for every 100 ms is restarted (see steps 012IWS849 and S850).

If the log information of the power interruption date and time is recorded only based on the detection of the stoppage of the CPU 131 side, if a system reset of the CPU 131 occurs (the system reset of the CPU 131 causes a temporary reset of the CPU 131). Even when the power supply is stopped, the log information of the power failure date and time will be recorded, and the log information of the power failure date and time does not mean that the power failure of the gaming machine itself has occurred. It may be recorded. Therefore, in the present example, as shown in FIG. 23-8, the date and time when the CPU 131 is stopped are temporarily stored as a temporary power cut date and time, and commands such as an initialization designation command and a restoration command such as a command at power-on are supplied. The log information of the power interruption date and time is officially recorded on the condition that the message is received, so that such a situation does not occur.

In this example, the case where the power failure of the gaming machine itself is judged to be recorded and the power failure date and time is recorded in the log information on condition that the initialization designation command or the command at the time of restoration is received is shown. However, it is not limited to such an aspect. For example, the power cutoff date and time may be recorded in the log information based on the reception of another command transmitted at power-on, such as a setting confirmation start command and a setting change start command.

In addition, in this example, the case where the log information is not recorded when the system reset of the CPU 131 or the like occurs instead of the power failure of the gaming machine itself is shown, but it is not limited to such a mode. For example, a configuration is provided in which an area for recording log information for gaming machine manufacturers (a storage area for manufacturer confirmation data) is provided separately from an area for recording log information for amusement shops (storage section for store confirmation data). However, the date and time of occurrence of a system reset or the like of the CPU 131 may be recorded as log information in the area for the gaming machine maker, and if so configured, the log information is used as information for development by the gaming machine maker. Can be used.

A gaming machine having the above configuration as an example is illustrated below.
A predetermined control means (for example, a main board 11 for controlling the progress of the game and a game control microcomputer 100),
A specific control means (for example, CPU 131) for performing control based on information from a predetermined control means,
The specific control unit can temporarily store the date and time when the power supply to the specific control unit is stopped (for example, the CPU 131 executes steps 012IWS842 to S844 to store the data in a temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133 every 100 ms. Store date and time information),
When the power supply to the specific control means is started, the information output by the predetermined control means that can specify that the power supply is started (for example, initialization designation command (RAM clear notification command) or recovery Command (power failure recovery designation command) based on the input of a command (power failure recovery designation command), including a power failure date and time storage means (for example, a portion of the CPU 131 that executes step 012IWS847) that can store the power failure date and time.
A gaming machine characterized by that.
With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably store the power cut date and time.

The power cut date and time storage means does not store the temporarily stored date and time as the power cut date and time when the information that can specify that the power supply is started cannot be input when power supply to the specific control means is started ( For example, the CPU 131 does not shift to step 012IWS847 when N in step 012IWS845, and does not store log information in the log area as the power cut date and time when the initialization designation command and the command at the time of restoration are not received). May be configured. With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably store the power cut date and time.

The date and time may be temporarily stored at predetermined timing (for example, 100 ms) (for example, the date and time information may be stored in a temporary area of the external RAM 122 or the internal RAM 133). With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably store the power cut date and time.

On the basis of the stop of the power supply to the specific control means, the temporary storage of the date and time at every predetermined timing is stopped (for example, the CPU 131 resets the temporary storage enable flag in the initialization process, so that the date and time information for every 100 ms is set. Is not executed), the predetermined information output by the predetermined control means (for example, the initialization designation command, the restoration command, and other commands) is input, and Even if the temporary storage of the date and time is restarted (for example, the CPU 131 executes the step 012IWS849 to set the temporary storage enable flag and restart the temporary storage of the date and time information every 100 ms) Good. With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably store the power cut date and time.

The specific control means can store the date and time when the power supply to the specific control means is started (for example, the CPU 131 records the power-on date and time as log information), and the power cut date and time storage means starts the power supply. If the date and time stored is not stored, the temporarily stored date and time is not stored as the power cut date and time (for example, the CPU 131 does not shift to step 012IWS847 when N in step 012IWS846, so that the power supply before the power cut is turned on If the log information of the date and time is not recorded, the log information of the power cut date and time may not be recorded). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an abnormal storage state.

A game machine that can be set to any one of a plurality of setting values (for example, the setting value “1” to the setting value “3”) having different degrees of advantage for the player, and the information generated during the game. A storage area (for example, RAM 102) capable of storing the information, and history display means (for example, CPU 131 for displaying the screens of FIGS. 14 to 16) capable of displaying history information (for example, log information) of abnormality regarding a game. And initialization processing execution means (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, CPU 103)) capable of executing initialization processing (for example, RAM clear) for initializing the storage contents of the storage area. When the initialization process is executed, a setting change process execution means (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the setting change process for changing the setting value) (for example, the setting change process)) can be executed. The CPU 103)) is provided, and the history display means can display that the initialization process has been executed in a identifiable manner when the initialization process has been executed and the setting change process has not been executed (for example, , The RAM clear log information is displayed as shown in FIG. 15), and when the initialization process and the setting change process are executed, the setting can be performed without displaying that the initialization process can be specified. It is possible to display that change processing has been executed in a identifiable manner (for example, as shown in FIG. 14, only log information indicating the end of setting change (“setting change has been completed”) is displayed). It may be configured. With such a configuration, unnecessary information is not displayed, so that it is possible to prevent the history information from being difficult to confirm.

(Modification 2)
The production control microcomputer 120 verifies the validity of the storage contents (backup data) of each of the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 at the appropriate timing such as when the power is turned on, the parity and the checksum. Alternatively, when verification is performed by an arbitrary error detection process using a hash value or the like, the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 (backup storage area 95AK001A) → the 1-2nd backup storage unit 95AK002 (backup storage area 95AK002A) → 1-3rd backup storage unit 95AK003 (backup storage area 95AK003A) → 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 (backup storage area 95AK001B) → 1-2nd backup storage unit 95AK002 (backup storage area 95AK002B) → 1-3rd When the backup storage unit 95AK003 (backup storage area 95AK003B)... and the backup data are sequentially stored, and the latest verification result of the backup data is NG, new backup data is added to the backup data of the NG. May be overwritten, and then another backup storage unit may be stored. For example, in the case where backup data is stored in the backup storage areas 95AK001A to 95AK003A and no backup data is stored in the backup storage area 95AK001B or later, the backup data stored in the backup storage area 95AK003A is NG and the others are OK. In this case, new backup data may be stored from the backup storage area 95AK003A. In this case, in the backup storage area 95AK003A, the same data as the backup data that was NG again (data that seems to be OK) may be stored again as new backup data, but other backup data may be stored in the backup storage area 95AK003A. , The same backup data may be stored in the backup storage area 95AK003A to the backup storage area 95AK002B (hereinafter, the same three backup data will be referred to as the 1-3rd backup storage section 95AK003→the 1-1st backup storage section). 95AK001→first-second backup storage unit 95AK002). Here, if new backup data is stored (overwritten) from the backup storage area 95AK001A, there is a risk that the backup data that was OK will be overwritten with the NG backup data. It is possible to prevent such fear.

(Modification 3)
A process for backing up the manufacturer confirmation data executed by the production control microcomputer 120 (transfer to the backup memory board 14, etc.). The production control microcomputer 120 uses the manufacturer confirmation data as direct backup data for a predetermined process. It may be written in a storage unit that can be backed up, and in that case, the writing process. The same applies to the manufacturer confirmation data), the first backup process, and the store confirmation data, the second backup process. , And the processing itself other than the data to be backed up is different. As the processing itself, the execution time, the area for storing the backup data, the processing priority order (the processing execution priority order), and the single backup At least one of the write amount of data may be different.

(Modification 4)
The production control microcomputer 120 may transfer the store confirmation data and/or the manufacturer confirmation data to the backup memory substrate 14 without passing through the first backup data buffer or the first backup data buffer. Further, the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the fourth backup storage unit 95AK004 are provided on the production control board 12, and the production control microcomputer 120 stores the store confirmation data and/or the manufacturer confirmation data in the first backup data buffer. Alternatively, the data may be written in the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the fourth backup storage unit 95AK004 with or without the first backup data buffer.

(Structure of the characteristic part 95AK)
Hereinafter, a game machine having the characteristic unit 95AK as an example will be described.

A gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like),
Control means (for example, a production control microcomputer 120, etc.),
A storage unit capable of storing backup data (for example, the backup memory substrate 14 (especially, the 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to the second backup storage unit 95AK004));
The control means is
Based on the establishment of the first backup condition, a first backup process of storing the first backup data (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data, etc.) in the storage means (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data of the backup memory substrate 14). Transfer processing, etc.)
Based on the establishment of the second backup condition, a second backup process (for example, backup memory) having a shorter execution time than the first backup process for storing the second backup data (for example, store confirmation data) in the storage means. The processing for transferring the store confirmation data to the substrate 14 and the like are different in priority order (priority of processing execution) from the first backup processing, and when the first backup processing and the second backup processing conflict with each other. (For example, the backup of the store confirmation data is performed in a shorter execution time than the backup of the manufacturer confirmation data, and the processing priority is set). High),
Amusement machine.

In the above, the production control microcomputer 120 of the production control board 12 that executes production based on the command from the main board 11 that controls the progress of the game operates as the control means. In addition to the effect control board 12, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine having a second effect control board that executes an effect in cooperation with the effect control board 12 by a command from the effect control board, and the second effect control is performed. The above control means may be applied to a computer, a CPU, etc. mounted on a board.

The control means and the storage means may be provided on the same substrate. In such a case, the first backup processing and the second backup processing may be processing for directly writing the backup data in the storage unit. Of the storage means, the part storing the first backup data and the part storing the second backup data may be parts of the same storage device such as FRAM (registered trademark), or two different parts. It may be formed from each of the storage devices. The set of the production control microcomputer 120 and the backup memory board 14 is regarded as control means, and the first backup processing and the second backup processing are performed by the first-first backup storage unit 95AK001 to the first-third backup storage unit 95AK003 or the second backup storage unit 95AK003. It may be regarded as a process of transferring and writing backup data to the backup storage unit 95AK004 (even in such a case, the second backup process is shorter in execution time in the feature unit 95AK).

The first backup condition and the second backup condition may be the same condition or different conditions. The backup condition may be, for example, a condition that triggers the creation of backup data (occurrence of an event to be recorded by log information). Backup data may be created (recorded in RAM or the like) when the backup condition is satisfied, and the created backup data may be stored in the storage means at a timing when power failure may occur (“ The expression such as “store the first backup data in the storage means based on the establishment of the first backup condition” includes such a mode). The first backup data and the second backup data may be the same data (however, different data is preferable). The first backup data may be, for example, at least one backup data that is the manufacturer confirmation data. The second backup data may be at least one backup data that is the above-mentioned store confirmation data.

The execution time of the first backup process and the execution time of the second backup process may be only the period during which the backup data is actually transferred or the period during which the backup data is written, or the backup data is transferred in multiple times, such as at each timer interrupt. Alternatively, in the case of writing, the period may include the time between each writing. The execution time may be a period from the satisfaction of the backup condition to the end of the backup (may be regarded as performing the backup process in the entire period from the satisfaction of the backup condition to the end of the backup).

As means for making the execution time of the second backup processing shorter than the execution time of the first backup processing, (1) making the data amount of the second backup data smaller than the data amount of the first backup data, (2) The number of storage destinations of the second backup data is made smaller than the number of storage destinations of the first backup data. (3) The first backup data is written more times in the storage means than the second backup data. It can be realized by doing.

It is arbitrary which of the first backup process and the second backup process has a higher priority (for example, steps 95AKS001 to 95AKS002 may be executed after steps 95AKS003 to 95AKS010).

According to the above configuration, by making the execution time of the second backup process shorter than the execution time of the first backup process, the power is cut off during the second backup process (control means for powering off the gaming machine, voltage drop, etc.). The possibility that only the power is turned off, only the control means, or the entire gaming machine is reset (the possibility that the second backup process and the power interruption etc. will overlap in time) is lower than that of the first backup process. (For example, it is less likely that transfer of backup data to the backup memory substrate 14 and power-off of only the control means will overlap, and writing of backup data and power-off of the gaming machine will overlap). In other words, the possibility that the second backup process will fail due to the occurrence of power failure or the like is lower than that of the first backup process. Moreover, since the first backup process and the second backup process are executed with different priorities, both processes are not executed at the same time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the execution time of the second backup process is extended due to the execution of the first backup process when the first backup process and the second backup process are executed at the same time. The possibility of power interruptions is low. As described above, at least the second backup data can be backed up with less possibility of failure (than the first backup data), and a suitable backup is realized.

It should be noted that the priority of the process execution of the second backup process may be set higher than that of the first backup process. As a result, the second backup process can be executed earlier than the first backup process after the second backup condition is satisfied, and the possibility of power failure or the like occurring after the second backup condition is satisfied until the second backup process is completed can be reduced. Backup is realized.

Instead of or in addition to the configuration of the control means, the control means,
Based on the establishment of the first backup condition, a first backup process of storing the first backup data (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data, etc.) in the storage means (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data of the backup memory substrate 14). Transfer processing, etc.)
Backup storage different from the first backup processing for storing second backup data (for example, store confirmation data) in the storage means based on the establishment of the second backup condition (for example, backup required time is different) It is possible to execute a second backup process (for example, a process of transferring store confirmation data to the backup memory board 14) in which the number of copies is different, the processing priority is different, and the backup data writing amount is different. ,
The information indicated by the second backup data stored in the storage unit is easier to confirm than the information indicated by the first backup data stored in the storage unit (for example, a log indicated by the store confirmation data). The information can be confirmed on the image display device 5, but the log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data can be read only by the reading device of the manufacturer).
You may do it.

The easiness of the “confirmation” is, for example, a large amount of time and effort for confirming the information indicated by each backup data (the less the time, the easier the confirmation). The log information indicated by the production data can be confirmed on the image display device 5, but the log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data can be read only by the reading device of the manufacturer, and the log information can be confirmed only through the reading device. In this case, the log information indicated by the store confirmation data is easier to confirm because it does not take time and effort to read it. For example, the second backup data is stored such that the information indicated by the second backup data can be displayed (can be confirmed on the gaming machine) by the display means or the like based on the operation of the gaming machine by a staff member or the like. The 1 backup data can be confirmed by reading the information indicated by the first backup data only by reading the first backup data from the gaming machine (that is, only by a device other than the gaming machine) (cannot be confirmed even by operating the gaming machine). The game machine may be configured so as to be stored as described above (the above is also an example), and in this case as well, the information indicated by the second backup data is easier to confirm because it does not take time and effort for reading. Alternatively, the manufacturer confirmation data may be encrypted and stored, and the store confirmation data may be stored without encryption. In this case, the store confirmation data may be stored because there is no need for encryption. Can be easily confirmed.

The first backup process and the second backup process are different from each other in processes other than the first backup data and the second backup data stored in the storage means.
You may do it.

The first backup process and the second backup process are, as processes themselves, an execution time, an area for storing the first backup data and the second backup data, a process priority order (process execution priority order), At least one of the write amount of backup data for one time is different,
You may do it.

According to each of the above configurations, the first backup process and the second backup process are made different, and the handling of the first backup data and the second backup data after backup (the ease of confirming the information indicated by each data) is made different. Therefore, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process.

The information indicated by the first backup data stored in the storage means is not notified on the gaming machine (for example, the log information indicated by the manufacturer confirmation data is not displayed on the pachinko gaming machine 1).
The information indicated by the second backup data stored in the storage means can be notified on the gaming machine (for example, the log information indicated by the store confirmation data is displayed on the pachinko gaming machine 1),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process. The notification may be a notification by voice or the like. Further, when the execution time of the second backup process is made shorter than that of the first backup process, the above configuration allows the second backup data indicating the information that can be notified to be backed up with a low possibility of failure. (2) It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the information indicated by the backup data should be notified, but not be notified due to the failure of the backup processing, and the backup processing can be preferably executed.

Based on the second backup data stored in the storage unit, information indicated by the second backup data (for example, log information indicated by the store confirmation data) can be displayed on the display unit (for example, the image display device 5). A display control means (for example, a production control microcomputer 120),
Information indicated by the first backup data stored in the storage means (for example, log information indicated by manufacturer confirmation data) is not displayed on the gaming machine (for example, log information indicated by manufacturer confirmation data is Not displayed on the pachinko machine 1),
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According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process. Further, when the execution time of the second backup process is made shorter than that of the first backup process, the above configuration allows the second backup data indicating the displayable information to be backed up with a low possibility of failure. (2) It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the information indicated by the backup data should be displayed but is not notified due to the failure of the backup process, and the backup process can be preferably executed.

The storage means is
A first storage area in which the first backup data is written and in which the second backup data is not written (for example, a 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to a 1-3 backup storage unit 95AK003);
A second storage area in which the second backup data is written and in which the first backup data is not written (for example, the second backup storage unit 95AK004).
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According to the above configuration, the storage area for the first backup data and the storage area for the second backup data can be separated, and the backup processing can be preferably executed.

The first storage area has a first number (for example, three) of storage areas in which the same first backup data is written (for example, 1-1st backup storage unit 95AK001 to 1-3st backup storage unit 95AK003). Have
The second storage area has a second number (for example, one) of storage areas (for example, the second backup storage unit 95AK004, etc.) smaller than the first number in which the same second backup data is written.
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, the execution time of the second backup process can be surely made shorter than that of the first backup process, and the backup process can be preferably executed.

A first control means (for example, the main board 11),
A second control unit (for example, a production control microcomputer 120 or the like) that is the control unit,
The second control means executes the first backup processing and executes the second backup processing when only the second control means of the first control means and the second control means is reset. No (for example, the manufacturer confirmation data is backed up in step 95AKS112, but the store confirmation data is not backed up),
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Although the determination of the reset is made by the power failure signal in the above, it may be made by another method. For example, the reset determination may be made based on a command or the like first transmitted from the first control unit to the second control unit after reset (a command other than a command normally transmitted after reset (variation) If it is a pattern designation command or the like), it is determined that only the second control means is reset).

According to the above configuration, when only the second control unit of the first control unit and the second control unit is reset, the second backup process having a short execution time is not executed or the second backup process is easy to confirm. Since the second backup process targeting the backup data is not executed, the backup process can be preferably executed (for example, the fact that only the second control means is reset by the second backup data is a minor problem. In many cases, it is not necessary to inform that the minor problem is unnecessarily notified, and it is not necessary to inform that the second control means is reset.

The second control means executes the first backup processing and the second backup processing when both the first control means and the second control means are reset (for example, steps 95AKS106 and 95AKS107, etc.). ),
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According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably execute the backup process. When both the first control means and the second control means are reset, it is a reset that is normally assumed, and that effect can be firmly backed up, and the backup processing can be suitably executed.

When the voltage supplied to the second control means is less than or equal to a predetermined value, a signal supply means (for example, an electric power supply) that can supply a predetermined signal (for example, an interruption signal) that does not cause the second control means to operate. Disconnection detection circuit 95AK010, etc.,
Whether the first control means and the second control means are both reset or not, based on whether or not the predetermined signal is supplied after the power is turned on. It is possible to specify whether or not only the data has been reset (for example, processing after 95AKS104),
You may do it.

According to the above configuration, the reset control unit can be specified by the predetermined signal, and the backup process can be preferably executed.

1 ... Pachinko gaming machine 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 14 ... Backup memory board 120 ... Production control microcomputer 131 ... CPU
140... VDP
150 to 156... Connectors 210A to 210D... Backup data memory

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
Control means,
Storage means capable of storing backup data,
The control means is
A first backup process for storing the first backup data in the storage means can be executed based on the establishment of the first backup condition;
Based on the establishment of the second backup condition, the second backup process, which has a shorter execution time than the first backup process for storing the second backup data in the storage means, can be executed with a priority different from that of the first backup process. Is
Amusement machine.

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