Video game cartridge recognition and security system
US4462076A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 4, 1982 |
| Grant date | Jul 24, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 4, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F2221/2109
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A security system for ascertaining the authenticity of removable video game cartridges adapted to interface with a video game system having a CPU. The system includes the comparison of the contents of predetermined addresses in the memory unit of the game cartridges with a security message stored in the CPU, and the rejection of the cartridge unless the contents of these predetermined memory locations are the same as the security message. The system further includes means for displaying a proprietary notice message to the operator of the video game system before substantive interfacing between the CPU and remote software unit occurs. Control over game operation will occur only if the CPU recognizes the cartridge as an authorized unit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.