JP4120765B2 - Internal ROM rewrite method for CPU for gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a gaming machine CPU for recycling a gaming machine CPU containing a rewritable ROM.Internal ROM rewriteIt is about the method.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a gaming machine CPU, and the game content is computer-controlled. The gaming machine CPU controls the gaming machine based on the gaming program stored in the ROM. Currently, a CPU with a built-in ROM is mainly used as a gaming machine CPU. Here, as the ROM, a one-time ROM that cannot be written once once written, a rewritable flash ROM, or the like is used.
[0003]
In addition, as a CPU for a gaming machine, a special CPU such as having a security function is used unlike a general industry CPU. Generally, a gaming machine maker can produce a pachinko machine etc. for the first time by obtaining an approval for the pachinko machine and obtaining permission. For this reason, when an unauthorized program other than the program (regular program) used in the examination is used for the gaming machine CPU mounted on the pachinko machine or the like, the gaming machine CPU does not operate normally. Such security functions are added. Thus, since the CPU for gaming machines is special, it is very expensive compared with the CPU for general industries.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, as described above, since the gaming machine CPU is very expensive, it is desired to collect the gaming machine CPU from the gaming machines that are no longer used in the market and reuse (recycle) it. When performing such recycling, it is necessary to rewrite the game program stored in the ROM with a program for a new gaming machine. For this reason, what is to be recycled is a CPU for a gaming machine with a built-in rewritable ROM.
[0005]
However, with respect to a CPU for a gaming machine having a built-in rewritable ROM, not only the CPU maker that manufactured the CPU but also other CPU makers and gaming machine manufacturers can rewrite the program stored in the ROM by rewriting. can do. If such a third party's recycling act is freely allowed, the sales of the new CPU produced by the CPU manufacturer will decline, and it will be difficult to recover the large development costs invested by the CPU. End up.
[0006]
  The present invention has been made based on the above circumstances, and there is provided a gaming machine CPU capable of preventing a third party from recycling the gaming machine CPU without obtaining permission from the CPU manufacturer.Internal ROM rewriteIt is intended to provide a method.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine CPU according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteThe method includes a rewritable ROM for storing program data, a plurality of encryption algorithms for encrypting certain data, and encryption data obtained by encrypting certain data with one encryption algorithm among the plurality of encryption algorithms, Storage means for storing a plurality of decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data, and key data that is data for selecting one decryption algorithm from among the plurality of decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data; and data A rewriting authentication means for judging whether or not rewriting of program data stored in the ROM is permitted by a ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving the game machine, and a gaming machine CPU recycling method that recycles the gaming machine CPU. Therefore, the rewrite authenticating means sends the encrypted data stored in the storage means to the ROM writer. The ROM writer stores a plurality of decryption algorithms that are the same as the decryption algorithm stored in the storage means in the ROM writer storage means, and receives the encrypted data and the key data from the rewrite authentication means. One decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data is selected from a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the storage means, and the decrypted data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data received using the selected decryption algorithm is transmitted to the gaming machine CPU. When the rewrite authentication unit receives the decryption data from the ROM writer, the rewrite authentication unit selects one decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data from among the received decryption data and a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the storage unit. Decrypted data obtained by decrypting encrypted data stored in the storage means using a decryption algorithm Is allowed, and when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decrypted by itself match, the ROM writer is allowed to rewrite the program data stored in the ROM It is.
[0008]
  In addition, the CPU of the gaming machine according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteIn the method, each time the rewrite authentication unit rewrites the program data stored in the ROM, it selects one encryption algorithm from a plurality of encryption algorithms, generates new encryption data and key data, and stores them in the storage unit. It is desirable to do.
[0009]
  In addition, the CPU of the gaming machine according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteIn the method, it is preferable that the rewrite authentication means end the authentication process when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decrypted by the rewrite authenticating means do not match.
[0010]
  In addition, the CPU of the gaming machine according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteIn the method, the rewrite authentication means instructs the bus controller of the gaming machine CPU to separate the ROM from the CPU core and the built-in resources when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer matches the decrypted data decrypted by itself. Thus, it is desirable that the ROM writer is connected only to the ROM via the rewrite authentication means.
[0011]
  In addition, the CPU of the gaming machine according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteWhen the rewrite authentication means determines whether or not to permit rewriting of the program data for a part or all of the ROM from the ROM writer and permits the rewriting, Then, the ROM writer sends a request for rewriting the program data to the gaming machine CPU, and has received authentication from the rewrite authentication means to permit rewriting. Sometimes it is desirable to rewrite program data stored in ROM.
[0012]
  Further, the CPU for gaming machine according to the present invention includes a rewritable ROM for storing program data, a plurality of encryption algorithms for encrypting certain data, and a cipher for one of the plurality of encryption algorithms. Encrypted data encrypted by the algorithm, multiple decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data, and key data that is data for selecting one decryption algorithm from among the multiple decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data And a rewrite authentication means for judging whether or not rewriting of program data stored in the ROM is permitted by a ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving data. Sends encrypted data and key data to the writer and decrypts the encrypted data from the ROM writer. When data is received, one decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data is selected from the received decryption data and a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the storage means, and the encrypted data is decrypted using the selected decryption algorithm. It is determined whether or not the decrypted data matches, and when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decoded by itself match, the ROM writer rewrites the program data stored in the ROM. It is something to allow.
[0013]
  The ROM writer according to the present invention is a ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from the gaming machine CPU, and has the same plurality of decoding algorithms as the plurality of decoding algorithms stored in the storage means of the gaming machine CPU. A ROM writer storage means for storing, and when the encryption data and the key data are received from the gaming machine CPU, one of the plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the ROM writer storage means corresponding to the key data When a decryption algorithm is selected, decryption data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data received using the selected decryption algorithm is transmitted to the CPU for the gaming machine, and rewriting of the program data stored in the ROM is permitted from the rewrite authentication means In addition, the program data stored in the ROM is rewritten.
[0014]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a gaming machine CPU according to a first embodiment of the present invention.Internal ROM rewriteFIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a gaming machine CPU to be recycled in the method.
[0015]
  CPU of the gaming machine of this embodimentInternal ROM rewriteIn the method, after a specific gaming machine CPU having a built-in rewritable ROM is collected, a program stored in the ROM is rewritten using a dedicated ROM writer for the specific gaming machine CPU. Here, the dedicated ROM writer is arranged only on the CPU manufacturer side that manufactured the CPU for the specific gaming machine. The gaming machine CPU in which the new program is written in this manner is again mounted on the gaming machine and used as a recycled product.
[0016]
  The “specific gaming machine CPU” is the gaming machine CPU of the present embodiment.Internal ROM rewriteIt is a gaming machine CPU that can be recycled by applying the method. CPU of the gaming machine of this embodimentInternal ROM rewriteThe method is not applicable to all kinds of gaming machine CPUs.
[0017]
  Next, the CPU of the gaming machine of this embodimentInternal ROM rewriteA specific gaming machine CPU and a dedicated ROM writer to be recycled in the method will be described.
[0018]
The gaming machine CPU to be recycled in this embodiment incorporates a rewritable ROM, and controls the gaming machine based on a gaming program stored in the ROM. The gaming machine CPU 10 is a one-chip CPU, and as shown in FIG. 1, a CPU core 11, a built-in resource 12, a ROM 13, a bus controller 14, a rewrite authentication control unit (rewrite authentication means) 15, A plurality of external terminals.
[0019]
The CPU core 11 is a general CPU core. The built-in resource 12 is generally a resource built in the one-chip CPU, and specifically includes a RAM, a timer, a counter, and the like other than the ROM. Further, as the ROM 13, for example, a normal parallel EEPROM is used.
[0020]
The ROM 13 stores a game program necessary for controlling the gaming machine. When rewriting a program stored in a part or all of the ROM 13, a dedicated ROM writer 60 is used. The ROM writer 60 is connected to an external terminal of the gaming machine CPU 10. The rewrite authentication control unit 15 performs an authentication process when the ROM writer 60 rewrites a program stored in the ROM 13. Specifically, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 exchanges data with the ROM writer 60 and determines whether or not to permit a program rewrite request by the ROM writer 60. When the request for rewriting is recognized, an authentication signal for permitting rewriting is sent to the ROM writer 60. The ROM writer 60 can rewrite the contents of the program stored in the ROM 13 upon receiving an authentication signal indicating that rewriting is permitted.
[0021]
In the present embodiment, the term “rewrite” is used to mean both writing a new program in the ROM 13 and erasing the program stored in the ROM 13. Actually, when erasing the program, blank data (for example, 00 or FF) is written in all areas of the ROM 13.
[0022]
In addition to the game program, the ROM 13 stores encryption data, key data, a plurality of encryption algorithms, and a decryption algorithm. The encrypted data is obtained by encrypting certain data using a predetermined encryption algorithm. The key data is data that specifies the type of encryption algorithm used to generate the encryption data. Such encrypted data and key data are data necessary for the rewrite authentication control unit 15 to perform authentication processing. If the type of the encryption algorithm is known from the key data, the decryption algorithm for the encryption algorithm can be found, and thus the encryption data can be decrypted. The rewrite authentication control unit 15 selects one encryption algorithm from among a plurality of encryption algorithms each time the contents of the program stored in the ROM 13 are rewritten, and generates new encryption data by the encryption algorithm. Then, key data for the encrypted data is generated. The encrypted data and key data generated in this way are stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 13. Note that the encryption data, the key data, the plurality of encryption algorithms, and the decryption algorithm are not limited to the ROM 13 and may be stored in other storage means in the gaming machine CPU 10.
[0023]
The storage unit in the ROM writer 60 also stores the above-described plurality of decoding algorithms. The ROM writer 60 has a plurality of decryption algorithms and a function for exchanging data with the rewrite authentication control unit 15 by communication or the like. This ROM writer 60 is a dedicated ROM writer for the gaming machine CPU 10. It is. Therefore, if the dedicated ROM writer 60 having a function of exchanging data with the rewrite authentication control unit 15 is not used, a new program can be written in the ROM 13 or the program stored in the ROM 13 can be erased. Can not. In particular, in this embodiment, the dedicated ROM writer 60 is arranged only on the CPU manufacturer side that manufactured the gaming machine CPU 10. As a result, only the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU 10 has the authority to rewrite the program data stored in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10.
[0024]
The bus controller 14 electrically disconnects the ROM 13 from the CPU core 11 and the built-in resource 12 when the rewrite authentication control unit 15 permits the ROM writer 60 to be rewritten by the authentication process. That is, in this case, the gaming machine CPU 10 is in a state where only the ROM 13 and the ROM writer 60 are connected via the rewrite authentication control unit 15. In addition, while the ROM 13, the CPU core 11, and the built-in resource 12 are disconnected, the CPU core 11 is configured to be in a stopped state. Therefore, when viewed from the ROM writer 60, the gaming machine CPU 10 is in a state as if it is a single ROM.
[0025]
The CPU core 11, the built-in resource 12, and the bus controller 14, the bus controller 14, the rewrite authentication control unit 15, and the external terminal, and the rewrite authentication control unit 15 and the ROM 13 are connected by various buses. Yes. The various buses include an address bus A, a data bus D, and a control bus C.
[0026]
The address bus A and the data bus D are a general address bus and a data bus, respectively. These are also used when rewriting a program stored in the ROM 13. The control bus C is also a general control bus and is used when rewriting a program stored in the ROM 13. For this reason, the control bus C has a function different from the normally used function. For example, when Z80 manufactured by XYLOG Co. is used as the CPU core 11 and parallel EEPROM is used as the built-in ROM 13, the CE (chip enable input) terminal of the ROM 13 is not used for connection to the CPU core 11, but a ROM writer. When connected to 60, it is used as a CE terminal. An OE (output enable input) terminal of the ROM 13 is used as an MREQ terminal when connected to the CPU core 11 and is used as an OE terminal when connected to the ROM writer 60. Further, the WE (write enable input) terminal of the ROM 13 is not used when connected to the CPU core 11, but is used as a WE terminal when connected to the ROM writer 60. Since the CE, OE, and WE terminals are general EEPROM terminals, the description thereof is omitted here. Similarly, the description of the MREQ terminal is also omitted.
[0027]
The bus controller 14 and the rewrite authentication control unit 15 are connected by a bus control line 21, and the rewrite authentication control unit 15 and an external terminal are connected by a rewrite authentication control line 22. Further, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 and the ROM 13 are connected by a protect control line 23.
[0028]
The rewrite authentication control line 22 is a control line for performing an authentication process between the ROM writer 60 and the rewrite authentication control unit 15. Here, the rewrite authentication control line 22 may be of any method and number. The bus control line 21 is a control line for the bus controller 14 to receive a signal from the rewrite authentication control unit 15 to disconnect the various buses A, D, and C from the CPU core 11 and the internal resource 12.
[0029]
In the present embodiment, the ROM 13 has a rewrite protection function. The protect control line 23 is a control line for controlling whether rewriting of the program stored in the ROM 13 is prohibited or whether the rewriting prohibition is released. When the protection control line 23 to the ROM 13 is in a rewrite prohibition state, the state of the ROM 13 is a state that cannot be rewritten, and therefore the ROM writer 60 cannot rewrite the program. On the other hand, when the protection control line 23 to the ROM 13 is in the rewrite prohibition release state, the state of the ROM 13 is a rewritable state. That is, the ROM writer 60 can rewrite the program only when the protection control line 23 to the ROM 13 is in the rewrite prohibition release state. The state transition between the rewrite prohibition release state and the rewrite prohibition state can be performed only by the rewrite authentication control unit 15.
[0030]
Under a general usage situation in which the ROM writer 60 is not connected to the gaming machine CPU 10, the ROM 13 is connected to the CPU core 11 by various buses A, D, and C via the rewrite authentication control unit 15 and the bus controller 14. Connected to the built-in resource 12. Therefore, in this case, the operation of the gaming machine CPU 10 is the same as that of a general one-chip CPU. Of course, the protection control line 23 to the ROM 13 remains in the rewrite prohibition state. Since the various buses A, D, and C are connected to external terminals, the buses can be connected to an external circuit depending on the circuit configuration.
[0031]
On the other hand, when the ROM writer 60 is connected to the gaming machine CPU 10, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 sends encrypted data, key data, decrypted data, and the like to the ROM writer 60 via the rewrite authentication control line 22. The communication protocol is used for authentication processing. When the rewrite authentication control unit 15 permits rewriting in the authentication process, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 sends a signal to the bus controller 14 via the bus control line 21 to disconnect the various buses A, D, and C from the CPU core 11 and the built-in resource 12. At the same time, the protection control line 23 to the ROM 13 is set to the rewrite prohibition release state. The protection control line 23 is not in a rewrite prohibition release state unless rewrite is permitted by the rewrite authentication control unit 15, and is quickly in a rewrite prohibition state when rewriting of the program stored in the ROM 13 is completed. . Therefore, even if a program other than the dedicated ROM writer 60 is actually used to write a program into the ROM 13, the protect control line 23 is in a rewrite-inhibited state, and the state cannot be released. Program writing is impossible.
[0032]
The protect control line 23 is always in a rewrite prohibition state as a default when the power of the gaming machine CPU 10 is turned on. For this reason, if the power supply of the gaming machine CPU 10 is turned off while the protection control line 23 is in the rewrite prohibition release state, then the protection control line 23 is rewritten when the power is turned on again to rewrite the program. Return to the prohibited state. That is, in this embodiment, the gaming machine CPU 10 is automatically locked so that the program cannot be rewritten when the power is turned off.
[0033]
  Next, the gaming machine CPU of the first embodimentInternal ROM rewriteThe method will be described in detail. FIG. 2 shows the first embodiment.Games inCP for machineU LisaFIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the procedure of the vehicle.In the first embodiment4 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure when a program stored in the ROM 13 is rewritten.
[0034]
First, the CPU manufacturer newly manufactures a gaming machine CPU 10 with a built-in ROM (S11). Next, the CPU manufacturer uses the dedicated ROM writer 60 to write a new program in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 (S12). At this time, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 of the gaming machine CPU 10 creates encrypted data and key data and stores them in a predetermined area of the ROM 13. The process of writing such a program is performed according to the flow of FIG. 3, and details thereof will be described later. Thereafter, the CPU manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the gaming machine manufacturer (S13). Thus, the gaming machine manufacturer manufactures and sells a gaming machine equipped with such gaming machine CPU 10 (S14).
[0035]
After several years have passed since the sale, when the gaming machine is no longer used in the market, the gaming machine manufacturer collects the unused gaming machine in order to recycle the used gaming machine CPU 10. The gaming machine CPU 10 is taken out (S15). Then, the gaming machine manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU 10 (S16). As a matter of course, the gaming machine manufacturer needs to obtain permission from the CPU manufacturer in advance when using the gaming machine CPU 10 as a recycled product.
[0036]
The CPU manufacturer uses the dedicated ROM writer 60 to rewrite the program stored in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 into a new model gaming machine program (S17). The processing for rewriting such a program is performed according to the flow of FIG.
[0037]
When the CPU maker connects the dedicated ROM writer 60 to the external terminal of the gaming machine CPU 10, the processing flow of FIG. 3 is started. First, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 reads encrypted data and key data stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 13 when the program of the ROM 13 was written last time (S31). Thereafter, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 transmits the read encrypted data and key data to the ROM writer 60 via the rewrite authentication control line 22 using a predetermined communication protocol (S32). Here, any communication protocol may be used.
[0038]
Next, when the ROM writer 60 receives the encryption data and the key data sent from the gaming machine CPU 10, the ROM writer 60 determines a decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data from a plurality of decryption algorithms (S33). Then, based on the determined decryption algorithm, the encrypted data is decrypted into decrypted data (S34). Thereafter, the ROM writer 60 transmits the decrypted data to the gaming machine CPU 10 using a predetermined communication protocol (S35).
[0039]
The rewrite authentication control unit 15 determines a decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data read in step S31 from among a plurality of decryption algorithms (S6). Based on the determined decryption algorithm, the encrypted data read in step S31 is decrypted into decrypted data (S37).
[0040]
Next, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 compares and compares the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer 60 in step S35 with the decrypted data decrypted by itself in step S37, and determines whether or not they match. (S38). If the two decrypted data do not match, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 does not perform any subsequent authentication control, and does nothing until the power is turned off. In this case, the processing flow shown in FIG. 3 ends.
[0041]
On the other hand, when the two pieces of decrypted data match, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 determines to allow the ROM writer 60 to rewrite. At this time, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 first transmits a signal for disconnecting the various buses A, D, and C from the CPU core 11 and the built-in resource 12 to the bus controller 14 via the bus control line 21 (S39). . Thus, when the bus controller 14 disconnects the various buses A, D, and C, the ROM 13 is connected only to the ROM writer 60 via the rewrite authentication control unit 15. Further, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 puts the protect control line 23 into a rewrite prohibition release state (S40). As a result, the program stored in the ROM 13 can be rewritten. Further, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 transmits an authentication signal for permitting rewriting to the ROM writer 60 via the rewrite authentication control line 22 by a predetermined communication protocol (S41).
[0042]
When the ROM writer 60 receives an authentication signal indicating that such rewriting is permitted, the ROM writer 60 sends predetermined write data (program data) or erase data (blank data) via various buses A, D, and C to the gaming machine CPU 10. (S42). Thereafter, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 writes the write data or erase data from the ROM writer 60 into the ROM 13 (S43). Thereby, a new program is written in the ROM 13 or all programs stored in the ROM 13 are erased. When the program is rewritten in this way, the rewrite authentication control unit 15 generates new encrypted data and key data and stores them in a predetermined area of the ROM 13 (S44). This is the end of the processing flow shown in FIG.
[0043]
The protect control line 23 is always in a rewrite prohibition state as a default when the power is turned on. For this reason, once the power is turned off after the processing flow of FIG. 3 is completed, the protection control line 23 will not be in a state where the rewrite prohibition is canceled unless authentication processing is performed again thereafter.
[0044]
After the program stored in the ROM 13 is rewritten according to the processing flow of FIG. 3, the CPU manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the gaming machine manufacturer (S18). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S14 in FIG. In this manner, the CPU manufacturer and the gaming machine manufacturer can recycle the gaming machine CPU 10.
[0045]
  First implementationIn formAfter collecting the used specific gaming machine CPU, the dedicated ROM writer for the specific gaming machine CPU is used to rewrite the program stored in the ROM. Therefore, by placing such a dedicated ROM writer only on the CPU manufacturer side that manufactured the CPU for the gaming machine, only the CPU manufacturer can rewrite the program. If a ROM writer is used, the program cannot be rewritten. For this reason, only the CPU manufacturer and the person who has received the permission can recycle the gaming machine CPU. At this time, if the cost required for recycling is added to the selling price of the recycled product, the profit can be set in the same way as new product sales, so the CPU manufacturer can work on the recycling with peace of mind. Further, by re-inspecting the recycled product at the time of recycling, it becomes possible to centrally manage the gaming machine CPU by the CPU manufacturer, so that the quality of the gaming machine CPU in the market can be secured at a certain level.
[0046]
  In the first embodiment, as the CPU for the gaming machine, the rewrite authentication control unit determines whether or not rewriting is permitted when there is a program rewriting request for part or all of the ROM, and rewriting is performed. When enabling, use the one that changes the protection control line to the ROM to the rewrite prohibition release state, and as a dedicated ROM writer, sends a program rewrite request to the above gaming machine CPU and rewrites A program that rewrites a program when it receives authentication to permit rewriting from the authentication control unit is used. Therefore, the gaming machine CPU and the dedicated ROM writer are the same as the gaming machine CPU of the first embodiment.Internal ROM rewriteSuitable for use in the method.
[0047]
  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.InCP for gaming machinesU LisaIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of a cycle.
[0048]
In the second embodiment, a schematic block diagram of a gaming machine CPU to be recycled is substantially the same as FIG. In the second embodiment, components having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.
[0049]
  Second embodimentInThe recycling method of the gaming machine CPU is different from that of the first embodiment in that the CPU manufacturer only erases the program stored in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 and the gaming machine manufacturer stores it in the blank ROM 13. A new program is written. In this case, for example, the gaming machine CPU 10 cannot erase the program unless the dedicated ROM writer 60 is used, and can write the program using a general ROM writer. Use something. In order to realize this, the gaming machine CPU 10 may be configured so that a new program cannot be written unless the program in the ROM 13 is erased. That is, when the program erasure by the dedicated ROM writer 60 is completed, the protection control line 23 is not in a rewrite-inhibited state and before rewriting, the power is turned on again after turning off the power. However, the rewrite prohibition release state may be held as the state of the protect control line 23. Although not shown in the first embodiment, it is desirable for the new gaming machine CPU 10 to have the protection control line 23 in the rewrite prohibition release state as in the case of the already erased program.
[0050]
  Next, the second embodimentInCP for gaming machinesU LisaThe procedure of the vehicle is explained.
[0051]
According to the flow of FIG. 4, first, the CPU manufacturer newly manufactures the gaming machine CPU 10 (S61). At this time, the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 is in a blank state. Next, the CPU manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the gaming machine manufacturer (S62). Thereafter, the gaming machine manufacturer writes a new program in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 using a general ROM writer (S63). Then, the gaming machine manufacturer manufactures and sells a gaming machine equipped with the gaming machine CPU 10 (S64).
[0052]
After several years have passed since the sale, when the gaming machine is no longer used in the market, the gaming machine manufacturer collects the gaming machine and takes out the gaming machine CPU 10 (S65). Then, the gaming machine manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU 10 (S66).
[0053]
The CPU manufacturer uses the dedicated ROM writer 60 to erase the program stored in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 (S67). Thereafter, the CPU manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 with the program erased to the gaming machine manufacturer (S68).
[0054]
Next, the gaming machine manufacturer writes a new program in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 using a general ROM writer (S69). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S64 in FIG. In this manner, the CPU manufacturer and the gaming machine manufacturer can recycle the gaming machine CPU 10.
[0055]
  Second implementationIn form,Only the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the CPU for the gaming machine can erase the program in the ROM, and if the program in the ROM is not erased, a new program cannot be written in the ROM. Without permission, a third party cannot rewrite the program without permission. Therefore, only the CPU manufacturer and the person who has received the permission can recycle the gaming machine CPU. Other effects are the same as in the first embodiment.
[0056]
  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.InCP for gaming machinesU LisaIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of a cycle.
[0057]
In the third embodiment, a schematic block diagram of a gaming machine CPU to be recycled is substantially the same as FIG. Moreover, in 3rd embodiment, the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same code | symbol to the thing which has the same function as the thing of 1st embodiment.
[0058]
  Third embodimentInThe recycle method of the gaming machine CPU is different from that of the first embodiment described above in that the gaming machine manufacturer that has received the permission from the CPU manufacturer performs from the collection of the gaming machine CPU 10 to the writing of a new program independently. This is the point. Here, the dedicated ROM writer 60 is arranged on the gaming machine manufacturer side.
[0059]
In order to realize this, for example, a prepaid function may be added to the dedicated ROM writer 60. In other words, a mechanism for inserting a prepaid card is provided in the dedicated ROM writer 60, and a function for rewriting the program as many times as the remaining number of prepaid cards is added. In this case, for example, the CPU maker lends a dedicated ROM writer 60 free of charge to a gaming machine maker and issues a prepaid card. The CPU manufacturer can collect the recycling fee of the gaming machine CPU 10 by selling the prepaid card.
[0060]
Further, instead of adding the prepaid function, the dedicated ROM writer 60 may be provided with a counting means for counting the number of times the program has been rewritten. Also in this case, for example, the CPU manufacturer lends a dedicated ROM writer 60 free of charge to a gaming machine manufacturer. Then, for example, the CPU manufacturer confirms the number of times counted by the counting means every month, and charges the gaming machine manufacturer for the amount corresponding to the number of times.
[0061]
In the third embodiment, the gaming machine maker independently recycles the gaming machine CPU. However, the gaming machine maker receives a recycling permission from the CPU maker, and the compensation for rewriting the program is given by the CPU maker. In this case, as in the first embodiment, only the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU has the authority to rewrite the program data stored in the ROM of the gaming machine CPU. I can say that.
[0062]
  Next, the third embodimentInCP for gaming machinesU LisaThe procedure of the cycle is described.
[0063]
According to the flow of FIG. 5, first, the CPU manufacturer newly manufactures the gaming machine CPU 10 (S81). Next, the CPU manufacturer hands over the gaming machine CPU 10 to the gaming machine manufacturer (S82). Thereafter, the gaming machine manufacturer writes a new program in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 using the dedicated ROM writer 60 lent from the CPU manufacturer (S83). The process of writing such a program is performed according to the flow of FIG. Then, the gaming machine manufacturer manufactures and sells a gaming machine equipped with the gaming machine CPU 10 (S84).
[0064]
After several years have passed since the sale, when the gaming machine is no longer used in the market, the gaming machine manufacturer collects the gaming machine and takes out the gaming machine CPU 10 (S85). Next, the gaming machine manufacturer rewrites the program stored in the ROM 13 of the gaming machine CPU 10 to a new program using the dedicated ROM writer 60 (S86). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S84 in FIG. In this way, the gaming machine manufacturer can recycle the gaming machine CPU 10.
[0065]
  Third implementationIn formSince only the gaming machine manufacturer that has received permission from the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU can erase the program in the ROM, other third parties cannot arbitrarily rewrite the program. Therefore, only those who receive permission from the CPU manufacturer can recycle the gaming machine CPU. Other effects are the same as in the first embodiment.
[0066]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist.
[0067]
For example, in each of the above embodiments, the ROM built in the gaming machine CPU is not limited to the EEPROM, but may be any type as long as it is a rewritable ROM. Further, the rewrite authentication control line may be shared by various buses. Furthermore, the number of encryption algorithms for generating encryption data may be one.
[0068]
In each of the above embodiments, newly generated encrypted data and key data are stored in the ROM at the start of the rewriting process so that there is no problem even if the power of the gaming machine CPU is turned off during the program rewriting process. It is desirable to write.
[0069]
In each of the above embodiments, the case where encrypted data that requires decryption is used in the authentication process by the rewrite authentication control unit has been described. However, it is not always necessary to use such encrypted data. For example, unencrypted data may be transmitted to a dedicated ROM writer using a predetermined communication protocol. In this case, the rewrite authentication control unit determines whether to permit program rewriting based on whether data can be exchanged with the dedicated ROM writer using the communication protocol.
[0070]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the case where the protection control line is used to prevent the program stored in the ROM from being rewritten without permission has been described. However, it is not always necessary to use the protection function based on the protection control line. . Generally, the gaming machine CPU to be recycled may be configured so that after the power is turned on, the program stored in the ROM is not rewritten unless an authentication process is performed by the rewrite authentication control unit. .
[0071]
In each of the above embodiments, the case where the bus controller separates the various buses from the CPU core and the built-in resources when rewriting the program stored in the ROM has been described, but a dedicated ROM writer is used as the gaming machine CPU. If the program can be rewritten when connected, the various buses need not be separated from the CPU core and the built-in resources.
[0072]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the rewrite authentication control unit and the CPU core are configured as separate bodies has been described. However, for example, the CPU core may also serve as the rewrite authentication control unit. That is, when a dedicated ROM writer is connected to the gaming machine CPU, the CPU core may perform authentication processing and rewriting processing by a program for realizing the function of the rewriting authentication control unit.
[0073]
In each of the above embodiments, the case where the encryption data and the key data are written in the same ROM as the user program ROM storing the game program has been described. However, for storing the encryption data and the key data, A dedicated ROM may be configured separately from the program ROM.
[0074]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, when the dedicated ROM writer writes a program to the ROM, the dedicated ROM writer determines whether or not the program to be written to the ROM is a legitimate program, and when the program is legitimate. The program may be normally written in the ROM. In this case, for example, to the program to be written, authentication data generated by the certification authority based on the original program at the time of verification by the certification authority is added. The ROM writer can easily determine whether or not the program is a legitimate program by determining the consistency of the authentication data. As described above, since only the program used for the verification can be normally written in the ROM, the dedicated ROM writer has a security function against an unauthorized program being written. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the gaming machine CPU collected for recycling from flowing into other industries, and to improve the recycling rate of the gaming machine CPU.
[0075]
In addition, in each of the above embodiments, a terminal (or connector) for connecting the dedicated ROM writer and the gaming machine CPU is provided on the control board on which the gaming machine CPU is mounted. After connecting to the terminal, the program stored in the ROM may be rewritten in a state where the gaming machine CPU is mounted on the control board. In this case, in a state where the gaming machine CPU is mounted on the control board, the external terminal of the gaming machine CPU is connected to a predetermined external circuit via a bus, so that a program is written to the ROM from the dedicated ROM writer via the bus. Can not write. For this reason, a new write control line is provided in the rewrite authentication control unit of the gaming machine CPU so that not only the rewrite authentication control line but also the write control line is drawn from the rewrite authentication control unit to the terminal. There is a need to. The dedicated ROM writer may send write data via a write control line by serial communication, for example.
[0076]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, the gaming machine CPU according to the present inventionInternal ROM rewriteAccording to the method, after collecting the used gaming machine CPU, the program data stored in the ROM is rewritten by using a dedicated ROM writer for the particular gaming machine CPU. Therefore, by placing such a dedicated ROM writer only on the CPU manufacturer side that manufactured the CPU for the gaming machine, only the CPU manufacturer can rewrite the program data. Program data cannot be rewritten using a ROM writer. For this reason, only the CPU manufacturer and those who have received permission can recycle the gaming machine CPU.
[0077]
  In addition, the present inventionAccording toWhen a used gaming machine CPU is collected and recycled, only the CPU manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine CPU has the authority to rewrite the program data stored in the ROM of the gaming machine CPU.To doThus, only the CPU manufacturer can rewrite the program data, and other third parties cannot rewrite the program data without permission from the CPU manufacturer. For this reason, only the CPU manufacturer and those who have received permission can recycle the gaming machine CPU.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 shows a CPU for gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.Internal ROM rewriteFIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a gaming machine CPU to be recycled in the method.
FIG. 2 First embodimentGames inCP for machineU LisaIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of a cycle.
[Fig. 3]In the first embodimentIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the process sequence at the time of rewriting the program memorize | stored in ROM.
FIG. 4 is a second embodiment of the present invention.InCP for gaming machinesU LisaIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of a cycle.
FIG. 5 is a third embodiment of the present invention.InCP for gaming machinesU LisaIt is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of a cycle.
[Explanation of symbols]
  10 CPU for gaming machine
  11 CPU core
  12 Built-in resources
  13 ROM
  14 Bus controller
  15 Rewrite authentication control unit
  21 Bus control line
  22 Rewrite authentication control line
  23 Protect control line
  60 Dedicated ROM writer

Claims (7)

A rewritable ROM for storing program data;
A plurality of encryption algorithms for encrypting certain data, encrypted data obtained by encrypting certain data using one of the plurality of encryption algorithms, and a plurality of decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data; Storage means for storing key data which is data for selecting one decryption algorithm from among the plurality of decryption algorithms in order to decrypt the encrypted data;
A rewriting authentication means for judging whether or not rewriting of the program data stored in the ROM is permitted by a ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving data, and a gaming machine CPU for recycling a gaming machine CPU having a built-in A recycling method,
The rewrite authentication unit transmits the encryption data and the key data stored in the storage unit to the ROM writer,
The ROM writer stores a plurality of decryption algorithms, which are the same as the decryption algorithms stored in the storage unit, in the ROM writer storage unit, and receives the encrypted data and the key data from the rewrite authentication unit, the ROM writer storage One decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data is selected from a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the means, and the decrypted data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data received using the selected decryption algorithm is sent to the gaming machine CPU. Send
When the rewrite authentication unit receives the decryption data from the ROM writer, the rewrite authentication unit selects one decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data from the received decryption data and a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the storage unit, It is determined whether or not the decrypted data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data stored in the storage means using the selected decryption algorithm matches the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decrypted by itself There if they match, the internal ROM rewriting method for a game machine CPU, characterized in that to allow rewriting of the program data stored in the ROM by the ROM writer. The rewrite authentication unit selects one encryption algorithm from the plurality of encryption algorithms each time the program data stored in the ROM is rewritten, generates new encryption data and key data, and stores in the storage unit internal ROM rewriting method according to claim 1 for gaming machines CPU of wherein the storing. 3. The gaming machine CPU according to claim 1, wherein the rewrite authentication means ends the authentication process when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decrypted by the rewrite authenticating means do not match. Internal ROM rewriting method. The rewrite authentication means instructs the bus controller of the gaming machine CPU to separate the ROM from the CPU core and the built-in resources when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer and the decrypted data decoded by the ROM match. 4. The built-in ROM rewrite method for a gaming machine CPU according to claim 1, wherein the ROM writer is connected only to the ROM via the rewrite authentication means. When the rewrite authentication unit determines whether or not to permit rewriting of the program data for a part or all of the ROM from the ROM writer, and permits the rewriting The state of the ROM is changed to a state where it can be rewritten,
The ROM writer sends a program data rewrite request to the gaming machine CPU, and the program data stored in the ROM when the rewrite authentication means receives authentication to permit rewriting. 5. The method of rewriting a built-in ROM of a gaming machine CPU according to claim 1, wherein said rewriting is performed. A rewritable ROM for storing program data;
A plurality of encryption algorithms for encrypting certain data, encrypted data obtained by encrypting certain data using one of the plurality of encryption algorithms, and a plurality of decryption algorithms for decrypting the encrypted data; Storage means for storing key data which is data for selecting one decryption algorithm from among the plurality of decryption algorithms in order to decrypt the encrypted data;
Rewriting authentication means for judging whether or not rewriting of the program data stored in the ROM is permitted by a ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving data; and
The rewrite authentication means sends the encrypted data and the key data to the ROM writer, and receives the decrypted data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data from the ROM writer. One decryption algorithm corresponding to the key data is selected from among a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the decrypted data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data matches with the selected decryption algorithm. A game in which rewriting of the program data stored in the ROM by the ROM writer is permitted when the decrypted data sent from the ROM writer coincides with the decrypted data decrypted by the ROM writer. CPU for machine.   7. A ROM writer capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from the gaming machine CPU according to claim 6, wherein the ROM stores the same plurality of decoding algorithms as the plurality of decoding algorithms stored in the storage means of the gaming machine CPU. A writer storage means is provided, and corresponds to the key data among a plurality of decryption algorithms stored in the ROM writer storage means when the encrypted data and the key data are received from the gaming machine CPU. Select one decryption algorithm, send decryption data obtained by decrypting the received encrypted data using the selected decryption algorithm to the gaming machine CPU, and store the program data stored in the ROM from the rewrite authentication unit. When rewriting is permitted, the program data stored in the ROM can be rewritten. ROM writer characterized by.

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