Daily News - Perth March 16, 1990

The Scorpion blackjack computer is so small it can be concealed in the pocket, or even the hand. It has twin complex card-count programs which calculate the game strategy to be followed and the size of bet that should be laid.

The computer is not held by the player. It is concealed on an observer who records every card drawn from the dealer's "shoe." The computer instantaneously determines whether the next card called by the player is likely to be high or low. It transmits directions to the player at the table, through a series of pre-set electronic signals. The signals are picked up by a radio receiver which converts them into vibrations felt by the player - one vibration to buy, two to stand, three to double, four to split and so on.

Another variation, for the more professional player not needing instruction on game strategy, does not involve signals transmission. The observer feeds information into the computer - concealed in hand or pocket - and receives the response by way of vibration. Then he uses pre-arranged body or other signals to indicate the size of bet to be laid by his partner.

In yet another variation, the table-side observer transmits the card count signals to another person based in a nearby hotel room with the computer. The Scorpion then transmits the directions back to the player.

Because the Scorpion's signals have "frequency agility" - they dance across every possible frequency, including radio and TV - they cannot be jammed without blocking the entire radio-frequency spectrum, including mobile telephones.

Mr Barnett stresses the device does not guarantee winnings but claims odds are improved 2.5 percent in favour of the player. "That is 2.5 percent of the money on the table," he said.

The cost of devices ranges between $1500 and $5000.