The house edge in a casino is a common misconception. The casino has the mathematical advantage because it accepts all bets up to the limit, so a gambler cannot win more than it can afford. This is also one of the reasons why casinos are profitable, since there are no windows or clocks to show the time. This also helps them stay in business because they rarely lose money. However, the management at a casino often provides free drinks and cigarettes to big bettors, which may skew the results of their gambling.
As technology became more sophisticated, casinos began using more technology to monitor casino games. Video cameras and computers routinely supervised table games. “Chipper tracking” involves betting chips that contain microcircuitry, which the casino uses to track wagers minute-by-minute. Roulette wheels are monitored regularly for statistical deviations. Enclosed versions of the same game are also available without dealers. Instead, players simply push buttons and watch the game unfold.
The casino industry began incorporating advanced technologies into their operations in the 1990s. Computers and video cameras are routinely used to monitor gaming tables. The casino industry is also adopting new methods for surveillance, such as “chip tracking” (betting chips that have built-in microcircuitry) that allows casino operators to keep track of wagers minute-by-minute. Many casinos now use enclosed versions of games where the dealer isn’t present and the players place their bets by pushing buttons.