How to use an automated Horse Race Betting Machine

Called SAM, these machines are Screen Activated Machines, and are used in many horse race tracks world wide.  For people with language barriers they work well instead of having to talk to an person taking your bet.

Typically the first thing you would do is insert your cash into the machine so it registers a credit. If you have a winning ticket, this can be used instead of cash.

There are several types of these machines so the steps may be a bit different. Generally the first thing it will ask is for you to indicate which track you are betting on. This way you can actually bet on the races at other tracks on that day. To show which track you are betting on, simply touch the screen where it says the name of the race track you are interested in.

Then it will ask you which race you are betting on. It usually blacks out any you cannot bet on, as such any races all ready over would be blacked out. Depending on the machine, it will either ask the amount of your wager, or what feature you would like to select. When it asks you for a dollar amount, do not worry if you are doing multiple combinations, it will do the math for you. Just touch the screen for the same commands that you would say to a teller. If you want a $2 Daily Double starting in the second race, with horses 4 and 7 in that race, and only horse 5 in the next you would hit: Race 2 - $2 Daily Double Horse 4 AND Horse 7 WITH Horse 5. The ticket will cost $4. Some machines are slightly different, and if you are confused or make a mistake the SAM always asks you if it is correct before printing the ticket. As with betting through a teller, always use the horses number rather than its name.

After you place the bet, you may continue to make another bet or END and the machine will issue you a credit for the money you have not spent, or may ask you to insert more money if your bet exceeds your credit. Of course the machine will also give you a ticket/voucher showing you what your bet was.

Always hold your ticket until the race has been declared official. If your ticket is a winner, you can use it on the SAM to make a bet for the next race or take it to a teller for a pay out.

A SAM in Japan

Pros

One advantage is that you can make up crazy combinations without fearing the teller is judging you.

Some SAMS have "quick pick" random number features, allowing you to pick a random ticket for a whim.

You often avoid long line ups.

You have privacy in that you do not have to say your picks aloud.

Great for people who have difficulties with language when in other countries.

Some SAMS accept bank cards too, although this may be a "con" if you are a problem gambler.

Cons

They can be confusing if you are new to the system.

It can be frustrating if you are behind somebody who is making many combinations and taking a long time.

Most SAMS do not pay out, so you still have to use a teller at the end of the night, assuming you won.

Usually the SAMS are located near a teller or have a HELP button if you run into problems.

 On your next trip to a race track, try SAM out for a change.