Depending on the regularity with which you play bingo, and your experience in all aspects of the game, you may have witnessed a bingo machine in action. There are different machine types which basically serve the same purpose, although some are more technologically advanced in nature - this brings the difference in how and where to play with these machines. Here is an insight into the various machines that grace the bingo games.

• Integrated Bingo Machines

These are free standing machines and which are considered the all inclusive unit which facilitate every aspect of the bingo game to be played from calculating jackpots, mixing and dispensing the bingo balls, displaying the called numbers to calling these numbers. These machines are generally electronic having inbuilt specialized software installed into their core so that digital displays can show. Integrated machines have bases made from either hard durable wood or heavy plastic depending on the intended lifetime of the machine.

• Electronic Bingo Machines

This type of bingo machine is commonly seen in the casinos and gaming halls all across the world. Their mechanism of operations is much like how the slot machine works hence they are commonly referred to as bingo slot machines. The major difference with slot machines is that instead of symbols, the bingo machines use numbers. Electronic bingo playing is banned in many states within the United States however it is widely accepted and enjoyed in the UK where there are designated clubs and venues in which it can be played.

• Online Bingo Machines

The online version works in a similar manner like the integrated machine, except that every feature is programmed within the game application software. This includes each aspect that is required to play the games, from the Random Number Generator software to the bingo board that displays numbers as they are indicated, calling software that calls each number as it comes out, the number board that shows which numbers have been called and also the displays that feature the game ID, game time, duration of game, current pattern and every other detail that you may see onscreen. Programming developers have spent a long time perfecting, testing and adding on to the game software - ensuring the online bingo games run smoothly and effectively for each and every session.

From a comparative stand point, the digital bingo machines are slowly replacing the overly expensive and older console and electric/mechanical table top machines. It has no switches, motors, wires or light bulbs to burn out. It's convenient to install and use because the software will run on any IBM computer that has windows 2000 and up. The application will install itself on a computer especially with laptops and table PCs because it's easy to attach a CRT monitor for viewing by your bingo players.