Automated Poker Tables Abound

Casinos around the country have begun experimenting with dealer-less poker tables, a hybrid of computer and hardwood that allow poker players to run games on autopilot. One such table, the FastDeal table, has no need for live dealers, chips or cards, with all computations done by computer and the results displayed on individual players screens. Dealing and payouts are all automated, resulting in faster play and more hands per hour - which is a benefit to casinos, that don't have to pay dealer salary and can collect more rakes per hour. The Hustler Casino in Los Angeles has implemented FastDeal, the first casino to do so.