The first successful automatic totalisator was invented by engineer George Julius. With the sale of the first Tote to the Auckland Jockey Club, Julius established Automatic Totalisator Ltd (ATL), the most successful Totalisator company in what was to become a thriving international industry. ATL was the leader in the field for 65 years, producing mechanical, electromechanical, and then computer based tote systems for race tracks around the world.

The J33 was designed to replace the very popular electromechanical J8 terminals that were still in extensive use especially in Asia. Initially designed in the 1950s, many were very worn and, as they were expensive to repair, ATL determined to find an inexpensive replacement. The J33 took advantage of cheap electronics, materials and manufacturing techniques and third party components to produce a terminal that could be connected to the older electromechanical totes.

Damian McDonald
June 2007

The J33 was designed by ATL engineers Phil White, Phil Jenkinson, Greg Boote, Steven Bready, and Tony Pace at the ATL factory in Meadowbank, New South Wales between 1989 and 1993. The case was manufactured using rotation moulded polypropylene and was fitted with a third party printer (made by Star) that output cash register paper tape, an LED display and was controlled by microprocessor. About 1000 units were made.

Totalisator terminal, J33, polypropylene / electronic components, designed and made by ATL Limited, Meadowbank, New South Wales, Australia, 1989-1993

Totalisator terminal consisting of a blue polypropylene moulded case with an inlaid single line LED screen. Beneath the screen is a keyboard consisting of numerous grey, red and blue keys. At the top left of the case is a slot for inserting tickets. At the lower front of the totalisator is a black carry strap.

Made: Automatic Totalisators Limited; Meadowbank, New South Wales; 1989 - 1993

Printed, above LED display panel, 'ATL Systems'.
Manufacturer's logo and model name, printed lower left, 'ATL' and 'J33'.

2007/226/2

1989 - 1993

140 mm

465 mm

420 mm