Early on, when IB was getting most everybody "tokenized", they had three different methods of securing your log-in. I think they worked this way --
1) The printed card which had reply codes to use versus challenge codes sent during log-in. Each card has unique codes and the IB security server looked for the match to the code it generated.
Lowest cost.
2) Gold response generator. A serialized crypto device assigned to your account. IB sends a challenge code. You input the code into the device and it gives you a reply. IB security server verifies answer.
Moderate cost.
3) Platinum response generator. Same as unit above but you must input a PIN to get it to produce the correct response. Wrong PIN will appear to work but info is bogus.
Most costly.
The Platinum unit is the one they established the $150 deposit for. It was originally offered on a non-mandatory basis for accounts over $100K. I suspect the cost to quin8670 will be a lot less than $150. Let's hope he lets us know the final outcome.
Jack