How is the bitcoin 21 million cap implemented?

Just to check what would take for that limit to be changed. (not that I want to be changed, quite the opposite). I know the total number of bitcoin reward is halved every 4 years.

So does the verifying nodes check if the number of rewarded bitcoins match the distribution schedule?

Installing Bitcoin-Qt on Ubuntu

I am using Ubuntu 11.10. I have downloaded Bitcoin-Qt, but I don’t think it has installed itself. The instructions say “download and install” the software, but I’m afraid I need instructions that are a little more specific. If you can tell me how to install the software it would be greatly appreciated.

Does IBB make money? Where does its earning come from?

Slightly off topic, but perhaps it is still marginally on topic because it’s about a Bitcoin-oriented business:

IBB is an “Islamic bank, acting according to the Sharia (Islamic law), charging 0% interest on BTC loans”.

Is it a profit-oriented business? A charity? Does it make money? Where do its budget come from? (I saw they’re advertising on the Bitcoin forum today)

I know they issued some GLBSE stocks, that might explain the source of the money – are Muslims effectively “donating” to this bank by purchasing stocks?

Bitcoin-Qt command line control on Mac

I’m trying to communicate with the new Bitcoin-Qt -server via a command line on Mac. I run ./Bitcoin-Qt -server, the application starts, but my terminal window is stuck on an empty line (no matter what I type in, there is no response). Only when I quit Bitcoin am I able to run any commands, but then I can’t communicate with Bitcoin, because it is already off.

How do I start Bitcoin-Qt -server on Mac and control it through command line?

Can I use Bitcoins in a game?

In many games, such as Lord Of Ultima, players can purchase a special type of currency with real money, as opposed to earning it in a game. This currency is then used to purchase premium items and services, which normally are unavailable to the players otherwise.

I am wondering whether it is feasible to use Bitcoins as a form of currency in a game? Are there any games out there that have already implemented that?

Bitcoin as subscription method

I am contemplating designing some minor sites that uses bitcoins, but as far as I can see, a manual action is needed for every payment.

Is it possible to set up a “subscription” system or repeating transactions?

If not, I am planning to design a system where you can replenish your subscription, by simply “filling up” your account and then over time the allocated coins will be depleted.