Memory
cards
© Diebold Election Systems, Inc. 2002 AccuVote-OS Hardware Guide
20
5. Memory
cards
Each AccuVote-OS uses a
memory card
, a card-style storage device that records ballot layout
information and election counters for a particular vote center. An example of a memory card is
displayed in Figure 6-1.
The memory card stores data independent of the AccuVote-OS power supply and may be
removed from an AccuVote-OS without losing data. The memory cards are self-powered with an
internal battery that has a lifetime of approximately 5 years.
A low memory card battery is indicated by the appearance of the ‡ symbol in the bottom left hand
corner of the AccuVote-OS LCD. Once this symbol appears, the memory card battery should be
replaced to assure continued and safe use of the memory card. Once the memory card battery is
removed, all programming stored on the memory card will be lost. If the memory card data needs
to be kept, copy the card before replacing its battery.
Figure 5-1. memory card
memory card dimensions are 2 inches by 3 inches by 3/32 inch. memory card capacities are:
•
32KB
•
64KB
•
128KB.
Although 32KB memory cards are sufficient in most applications; absentee precincts defined with
a large amount of ballot styles may require 64KB or 128KB memory cards.
5.1. Care
memory cards should be stored in a secure location. Cards should be inventoried with precinct
numbers and the jurisdiction name. The shuttered area of the memory card or contact area
should not be covered with tape or damaged in any manner, as they are the electrical connection
to the memory card interface.
Gently remove any residue that may be present on the memory card. any alcohol-based tape
adhesive removal chemical should be effective. Petroleum based products will destroy the plastic
and the label on the memory card.
