A COMSEC item used to transfer or store key in electronic form or to insert key into KYK-13, and KYK-15. cryptographic equipment. The "Common Fill Devices" are the Electronic fill devices include, but are not limited to, the DTD, SKL, SDS, and RASKI. Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
What is fill device?
The term Fill Device refers to a COMSEC device used to store, transfer, or insert cryptographic keying material into cryptographic equipment, including legacy common fill devices and newer electronic key loaders. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is fill device used in cryptography or COMSEC?
In practice, Fill Device is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: a COMSEC device used to store, transfer, or insert cryptographic keying material into cryptographic equipment. Organizations combine that function with documented procedures, authorized access, testing, monitoring, and controls appropriate to the system. The governing standard or security policy determines the exact implementation.
Why does fill device need security controls?
Understanding Fill Device matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to a COMSEC device used to store, transfer, or insert cryptographic keying material into cryptographic equipment. Applying the term precisely helps teams choose controls that match the actual technical function instead of assuming a broader or unrelated meaning.
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A COMSEC item used to transfer or store key in electronic form or to insert key into KYK-13, and KYK-15. cryptographic equipment. The "Common Fill Devices" are the Electronic fill devices include, but are not limited to, the DTD, SKL, SDS, and RASKI. Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Fill Device. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/fill-device
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