A means of determining that voting systems will function properly for the election by recording test votes on each machine, verifying that it is possible to vote for each candidate on the ballot and that these votes are tabulated correctly all the way through to the canvass. This can be done, for example, by casting a different number of votes for each candidate or issue position in each race or contest on the ballot. Different testing requirements apply to different types of voting systems (e.g., optical scan sensor calibration, touch screen calibration, etc.). After testing, officials clear the voting machinery, set vote totals to zero and empty the physical or electronic ballot boxes, sealing the systems prior to their official use for the election.
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A means of determining that voting systems will function properly for the election by recording test votes on each machine, verifying that it is possible to vote for each candidate on the ballot and that these votes are tabulated correctly all the way through to the canvass. This can be done, for example, by casting a different number of votes for each candidate or issue position in each race or contest on the ballot. Different testing requirements apply to different types of voting systems (e.g., optical scan sensor calibration, touch screen calibration, etc.). After testing, officials clear the voting machinery, set vote totals to zero and empty the physical or electronic ballot boxes, sealing the systems prior to their official use for the election.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Logic And Accuracy (pre Election) Test. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/logic-and-accuracy-pre-election-test
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