A device, usually internal to computer when it is present, that allows data communications over telephone line. Modems are sometimes used in voting machines to transfer unofficial vote totals to a central tabulation facility since the transmission is extremely fast relative to physical transport and more accurate than spoken telephone voices. "If the equipment includes a modem for the electronic transmission of election results, the precinct officials may transmit the results after a printed copy has been made." Iowa Admin. Code §721-22.241(52). Some states forbid modem operation during tabulation: "[The] general custodian of election records shall ensure that ... no modem access to the tabulating equipment is available during the tabulation." Texas Elec. Code §127.1231(a). Other states require modem transmission capability: "The vote tabulator must contain an RS-232 data communications capability to transmit totals over regular voice grade telephone lines." N.M. Admin. Code §1.10.20.10(L).
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A device, usually internal to computer when it is present, that allows data communications over telephone line. Modems are sometimes used in voting machines to transfer unofficial vote totals to a central tabulation facility since the transmission is extremely fast relative to physical transport and more accurate than spoken telephone voices. "If the equipment includes a modem for the electronic transmission of election results, the precinct officials may transmit the results after a printed copy has been made." Iowa Admin. Code §721-22.241(52). Some states forbid modem operation during tabulation: "[The] general custodian of election records shall ensure that ... no modem access to the tabulating equipment is available during the tabulation." Texas Elec. Code §127.1231(a). Other states require modem transmission capability: "The vote tabulator must contain an RS-232 data communications capability to transmit totals over regular voice grade telephone lines." N.M. Admin. Code §1.10.20.10(L).
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Modem. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 17, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/modem
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