The State of Alaska introduced a new ballot tabulation system in 1998. Punch
cards are gone, and in their place is optical scanning. This means that Alaska
voters pick up only one ballot at their polling places, and fill in ovals next
to the names of candidates and issues they support. They insert the ballot into
a small computer that looks like a fax machine. The computer -- called an Accu-Vote
-- scans the ballot, tabulates the results, and deposits the ballot into a ballot
box below. When the polls close at 8 p.m., precinct workers transmit results,
immediately, by modem to a central accumulation site, where they are released.
Click on the links that follow for details. You’ll learn why the state introduced
the optical-scan system. You’ll learn more about the system itself. Please note
that in some precincts, ballots are still counted by hand.
If you have questions, please give any Division of Elections
Office a call. We’ll be happy to answer your questions. Educating voters
is one of our major goals. When you go to the polls to vote in the Primary and
General Election we want you to feel comfortable with the new voting system
and as pleased as we are that the State of Alaska made this purchase.
Accu-Vote Fact
SheetHow will your precinct's
ballots be counted?
Alaska
Division of Elections Home Page