Abstract: A method and apparatus for selecting one of a multiplicity of preidentified items, such as candidates on an election ballot. Each item has an associated light emitting element which has an on/off status. The use of the lights is time multiplexed between status display and item selection tasks. For at least a first certain portion of each of a plurality of successive time cycles, the lights with an on status are energized. The lights which are energized are associated with previously selected items. They are energized to a level of illumination visible to the human eye in a normal ambient light environment.For a second portion of each time cycle, a multiplicity of the lights are energized in a prearranged time dependent algorithmic pattern. During this portion of the time cycle the lights are energized only to a level of illumination not normally visible to the human eye in a normal ambient light environment.

Abstract: A microprocessor based mark-sense ballot card reading system has automatic mark detection threshold adjustment, automatic skew and card speed correction, and provision for simultaneous, accurate reading of both sides of a ballot card regardless of card input orientation. A multidispatch, miltipage real time control program is utilized to enable multiple event detection on each card side and asynchronous processing of such multiple events on a two-sided card. Positive document sensing and control are monitored by the microprocessor control system. A folded card path card transport mechanism with diverter stations operates under microprocessor control to determine card destination.