Homeland Security Grant Program award to replace Unity 3.4.1.1

The Orange County Board of Elections must replace its current election management software, and the only version currently compatible with the voting equipment used in this county is ES&S Voting System 5.2.4.0 Electionware®. While this version fully supports our existing equipment, we are still required to proceed with the replacement process in accordance with Numbered Memo 2021-01 issued by the NC State Board of Elections, which outlines requirements for upgrading voting systems across North Carolina.

The NC State Board of Elections has identified the election management software currently used by Orange County as a system in need of replacement due to changes in technology support and evolving security standards. To support counties through this transition, the NC State Board of Elections has secured funding through the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), with each participating county receiving resources to assist with upgrading to a certified election management system. This effort is part of a broader initiative to strengthen election systems statewide and ensure continued compliance with current certification standards.

The required election management software upgrade will not impact the voter experience. The voting equipment currently used by Orange County is only compatible with ES&S Voting System 5.2.4.0 Electionware® Election Management Software. 

Below, please find information about the replacement of Unity 3.4.1.1:

Award letter for Homeland Security Grant Program to replace Unity 3.4.1.1 from NCSBE Executive Director Karen Brinson Bell

Numbered Memo 2021-01: Procedures for Replacing Voting Equipment

EAC Certification of ES&S Voting System 5.2.4.0

ES&S Voting System 5.2.4.0 Product Overview
*Orange County currently uses the DS200 Precinct-Based Scanner and Tabulator, DS850 High-Speed Scanner and Tabulator, and AutoMARK Ballot Marking Device compatible with Electionware® Election Management Software

ES&S Demonstration Video

Hart Demonstration Video 
*this voting system is not compatible with the current voting equipment in Orange County