In Pitkin County, Colorado, where I used to serve as an election judge, we used the punch card system as described by others. There was a number tab attached to the ballot and the number was recorded on the registration book. After you made your selection, you placed the card in an envelope with the tab sticking out and you handed it to the judge. The judge removes the tab and files it. Then the judge returns the ballot to the voter, who the places the ballot and envelope in a sealed box. After the polls are closed, we then reseal the box and take it to the Clerk & Recorder's office for counting. This system is ADA friendly for those in wheelchairs, and required little or no electricity (for a light).

In Otero County, New Mexico, where I currently reside, the voting booth is an electronically controlled similar in size to the old mechanical flip-lever system. The ballot is overlayed on a series of lighted buttons. The buttons have been preprogrammed for that ballot. The voter then makes his selection, then presses the big yellow button to signify that the vote is cast. The only problem with this for me is lighting glare on the ballot, making the ballot hard to read.

Frankly, I am in favor of the punch card system.