If the implications are that it can be changed by modifying the default settings, its not really hard-coded, is it ?
FTFS:
Unless the default settings were altered during deployment, impacted systems are using a known key
You missed an important bit there. It's very probably stored on an EPROM or SD Card, requiring physical access to the DASDECs. Some of my employer's products are used in the same market (local TV stations) and that's a pretty common method of configuring equipment for a particular customer.
Hard-coded, as in: Yes it's code, but there's no external interface protocol which permits changing the keys. In order to alter it, you have to remove the unit from the rack, take the cover off, and then you can upload a new config file. More recent products use external USB ports, but I bet these DASDECs are older than that...