36 CFR Part 1194 Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards (Section 508 Standards) - Preamble

Section 1194.26 Desktop and Portable Computers (Preamble, Section-by-Section Analysis)

This section is a result of the reorganization of the final rule. Paragraphs (a) through (d) contain provisions that apply to desktop and portable computers. The provisions in §1194.21 for software address the accessibility of programs and operating systems that run on a computer. In contrast, the provisions in this section address physical characteristics of computer systems including the design of controls and the use of connectors. This section was previously addressed in §1194.21 (General requirements), §1194.23 (Component specific requirements) and §1194.25 (Requirements for compatibility with assistive technology) in the NPRM.

Paragraph (a) addresses keyboards and other mechanically operated controls. These provisions are addressed further in sections 1194.23 (k) (1) through (4) above. (See §1194.23(a) in the NPRM.)

Paragraph (b) provides that systems using touchscreen technology must also provide controls that comply with sections 1194.23 (k) (1) through (4) discussed above. (See §1194.21(f) in the NPRM.) Similar to §1194.25 (c), this provision was modified in the final rule to require redundant controls.

Paragraph (c) requires that when biometric forms of identification are used, an alternative must also be available. This provision is identical to §1194.25 (d) discussed above.

Paragraph (d) requires that products have standard ports and connectors. This means that the connection points on a system must comply with a standard specification that is available to other manufacturers. This provision assures that the designers of assistive technology will have access to information concerning the design of system connections and thus be able to produce products that can utilize those connections. (See §1194.25(b) in the NPRM.)

Comment. In the proposed rule, this provision was addressed in §1194.25(b) under the requirements for compatibility with assistive technology. A commenter noted that this provision was more specific to computer products and not to all products.

Response. As noted, this provision has been modified to apply to computer products.