Note

This archival content is maintained by WebAIM and NCDAE on behalf of TEITAC and the U.S. Access Board . Additional and up-to-date details on the updates to section 508 and section 255 can be found at the Access Board web site.

HW Draft Touch Control Language

Link back to Hardware Draft Language EWG Format


2.1.A Touch Operated Controls

Note to EWG - This provision has two proposal that are still under consideration.

Proposal 1 - If a product utilizes touch screens or touch-operated controls, an input method must be provided that complies with Mechanical Controls Section.

Proposal 2 - If a product utilizes touch screens or touch-operated controls, an equivalent means of input/interaction/control must be provided.


Discussion or Rationale

Current language - If a product utilizes touch screens or touch-operated controls, an input method shall be provided that complies with ยง 1194.23 (k) (1) through (4).

There has been a good debate on this one relative to how this impacts products and users. The major differentiation is in the product usage model of closed versus open.

These are the mechanical control requirements.

The issue of touch controls has been discussed amongst the subcommittee. The challenge being the application of the original language and its requirement of redundant controls. Several points made include: What about touch controls that are replicated via SW (for example capacitve media buttons when media can also be controlled via SW)?

This language addresses the issues associated with touch-based controls (specifically biophysical) by requiring a redundant interaction method without assigning the control type. If mechanical controls are required, by default they would have to meet the proposed language for mechanical controls. Rob

  • Source: {508} 1194.26(b); {508} 1194.25(c)
  • Subcommittee: Hardware
  • Impact:
  • External Reference:
  • Testability
  • Metadata
    • Disabilities: All disabilities
    • User Activities: Conversations, data analysis, document sharing and reviewing, media (audio/video) creation and editing.
    • Product Characterisics: Physical controls or connectors, touchscreen or touch sensitive buttons.
    • Product Types: Hardware, telephone, telephone system, audiovisual equipment, public information terminal, desktop computer system, portable computer system, copier, printer, scanner, other similar peripheral

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