Ricoh MP1350 User Accessibility to Device Controls, User Accessibility for Paper Refilling

Accessibility

Market Background Information: In the U.S., Section 508 legislation prohibits government agencies from pur- chasing devices that are not accessible to those with physical impairments. For this reason—and the corporate world’s increased focus on delivering a better work envi- ronment for all—user-friendly features for physically- impaired users are considered more often.

Common design features include tilting control panels, which give wheelchair-bound users a better view of the screen and larger display options for those with impaired vision. Voice navigation and Braille also are becoming increasingly popular. Easy access to the paper path for jam removal or front access to toner supplies make a de- vice more user-friendly to all.

User Accessibility to Device Controls

Despite having a top mounted panel on a swivel stand, access to the wheelchair user was good with easy ac- cess and viewing of the touch screen and hard key panel. Ricoh also includes a simplified display option where only the major features are displayed as large icons for easier use by the visually impaired.

User Accessibility for Paper Refilling

Paper refilling was easy for a wheelchair user to handle. The drawers have handles that can be gripped from above and below, making low to the ground drawers eas- ier to reach. The LCT units are also front loading, which makes access easier.

User Accessibility for Paper Jam Removal

The paper path is complex and could cause problems for a wheelchair user or someone with motor skill disabilities.

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Ricoh Aficio MP1350

WHAT WE LIKED:

•Paper refilling was easily achieved from all sources.

•Touch screen was easy to see with large icons making navigation easy.

•The simplified display made using the touch screen interface easier for the visually impaired.

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE:

•A voice-activated system that could guide the visually impaired through the menu system would be a great value add with the hard key buttons making the device even more Section 508 friendly.

•Short paper path would make jam removal more ac- cessible to all.

13 November 2006

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