Standards (VPATs and 508)

Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPATs) are used for evaluating UM hardware accessibility.  Some hardware is directly covered by 508 standards in sections such as:

• 23: Telecommunications Products
• 24: Video and Multi-media Products
• 25: Self-Contained, Closed Products
• 26: Desktop and Portable Computers
• 31: Functional Performance (details below)

Some hardware is directly covered by 508 standards. If none of the other categories apply, Section 1194.31 Functional Performance will be UM's measurement for hardware accessibility:

1. At least one mode of operation and information retrieval that does not require user vision shall be provided or support for Assistive Technology used by people who are blind or visually impaired shall be provided.
2. At least one mode of operation and information retrieval that does not require visual acuity greater than 20/70 shall be provided in audio and enlarged print output working together or independently, or support for Assistive Technology used by people who are visually impaired shall be provided.
3. At least one mode of operation and information retrieval that does not require user hearing shall be provided, or support for Assistive Technology used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing shall be provided
4. Where audio information is important for the use of a product, at least one mode of operation and information retrieval shall be provided in an enhanced auditory fashion, or support for assistive hearing devices shall be provided.
5. At least one mode of operation and information retrieval that does not require user speech shall be provided, or support for Assistive Technology used by people with disabilities shall be provided.
6. At least one mode of operation and information retrieval that does not require fine motor control or simultaneous actions and that is operable with limited reach and strength shall be provided.