Section 508 Accessibility Information and Recommendations

The page provides information on Accessibility functionality on SGI systems. It includes information on the following topics:

The Rehabilitation Act Amendments (Section 508)

On August 7, 1998, President Clinton signed into law the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 which covers access to federally funded programs and services. The law strengthens section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and requires access to electronic and information technology provided by the Federal government. The law applies to all Federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology. Federal agencies must ensure that this technology is accessible to employees and members of the public with disabilities to the extent it does not pose an "undue burden." Section 508 speaks to various means for disseminating information, including computers, software, and electronic office equipment. It applies to, but is not solely focused on, Federal pages on the Internet or the World Wide Web. It does not apply to web pages of private industry.

The Access-Board is responsible for developing accessibility standards for such technology for incorporation into regulations that govern Federal procurement practices. The net result will be that Federal agencies will have to purchase electronic and information technology that is accessible except where it would cause an "undue burden." The law also provides a complaint process under which complaints concerning access to technology will be investigated by the responsible Federal agency. For more information about Section 508, visit the following website: http://www.access-board.gov/508.htm

SGI's Accessibility Web Page

For information on SGI Accessibility, see the SGI Accessibility Statement web page .

Recommended System Configuration for Accessibility

SGI recommends that any SGI workstation system that is intended to have Accessibility functionality should be setup and powered on by a technician or system engineer knowledgeable of SGI hardware and software. SGI also recommends the SGI workstation system software is installed with the following software components: IRIX 6.5.15 or later, AccessX, and any other needed applications.