What is the Neutral Reach zone?
The Neutral Reach Zone is the area that can be conveniently reached with a sweep of the forearm while the upper arm hangs in a natural position at the side." (Sanders & McCormick, 1993)
What is the difference between 2G, 4G, and 5G arm mechanisms?The 2G is Humanscale’s standard arm mechanism which provides height and tilt adjustment, total knee clearance, and is covered by a lifetime warranty. The 4G offers all the advantages of the 2G, but includes a convenient Dial-a-Tilt angle adjustability. The 5G is considered with strongest arm on the market with a wider design, and includes all the functionality of the 4G.
What is Dial-a-Tilt?Dial-a-Tilt refers to a dial on the 4G and 5G series of arm mechanisms that allows the user to easily adjust the tilt of the keyboard platform with one hand. There is also an indicator on the dial which shows the setting in degrees. Tilt is an important functionality of keyboard platforms, are more likely to adjust to proper setting due to the ease of use.. Note that the 2G series of arm mechanisms also have an adjustable tilt function, but that it requires two hands to make the adjustments, and that there is no gauge.
What is a track and what length do I need?The track is the device that is screwed to the underside of the desk, and which the arm mechanism slides into. The standard length is 21.625”, but the track is also available in 16”, 18”, 25”, and 27” lengths. Note that the keyboard platform will not tuck completely under the desk with track lengths less than 21.625”. Most desk have enough depth to accommodate a standard track length.
What is a negative tilt keyboard platform?
Negative tilt refers to the keyboard tray sloping downward at the back. A keyboard tray sloping upward toward the back (positive tilt) results in a bent wrist. Ergonomists universally agree that using a keyboard in a negative tilt encourages a neutral wrist posture, meaning your wrist is neither bent nor flexed, which minimizes the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other MSDs. In addition, contract stress on the inside of the wrist is minimized when keyboarding in negative tilt.
Do you have to lock the arm in place when you move it up or down?No. All Humanscale’s arm mechanisms can be adjusted up or down by simply tilting the platform. Once it’s at the right height, it automatically locks in place when released.
What are the Humanscale keyboard and mouse platforms made of?
Humanscale’s keyboard and mouse platforms are made of phenolic, an ultra-strong composite made of wood pulp and resin that’s non-toxic, durable and easy to clean. Humanscale does not manufacture wood-based or MDF platforms, as they are inferior in strength and durability.
Is there a mouse platform that stays level when the keyboard platform in angled / tilted?
Yes. The Tilt Mouse and the Clip Mouse have an angle adjustment that is independent of the keyboard platform, which is ideal for users who type with a negative keyboard tilt, but prefer to mouse on a level surface.
Can I move my mouse tray from one side to the other?
Yes, on some models. The Clip and Swing mouse platforms can be easily moved from one side of the keyboard platform to the other. You can also get some Dual models which will have a keyboard platform on both sides.
What is the purpose of a corner sleeve?The corner sleeves are designed to increase desk space and keyboard accessibility by turning a 90-degree desktop corner into a diagonal corner. Humanscale has 4 corner sleeves which are compatible with any of their keyboard platform.
Does Humanscale have keyboard platform for specialized ergonomic keyboards?
Yes. The Model 100 and 300 platforms are designed for the curved “Natural” keyboards. The Model 1000 and 1100 are designed for the “Split” keyboards. You can see these platforms in the
Build-Your-Own keyboard platform section.
What are the Above Desk arm mechanisms?
The Above Desk arm mechanisms have a longer arm that provides more height adjustment. This allows the keyboard platform to be raised to as much as 8.5” above the track and 3” below the track (4GAD model). Depending on the height of your desk, this may allow you to use your keyboard both standing and sitting.
Does Humanscale have a mouse platform that goes above the 10-keypad?
Yes. For those that use the 10-keypad infrequently, there are several models that go over the keypad including the Clip, Upper Tilt, Palette, and the Flip Mouse tray. You can see these mouse platforms in the
Build-Your-Own keyboard platform section.