Keyboard Bench Seat
Introduction
The trend has been to simplify desk and workstation products but they can still be just as complex as seating products. Unlike an office chair, where the specification choices are likely to add to the features, for a desk or workstation the specification is more likely to be eliminating choices. Even with simplification there are a wide range of products to choose from and variations in terms of size, shape, type of frame, finishes and accessories. Contrary to general perception, human factors (anthropometrics) are as important as they are for chairs and as nearly everybody works with a visual display unit they should be considered to be “users” under the Display Screen Equipment Regulations.
User Needs
The starting point to any specification is the task analysis. This must be user centric, fitting the workstation and the tools used to the person and task; and not the other way around. Factors that might be considered are: the relative needs for teamwork, privacy and access to other people; the amount that the task involves writing, reading, keyboard operations and telephone use; the corporate ways of working, special features of the task and individual body size and special needs.
From the task analysis you ought to be able to reach general conclusions about the size, shape, layout, positioning and individual storage needs for the workstations; for example: who needs individual offices; how many team areas you need; whether they should face in or out. More information on task analysis can be found in BS3044: 1990 - Ergonomic Principles in the Design and Selection of Office Furniture.
Size
The size of the work surface is dictated by the task and the tools involved. In a call centre, working from an on-screen proforma and using telephone and keyboard, only a relatively small work surface is needed; on the other hand a journalist working with multiple sources of books and paper may need a large area to spread things out. The choice between a CRT monitor and a flat screen makes a big difference to the depth needed. Two important factors are:
The viewing distance to the screen, which for most people is in the range 500-700mm;
The clear space under the worksurface to allow movement for the feet and legs; in the UK the depth should be 600mm and the minimum width 600mm although 1,000mm is preferred.
Height and Height Adjustability
Since 1987 the accepted height for a fixed height desk has been 720mm but the consensus in Europe is that this is too low for the current population and this should be 740mm. There is a growing recognition that height adjustability is desirable for general use. Whether this is for sitting position only, standing position only or full range sit/stand depends on working practices (shared workstations should have adjustment), task and personal preference, for example many people like to take telephone calls standing up. A range of mechanisms is available, costs are proportional to the speed and ease of adjustment.
Cable Management
The main function of a cable management system is to carry cables safely to equipment. The system should protect cables from physical damage and wear; and remove trip hazards from the vicinity of the workstation. Cable runs should be smooth with no twists or kinks. Power and data cables should be separated and there are limits on the rating and number of equipments that can be connected to sockets. BS6396: 2002 provides details. The key points are the number and types of cables and the number and positions of entry and exit ports.
Screens, Storage, Accessories
Screens can perform many functions: optical separation; sound damping; cable management; mounting for storage and accessories. EN1023, in three parts gives the heights for optical separation, safety requirements and test methods. A load bearing screen can provide mounting for a wide variety of accessories and can usefully be used to mount flat screens.
The amount of storage needed depends on the quantity of working documents and policies on central filing. The most popular workstation storage is a free-standing pedestal, which allows a degree of flexibility (left hand/right hand). With overhead storage, consideration should be given to weights of items and the reach of individuals.
Construction
The common constructions are: panel end; individual legs; cantilever and beam. The main impact is visual as all can provide the requisite strength and stability. Beams allow flexible modular construction and can be used to provide long runs with no obstructions under the front edge. Depending on the thickness of the top there may need to be an upper frame near the edges of the work top. This needs to be considered in relationship to the clear space underneath as there is little tolerance on the space between the top of the thigh and the underside of the work surface for most sitting workers. MFC is the most usual worktop material, high pressure laminate is a more expensive and harder wearing material. Veneer is generally more expensive but visually cannot be beaten. Strength, stability and durability to EN527 should provide for a more than adequate working life.
Churn
Serious consideration must be given to how often it is anticipated that the workplace will be reconfigured. There will be a cost, either staff time or hire of professionals. If this will be rare, flexibility and ease of dismantling is not needed. If it will be frequent, then a much simpler system may be more appropriate. Frequent reconfiguration will also shorten service life.
About the Author:
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Specifying Workstations for the Office
 |
 NEW Piano Organ Keyboard Foldable Adjustable Portable Padded Stool Seat Bench $39.95 Time Remaining: 17h 28m |
 Stageline Duet Seat PBK12 Padded Piano Keyboard Bench $199.00 Time Remaining: 4d 16h 36m Buy It Now for only: $199.00 |
 Yamaha WB2 Blonde Piano Keyboard Bench Seat $91.00 Time Remaining: 4d 16h 37m Buy It Now for only: $91.00 |
 Spectrum AIL KYBN X Style Black Electronic Keyboard Bench Seat $52.00 Time Remaining: 4d 16h 37m Buy It Now for only: $52.00 |
 NEW Piano Organ Keyboard Foldable Adjustable Portable Padded Stool Seat Bench $42.46 Time Remaining: 5d 15h 6m Buy It Now for only: $42.46 |
 Leather Artist Wood Piano Keyboard Bench Seat Storage Griffin $99.95 Time Remaining: 5d 19h 56m Buy It Now for only: $99.95 |
 Audio2000S AST4372 Foldable Padded Keyboard bench Seat Used $16.49 Time Remaining: 9d 3h 8m Buy It Now for only: $16.49 |
 STAGG PIANO KEYBOARD ADJUSTABLE STOOL BENCH SEAT KEBA20 $47.39 Time Remaining: 10d 14h 12m Buy It Now for only: $47.39 |
 Black Leather Piano Bench Ebony Wood Double Duet Keyboard Seat Storage Griffin $79.95 Time Remaining: 12d 1h 11m Buy It Now for only: $79.95 |
 Leather Black Piano Bench Ebony Wood Keyboard Wood Seat Storage Adjustable $99.95 Time Remaining: 12d 1h 11m Buy It Now for only: $99.95 |
For comparison shopping
we also bring you the results below from amazon.com
 |
Heirloom 39"w Keyboard Stand, 39"W, ANTIQUE OAK
 |
DescriptionProvide a decorative place for your portable keyboard with this music stand from our Heirloom Collection. Offering exquisite craftsmanship and featuring carved details, it will look beautiful alongside your existing home decor... |
 |
Yamaha PKBS1 Single Braced Adjustable X-Style Keyboard Stand
List Price: |
DescriptionThe quintessential "X-style" stand designed for beginners and hobbyists. A slim folding position provides traveling and storage convenience. Complete with a circular locking mechanism and quick change knob that adjusts to six different playing heights, this stand provides fundamental stability and portability... |
 |
Yamaha WB2 Padded Wooden Bench for the Yamaha DGX505 and DGX620, Natural Finish
List Price: |
DescriptionThe beautiful WB2 bench is designed to match the DGX series keyboards, but it is a sophisticated accompaniment to any instrument. Quality wood construction and a natural finish make this bench an exceptional choice for sturdy support and classical style... |
 |
Ultimate Support JS-SB100 Small Keyboard Bench - 3 Height Positions - Perfect Bench for Students and Smaller Musicians
Sale Price: $29.99 |
DescriptionFor students and smaller musicians looking for an economical seating solution for studio or stage, the JS-SB100 Small Keyboard Bench is perfect! The sturdy X-style steel frame safely supports up to 150 lbs... |
 |
Fisher Price Rock & Play Piano
List Price: |
DescriptionHere's another great item in the Sparkling Symphony line of toys by Fisher-Price. Younger ones can create music with the Rock and Play Piano by sitting on the included seat and rocking, while older toddlers can play it like a real piano using three different modes... |
 |
Little Tikes Keyboard with Stool
|
DescriptionLook out Elton John—here comes competition! Although made in child-friendly plastic and scaled down for smaller hands, this electronic keyboard operates just like a real one and is a fine choice as a first instrument... |
