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  • 1.  GSPR clause 17.3 SW used in combination with mobile computing platforms

    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
    Posted 13-Jul-2021 08:08
    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous

    Dear RAPs members,

    I need some help with the GSPR clause 17.3 

    GSPR 17.3: Software referred to in this Section that is intended to be used in combination with mobile computing platforms shall be designed and manufactured taking into account the specific features of the mobile platform (e.g. size and contrast ratio of the screen) and the external factors related to their use (varying environment as regards level of light or noise).


    1) Does this requirement apply to SW that is used with a dedicated laptop? The laptop hardware specification defines the screen resolution. 

    2) or this requirements applies only if the SW is used with various mobile computing platforms such i pad, iphone, and laptop etc?

    Thanks in advance


  • 2.  RE: GSPR clause 17.3 SW used in combination with mobile computing platforms

    Posted 14-Jul-2021 04:09
    Hello Anon,

    Simple answer to your questions: yes and yes.

    Just note this is information coming out of Annex I - General Safety and Performance Requirements so these are all related to the requirements around the deployment of the software.  Also note, there is a direct relationship with this section and Usability, design inputs, and risk.  The concept behind a mobile computing platform is understanding where the software application is used and appropriate to the use environment, e.g. desktop versus laptop versus tablet.  The environment of use also needs to be considered such as: is the mobile platform used outside, used in an ambulance where there is a lot of things going on, or used at a patient bedside in the ICU where it is more calm.  From my perspective it does apply to all types of mobile computing platforms and there is a difference between mobile platform and use at a workstation or desktop by the user.

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    Richard Vincins RAC
    Vice President Global Regulatory Affairs
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: GSPR clause 17.3 SW used in combination with mobile computing platforms

    Posted 14-Jul-2021 04:57
    You probably need to think of the state of mobile devices in about 2014/15 to understand the context in which this GSPR was drafted. The predominant mobile devices were mobile phones but there was a start to the widespread uptake of tablets. Many shared a common display making text very small and line long on phones or very large and needing much scrolling on tablets. That was the problem that gave rise to this GSPR.

    This is one of those GSPRs that I regard as profoundly unnecessary, as a statement of the "blindingly obvious": it is just good labeling practice, check the labeling is suitable, readable, intelligible and understandable in the context of use. To me that means checking it displays and is usable on the intended range of devices ... without constant re-sizing of the display, scrolling (i.e. just consider the ergonomics - that's another GSPR)

    So turning to your question, eventually, this is something you should be doing anyway. If you only use a dedicated PC that just makes your life easier as you only have one modality even if displays (type, size, resolution etc) may vary. I generally recommend citing or cross referencing all GSPRs that might be apply as you never know the direction from which the reader might approach the subject.

    Best regards

    Neil

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    Neil Armstrong FRAPS
    CEO MeddiQuest Limited
    Peterborough
    United Kingdom
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: GSPR clause 17.3 SW used in combination with mobile computing platforms

    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
    Posted 14-Jul-2021 15:19
    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous

    Thanks so much, Richard and Neil.
    Original Message


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