The rationale offered by Tom Cokenias is fine for
equipment that is always configured with cables on
all connectors. The pins would then would not
come within the criteria that I suggested of
the user being reasonably expected to touch
them. However many items of equipment are
designed with connectors for optional attachments.
A PC manufacturer does not expect that every
computer sold will used only with a device on
every serial and parallel port. The test is intended
to simulate a real risk. Where to apply the test
should surely be governed by where this risk is
real.
Nick Rouse
