1. Important Safety Information
Please read all safety warnings before using the Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair.
- MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT: 350 lbs. Do not exceed this weight limit.
- WARNING: Keep fingers and body parts away from moving parts when adjusting the chair's position.
- Always use the chair as intended and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation.
2. Setup and Initial Use
The Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair is designed for immediate use with no assembly required. The chair comes fully assembled and ready to be placed in your desired location.

Image 1: Front view of the Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair. The chair features a black mesh back and seat, with adjustable armrests and a five-star base with casters.
Unpacking
- Carefully remove the chair from its packaging.
- Ensure all packaging materials are removed from around the chair.
- Place the chair on a flat, stable surface.
3. Operating and Adjustments
The Steelcase Karman chair offers multiple adjustment points to customize your seating experience for optimal comfort and support.
3.1. Seat Height Adjustment
- Locate the lever on the right side, beneath the seat.
- To raise the seat: Lift the lever while taking your weight off the seat. Release the lever at the desired height.
- To lower the seat: Lift the lever while seated. Release the lever at the desired height.
3.2. Lumbar Support and LiveBack Technology
The Karman chair features weight-activated lumbar support and adaptive LiveBack technology. These systems automatically respond to your body's movements and weight distribution to provide continuous support.
- The backrest is designed to flex and adapt to your spine's natural curve as you recline or shift position.
- No manual adjustment is typically needed for the lumbar support, as it is integrated into the chair's responsive design.
3.3. Armrest Adjustments
The fully adjustable armrests allow for personalized arm positioning.
- Height Adjustment: Locate the button or lever on the underside of each armrest. Press and hold to move the armrest up or down. Release to lock in place.
- Pivot/Swivel: Armrests may pivot inward or outward. Gently rotate the armrest pad to achieve the desired angle.
- Depth Adjustment: Some armrests allow for forward and backward movement. Slide the armrest pad to adjust its depth.
3.4. Recline Tension and Lock
The chair's adjustable weight mechanism allows you to control the resistance of the recline.
- Recline Tension: A knob, typically located on the front-right or center-front underside of the seat, controls recline tension. Turn clockwise to increase tension (more resistance), and counter-clockwise to decrease tension (less resistance).
- Recline Lock: A lever, often near the seat height lever, can lock the chair in an upright position or allow for free recline. Push in or pull out the lever to engage/disengage the lock.
4. Maintenance and Care
Proper care ensures the longevity and performance of your Steelcase Karman chair.
4.1. Cleaning Instructions
- General Cleaning: For routine cleaning, wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth.
- Spot Cleaning: For spills or stains on the mesh and fabric components, use a mild soap solution and a clean cloth. Blot the area gently; do not rub vigorously. Allow to air dry completely.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or solvents, as these can damage the chair's materials.
4.2. Inspection
- Periodically inspect all moving parts, screws, and connections to ensure they are secure.
- If any components appear loose or damaged, discontinue use and contact Steelcase support.
5. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your chair.
- Chair does not adjust smoothly:
- Ensure no obstructions are blocking the adjustment mechanisms.
- Check if the recline tension knob is set too high, making it difficult to recline.
- Verify that all levers are fully engaged or disengaged as intended.
- Squeaking or unusual noises:
- Inspect all bolted connections and tighten if loose. Do not overtighten.
- Ensure the chair is on a level surface.
- If noises persist, contact Steelcase customer support.
- Seat or backrest feels unstable:
- Confirm that the chair is fully assembled (though it comes pre-assembled, check for any shipping-related issues).
- Ensure the gas cylinder is properly seated in the base and the seat mechanism.
- If any component appears warped or damaged, cease use and contact Steelcase support immediately.
6. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair.

Image 2: Side view of the Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair with key dimensions indicated. The chair is approximately 32.5 inches high, 29.5 inches deep, and 29.5 inches wide.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Steelcase |
| Model Number | 78500f5a-7a1d-4c8b-af8f-66385a66ebc2 |
| Color | Black |
| Product Dimensions | 29.5"D x 32.5"W x 29.5"H |
| Item Weight | 47 pounds |
| Maximum User Weight | 350 lbs |
| Back Style | Solid Back (Mesh) |
| Special Features | Adjustable Armrests, Integrated Cushioning, Ergonomic, Weight-Activated Lumbar Support |
| Recommended Use | Office |
| Assembly Required | No (Comes fully assembled) |
| UPC | 724274003801 |

Image 3: Back view of the Steelcase Karman Mesh Ergonomic Desk Chair, highlighting the mesh backrest and the structural frame.
7. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Steelcase customer service directly.
You can typically find contact details on the official Steelcase website or through your original point of purchase.
When contacting support, please have your model number (78500f5a-7a1d-4c8b-af8f-66385a66ebc2) and purchase date available.





