Along with the fast-growing technology, technology standardization is not only promoting technology development but also providing a clear purchase direction to consumers.
According to today’s market, Allion Test Labs has collected six top industry standards and specifications here below, which includes Microsoft Windows, USB, Wi-Fi, HDMI, DisplayPort and SATA. In the first article, we will introduce the first three industry standards.
This week marked the availability of Windows 7 to consumers worldwide. The operating system is being touted as a vast improvement over its predecessor, Windows Vista. One item that Microsoft focused intensely on when developing Windows 7 was user experience – providing a smooth, snappy and bug free experience for its customers.
So what steps are necessary to deliver a positive experience across the millions of possible PC configurations in the marketplace?
Earlier this summer, we detailed the Windows Logo Program. This program, primarily for hardware manufacturers, ensures that systems and devices will function properly with Windows operating systems (Windows Server® 2008 R2, Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista and Windows 7). It also signals to consumers that the product has been tested to verify it meets Microsoft standards for Windows compatibility. This is essential as consumers worldwide load their new Windows 7 discs into millions of PCs from hundreds of manufacturers. What could be a compatibility nightmare appears to be a smooth transition that is bolstering Microsoft’s position in the market. To further ensure that consumers do not run into any roadblocks while making the transition to Windows 7, Microsoft has enhanced the requirements to receive a logo for Windows 7 hardware.
USB isn’t the only technology requiring certification to secure Windows logo use. To receive a logo for a Bluetooth device, the device must first achieve Bluetooth certification and for an IEEE 1394 (FireWire) device, the product must first be certified with the 1394 Trade Association.
A new requirement mandates that firms seeking a Windows Logo first secure a USB certification. USB certification is a critical certification in the PC industry, and it will minimize the chance of a consumer’s USB device not performing as anticipated with the Windows operating system. The new policy is critical for hardware vendors and system manufacturers, who are preparing to submit their USB devices and systems for Windows Logo Program submission.
Simply stated, any devices (webcams, keyboards, mice) or hosts (desktops, laptops or netbooks) seeking a Windows logo must first receive certification from the USB Implementers Forum. This certification guarantees compliance to the USB standard and in turn, promotes the greatest level of interoperability between USB hosts and devices.
For consumers, this new requirement is an important step. It will ensure that purchased devices carrying the Windows and certified USB logos will work as expected with their PC bearing the logos.
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Microsoft offers hardware suppliers a testing program for use of the Designed for Windows logo. This logo ensures that systems and devices will function properly with Windows operating systems and signals to customers that the product has been tested to verify it meets Microsoft standards for Windows compatibility.
Microsoft’s Windows Logo Program may seem complicated to vendors unfamiliar with the process for having their system or device receive logo certification; however, third party testing facilities can guide you through the steps and work with you to get your product or system tested and logo certified.
Allion has been an authorized testing site for the Windows Logo Program for the past decade. The purpose of Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) is to ensure the compatibility of products and systems with Windows operating systems. WHQL provides test kits to qualify products, systems and servers for the Designed for Windows logo program and for inclusion on the Windows Hardware Compatibility List (HCL).
Allion is experienced with each aspect of WHQL testing and provides vendors with advice on what is required to achieve a passing result. As Windows 7 approaches, we’re looking forward to testing for Microsoft Windows 7 compatibility. Visit the Microsoft site for an overview of the WHQL process.
