First SSD to Use SATA 6Gb/s Link Announced

Micron Technology released the new RealSSD C300 – the fastest SSD for notebook and desktop PCs to date and the first solid-state drive (SSD) to comply with the SATA Revision 3.0 (SATA 6Gb/s) specification. A 6Gb/s SATA link will help address the throughput bottleneck that today’s solid state drives face, making SSDs one of the major markets that benefit from SATA 6Gb/s. The move from SATA 2.0 to SATA 3.0 doubles the speed of link available to the SSDs. The Micron SSD will theoretically provide read speeds up to 355MB/sec and write speeds of up to 215 MB/sec.
So what makes these high speeds compelling?
New SSD options now available to consumers enable users to enjoy a better computing experience, from a faster OS boot times to quicker application loading, data transfer and file copying. There are many benefits to be gained by making the transition to SSDs. The video below provides a demonstration of advantages achieved when using Micron’s RealSSD C300 drive versus a hard disk drive (HDD).
Comparison of the Micron C300 SSD vs. HDD

The SSDs will be available in 1.8 inch and 2.5 inch form factors and in 128 GB and 256 GB sizes. Micron is sampling the C300 SSD in limited qualities and plans to enter production in Q1 of 2010.
Early in the development of the SATA Revision 3.0 specification, SATA-IO collaborated with test equipment companies to review testing parameters. Test platforms operating at the margin of SATA 3Gb/s will likely fail if they are not updated to meet SATA 6Gb/s requirements. SATA 6Gb/s compliance and certification will be needed to ensure interoperability in the SATA ecosystem.
Learn More
SATA Specification & Testing News

Google Chrome OS Detailed for Industry

Last week, Google held a small event at their headquarters and outlined the company’s direction for Chrome OS. Chrome OS is Google’s entry into the operating system market, joining names like Apple OS X, Microsoft Windows and many Linux variations – Ubuntu, Suse and Moblin – to name a select few distributions. Google is promoting Google Chrome OS as a cloud service, with most applications running from the internet rather than on the local system. Examples of this include the popular Google services Google Docs, Gmail, Google Reader and others. In doing so, Google has already attracted the ire of some commentators. Michael Gartenberg in a column for Engadget disagreed with the approach, expressing that not all computer users spend 90 percent of their day in a browser doing their work, e-mail and networking.
Yet, it does seem as though the cloud holds enough promise for a broad enough group of users that Chrome OS will gain some traction when it does launch, which is anticipated for next year. Chrome OS would provide users of netbooks a lightweight, free and easy to use operating system, though the question remains – How long will netbooks be viable? As the market encounters more powerful cell phones and greater connectivity, some pundits are placing bets on smart phones being the future, and not netbooks. It is important to point out that Google has already placed a bet on smart phones with the introduction and continued uptake of the Android smart phone operating system.
Google’s efforts with Chrome OS have interesting implications for those developing hardware. The growing variety of operating system choices result in the need for increased testing across a wide array of devices. With entries like Chrome OS and Moblin gaining market traction, firms producing everything from cameras to keyboards now must consider how their customers will interact with devices. For many years, Microsoft Windows and Apple offerings combined for near market saturation – resulting in a manageable test and interoperability scenario for producers of both software and hardware. Now the picture is becoming much less clear for which operating system a consumer might be bringing their new hardware home to.
If you want to review Google Chrome OS yourself, we recommend downloading it from gdgt.com, as their hosting is the fastest way to get Chrome OS.

New HDD Dock features USB 3.0 support

On November 19, Sharkoon introduced the USB 3.0 Quickport HDD dock, a docking station with an external USB 3.0 interface for SATA hard disk drives. A SATA hard drive inserted into the docking station can utilize the greater speed provided by USB 3.0 when connected to a SuperSpeed USB supported computer. HDD docks are utilized primarily by those in the IT industry, a useful tool for manipulating data on numerous hard drives without the burden of enclosing those drives in an enclosure or PC.
External hard drives are one of the areas that can benefit most from the increased speeds of SuperSpeed USB technology. The dock is compatible with 2.5 inch and 3.5 inch SATA HDDs. And compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X systems, the QuickPort dock connects to PCs via USB and uses a DC connection for power.
The company simultaneously launched a PCI expansion card, which allows users to upgrade their desktop PC with SuperSpeed USB technology, making it possible to utilize SuperSpeed USB peripherals. Sharkoon’s HDD dock has a retail price of around $75. The USB 3.0 host controller card contains an NEC µPD720200 chip and two SuperSpeed USB ports which can connect directly to the PCI-x1 slot on a PCs motherboard and is available for $60.
Industry firm In-Stat predicts that SuperSpeed USB technology will have a broad release by 2012, with around 70 percent of external hard drives, desktops and notebooks containing USB 3.0 ports. SuperSpeed USB compliance and certification will be critical to ensure interoperability in the USB ecosystem.

USB Battery Charging Test Tool For Mobile Phones, Devices

(November 17th, 2009)
Recently, Allion announced a USB Battery Charging Test Fixture pre-sale, which runs through the end of this month. This USB testing tool easily measures the performance of mobile phone device chargers. The test fixture looks at power consumption, over shoot (signal or function exceeding steady-state value), under shoot (signal or function lower than steady-state value) and short-recover time. The USB test fixture was developed to adhere to the Battery Charging 1.1 Specification defined by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF).USB Battery Charging 1.1One feature that makes USB a compelling interconnect technology is its battery charging ability. As USB devices become more powerful and advance with new features, new battery charging capabilities are needed. This is where the USB Battery Charging 1.1 specification, which was released as a new USB Device Class specification earlier this year, comes into play.
New capabilities enabled by Battery Charging 1.1:
Device detection whether they are attached to a PC or charging port. When attached to a charging port, devices can draw power before they are recognized.
Portable devices with dead batteries are now able to draw current from a PC before they are recognized.
Devices plugged into a docking station can act as host to downstream peripherals, while drawing current from the docking station.
The Accessory Charger Adapter enables a portable device with a single Micro-USB connector to charge at the same time it is attached to another device, such as a headset.
Portable devices can reduce connector costs by offering battery charging, connection to a host and/or connection to a peripheral using a single Micro-USB receptacle.
USB test equipment can effectively enhance testing during all product development stages. Allion strives to deliver the most cost effective and competitive testing fixtures to fulfill the needs of developers. Quality testing ultimately leads to quality products and financial savings for customers.

SATA Revision 3.0

(November 11th, 2009)

In May 2009, Serial ATA International Organization (SATA-IO) released the SATA Revision 3.0 specification, which builds upon the success of previous generations of SATA storage device interface technology. Here’s a quick snapshot of the benefits and applications for this new spec:
SATA 3.0 Benefits
Link speeds of 6 Gb/s – twice as fast as SATA Revision 2.0
Low cost
Low power consumption
Backward compatible with previous SATA generations
SATA Interface Usage Found In:
Storage units
Disk drives
Optical
Tape drives
Host bus adaptors
Currently, products based on SATA Revision 3.0 are being introduced to the market for consumers to purchase. Recently, ASUS released the P7P55D-E Premium and P6X58D Premium motherboards. These motherboards contain both SATA 6G (a reference to the 6Gb/s signaling rate) and SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) technology, providing consumers with the connections available both inside and outside of the box. As more SATA 6G technology reaches consumers, it will pave the way for faster internal and external storage, significantly enhancing the computing experience.
Products that have successfully completed rigorous testing for SATA specification interoperability and compliance, assuring products work with other SATA certified devices, are added to the SATA Integrators List . An easy way to participate in SATA interoperability testing is to work with an independent test lab.
Authorized by SATA-IO since 2004, Allion is one of the first official SATA independent test labs offering third party validation for products seeking SATA certification. Each SATA certified logo indicates adherence to the respective SATA specification and can be used on product packaging, Web sites and collateral when the product passes SATA interoperability testing.
Several products incorporating SATA Revision 3.0, including the Marvell® 88SE9128 controller (utilized in the ASUS motherboards), Seagate Barracuda® XT hard drive and Toshiba’s line of 7,200 RPM 2.5-inch Hard Disk Drives, are currently available in the market. Additional certified products will be available in the first half of 2010.
Learn More:
SATA Thinks Small With mSATA
SuperSpeed USB Momentum

Windows 7 Testing and Ecosystem Interoperability

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.

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.

SuperSpeed USB Momentum

(October 26th, 2009)
During the week of Intel Developer Forum San Francisco (Sep. 22-24), the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) announced that the first certified SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) commercial product was available. Commercial availability of the host controller from NEC Electronics Corporation advances the technology toward broad adoption among host and peripheral manufacturers.
Allion covered the NEC host controller unveiling last May and the certification of the device by the USB-IF is an indication to PC manufacturers that the component will be interoperable with the entire SuperSpeed USB device ecosystem. The NEC Electronics host controller uses a PCI Express 2.0 bus, allowing designers to add up to two USB 3.0 interfaces to systems containing the PCIe interface.
What USB 3.0 Brings to the TableSuperSpeed USB also brings compelling enhancements to the popular USB standard. SuperSpeed USB delivers data transfer rates up to 10 times faster than Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0), optimizes power usage and offers backward compatibility with previous generations of USB (see Comparing USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 for more).
USB 3.0 AdoptionSo when will USB 3.0 be in the hands of consumers? Analyst firm In-Stat anticipates that SuperSpeed USB will expand upon the broad market adoption of the current USB standard and will make up about 30 percent of the USB market within five years. However, recent announcements from storage manufacturers Buffalo, Freecom and Active Media Products indicate that SuperSpeed USB consumer products will be on store shelves before the end of 2009.
The timeline for USB 3.0 test specification availability is still being determined, but as the technology reaches broader adoption, it is certain test labs will be enabled to verify SuperSpeed USB designs and products.

SATA thinks small with mSATA

Serial ATA International Organization (SATA-IO), the consortium behind serial ATA technology, is developing a new specification that will outline a mini-SATA (mSATA) interface controller. The new connector will enable easy SATA integration in small form factor devices. mSATA will offer the same speed and reliability of today’s SATA interface standards; providing system designers and manufacturers high performance and cost-effective storage solutions for small CE products like notebooks and netbooks.
According to PC World the new specification maps SATA signals onto the current small form factor connector Mini PCI Express. This allows for the seamless integration of storage, primarily solid state drives (SSD), into a variety of netbooks and other small, portable electronic devices.The BenefitsOne compelling benefit of the small mSATA connector is that companies can increase storage offerings of devices without sacrificing physical space, a precious commodity on today’s devices. mSATA will support 1.5 Gb/s and 3 Gb/s data transfer rates.
Technology AdoptionAn indication that the technology will see widespread adoption among netbook SSD manufacturers is recent news by storage manufacturer Toshiba introducing a line of mSATA SSDs. The drives are produced using Toshiba’s new 32nm process technology and are available in 30 and 62 GB capacities. Performance was outlined as 180 MBps reading speed with a maximum writing speed of 70 MBps – impressive performance for components designed for low cost PCs.
Testing TimelineThe mSATA connector and products were showcased at Intel Developer Forum in September. No concrete timeline has been given for when the mSATA test specification will be available, but Allion has been testing SATA for many years and looks forward to testing mSATA products.

From Production to Primetime: TV Testing Makes Viewing Experience Better

Connecting a digital TV to the wide variety of devices found in a home theater can present challenges. TV signals input/output (I/O) interfaces, standards, and device variety are complex, and they can lead to poor connectivity among TVs and devices.
TV tests aid television developers by ensuring product interoperability between the TV and top consumer devices. In determining the top consumer devices, factors such as market share, customer satisfaction, sales ranking and device generation are considered. A reputable testing facility will purchase the newest devices and buy devices from specific locales. TV tests ultimately help developers sell their products by delivering quality products, which lead to positive reviews.
Some common tests to ensure that the TV can function as it should include:
Cable Capability Test: verifies that the TV and devices work properly with bundled cables.Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) test: checks whether the TV can offer DLNA setup and if the TV can play back all supported DLNA files on the connected devices.Full Connection Test: verifies that every I/O port on the TV works properly.Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) Test: verifies CEC function.Input Switching Testing: alters signal sources (switches analog and digital signal source) and verifies the TV’s input and interface functions.Power Function Test: verifies the TV works correctly after powering on or off the TV and devices.Play Back Test: checks if the TV can properly play back media content of the connected device and from the USB interface and determines if the TV can display all supported resolutions.
Ideally, the TV test environment will simulate the most common scenarios for consumers connecting their devices to their TVs. Third party testing at facilities like Allion Test Labs ensure that TVs will properly function.
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Apple Moves Smaller with Mini DisplayPort

The Mini DisplayPort interface is a smaller version of the traditional DisplayPort plug and connector, and was first publicly announced by Apple in 2008. Apple products featuring the Mini DisplayPort connector include the MacBook family of laptops, the iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Pro and the entire Apple Cinema line of displays. The user-friendly Mini DisplayPort connector links the Mac to an LED display, and offers both video and audio support, significantly reducing the number of cables associated with incorporating an external display and speakers.
Mini-DVI vs. Mini DisplayPortUnlike Mini-DVI and Micro-DVI predecessors, the Mini DisplayPort is capable of displaying the high resolutions commonly associated with 30 inch and larger displays. Large displays are becoming more common as DisplayPort integrators Dell and Apple recently released 30 inch product offerings. Laptops with a Mini DisplayPort can connect a computer with to an external display or projector with a VGA or DVI interface by using an adapter.
In early 2009, VESA announced that it would include Mini DisplayPort in the DisplayPort 1.2 specification.
DisplayPort TestingWorking with an independent test lab for DisplayPort testing will help developers build properly functioning DisplayPort products. DisplayPort test categories include:

Physical Layer Test
Link Layer Test
Electrical Test
HDCP Test

The DisplayPort compliance & logo program ensures that products comply with DisplayPort standard guidelines. The DisplayPort Certified Logo ensures that certified products are of high quality and that they will work together seamlessly.

DisplayPort: An Emerging A/V Interconnect

DisplayPort, an audio-video interconnect standard, is designed to advance display simplicity and the adoption of protected digital outputs on computers. This allows users to easily view commercial HD content and other protected files.
Because DisplayPort signaling can transmit both DVI and HDMI signals (other digital display standards), DisplayPort is compatible with many popular interconnects and subsequently, the consumer devices that utilize the standards. What this means for consumers is the easy incorporation of DisplayPort sources or devices in their homes and offices.
The DisplayPort interface, developed for computers, monitors and home-theater systems by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA), and formally approved in 2006, includes DisplayPort Content Protection (DPCP). This content protection capability uses 128-bit encryption and features full authentication and session key establishment. For consumers this means that even commercially protected content will play back over the DisplayPort interface, ensuring a seamless user experience.
DisplayPort technology appears to be gaining momentum. According to a 2008 report from industry analyst firm In-Stat; DisplayPort is predicted to reach the milestone of more than 600 million products shipped by 2012. The DisplayPort Web site lists more than 165 members of VESA, a veritable who’s who of the consumer electrics and PC industries. Many of these companies have announced their intention to implement or support DisplayPort technology into their products. Some notable industry heavyweights, like Dell, for example, already have numerous displays shipping with DisplayPort technology.
DisplayPort TestingWorking with an independent test lab accredited by VESA to perform DisplayPort testing helps ensure that Display Port products will function properly, which is especially essential with consumer video applications.
While VESA does not require certification of DisplayPort products, it is highly encouraged. The DisplayPort Certified Logo reassures end users that certified products will interoperate properly and provide a quality digital display experience.

Ruggedized Computers and Cell Phones: Testing Product Durability

In an age of continual computing evolution, users often take for granted the usability and durability of their computers and devices. If a consumer drops a cell phone, they anticipate it will survive the fall. If a laptop is left in a sweltering car all day, it’s expected to continue to function properly. Increasingly electronic devices are utilized in environments not normally conducive to the sustained operation of electronic gadgetry: police duty, on the construction job site, combat environments, at sea and in climatic extremes of hot and cold. The sector of devices designed to deal with these extremes is referred to as ruggedized devices.
From cell phones, to GPS devices and laptops the sector is growing as users demand uncompromised performance from their devices in any condition. The delivery of uncompromised performance cannot be left to chance. There are many device tests used to push products to the limit, testing their sustained usability and durability.
Independent test labs like Allion can test computers and devices during the development stage to ensure they’ll operate appropriately, even in the harshest conditions. You can check out some of the ruggedized testing performed at Allion Test Labs in the Panasonic Toughbook video.
One common test is a temperature test that can simulate extreme climates and determine if devices continue to function in brutally hot, cold or wet environments. A static compression test can also be performed to determine a product’s response to extreme compression – an everyday example might be stepping on a device or accidentally driving over it.
Specific equipment allows labs to test battery life and simulate dropping devices from a variety of heights. Drop tests entail lifting the product to pre-determined heights and then releasing the product to hit the ground. If a product consistently functions properly after such a fall, it can be certified at a specific drop level. Common failures in a drop test range from display screens, hard disk drives, or the failure of a devices housing. All failures provide designers with valuable insights that they can use to further reinforce the device from impact.
Device testing enables consumers and those tasked with purchasing rugged devices a set of common specifications to review and ensure the device they intend to purchase will stand-up to even the worst abuse in the field. As future generations of ruggedized electronic devices appear in the market, durability should improve to meet customer demand for go-anywhere electronics.

Wirelessly Sync and Share with My WiFi

(August 28th, 2009)

Intel My WiFi Technology (Intel MWT) makes it possible for users to wirelessly sync music, pictures and videos, share files and games and print within the home or while on the go. The technology doesn’t require a wireless access point. Rather, users can set up a My WiFi personal area network (PAN) wherever they may be by using an Intel MWT enabled notebook computer. At the same time, users won’t have to give up their connection to the Internet because My WiFi technology maintains pass-through internet connectivity and shares this with additional Wi-Fi devices that are connected to the My WiFi PAN. The video below provides an overview of how My WiFi Technology works.
Check out this overview of the My WiFi Technology

Setup is designed with simplicity in mind with Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Up to eight Wi-Fi devices can be connected using My WiFi. Each device should be on the same channel with the same security type.
Look for new products and updates on My WiFi at the 2009 Intel Developer Forum, taking place September 22-24 (you can follow the latest news from My Wifi on twitter as well).

Wireless Revolution: Introducing Intel My WiFi Technology

By 2012, In-Stat estimates a whopping 1 billion new devices will ship with Wi-Fi. In the near future, products like printers, smart-phones, digital cameras, personal media players, digital photo frames, game consoles, even televisions, DVD players and speakers will include Wi-Fi. Have you thought about how to integrate or fully utilize your Wi-Fi function? Or what are the best ways to synch, share, show, and print the digital content among different Wi-Fi embedded devices?

Intel has a solution. Intel® My WiFi technology can resolve the problem. Intel® My WiFi Technology is a Wi-Fi Personal Area Network (Wi-Fi PAN) technology that allows a single Wi-Fi adapter in an Intel® Centrino® 2 notebook to function like two separate adapters. The operating system sees two Wi-Fi interfaces and each interface offers a service. One interface can connect to any standard Wi-Fi certified Access Point (AP). The other interface enables a Wi-Fi PAN that can operate concurrently with the Wi-Fi Local Area Network (Wi-Fi LAN) connection. CE devices with embedded Wi-Fi see this Wi-Fi PAN network as just another Wi-Fi network to which they can associate.

You can say that this is a second revolution in wireless technology. Making connections among all your WiFi embaded device will no longer be a hassle. Intel has released the application on their web site for user download and experience. This software works on Intel® Centrino® 2 system. It only supports Windows Vista and Windows 7 OS.

Finally, Intel has also started to provide “My WiFi” Logo Certification Service to various Wi-Fi embedded products. For question or if you need more detailed information, please write to us at service@allion.com

New To Device Testing? Check Out Our Test Facility Basics

For those of you new to device testing, here’s a look into product testing at a third party testing facility.
Device testing ensures the quality and interoperability of a product. In order for devices to achieve certification from a company or standards organization, the device must pass compliance tests, which ensure it will work properly with other certified products.
Nearly all companies require conforming a product to stated specifications and protocols to ensure functionality and compatibility with products from other manufacturers. Test procedures are developed in partnership with standards organizations (such as Bluetooth SIG, USB Implementers Forum and Wi-Fi Alliance) and the industry leaders who guide enabling technology.
Device test labs offer test and measurement and can benefit developers throughout each product stage. Using a third party test lab offers neutrality, cutting-edge testing methods and the ability to observe and address trending problems. Testing labs provide valuable feedback to product developers and standards organizations. Using a third party test lab is often a cost effective test solution – developing an in-house test lab calls for expensive equipment that requires frequent updating and a dedicated staff proficient in device testing.
After a device reaches all benchmarks and passes all checkpoints, certification can be established. Working with a trusted test lab throughout product development ensures quality testing and moves the product along through the development cycle.

PCI Express 3.0 doubles PCIe speed, New tests to follow

PCI Express (PCIe) is the latest standard for PC expansion cards and was designed to replace PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) standards. PCIe is used in consumer and industrial applications, including linking motherboard-mounted peripherals such as SATA drives, USB ports and sound cards and also as an expansion card for add-in boards.
The next advancement in the widespread PCIe standard is PCIe 3.0. The future standard will offer double the interconnect bandwidth of the previous generation, enabling higher data transfer speeds. PCIe 3.0 is currently in development by the PCI-SIG, the industry organization chartered to develop and manage the PCI standard, and is anticipated to be released in Q2 2010. PCIe 3.0 offers backward compatibility with previous generations of PCI technology, including software, clocking architecture and mechanical interfaces.
PCIe compliance tests are used for testing PCIe systems and add-in cards. The five PCI Express compliance test areas include electrical testing, configuration testing, link protocol testing, transaction protocol testing and platform BIOS testing. For PCIe 3.0 systems, add-in cards or devices to be placed on the Integrators List, the system or product must pass interoperability and compliance testing. Working with a third-party testing facility will ensure that the product or system can comply with PCI compliance testing.

The Windows 7 Hardware Logo Program

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.

DLNA builds momentum and expands focus to consumers

Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) is an organization that envisions products from different manufacturers interoperating with each other across home networks, making it possible to share and enjoy digital content throughout the home. To achieve this goal the alliance has developed a set of guidelines that utilize Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, UPnP and Ethernet to deliver multimedia content to devices. DLNA is comprised of more than 200 companies from around the world, including heavy-hitters like Cisco, HP, Microsoft, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony.
The organization was established in 2003 and has continued to build momentum; DLNA now touts 5,000+ certified products in the marketplace including:
3,800 PCs
31 A/V receivers
27 digital media adapters/set-top boxes
2 game consoles
423 TVs
114 networked hard drives
23 Blu-ray players
20 mobile phones
4 printers
Six DLNA members recently visited consumer electronics company Crutchfield to demo interoperating DLNA certified products. DLNA was also looking to gain insight into the consumer market, as mentioned on the Crutchfield company blog. Awareness among consumers and retailers has become more important as the number of certified products has grown.
To achieve DLNA certification, you should incorporate DLNA standards into your products and put those products through a rigorous test program to ensure that you have implemented the features necessary to comply with DLNA design guidelines. Allion works closely with DLNA to verify that your products can function appropriately when connected to other DLNA certified devices in a home.
More DLNA News

Comparing USB 2.0 and USB 3.0

The popular USB standard continues to evolve. SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) is the next advancement in USB technology. It is similar to earlier versions of USB as it supports data transfer between a host computer and devices. It offers data transfer rates up to 10 times faster than Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0), backward compatibility with previous generations of USB, optimized power efficiency and increased power delivery. Here is a side-by-side comparison between Hi-Speed USB and SuperSpeed USB.

USB 2.0
Technology name: Hi-Speed USB
Specification released April 2000
Data transfer rate of 480 Mbps, 40 times faster than previous generation
Real-world speed: Downloading a 25 GB HD movie from your home server to your notebook takes about 15 minutes
Contains four wires inside the cable
Unidirectional
Backward compatible with previous generations of USB
Power delivery for Hi-Speed USB Devices: 500 mA.
Power-management mechanisms to allow aggressive management of I/O power consumption
Hi-Speed USB devices do not need to be altered to comply with SuperSpeed USB, because SuperSpeed USB is backward compatible.
Look for Certified Hi-Speed USB logo to ensure USB host or device has passed Hi-Speed compliance tests

USB 3.0
Technology name: SuperSpeed USB
Specification released Nov. 2008
Data transfer rate up to 5 Gbps, 10 times faster than Hi-Speed USB data transfer rates
Real-world speed: Downloading a 25 GB HD movie from your home server to your notebook takes about 60 seconds
Contains nine wires; five additional wires
Bidirectional
Backward compatible with previous generations of USB
Power delivery for SuperSpeed USB devices: 900 mA.
Extended battery life of host; improved power delivery for SuperSpeed USB devices
To achieve SuperSpeed USB data transfer speeds, both host and device must be SuperSpeed USB-enabled and SuperSpeed cabling must be used.
Look for Certified SuperSpeed USB logo to ensure USB host or device has passed SuperSpeed USB compliance tests

Standards Compliance Testing

Testing guidelines and certification programs rarely come handed down by a single company. Most compliance testing is the product of standards organizations that create test specifications and logo certification guidelines to ensure accuracy and fairness for all product developers. These standards organizations are major drivers of product certification.
A standards compliance group consists of at least two individuals, companies or organizations who come together to advance a technology. Unlike proprietary solutions where control lies in the hands of a single owner, standards groups strive for technology advancements and interoperability to benefit all participating companies and ultimately, consumers.
Competing organizations come together for a variety of reasons, from creating guidelines to developing specifications, often addressing the needs of consumers. Standards groups face challenges, and conflicting viewpoints and opinions among group members that can hinder an organization. In order for the standards group to be successful, the group’s efforts must be in the best interest of the technology ecosystem as a whole. The benefits and challenges of standards groups are very succinctly discussed in “Standards Matter: The Battle for Interoperability Goes On,” an article published earlier this year.
Once a company within a standards group begins product development, the product is usually tested to ensure that it has implemented the features necessary to comply with the group’s specification or guidelines. Typically, upon achieving certification, the product can bear the group’s logo.
Testing against these standards are conducted in-house, at independent test labs or at testing events hosted by standards organizations (plugfests). Most logo programs require testing be completed at a third-party test lab or at a sponsored event. Testing with a lab ensures developers as well as consumers that privacy, accuracy and honesty were held up in the process of allowing a product bear an assurance logo.

HDMI Unveils 1.4 Specification

HDMI has announced the latest version of the HDMI specification. The new HDMI 1.4 specification offers several advancements:
Adding high-speed networking to an HDMI link, making it possible for consumers to use their IP-enabled peripherals without a separate Ethernet cable.
Allowing an HDMI-connected TV with a built-in tuner to send audio data “upstream” to a surround audio system without the need for a separate audio cable.
Establishing an infrastructure for implementing 3D video, making it possible for 3D displays and source devices to communicate through an HDMI link.
Enabling video resolutions higher than 1080p (4K x 2K video support), paving the way for next-generation displays.
Adding support for additional color models used in both digital photography and computer graphics.
Offering a new Mirco HDMI connector designed for small, portable devices such as phones that supports video resolutions up 1080p.
Offering new cables and connectors for automotive video systems, delivering HD quality in the motoring environment.
The HDMI 1.4 specification is available for download at http://www.hdmi.org/. Our Allion team currently offers HDMI compliance tests and looks forward to certifying HDMI 1.4 products when they’re available.

Integrating WHDI and Wi-Fi

EE Times recently ran a piece highlighting how semiconductor company Amimon is striving to make wirelessly running HD video around the house a possibility. With several companies competing for interoperability in the wireless video space, Chairman and CEO of Amimon, Yoav Nissan-Cohen has a unique solution: “to combine wireless HD video and data.” He is aiming for a wireless network that combines IP-based data and video.
Amimon is a developer of Wireless High-definition Interface (WHDI) technology in the 5 GHz frequency band, and Wi-Fi also operates in this band. Wi-Fi technology is driven by the Wi-Fi Alliance, which launched the Wi-Fi Certified™ program in 2000. Allion currently offers Wi-Fi Alliance testing services for Wi-Fi Alliance members.
While Wi-Fi has penetrated the wireless technology market, it lacks the bandwidth necessary to transfer uncompressed video. Ideally, WHDI can enhance Wi-Fi as it can support high data transfer rates in the 5 GHz unlicensed band. The range of WHDI spans beyond 100 feet and through walls, and latency is under one millisecond, which could marry well with Wi-Fi.
The specifics of how Amimon will combine WHDI with Wi-Fi technology have not been disclosed; however, Nissan-Cohen is anticipating that his company can offer silicon integrating the two technologies before the end of 2010.

1394 Certification: Firewire in MacBook Pro

FireWire has made its return on new Macs. Although the FireWire port was not included on the last generation 13-inch MacBook, it has returned to a new 13-inch model. Apple has announced its updated MacBook Pro line which includes for the first time a 13-inch model in addition to the standard 15-inch and 17 inch models – each model includes a FireWire 800 port. The news has sparked discussion of the significance of this interconnect technology as some questioned the viability of the standard as Apple removed FireWire from the MacBook for a period of time.
The 1394 Trade Association (1394 TA) is the organization that advocates the adoption of the IEEE 1394 standard, commercially known by brand names such as FireWire (Apple) and i.LINK (Sony). The organization serves the interest of companies working to develop products and services related to 1394 in technology markets.
Approved by 1394 TA, Allion offers the 1394 TA logo program, which helps products earn a FireWire and/or i.LINK 1394 compliant logo. Products receiving certification are ensured to be compliant with the IEEE 1394 standard and interoperable with other 1394 compliant-labeled products.
Allion performs a series of tests in a prepared test environment for 1394 devices in mass storage, computer host and image device categories. Allion then determines whether or not the device can work in conformance to the criteria defined in the 1394 certification program. Once a developer’s product earns the compliance logo, the product can use the compliance logo and can also be listed on the 1394 TA Web site.

USB Testing: How Compliance Checklists Fit In

The compliance testing process for most devices is rigorous and detailed. Standards organizations and technology designers, with the help of independent test labs, work together to put together tests that can accurately confirm that the device meets the necessary guidelines that will ensure the product can perform soundly out in the ‘real world.’
But not all compliance measurements can be tested easily. That’s where compliance checklists come into play.
Take USB compliance for instance.The USB-IF provides compliance checklists to developers for two major reasons:
1. As a checklist during the design phase to help designers make sure their products are designed to be compliant2. As a self-disclosure statement of the different areas of product compliance to review prior to USB testing. By checking “Yes” for an item, you indicate that your product design strived for and in your estimate, met that requirement.
USB checklists include:
USB Peripheral Checklist: to be used by vendors building end-user USB peripherals
USB System Checklist: to be used by vendors building end-user systems with USB ports (i.e. motherboards and add-in cards).
USB Peripheral Silicon Checklist: to be used by vendors providing USB building-block silicon (controllers, interfaces, etc.)
USB HUB Checklist: to be used by vendors building standalone hubs or compound devices including a hub
USB HUB Silicon Checklist: to be used by vendors providing USB building-block silicon for HUBs (compound devices too)
USB OTG Compliance Checklist
Wireless USB Device Checklist
Wireless USB DWA Checklist
Wireless USB HWA Checklist
Wireless USB WHCI Checklist
For USB compliance, fill out a soft copy of the applicable checklist and submit a soft copy when registering your product online for USB testing. Note that compound devices should submit both Peripheral and HUB Checklists. For more information on the USB-IF compliance program, visit: http://www.usb.org/developers/compliance

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