Frequently Asked Questions
Company | General Testing | Compliance | Product Test | Competitive Analysis | Reliability
Company Questions
What does Percept Technology Labs do?
What kind of companies use Percept to test their products?
How is Percept different from other labs?
How long has Percept been in business and where is Percept located?
How does Percept handle confidential information?
General Testing Questions
Why do I need to have my product tested?
Can I sell my product without doing any testing?
Why should I use an independent lab rather than testing in-house?
How do my engineers work with Percept engineers?
Where is the testing done?
How many units do I need to send you to test?
What is the process for testing and how long does it take?
How do I request a price quotation?
How much does it cost to have my products tested?
Do you offer a guarantee for your services?
What information does Percept need from me before testing can start?
Compliance Questions
What is compliance testing and why is it important?
What is EMC/EMI testing and when is it required?
What is safety testing and when is it required?
What is FCC testing and when is it required?
What is the difference between Class A and Class B?
What is a CE mark and when is it required?
What is a UL mark and what are the benefits of obtaining one?
What marks do I need to ship to the USA?
What marks do I need to ship to Canada?
What marks do I need to ship to Europe?
What marks do I need to ship to Asia?
How can I help move the compliance testing process along?
What steps can I take to help my product pass compliance testing?
What happens if my product fails testing?
Product Testing Questions
What is product testing?
What is DVT and why is it important?
What environmental testing services does Percept offer?
What is thermal probing?
What is air flow probing?
What does temperature and humidity testing show?
What is power supply testing and why is it important?
What is usability testing and why is it important?
Competitive Analysis Questions
What is Competitive Analysis and why is it so important?
Why use an independent lab?
What specific functionality can be tested?
What types of products does Percept specialize in?
Reliability Questions
What is reliability testing and why is it important?
What is MTBF?
Company Questions
What does Percept Technology Labs do?
Percept Technology Labs is an established, independent product test and consulting company with a proven track record of customer successes since 1996. Percept delivers complete testing and global certification services for technology firms introducing products into the marketplace.
Key areas of expertise include:
Our in-depth experience and expertise in product testing throughout the entire product development cycle allows you to launch your fully tested and proven products on time and within budget.
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What kind of companies use Percept to test their products?
The Percept team has in-depth experience testing all types of technology products including:
- Information Technology (IT)
- Data Storage
- Telecommunications
- Scientific Instruments
- Consumer Electronics
- Voting Machines
- Medical Products
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How is Percept different from other labs?
Percept is more than a testing lab. Unlike other labs, we go beyond simply testing your products and giving you the results. Our team of testing experts is committed to tailoring and executing the optimal test plan to meet all of your testing and product performance objectives.
We work with you each step of the way to make sure that your product is fully tested, certified and improved as needed, so you can confidently release your product on time and within budget.
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How long has Percept been in business and where is Percept located?
Percept has been serving clients since 1996 and has a strong record of growth and client success.
Percept is located in Boulder, CO.
For a map, click here.
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How does Percept handle confidential information?
Percept Technology Labs understands the critical value of our clients proprietary information including product specifications, test data, launch schedules, company product roadmaps, etc. We maintain strict confidentiality of all client data and information.
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General Testing Questions
Why do I need to have my product tested?
In today's highly competitive business environment, shipping quality products on time is critical for all firms contending for survival in the global marketplace. Nobody can afford bad press or costly recalls.
In order to succeed, you must be able to deliver fully tested and proven products to customers around the world — quickly and cost-effectively. Your product must meet or exceed expectations before it reaches your customers. Even if it performs flawlessly, your product has to be fully certified for each country you plan to ship to.
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Can I sell my product without doing any testing?
While you may not always face legal obligations to test your product before selling it, not testing would be risky and foolish. Product performance must meet or exceed customer expectations or you face the serious issues of losing customers to your competition, receiving damage to your reputation or facing enormous warranty costs. Releasing a product that has been fully tested will enhance your company's chance of success and growth in the long run.
Additionally, if you plan to sell your product in other countries, you are faced with complex regulatory and compliance certification requirements and will benefit from working with a company that specializes in understanding, testing, and meeting those requirements.
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Why should I use an independent lab rather than testing in-house?
Even if you have a full staff of test engineers:
- It is unlikely that your in-house staff has in-depth expertise in every aspect of testing that you need to run.
- You may not have access to the most advanced testing equipment available for your testing needs because it is such a huge capital investment.
- Because your engineers need to balance a number of priorities, they may not always have the bandwidth to dedicate their time exclusively to your testing needs.
- Because large organizations have to balance a number of products and projects, upper level management may not give your particular products the priority status needed to receive the attention and resources necessary to keep your project on schedule. An independent lab can offer additional bandwidth flexibly, and cost-effectively when needed.
The result is a slower, less efficient process using methodologies and equipment that may not meet your testing needs optimally.
A single source running all tests 24/7 in a state-of-the-art lab, utilizing consistent and proven testing methodologies and managing the entire process for you allows the most cost-effective, timely and efficient testing possible.
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How do my engineers work best with Percept engineers?
Percept's team of testing experts works closely with your engineers to fully understand your testing needs and determine the most efficient, cost-effective and timely way to meet your testing objectives. Sometimes we implement a test plan that you have already developed, and other times we collaborate to create a custom test plan for you. Close communications throughout the entire process enable quick diagnosis of problems and creation and implementation of solutions.
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Where is the testing done?
Percept's 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art lab contains advanced, up-to-date laboratory equipment. Additionally, through our alliances, we have access to other specialized lab equipment to meet all of your testing needs.
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How many units do I need to send you to test?
This depends on the type of testing you need. Generally, we need just one unit to perform testing. In some cases having more than one unit can reduce the time it takes to complete testing.
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What is the process for testing and how long does it take?
Because of our level of testing experience and our consistent methodologies, Percept has streamlined the testing process. Our team is fully responsive to your individual testing needs and timelines, and we work to quickly implement your test plan or collaborate to develop a customized test plan.
Effectively managing your testing project requires in-depth expertise to define, execute, track, communicate and document all aspects of your testing project throughout every phase of the testing. Percept's expertise reaches well beyond simply running the tests and delivering data to you. Our Test Project Management Process is a proven methodology that takes the worries out of managing the test process and ensures that your products are fully tested, proven and ready to ship around the world.
The Percept Test Management Process includes:
- Test Plan Generation
- Project Scheduling, Execution, Tracking and Adherence
- Defect and Problem Tracking and Resolution
- Detailed Reporting and Documentation
- Filing for and obtaining all necessary Global Certifications
The actual testing can take anywhere from one afternoon to several weeks. Our reporting system allows us to work with you to ensure that you get your product tested in time to meet all of your deadlines.
From start to finish, Percept works with you to thoroughly test and prove product functionality and performance, and obtain all necessary safety and global certificaitons. From product definition to design, prototyping, design refinements, pre-production and continuing through (and even after) the time you ship, Percept understands what you need to test and what's needed to help you meet each objective.
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How do I request a price quotation?
You can request a quote utilizing our online system; just answer the questions asked on the quote request page or call us at 303-444-7480 and ask for our sales department.
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How much does it cost to have my products tested?
The cost of testing is determined by what kind of testing you need. We have set prices for some services, which you can find here.
There are two ways we charge for services: fixed quotes or time and materials billing. Generally, new customers choose to get a fixed quote so that they know up front how much the testing will cost. To get a fixed quote for the specific testing you need, contact us at 303-444-7480.
Percept invoices clients every two weeks. At this time, customers receive an invoice for the testing that was done over the previous two weeks. Our payment terms are Net 30.
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Do you offer a guarantee for your services?
At Percept, our team of testing experts is committed to delivering the highest level of service. Our customer satisfaction surveys confirm that our clients are extremely satisfied with our service, support and communication. Any issues that may arise are resolved quickly and fairly, and if there is ever a situation where the testing has not been completed properly or correctly, we will gladly retest your product at no additional cost to you.
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What information does Percept need from me before testing can start?
Percept needs the following items to begin a testing project:
- Product specification
- Type of testing needed
- For compliance testing, a list of the countries you intend to ship to
- For reliability testing, a detailed parts list and environmental specification
- For product testing, general operation details and special interface requirements
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Compliance Questions
What is compliance testing and why is it important?
In order to sell your product to different countries around the world, it is imperative that it meets various regulatory compliance requirements. Each country has unique requirements for safety, emissions and other criteria, and understanding and meeting these requirements is a complex and time consuming task. All industrialized nations require specific marks on products before they can be sold there. Testing and certifying compliance is essential for all electronic products and components.
Percept offers One Stop Global Compliance services that streamline this complex process and deliver everything you need to ship your products to your countries of choice.
» more
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What is EMC/EMI testing and when is it required?
EMC/EMI testing is Electromagnetic Compatibility and Interference testing. The purpose is to make sure that your product meets emissions and immunity standards. Emissions is how the energy radiated from your product affects other electronic products. Immunity is how your product responds to the effect of energy radiated from other electronic products.
EMC/EMI testing is required to meet specific electromagnetic emissions and immunity standards around the globe. These standards are part of requirements of the CE Mark, FCC, VCCI, etc.
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What is safety testing and when is it required?
Safety testing is a term used for any testing resulting in a safety certification. Various safety certifications are required by different countries, such as the CE mark in Europe.
Percept performs safety testing to both domestic and international standards including testing required to earn the UL and TUV marks. Unlike other labs, we do more than simply pass or fail the product's performance. Our safety experts manage the entire process of testing, identifying safety issues, solving them and obtaining safety certifications. We show you the whole picture - how well your product performs and what can be done to improve the product to meet necessary safety standards.
While safety testing is required if you need to get a CE mark to sell your product in Europe, it is also a marketing advantage to have your product safety tested in today's market.
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What is FCC testing and when is it required?
All electronics products sold in the United States are required by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to obtain an FCC mark showing that the product complies with the following standards:
- Emissions (the effect on other electronic devices of energy radiated from the product)
- Immunity (the product's response to other electronic devices)
There are two categories that your product can fall into: Class A or Class B. » more
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What is the difference between a Class A device and a Class B device?
A Class A device is a product marketed for commercial or industrial use and is not intended to to be used in a home.
A Class B device is a product marketed for residential or home use. Class B requirements tend to be stricter than Class A requirements. » more
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What is a CE mark and when is it required?
The CE mark shows that your product complies with the "essential requirements" of European laws or directives. It indicates the conformance of your product to the legal requirements with respect to the following:
- Safety
- Health
- Environment
- Consumer Protection
All products to be sold in Europe must have a CE mark. » more
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What is a UL mark and what are the benefits of obtaining one?
The UL marks are registered certification marks of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL). The UL mark on a product means that UL has tested and evaluated representative samples of that product and determined that it meets UL's specified product safety requirements. » more
The UL mark is one of the most recognized, trusted and accepted safety symbols in the world. The benefits of obtaining one include:
- Safety-conscious and concerned consumers look for the UL mark on products they buy.
- You may be obligated contractually to get a UL mark on your product.
- Some companies won't sell your product without the UL mark.
- Electrical inspectors may not install your product without the UL mark.
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What marks do I need to ship to the USA?
You need an FCC mark to ship to the USA. Additionally, a UL mark is recommended but not absolutely necessary.
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What marks do I need to ship to Canada?
Shipping products to Canada requires products to meet specific safety and emissions standards. The standards our determined and required by law by Standards Council of Canada (SCC).
For most products shipped to Canada the following marks are required:
- cUL - is a mark from UL, that is applied to products for Canada
- FCC is generally accepted for emissions
- CSA - Canadian Standards Association
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What marks do I need to ship to Europe?
You need a CE mark to ship your product to Europe. The CE mark covers both safety and emissions standards for Europe. » more
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What marks do I need to ship to individual countries in Asia?
Some of the marks for Asia are:
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How can I help move the compliance testing process along?
To help make the compliance process as quick and efficient as possible, we ask you to provide the following items for your product:
- User manual
- Specification sheet
- Block diagram of product
- All configurations of product
- Marketing brochure
- Web site
If you would like to get started, please request a quote or call us at 303.444.7480.
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What steps can I take to help my product pass compliance testing?
To help your product pass compliance testing:
- Use a UL-approved power supply.
- Use an approved line filter.
- Make sure there are no ventilation openings in the bottom of your product.
- Make sure all the main components are approved for use in the destination country.
- If your product contains plastics, make sure the plastic used is UL flame-rated to the correct rating.
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What happens if my product fails testing?
If your product fails testing, we are often able to mitigate the problem quickly and propose a solution for you. However, if the failure cannot be mitigated within an hour, then Percept will tell you where the failure occurred. You have the choice of having Percept fix your product, or fixing it yourself.
Percept provides you with a detailed test report detailing why your product failed testing and what you can do to ensure that you product will pass testing the next time around.
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Product Testing Questions
What is product testing?
Product testing is a broad term, but at Percept, we use this phrase to describe Engineering Verification Testing (EVT) and Design Verification Testing (DVT); Environmental; Functional; Interoperability; and Reliability.
Functional testing includes all types of testing that test whether the product performs to the specifications defined by the manufacturer.
- Design Verification Testing (DVT) delivers objective, comprehensive testing to verify all product specifications, interface standards, OEM requirements, and diagnostic commands during product development cycle.
- Engineering Verification Testing (EVT) — specialized prototype testing to verify that the design meets predetermined specifications and design goals from the onset of the project.
- Environmental Testing — fully test your product for temperature, humidity, airflow, shock and vibration, HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Tests), HASS (Highly Accelerated Stress Screening) and ESS (Environmental Stress Screening) insuring it will perform properly in all possible environmental conditions.
- Functional Testing — verifies that each of your product’s capabilities will meet the requirements defined in the design specification. Whether it's a product you're developing or manufacturing, or one that you’re considering purchasing, our team will develop a test plan that meets your testing requirements, schedule, and budget.
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What is DVT and why is it important?
Comprehensive and objective Design Verification Testing verifies all product specifications, interface standards, OEM requirements, and diagnostic commands.
Because DVT identifies design flaws before your product goes to market, it allows you to correct problems quickly and cost-effectively before your product reaches your customers.
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What environmental testing services does Percept offer?
Percept specializes in the following environmental testing services:
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What is thermal probing?
Thermal probing is measuring the temperature within the product enclosure to characterize the thermal profile. Examples of items within the product enclosure include printed circuit boards and integrated circuits. This procedure identifies the high temperature areas within the product.
The benefit of temperature probing is to identify the high temperature areas within the product that may cause failure and to confirm that the product meets temperature specifications. » more
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What is air flow probing?
Air flow probing involves probing select locations within the product enclosure to characterize the air flow through the enclosure. Both the internal fan and the front bezel design are measured to make sure they are working properly. The reasons for air flow probing are:
- To identify whether internal fans are producing enough volumetric air flow
- To identify air flow patterns and restrictions within the enclosure
- To measure the front intake bezel design
Air flow probing can be done during the product development phase or as a failure analysis after the product release phase. » more
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What is temperature and humidity testing?
Temperature and humidity testing involves testing your product at the minimum and maximum operating temperature according to your operating specification. Temperature and humidity testing is important in verifying your operating specification. more
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What is power supply testing and why is it important?
Power supply testing involves evaluating and verifying the power supply you have chosen to use on your product. Percept provides an in-depth evaluation to confirm that your power supply operates within the specifications given by the manufacturer.
By determining the right power supply for your product, you are able to improve the product reliability and reduce warranty costs based on power supply failures or shortcomings.
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What is usability testing and why is it important?
Usability testing involves testing your product from a consumer's standpoint.
Percept will receive, set-up, and operate your product exactly as your customers do. Our service is a complete and intensive evaluation of your product including:
- Packaging and first impressions
- Setup procedure accuracy and efficiency, including quick start guide
- Operating system / interface setup and compatibility (if applicable)
- Exception testing (what can the user possibly do?)
- Documentation completeness and accuracy
- Technical support performance and service level
Usability testing identifies the possible problems and complications that your customers experience with your product. By identifying and correcting these issues, you can improve customer satisfaction and lower your overall service costs, thus enhancing your bottom line.
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Competitive Analysis Questions
What is competitive analysis and why is it important?
Competitive Analysis and Testing shows you exactly how your products compare with others on the market. As competition among technology products intensifies, many companies make claims of superior product performance, but independent testing backs these claims up with objective, quantifiable data. That gives firms credibility and a significant competitive edge. » more
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Why use an independent lab?
An independent testing facility is able to run accurate, unbiased tests to show you exactly where your product outperforms your competitors' and what areas of your product should be targeted for improvement. While potential customers may be skeptical about a company’s internal testing, the test results from an independent lab lend credibility and authority to performance claims.
Percept’s test engineers tailor tests to meet your criteria, and provide customized test reports for your needs. Percept's competitive performance analysis provides the valuable, unbiased information you need to support your sales efforts.
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What specific functionality can be tested?
Percept’s Competitive Analysis tests key performance criteria including:
- Access times
- Architecture
- Bandwidth
- Benchmarks
- Compatibility
- Connection time
- Cost of Repair & Upgrade
- Data Transfer rates
- Ease of Installation
- Ease of Use / Usability
- Effective Processor speeds
- Ergonomics
- Error recovery
- Feature sets
- GUI Metrics
- Image Quality
- Interchange
- Interoperability
- Load time
- Maintenance requirements
- Noise
- Operation in harsh environments
- OS Support
- Out of Box Audit
- Performance
- Power Requirements
- Power Consumption
- Product Lifetime
- Quality Metrics
- Reliability
- Speed
- Technical Support Response
- Upgrade Ability
- Warranty Coverage
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What types of products does Percept specialize in?
Percept's Product Expertise includes:
Information Technology & Data Storage Equipment
- Servers
- Workstations / PCs
- Disk Drives
- Tape Drives
- Tape Libraries
- Network Switches
- Network Routers
- PDAs
- Peripherals
Wireless Equipment
- Cell Phones
- Pagers
- PDAs
- Bluetooth Devices
- Wi-Fi Devices
- Mobile Communication devices
Software
- Backup & Restore
- Internet/Web
- Networking/Storage
- Anti-virus/Security
Consumer Electronics
- TVs (LCD, Plasma, DLP, CRT, etc)
- MP3 Players
- Audio/Video
- Handhelds
- Input Devices
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Reliability Questions
What is reliability testing and why is it important?
Consistent product reliability is essential for today's technology firms. To help you discover if your products will perform reliably and to help determine (and minimize) warranty costs, reliability testing is crucial.
Percept uses industry-leading test methods and data collection for reliability models that provide an accurate prediction of product reliability and estimate of warranty costs long before field data exists. This enables you to make adjustments before your product hits the marketplace. » more
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What is MTBF?
Mean time between failure (MTBF) prediction has many applications including:
- Substantiating a design requirement
- Identifying reliability drivers
- Making competitive product evaluations
- Determining warranty periods
- Marketing
- Advertising
Percept can help you calculate the MTBF of your product. » more
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