 - Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) is a Microsoft procedure for certifying that the hardware for peripherals and other components is compatible (works as expected) with Microsoft Windows operating systems. WHQL provides test kits to third-party developers so that they can test their product's compatibility. Products that are submitted to and meet the tests at Microsoft are allowed to display the Microsoft Windows logo on their marketing materials and are included in Microsoft's Hardware Compatibility List (HCL).
A hardware developer downloads a WHQL test kit for a
specific product from Microsoft's Web site. The test kit includes a test
tool, test procedures, and errata and is used throughout the
development process of the hardware component. The errata shows which errors encountered
during testing are not considered a failure of the component and are overlooked
by WHQL. When the component is finished, the latest WHQL test kit is downloaded
and used to test the final product. If the component passes, the developer
submits his test to WHQL.
After WHQL receives the test submission, the developer is
notified by e-mail within three days that the submission was received. WHQL
processes the submission, which can take up to 30 days. WHQL then sends the
developer a report via e-mail. If the component passed, the developer receives a
signed Logo License Agreement with a logo kit containing the camera-ready logo
artwork, an inclusion of the hardware component in Microsoft's Hardware
Compatibility List (HCL), and a distribution of the hardware driver, if needed,
on Microsoft's Windows Driver Library. If the component didn't pass, the
developer must make the necessary changes to the component and retest.
| CONTRIBUTORS: |
Eric Oehrke |
| LAST UPDATED: |
27 Jul 2001
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