Certification

UIC

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UPnP™ Device Certification

Karen Stash, Microsoft Corp.
Program Manager, Device Certification

Certification Process

The UPnP™ Device Certification Process outlines the steps vendors need to follow in order to certify that a device complies with UPnP™ standards and to obtain the UPnP™ logo. We anticipate certification beginning in the second half of 2001, so products can be on the market the 2001 end-of-year Holiday season.

Meaning of Certification

Certification means the device exhibits the behavior specified in the device description, in accordance with the UPnP™ Device Architecture version 1.0. Certification implies that two different devices from two different vendors that support the same standard device description are interchangeable with respect to that description. For example, a vendor can manufacture a user control point (e.g., a PC) for a UPnP™ certified printer independent of the specific printer manufacturer.

UPnP™ Implementers Corporation

UPnP™ Implementers Corp. (UIC) is the non-profit corporation that administers the certification process and owns the UPnP™ logo. The UIC was incorporated in Feb 2001 and the first meeting of the Board of Directors occurred in October 2001. At this first meeting, the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and membership package were finalized. Intent-to-use applications for the certification marks-the logo and the UPnP™ word mark-have been filed in the United States. Filing in subsequent countries will occur in late 2001 or 2002. The UIC has also finalized the UPnP™ Logo Usage Guidelines document, including frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding logo usage.

Overview of Device Certification Process

Below are the specific steps required to certify a device:

1. A vendor first must become a member of the UPnP™ Forum as well as the UIC. The UIC membership package includes the test license agreement and certification mark agreement.
2. The vendor downloads the test from the UIC web site.
3. The vendor runs the test.
4. The vendor submits the test logs and registration form and fee to the UIC for review and certification.
5. The UIC reviews the test results and provides feedback to the vendor about whether the device has passed the review.
6. After a successful test, the vendor's device is certified and added to the Certified Device Database.

If the test was unsuccessful, the vendor is notified, no certificate is issued, and the vendor may not market the device as a UPnP™ certified device. The vendor chooses whether to alter the device and retest.

Types of Test Facilities

Two types of testing facilities will be allowed for certification: self testing (e.g., the manufacturer tests the device) and third-party testing (e.g., an independent lab). Both of these facilities must follow the test licensed from the UIC. The UIC will review both types of testing equally.

Conclusion

The goal of the certification process is to greatly enhance the probability of device interoperability, thus increasing consumer satisfaction with UPnP™ devices and bringing greater value to the marketplace.

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