Accessories

BLUETOOTH ACCESSORIES

NAC Testing examines the mechanical, electrical and audio characteristics of a device in addition to testing connectivity with companion devices.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Bluetooth interoperability with a popular mobile phone
• Audio performance in the presence of background noise
• Usability and unique product features are verified
• Printed circuit board and plastic housing assembly are examined
• Battery-life testing verifies the claimed talk, standby and music playback time with a dedicated source

A video 'overview' of the product along with audio recordings is included on a mini-CD.

BATTERIES

The NAC performs detailed safety and performance testing and analysis of batteries for wireless devices. NAC Testing determines what type of battery life a device is capable of by using real-world operation. We test batteries as part of a complete, end-to-end system to determine if a battery is properly charging and if it maintains the charge over time - or if inefficiencies in the charging algorithms of portable devices may be prematurely shutting off charging before a battery has been charged to its fullest potential.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Evaluation to quantify a battery's stand-alone performance as well as when it is part of a system.
• Testing maximum capacity in comparison to the manufacturer-rated capacity.
• Testing and evaluating electrical and mechanical construction.
• Scrutiny and testing of circuit board and internal safety methods.
• Testing and evaluation of cell straps to help ensure reliable connections within the battery.
• Evaluation of how reliably a battery connects and whether it can or can't be installed backwards.

Safety with batteries is area for concern.

The NAC performs detailed testing and analysis of battery performance and safety. NAC examination of batteries can determine if the proper safety precautions are implemented prior to problems being identified in the field. Cutting-edge lithium ion and lithium polymer batteries should contain several built-in safety features. The NAC can verify the proper design and operation of the safety features in these batteries helping your company strike the proper balance of safety, cost, and performance.

A video 'overview' of the product along with detailed data is included on a mini-CD.

AC CHARGERS

The NAC evaluates electrical, mechanical, and safety aspects of a charger's operation as well as long-term reliability.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• NAC testing determines the rate of charge and the battery's ability to remain charged while still connected to the charger.
• NAC testing helps ensure the charger meets the claimed specifications.
• The mechanical construction of the charger is evaluated and drop testing is executed.
• Environmental friendliness is evaluated to determine the power used when it's plugged in to the wall with no phone attached.
• Soldering quality and printed circuit board construction are scrutinized.

The NAC has performed extensive testing on universal chargers that have interchangeable 'tips' and can provide compatibility matrixes across a carrier's mobile phone line-up.

A video 'overview' of the product along with detailed charging data is included on a mini-CD.

VEHICLE POWER ADAPTERS (VPAs)

The NAC tests safety, performance, and mechanical durability with additional tests to characterize coil cord elasticity.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• NAC Testing determines the rate of charge and the battery's ability to remain charged while still connected to the charger.
• How well the VPA stays connected to the mobile phone.
• How well the VPA stays seated in the vehicle's receptacle.
• Coil cord elasticity is measured to identify products that are comfortable, easy to use, and resist tangling.

A video 'overview' of the product along with detailed charging data is included on a mini-CD.

PORTABLE CHARGERS

The NAC profiles the performance of a portable charger against a wide range of handheld products.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Determine the actual amount of charge a charger is capable of providing an intended portable device.
• If the portable charger (powered by Alkaline or Lithium Ion batteries) can provide multiple charges.
• Necessary caveats that should be included in user guides such as optimum connect time.
• Compatibility issues with wireless devices that were not originally designed to operate with portable chargers.

The NAC has performed extensive testing on universal chargers that have interchangeable 'tips' and can provide compatibility matrixes across a carrier's mobile phone line-up.

WIRED HEADSETS

The NAC verifies the electrical, mechanical and acoustical operation of mono and stereo headsets against a wide variety of mobile phones.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Audio testing with the companion device is performed to identify customer-affecting issues.
• Audio performance is evaluated on both sides of the call over a wide range of listening environments.
• Echo, loudness level, buzz, and performance in elevated background noise environments are evaluated.
• Mechanical and electrical construction is evaluated, as well as manufacturing consistency.
• Answer/end buttons are tested to ensure reliability while the cord length and strain relief strength are also evaluated.

Audio Recordings are provided on a mini-CD.

MEMORY CARDS

NAC Testing profiles the operation of a mobile phone with the full range of memory card sizes and classes to determine exactly which cards are compatible with a device.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• The NAC provides compatibility testing of memory cards across a carrier's or manufacturer's mobile phone line-up, including camera and music phones.
• Testing determines file-type compatibility and confirms a phone's ability to properly format a card, identify the used and available space, and read/write to the card.
• Fit, performance, and application stability are evaluated to help identify any customer-affecting problems.

CARRYING CASES

A poorly designed case can impact mobile phone performance and cause unnecessary product returns due to blocked displays, reduced ringtone or audio quality.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Audio evaluation to determine if the case causes acoustical coupling (echo).
• NAC testing evaluates the consistency and durability of stitching, manufacturing, and belt-clip releases.
• Accelerated life testing on a belt clip and closing mechanism is critical to determine if the components are going to withstand the rigors of daily use.
• The NAC verifies that the pattern cut does not interfere with the normal operation of the mobile phone.

CUSTOM ACCESSORIES

The wireless industry includes an ever-changing landscape of new accessories. Get the NAC's non-biased, customer-perspective on new products, like battery doors and hands-free solutions.

Some areas of evaluation include:

• Bluetooth fixed access unit
• Solar chargers
• Personal video viewer
• Bluetooth picture frames
• Bluetooth printers
• Protective lens covers
• Bluetooth desktop speakerphone

The NAC's powerful Analysis Management System (AMS) allows us to quickly and easily configure testing services when new accessory categories are introduced.