Device Driver Testing

Critical Path Software provides development and testing services at our Portland offices for clients located worldwide. Our experience ranges from application development to device drivers and system-level software. We have debugged USB problems on USB cameras for companies using CAT-C protocol analyzers, developed and tested firewire drivers for cameras for medical imaging companies such as Karl Storz, and tested applications and drivers for hearing aid device configuration and functionality. We have worked on a variety of MP3 players, embedded systems, Pocket PC and Palm PDAs, and numerous other projects.

During the first phase of testing we normally write a QA Plan and accompanying test plans and submit these to the client for approval. We will then setup the USB driver on a range of PCs that have up-to-date Windows and/or Mac operating systems installed. We use Ghost to re-image machines as necessary, allowing us to switch operating systems in a matter of a few minutes.

We initially focus on USB connection issues. Testing includes hot plugging the cradle, undocking the device, sending packets back and forth across the USB bus using test tools if available, and testing on multiple machines. This testing is performed on both USB 1.1 and USB 2.0. We will leave devices plugged in over night to ensure that continuous connection is not an issue. We perform the entire set of WHQL USB device tests and perform USB compliance testing. Finally, we use a variety of USB hubs including powered and non-powered, USB keyboards that include hubs, and monitors that have USB hubs.

A second phase of testing might include regressing defects found during Phase 1 and regression tests on the more recent hardware and USB drivers.

A third phase might involve executing a subset of the regression tests and will add testing of the communication between the USB device and any software application provided by the client. Additional testing of the application could be performed at this time if desired.

Communication with the client will take place on a regular and as-needed basis via e-mail and telephone and, where necessary, via on-site visits by the client or CPS personnel. Project status emails will be sent weekly. A web-based defect database will be setup and access will be provided to designated client employees and contractors. High priority defects found will result in an immediate phone call to alert the client of the situation.

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