Windows Certification Newsletter - March 12, 2013
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In this issue
System.Client.Tablet.Graphics.MinimumResolution relaxed for Windows 8
Tablet screen size now peaks at 17"
Some errata in the HCK extended
More updates to UEFI POST time relaxations for some all-in-one systems
Choose the right USB 3 hub for HCK testing
Logo License style guidelines updated
System.Client.Tablet.Graphics.MinimumResolution relaxed for Windows 8
We're changing the System.Client.Tablet.Graphics.MinimumResolution requirement to create a consistent minimum resolution of 1024 x 768 at a depth of 32 bits across all Windows 8 system form factors. The physical dimensions of the display panel must still match the aspect ratio of the native resolution. This doesn't imply that we're encouraging partners to regularly use a lower screen resolution. In fact, we see customers embracing the higher resolution screens that make a great Windows experience. We understand that partners exploring designs for certain markets could find greater design flexibility helpful.
The lower resolution would disable snap, a feature that allows two Windows Store apps to be viewed simultaneously side by side. To avoid potential consumer disappointment, OEMs need to disclose the loss of snap.
To achieve certification with a sub-1366 x 768 panel, OEMs must explain how they will provide appropriate, clear, and conspicuous disclaimers that customers can see before they buy their PCs. For example, OEMs may use ads, websites, packaging, and/or point-of-purchase materials. This disclaimer must disclose that the system doesn't support snap. OEMs can also disclose what's needed to get snap to work, like connecting an external display that meets the standard minimum display resolution requirement of 1366 x 768. That part is optional, but providing a solution tells people that snap can be used, with some system modifications. Plus, it's a nice thing to do.
When creating their own disclaimers, OEMs should do something like this:
The integrated display resolution of this system is below the threshold for snap, a feature that lets people view two Windows Store apps at the same time. App snapping will work if you attach an external display that supports a screen resolution of 1366 x 768 or higher.
The disclosure must use the same localized language that the system does.
Submission process
Ask Sysdev@microsoft.com for a copy of the screen relaxation form. Use the form to describe how you will handle the disclosure. On submission, include the completed form in your Readme folder, kind of how you would include a reference to a manual erratum. The reviewers check to see if the form is all filled out. If you have questions on the process or need to discuss your disclosure plans with us before submission, email Sysdev@microsoft.com, or whatever you normally use to make submissions.
Tablet screen size now peaks at 17"
We evaluate feedback from partners as they propose new designs, and we've found that the current definition of tablets also applies to touch all-in-ones that have a battery. That's not what we intended. These larger systems aren't really designed to be handheld and mobile, so the tablet features aren't appropriate for them. For certification purposes, we're tightening the definition of tablet by restricting it to systems with a screen size of 17" or less. Above that size, touch systems without batteries and attached accessible keyboards don't need to meet all of the tablet requirements.
If you have questions about your design, email Sysdev@microsoft.com.
Some errata in the HCK extended
We've updated all active errata filters for the Windows Hardware Certification Kit (Windows HCK) 2.0. Any errata still indicating they're expiring on 3/1/2013 are either delayed enforcements with expired grace periods or were fixed in a QFE with a fix you need to incorporate into your testing environment. All active errata that weren't fixed in the test kit are now extended until 9/30/2013.
We'll reevaluate active errata again about 3 months before the new expiration dates. We'll either retire errata or extend it again, depending on whether fixes are in place for the test issues. A few errata are set to expire between 3/1 and 9/30 by design for delayed enforcement reasons. Those errata won't be extended again.
You can check the status of all errata anytime on the Hardware Dashboard. To narrow down the list, use the filters to view only active, expired, or expiring within 30 days. You can also search by ID and title.
Any extension date shouldn't be considered an indication of any retirement date.
More updates to UEFI POST time relaxations for some all-in-one systems
Based on industry feedback, we're further relaxing the UEFI POST time requirement to enable all-in-one systems with large storage capacity.
Conditions:
PCs must be all-in-one systems with integrated displays.
AIO Systems must meet the POST Time Boundary depicted in this chart. For example, systems with a disk capacity that's greater than or equal to 1 TB but less than 2 TB must POST in 7 seconds or less.
Systems shipping after October 31, 2014, must meet the requirements published on MSDN.
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This delayed enforcement erratum begins April 15, 2013, when the UEFI requirement Erratum 478 relaxation expires, and ends in October 2014. To take advantage of this new delayed enforcement, Include ID 1250 in your README file starting April 15, 2013.
Choose the right USB 3 hub for HCK testing
The HCK erratum 339 and 526, which require USB 3 hubs for testing purposes, are being extended until 6/30/2013. This is the final extension for these errata. After June 30, all products must pass the test without the use of these errata.
Right now, you have your choice of 2 USB 3 hubs:
TI TUSB8040EVM
Via 812
For hubs to qualify, we require two simple things:
It's USB-IF certified. (Does it display the USB logo?)
It's HCK certified. (Does it have a Windows 8 logo?)
These criteria ensure that the hub has gone through rigorous testing and will hold up to Windows Hardware Certification Kit (Windows HCK) device testing. If a hub meets both criteria, it should be safe to use in this test.
Logo License style guidelines updated
To support flexibility for logo placement and clarify logo size and greyscale info, the style specifications for the Windows Logo License Agreement for Hardware Version 2013 were recently revised with the following updates:
A corrected size -- 19.5 millimeters x 19.5 millimeters -- for the Windows logo on PCs that haven't passed the Windows hardware certification program requirements. Note: This label is procured by a secure print vendor who has all size and artwork requirements.
A new logo placement option for the Windows hardware certification logo on a power cord wrap. This option applies only when the casing contains no logos, labels, engravings, advertising, designs, or text readily visible to the user, other than:
The licensee's own brand or logo.
The PC's series, line, or model number.
The PC's unique system identifier.
Any other text, including regulatory markings, that's explicitly required on the casing by local law or regulations.
Greyscale options for the Windows symbol keys or buttons, including the minimum requirement of 7:1 contrast ratio of the symbol to the background.
The updated style specifications are also scheduled to be posted on the certification website by the end of this month.
Related topics
Windows hardware development kits and tools
Windows hardware development samples
Windows Hardware Certification