When comparing especially the mass-produced products, at first we prefer the quality ones. However, on the base that “quality“ is not a concrete term, according to what are we going to make our preference?? Of course, we are going to choose the products that has various checks carried out and the results have been reported. Thus, the answer to this question, products that are approved after a number of tests and the positive results reported, points out the quality…

At this point “Quality Testing” is activated…In fact, it is not correct to make a limitation with the name quality tests. Because it is possible to create numerous tests that can be applied to the product. We can say that the tests vary according to sector. However, a common title may be verification tests of products, if capable of fulfilling their duties as acceptable. These tests are generally called “Function Tests“.

Function Tests

A voltmeter to correctly measure the potential connected to its measurement terminals, the computer screen to display the image correctly, a product packaging to have the property to protect and keep the content rigit, the car’s central locking system to be able to lock and unlock  at each toggling smoothly etc…These are already the expected features to be borne. Function tests are generally the control of the functions specified in the using manual. Therefore, the rules are generally put by the manufacturers.

Aesthetic Test

Another expected verification to be met is receipt of the purchased product complete, robust and error free, so the quality of the products before being placed will need to pass controls of this style. More often named as “Physical Control“ or “Aesthetic Test“ performed in the quality testing covers the appearance of the product, any abnormalities (scratches, cracks, abuse or misuse printing, etc..), all its parts is packaged (user manual, installation CD, hanger bracket etc..) and  confirmation of the packaging, done right or not. The consumer facing a different product from the expected one after opening the packaging, or experiencing a product label that’s torn or scratches on the display will have doubt about the manufacturer’s quality.

Type Tests

There is a third type of quality test performed which is more technical and challenging. “Type Tests” in general are for the product to fulfill its function, under the conditions given in standards, without errors, being defected or negative results. These tests can greatly vary according to industry, product and standards. If we go through the examples of the function tests given above; voltmeter to perform correct voltage measurements under the high magnetic field, computer screen to display the image when faced with a voltage pulse generated by a lightning falling nearby, product packaging to keep its contents under the vibration conditions simulating transportation, or the car’s central locking system to make locking or unlocking at each press, even in very cold conditions…Type Tests as we can see here, are verification of the performance of the product under different physical, climatic, electrical, mechanical etc. conditions. Tests can rarely be carried out in real environment with real conditions, but generally in laboratories where requirements are met by setting some simulations according to the standards.

The certificates gained and the reports taken after the tests performed are the quality documents of the products we have bought…