NSTL (National Software Testing Laboratories)    became the leading independent microcomputer testing laboratory by introducing real-world application testing and by providing objective, reliable testing results. NSTL provides testing services to hardware manufacturers, software publishers, trade publications, corporations and government agencies. These services include standardized compatibility testing programs, custom testing projects, consulting and research.

NSTL's testing methodologies became the global standard by providing the same objective reliability to its international commercial clients and publication subscribers. However, NSTL has become a dominant force in microcomputer testing through its testing laboratories In Taiwan and Canada, and its agreements with publishers around the world. Our international publishing partners either republish the comparative test results used in NSTL's PC Digest or Software Digest, or they license our testing methodology and publish their own results. As a result, NSTL's test methodologies have become the worldwide standard.

NSTL Background
NSTL Testing Methodologies
NSTL Publication Division
NSTL Commercial Testing Division
Vendor Testing Services
Government and Corporate Testing and Consulting Services

Founded in 1983, the company pioneered the use of objective, comparative testing of personal computer hardware and software. NSTL began publishing results of these tests in its Software Digest ratings report. The NS TL commercial testing division was introduced a year after publishing began. NSTL broadened its publishing activities in 1987, launching PC Digest Ratings Report. Both publications use proprietary NSTL testing methodologies. The McGraw-Hill Companies acquired NSTL in May 1989, paving the way for many strategic alliances. For instance, NSTL has conducted all product comparison testing for BYTE Magazine since 1993. NSTL test results also appear in McGraw-Hill's Businessweek, Data Communications and Open Computing.

NSTL's unique, real-world, comparative testing methodologies are globally recognized as the standard for accurate and objective evaluation of microcomputer products. Through republishing relationships with 20 publishing companies worldwide, NSTL test res ults are seen in the UK, Italy, France, Japan the Netherlands, Mexico and over 40 other countries. NSTL's commercial testing services offer hardware manufacturers and software publishers an independent and objective evaluation of their products. These same unbiased and experienced testing methodologies are used to provide consultative services to corp orations and government agencies interested in purchasing or upgrading microcomputer products. Tests are performed by highly skilled technical staff in NSTL's secure, state-of-the-art facilities in suburban Philadelphia, PA; Ottawa, Canada; and Taipei, Taiwan.
Back to Directory Listing

Every test performed for NSTL's publications or clients must be objective, reliable and realistic. This is the only way we can maintain credibility and respect in the constantly changing microcomputer products industry. Fortunately, NSTL's outstanding research and development staff is dedicated to creating and improving effective testing tools and procedures. These talented professionals are constantly challenged to maintain the highest level of technological expertise s o that NSTL can effectively test the newest technology. Testing methodologies for PC Digest, Software Digest and Commercial testing projects are continually updated to accommodate the newest generation of hardware and software both from a technological and an end-user perspective. In addition, special request s and unique products are no problem for NSTL's knowledgeable staff. One of the testing tools developed by our R&D staff is Intermark(tm), NSTL's cross-platform, multi-product benchmarking tool. After successfully using it internally, we realized that intermark's flexibility and accessibility also made it the perfect tool for trade publications and end users. It allows realistic comparisons across different platforms, giving comparable performance results from Intel x86, Pentium, Mips, Alpha and Power PC-based computers. It works on a variety of operating systems, i ncluding dos/windows, nt, macintosh and power pc. In addition, it can test standard system hardware such as hard disks, CPUs, CD-ROMs and adapters, as well as peripherals like modems and printers.
Back to Directory Listing

NSTL's Publications provide independent comparative ratings of PC and LAN hardware and software. Categories that are tested and rated include systems, peripherals, applications, operating systems and network products. NSTL's publications are recognized as a leading, authoritative source of accurate, relevant and objective data on major categories of microcomputer products. In addition, NSTL does not accept advertising or fees to test products. Therefore, these publications provide fully objective and unbiased evaluations free of any conflicts of interest.

Most subscribers are IS and DP directors or PC coordinators from Fortune 1000 companies. The average reader is responsible for purchasing approximately $500,000 of hardware and software per year, and they use these publications to make their microcomputer purchasing decisions.

Software Digest publishes the results of comparative software application testing. Each product in a specific category is tested under the same controlled conditions for performance, versatility, quality and usability. PC Digest reports are independent guides for selecting systems and peripherals. Comparative testing emphasizes performance expected under realistic conditions. Testers also evaluate product usability, features and documentation.
Back to Directory Listing

In addition to designing and conducting all tests for its publications, NSTL Commercial Testing Division also provides testing services on a private contract basis to vendors, government agencies and corporations.
Back to Directory Listing

NSTL offers hardware manufacturers and software developers a variety of testing services, including compatibility, interoperability, performance, power management, BIOS evaluations, acceptance (bug), usability and comparison testing. In addition, NSTL is the exclusive facility for digital's pathworks qualification of hardware and software products.

NSTL ensures complete confidentiality and is often asked to evaluate pre-released products. Vendors confidently use NSTL's unbiased test results for product development, quality assurance, competitive analysis and marketing efforts.

NSTL's testing experience and capabilities include the full range of pc and client/server hardware products (systems, file servers, network adapters, video adapters, printers, modems, etc.) And software products (DOS, OS/2 and Windows applications, as wel l as multimedia products).

NSTL is proud to list many industry leaders among its clients. Companies such as IBM, Intel, Microsoft, AT&T, Hewlett-Packard, Sharp, Lotus, Okidata and Digital Equipment corporation* have used NSTL Testing Services. * NSTL follows a strict confidentiality policy. The named companies either announced NSTL test results or gave permission to include them in our promotions.
Back to Directory Listing

Microcomputer technology is more beneficial to government agencies and corporations if chosen carefully. When purchasing or upgrading micro-computer products, one must consider compatibility, usability, performance and interoperability issues, as well as any indirect costs of upgrading. However, if it takes too long to decide, the technology can become obsolete. Fortunately, NSTL's experience and expertise can guide government procurement offices and corporate purchasing departments in every step of the acquisition process. For example, NSTL has conducted large benchmark testing projects for the Canadian Governm ent's National Master Standing Offer (NMSO) for the past four years. The NMSO is a list of pre-approved, pre-tested microcomputer products that meet price, compatibility and other requirements. Canadian government offices can use this list to make a spee dy, yet confident choice when purchasing microcomputer products. Our acquisition support services can provide similar benefits for other groups. We offer consulting services for organizations deciding whether to upgrade and testing services that expose low quality products. We can help a purchasing department establi sh appropriate product requirements, make sure vendor proposals are handled correctly, and that the vendors respond properly. We will develop test plans, test products against the established requirements, and identify those products that satisfy all of your technical, usability and price factors.