Abstract: Techniques and tools for rating computer products are described. For example, software ratings are based on subjective evaluations to determine computer system requirements for a positive user experience, while a computer running a capability tool rates a computer system's (or hardware component's) ability to run software. A capability rating for hardware is determined by comparing a set of features and performance results with capability rating requirements. In another aspect, a capability rating is communicated using a standardized presentation. In another aspect, capability rating level requirements are proposed (e.g., by a ratings board) and then finalized. A capability rating level is determined for computer products (e.g., by a testing organization) based on the finalized requirements and analysis of the products (e.g., by a computer running a capability tool).

Abstract: Techniques and tools for rating computer products, and communicating the rating between users, manufactures, vendors, and/or testing organizations, are described. A rating for hardware, software, clusters of computers, servers, and other computing products can be determined by comparing the system's attributes, capabilities, and features with rating requirements. A rating level is determined for the computer products based on a set of requirements and analysis of the products (e.g., by a computer running a rating tool). Once the computer product is rated, its “score” can be compared to other computing products to determine compatibility.

Abstract: Methods and systems for obtaining the performance characteristics of a computing product are described. Obtaining a computing product's attributes, capabilities, and features includes assessing the computing product to determine the product's attributes, capabilities, and features. Once the assessment is completed, the assessment data is recorded and stored for future applications. The assessments can be performed by the operating system through an assessment tool. Assessments can be performed on various computing products including personal computers, computer components, clusters of computers, and servers.

Abstract: Techniques and tools for rating computer products are described. For example, software ratings are based on subjective evaluations to determine computer system requirements for a positive user experience, while a computer running a capability tool rates a computer system's (or hardware component's) ability to run software. A capability rating for hardware is determined by comparing a set of features and performance results with capability rating requirements. In another aspect, a capability rating is communicated using a standardized presentation. In another aspect, capability rating level requirements are proposed (e.g., by a ratings board) and then finalized. A capability rating level is determined for computer products (e.g., by a testing organization) based on the finalized requirements and analysis of the products (e.g., by a computer running a capability tool).

Abstract: Methods and systems for obtaining the performance characteristics of a computing product are described. Obtaining a computing product's attributes, capabilities, and features includes assessing the computing product to determine the product's attributes, capabilities, and features. Once the assessment is completed, the assessment data is recorded and stored for future applications. The assessments can be performed by the operating system through an assessment tool. Assessments can be performed on various computing products including personal computers, computer components, clusters of computers, and servers.

Abstract: Techniques and tools for rating computer products are described. For example, software ratings are based on subjective evaluations to determine computer system requirements for a positive user experience, while a computer running a capability tool rates a computer system's (or hardware component's) ability to run software. A capability rating for hardware is determined by comparing a set of features and performance results with capability rating requirements. In another aspect, a capability rating is communicated using a standardized presentation. In another aspect, capability rating level requirements are proposed (e.g., by a ratings board) and then finalized. A capability rating level is determined for computer products (e.g., by a testing organization) based on the finalized requirements and analysis of the products (e.g., by a computer running a capability tool).