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  • Author Author: rscasny
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Is There Interest in a Webinar on How To Write a Better RoadTest Application?

There have been some comments lately about RoadTest applications, and what's the difference between the winners and the others.

 

Applicants who are selected as RoadTest winners do indeed write a persuasive application. People who do not win often write a brief paragraph. I have even see a number of applicants indicate they do not know what to write.

 

If there is enough interest in learning how to write a better RoadTest application, I will assemble a webinar and present it myself.

 

Please answer the follow below. I'd like the gauge community interest in this type of webinar.

 

Sincerely,

 

Randall Scasny

RoadTest Program Manager

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  • I have had reasonable success with my applications so far but I would say that this would be a great idea for members.

     

     

     

    My only concern would be that we will still have the issue of noncompliance to actually posting the review or having reviews that are just a re statement of the manufacturer published information or less, So I would suggest to include what is expected out of the review so applicants are fully aware of the expectations upfront, perhaps select a few current reviews to showcase as examples (Shabaz always has excellent review so his would work as a best case scenario but no everyone could reach his level so some other good cases would be included

     

     

     

    Just my thoughts

  • in reply to Robert Peter Oakes

    Thanks Peter,

     

    Also I think backgrounds change the way people do stuff, for example some write with intro/centre/summary, others can manage lab-style reports, and others are competent at close-up stuff to video, like teardowns and explanations.

     

    I would have thought even newcomers to any particular technology are at a great advantage if they are keen to apply a new technology in a different way, especially if one is passionate or super-interested in the particular technology. It is nice seeing the genuine interest from people even in the comments section when a new RoadTest appears, as you say maybe some need a helping hand regarding expectations, or to even be aware that they can apply or that they should reach out if they need help, ask in discussion threads, etc.

  • in reply to shabaz

    I would have thought even newcomers to any particular technology are at a great advantage if they are keen to apply a new technology in a different way, especially if one is passionate or super-interested in the particular technology.

     

    One thing that perhaps is not always clear to the newcomer, is that the invitation to RoadTest doesn't always indicate what aspects of the product the supplier is actually interested in being tested.

     

    As you say, a newcomer may think 'outside of the box' and use the product in a way not ever intended by the manufacturer. However was that what the supplier was actually after or were they more interested in the product being tested in an expected manner.

     

    On a similar note, some RoadTests may expect the product to be repeatedly tested as a measure of robustness, whereas others may expect it to be tested in a variety of different ways for flexibility especially if it is a multifunctional tool.

     

    If it involves accompanying software then that perhaps adds an additional dimension - what percentage of the RoadTest is expected to be spent on the assessing the hardware and what percentage is expected to be spent on the included software.

     

    In some cases it may be that the supplier doesn't really know the answer either and requires the applications to decide which way they want to go with it.

     

    Where possible though, it may be good to include such details in the invitation to RoadTest so as the applicant can include a RoadTest plan tailored more to the supplier's expectations.

  • in reply to beacon_dave
    RoadTest doesn't always indicate what aspects of the product the supplier is actually interested in being tested.

    Hopefully they make that clear to when they arrange to have the RT.

     

     

    I'd be surprised if the manufacturer singled out an application because the person decided to use it in a very different method than they thought of.

    I used a Insulation Tester to prove Communication Line Protection modules, and I can bet they hadn't seen that before.

    made it clear in my application that I would be doing that, and it proved a very easy check in the field. (Pity our guys haven't followed up on it)

     

    Given some of the examples shared, I'm sure a new test or method isn't the issue.

     

    Cheers

    Mark

  • in reply to mcb1

    Ok, I wasn't so sure about that either way.

     

    Still, perhaps best not to suggest testing a premium set of screwdrivers by using them to pry open paint tin lids however... image

     

    [ I was considering testing the effectiveness of an insulation tester on audio frequency induction loop tapes (hearing aid loops) leaking to ground causing instability in the amps driving them.

     

    Often they are laid directly on concrete which can rot the protective coatings resulting in them finding leakage paths to ground. Alternatively carpet fitters can nick the coatings or even cut through the tape so getting accurate low resistance readings can help there as well.

     

    As these are usually hidden under floor coverings it would be good to be able to conduct some thorough tests before having to make the expensive decision to lift the floor covering.

     

    It would likely need a tester with a fairly low voltage range to prevent making the situation worse.

     

    Probably not something the manufacturer would have considered either.]  

  • in reply to beacon_dave

    We may not know all the reasons for a road test, but we know some of them for sure. We know they are looking for interesting tests that showcase the features of their product. If that happens to be a unique application that others will find useful or interesting, I'm sure the sponsor would like it. It needs to sound interesting, but popular and useful probably are more important than esoteric.

  • in reply to beacon_dave

    insulation tester on audio frequency induction loop tapes (hearing aid loops) leaking to ground

    Something I wouldn't have thought about ....

     

    It would likely need a tester with a fairly low voltage range to prevent making the situation worse

    You need a setting lower than the normal insulation resistance of the wire.

     

    In the case of the Line Protection units, they include MOV's designed to breakdown to protect the connected items.

  • in reply to mcb1

    It looks like the insulation on the copper tape appears to be more robust than I originally anticipated. 5,000volts breakdown according to the spec' sheet:

    http://www.ampetronic.co/corecode/download.aspx?id=269153

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