How we rate evidence and test
A product can never carry a stronger label than the evidence we hold. Here is what each label means and how a product earns it.
Evidence levels
| Label | Requires | Products today |
|---|---|---|
| Hands-on tested | We used the exact model, followed a published method, and recorded dated results and photos. | None |
| Independent lab report | We read a report from a named lab covering this exact product, with the sample, configuration and results. | None |
| Manufacturer specs only | Figures come from the maker or a retailer, cited and dated. We have not confirmed them. | Most |
| Unverified | We could not find a reliable source for key details. | A few |
Compatibility statuses
Separate from evidence. See how we rate compatibility: documented, likely, unverified, not compatible.
Methods we will publish before testing
We will not call anything tested until the method for that kind of product is written up here. Planned methods:
Mesh radios
- Message delivery over fixed, documented routes with heights, antennas, firmware versions and region settings recorded. No range claims from single trials.
Repeaters and node power
- Average current draw over at least 24 hours with a logged USB or inline meter, by role and firmware version, before any battery-life claim.
- Solar input logged across real weather with the panel angle, orientation and date recorded.
Antennas and cable
- SWR across 902 to 928 MHz with a named analyzer; cable loss checked against the maker's figure.
What we will never do
- Invent ratings, reviews, test results or lab names.
- Upgrade a label because a manufacturer's spec sheet is detailed.
- Publish a range number from a single trial.