QbS Forms Information

The USB-IF accepts Qualification by Similarity requests via online forms.  The forms are the primary means of communication between the USB-IF and the vendor regarding QbS requests.  Additional information or edits to the information on the form after submission are allowed.  There is no need to create a new form just to update information on an existing submission.  The forms should work using modern (HTML5 compliant) browsers.

Upon submitting a QbS form, please wait for a confirmation page summarizing the request.  A confirmation email will also be sent.  The confirmation will include a link to an online form that may be used to monitor the submission's status. 

Processing time is typically within 10-14 business days.  On occasion, the processing time may be longer due to industry events, holidays, illness and vacations.  During the review process, the status of the request will be updated on the form.  An email will be sent should any additional information be required or an assessment has been completed. 

The status of the submission may be monitored from the QbS Home Page or using the link provided on the confirmation page or in the confirmation email.  The content of the form may be edited and re-submitted anytime the status is identified as "new", "submitted" or "Information Needed."  The ability to cancel a submitted request may be done on the form while in these states as well.  Other states will not accept edits.

A brief summary of possible submission status follows:

• New
  The USB-IF has not been notified of the request and the request will not be reviewed.  Changes to the form are permitted.
  
  
• Submitted
  The request is ready for review and the USB-IF has been notified of the request; however, the review has not begun.  Changes to the submission are permitted. Edit the form and resubmit to update the request.
  
  
• Under Review
  The USB-IF is in the process of reviewing the request.  You will be notified if additional information is needed.  At this time, changes to the form are not permitted.
  
  
• Information Needed
  The USB-IF has reviewed the request and more information is needed.  An email will be sent asking that the online form be reviewed.  The "Notices" section of the online form may have a question or instructions.  The "Assessement" section (if shown) may have questions.  Please review the instructions or questions and edit the form with the requested information.  Changes to the form are expected. Re-submit the form after completing the changes.
  
  
• Testing Required
  The USB-IF has completed the assessment and has determined that the product must pass specific tests at an authorized test lab before the request is granted.  The "Assessment" section will contain specific instructions on what testing must be performed.  Also, an email will be sent with the same instructions.   At this time, changes to the form are not permitted.
  
  
• Pending
  Required test results have been received by the USB-IF and is waiting for review and approval.  At this time, changes to the form are not permitted.
  
  
• Granted
  The request is complete and the USB-IF has approved the request.  You will receive formal notification of the product's TID via email from the USB-IF Administration.  The request is closed.
  
  
• Denied
  The assessment is complete and the USB-IF has denied the request.  The product does not qualify as being similar to the certified product.  An assessment will be displayed on the form containing more details.  The request is closed. 
  
  
• Cancelled
  The request has been cancelled.  To reinstate this submission, please contact Admin@usb.org and identify the QbSID to be reopened.  Please do not submit a new request for the same product.  The USB-IF can re-open the form so edits can be made.
  
  

There are Qualification by Similarity Request Forms for various product categories.  It is important to use the correct form for the type of product seeking certification.  When filling out a form, please answer each and every question completely and accurately.  Incomplete or inaccurate submissions will delay the processing of the request or cause the request to be denied.

Should additional information be requested, please open the online form provided in the confirmation email and submit the response via the form.  This will ensure that the information is kept with the submission and not lost in email.  Responses returned by email will delay the submission process.

     Engineering and Technical Services Group