A repository of ideas on how to test a common household electric bread toaster
test-a-toaster
A repository of ideas on how to test a common household electric bread toaster.
Sanity Check / Smoke Test
Function
Test Config
Expected Behavior
Acceptable Value
Sanity Check
Toaster powered and switched on
Bread compartment of the toaster gets warm, no dangerous effects (flame, sparks) observed
True
Main Functions
Function
Test Case
Acceptable Value
Toasting bread
Does toaster able to warm up and brown (toast) bread slices?
True
Prevent burning of bread
Does toaster stop toasting automatically before bread is charred and ignited?
True
Ability to adjust degree of toast
Does toaster lightly brown the bread when set to low? Does it toast more when set to high?
True
(Top load slice toasters) Toast ejection
Does the toaster elevate the bread for easy retrival after toasting is complete
True
Fancy Features
Function
Test Case
Acceptable Value
Darkness adjustment reflects shade of toasted bread slices
Using the same darkness settings, toasting a thin slice of bread and thick slice of bread should yield similar darkness on toast
True
Ability to work with both frozen and non-frozen pastries
Toast a frozen and thawed version of the same pastry; toasting result should be similar between the two
True
Safety Considerations
Function
Test Case
Acceptable Value
No leakage of electrical current via cabinet and controls
Measured voltage potential from toaster body to ground should be 0V. No current flow allowed (0μA): can voltage and/or current be detected?
False
Over-temp shutoff
Artificially create over-temp condition using combustable or very hot material. Does toaster shut off when temperature reaches an unsafe level?
True
Over-current shutoff
Artificially create over-current condition by short circuiting current flow after protection circuitry: does overcurrent protection disconnect toaster from power?
True
Exterior casing should not reach scalding temperatures
During normal toasting operation, external casing temperature should not exceed 44 °C (111 °F)
True
(Attached cord models) cord should not be easily damaged and separate from the unit, exposing user to hazards
Yank on cord with force; does the insulation become damaged and/or cord become detached?
False
Usability
Function
Test Case
Acceptable Value
Accomodates common bread slice thickness
Bread slot should accept thick and thin bread slices
True
Able to hold thin slices of bread at center
Mechanism to center thin slices of bread at equidistant between heater element on both sides
True
Large crumbs (that are capable of burning and scorching) should be easily removable
Insert crumbs of various sizes and attempt to remove (via shaking upside down, or crumb tray removal). Can most crumbs be removed?
True
Even toasting of bread
Toast a bread. Browned portion should be even with no patches of burns nor untoasted areas
True
Durability and Reliability
Function
Test Case
Acceptable Value
Case should withstand typical cleaning methods without damage
Wash exterior casing with dish detergent and Scotch Brite pads. Any visible damage?
False
Case should keep its original appearance as unit ages
Perform accelerate age test (usage repetition, high temp conditions). Does the case discolor or warp?
False
About
Daniel is a web developer seeking opportunities, beverage socials, and late-night taco runs.
https://dandydanny.github.io