Crossword Genius

Windows components needing small series of tests (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sashes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'windows components' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'small series of tests' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'small' could be 's' (abbreviation - e.g. clothes size) and 's' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'ashes' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'needing' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sashes that I've seen before include "They hold the glass in window frames" , "Ornamental cloth bands me father wore in song?" , "Sliding window frames" , "They're worn over shoulders" , "Ornamental cloth strips me father wore musically" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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