This article is from the steering committee of the International Continence Society (ICS) and it gives a comprehensive account of what is required from modern urodynamic machines. It will be of interest to purchasers, designers and clinical users (doctors and nurses).The guidelines contain various sections including: infused volume, uroflowmetry and electromyography, etc. Necessary requirements and recommendations are given. When new UDS equipment appears on the market, its function should be tested in specialised centres.