A technique is described which reduces the duration of the measurement period in filter testing by approximately a factor of 3 in comparison to existing techniques. Information concerning filter performance must be obtained reliably, reproducibly and quickly, without incurring large costs and without the need for specialized staff. The components used (generators for powders, fluids or NaCl, discharge gap, filter holder, dilution systems and particle counter) meet the requirements of various standards (for example, Eurovent, CEN EN 143, DIN 24183, DIN 24185, draft of DIN 71460 and draft of VDI 3926))