Thursday, March 26, 2009

The Latest UID Registry Submission Process

UID Registry acts as the central repository for all government furnished items. UID labels are a part of DoD’s serialization tracking programs (SNTs).

UID labeling or marking is a must for all government furnished items before they are submitted to the UID registry. The Department of Defense (DoD) implemented this UID registry from November 2004 and it plans to complete the unique identification naming process for all the tangible items by December 31, 2010. Through the unique identification label can be identified uniquely and hence it will be easier for the (DoD) to keep track of all items starting from acquisition, repair to maintenance. The UID labels are a part of DoD’s serialization tracking programs (SNTs). UID registry is basically a software system to keep track of different tangible items in accordance to the UID standards.

UID Registry submission process


For a successful submission to the UID registry, accuracy of data is crucial. Besides the issuing agency code (IAC), construct type info such as construct #1 or construct #2 should be mentioned. Another important info, concatenated human readable UID should also be present. The concatenated human readable UID is extracted from the 2D-matrix bar code by scanning to decoding software.


There are several methods to submit data to the UID registry. Reformatting the data in an XML transmission way is a frequently used method. There are several steps in this mode of submission process which are discussed in detail as follows.


UID Registry schema Review

Currently 3.0 is the most up-to-date version of the UID Registry schema available. It is very important to check if the external file from your property management database matches with that of UID Registry requirements, before you plan to convert the file to XML format. Also, the latest version has many changes in support of GFP.


Adjustment in the Data format

Usually certain changes are required to make the data format in accordance with the UID registry. It might be a bit time consuming since you need to match the entire format with the UID Registry maintenance team. Another important thing, depending upon your product, you need to export the data to the specific manipulation file.

Submit directly to UID Test Registry

After your data is formatted into a transferable XML document, it needs to be submitted at the test registry before making it to the UID Registry. Once it is approved by the UID Production Registry, you can send the file to a GEX certified VAN provider who ensures the file reaches the UID Registry FTP servers.


Verify the UID Registry web site for the latest approval update

After submitting to the VAN provider, it takes a minimum of 24hrs to make it into the UID registry. Then the submission approval will be available in the UID registry website.

Now the DoD has come up with Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) software solution for UID submission process. This online and paperless method is beneficial for new age contractors. They can do data submission just by clicking the UID tab and entering the appropriate information. One major benefit of this submission process is that contractors can receive their approval receipt and payment invoices in less number of days.

UID Marking: Method For Improving Item Traceability

The United States Department of Defense has laid down that UID marking has to be done on any available asset. UID marking is a unique way to mark tangible items so that a duplicate of the same item cannot be available anywhere in the world. It makes sure that only one number is attached to one item. This number is the identification of this item, which will help to trace this item, irrespective of where it rests in this world.

The technology behind UID marking is 2D Data Matrix ECC 200 symbol. This type of marking takes care of data integrity and data quality during the entire lifetime of the item. UID marking also supports multi-faceted business applications. This marking standard supports the DoD in its drive to meet enhanced goals and objectives. It enhances total asset visibility, improves lifecycle item management and accountability and provides clean financial audits.


Quality of UID marking

But it is not enough to just go for UID marking. We should make sure that the 2D Data Matrix bar code adheres to a high level of quality. It has to conform to UID standard when it is used with either direct part UID marking techniques or labels. It should also meet the standards set by ISO and SAE.

The surface does not obstruct the UID markings. These markings as well as 2D matrix bar code symbols can be made on many types of surfaces. The UID marking symbols generally can be found among UCC.EAN, ANSI MH 10.8.2 or ATA style descriptors. The Department of Defense (DoD) has become choosy about the type of items it accepts. It strictly puts down that the selected vendors should supply parts with UID Data Matrix symbols conforming to MIL-STD 130M standard.

It is certain that when each part is engraved with an UID using Data Matrix Laser etching system, they have the name of the manufacturer, serial number and part number inscribed on them. This unique identification sets each item apart and will later help to identify it, no matter who uses it or which part of the world it goes to.

Method behind UID marking

When so much care is taken to inscribe each item with an UID, we must pay importance to the fact that the material with which it is marked lasts the entire lifetime of the item. It should not come off under any circumstances. The UID bar code should remain on the item in a readable form. This is why it is imperative that the UID marking methodology is above criticism.

Many types of materials are used in different methods used in UID marking. A metal tag with a permanent adhesive is preferably used. We can also make use of durable polyester labels. Both of them are suitable for use in many different environments. Some other marking items are laser etch, dot peen, chemical etch and ink jet. All of them suit the purpose of direct part Unique Identification. UID marking can be used to make life easier for most people in the world.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

The Latest UID Registry Submission Process

UID Registry acts as the central repository for all government furnished items. UID labels are a part of DoD’s serialization tracking programs (SNTs).

UID labeling or marking is a must for all government furnished items before they are submitted to the UID registry. The Department of Defense (DoD) implemented this UID registry from November 2004 and it plans to complete the unique identification naming process for all the tangible items by December 31, 2010. Through the unique identification label can be identified uniquely and hence it will be easier for the (DoD) to keep track of all items starting from acquisition, repair to maintenance. The UID labels are a part of DoD’s serialization tracking programs (SNTs). UID registry is basically a software system to keep track of different tangible items in accordance to the UID standards.

UID Registry submission process

For a successful submission to the UID registry, accuracy of data is crucial. Besides the issuing agency code (IAC), construct type info such as construct #1 or construct #2 should be mentioned. Another important info, concatenated human readable UID should also be present. The concatenated human readable UID is extracted from the 2D-matrix bar code by scanning to decoding software.

There are several methods to submit data to the UID registry. Reformatting the data in an XML transmission way is a frequently used method. There are several steps in this mode of submission process which are discussed in detail as follows.

UID Registry schema Review

Currently 3.0 is the most up-to-date version of the UID Registry schema available. It is very important to check if the external file from your property management database matches with that of UID Registry requirements, before you plan to convert the file to XML format. Also, the latest version has many changes in support of GFP.

Adjustment in the Data format

Usually certain changes are required to make the data format in accordance with the UID registry. It might be a bit time consuming since you need to match the entire format with the UID Registry maintenance team. Another important thing, depending upon your product, you need to export the data to the specific manipulation file.

Submit directly to UID Test Registry

After your data is formatted into a transferable XML document, it needs to be submitted at the test registry before making it to the UID Registry. Once it is approved by the UID Production Registry, you can send the file to a GEX certified VAN provider who ensures the file reaches the UID Registry FTP servers.

Verify the UID Registry web site for the latest approval update

After submitting to the VAN provider, it takes a minimum of 24hrs to make it into the UID registry. Then the submission approval will be available in the UID registry website.

Now the DoD has come up with Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) software solution for UID submission process. This online and paperless method is beneficial for new age contractors. They can do data submission just by clicking the UID tab and entering the appropriate information. One major benefit of this submission process is that contractors can receive their approval receipt and payment invoices in less number of days.


UID Marking: Method For Improving Item Traceability

The United States Department of Defense has laid down that UID marking has to be done on any available asset. UID marking is a unique way to mark tangible items so that a duplicate of the same item cannot be available anywhere in the world. It makes sure that only one number is attached to one item. This number is the identification of this item, which will help to trace this item, irrespective of where it rests in this world.

The technology behind UID marking is 2D Data Matrix ECC 200 symbol. This type of marking takes care of data integrity and data quality during the entire lifetime of the item. UID marking also supports multi-faceted business applications. This marking standard supports the DoD in its drive to meet enhanced goals and objectives. It enhances total asset visibility, improves lifecycle item management and accountability and provides clean financial audits.

Quality of UID marking

But it is not enough to just go for UID marking. We should make sure that the 2D Data Matrix bar code adheres to a high level of quality. It has to conform to UID standard when it is used with either direct part UID marking techniques or labels. It should also meet the standards set by ISO and SAE.

The surface does not obstruct the UID markings. These markings as well as 2D matrix bar code symbols can be made on many types of surfaces. The UID marking symbols generally can be found among UCC.EAN, ANSI MH 10.8.2 or ATA style descriptors. The Department of Defense (DoD) has become choosy about the type of items it accepts. It strictly puts down that the selected vendors should supply parts with UID Data Matrix symbols conforming to MIL-STD 130M standard.

It is certain that when each part is engraved with an UID using Data Matrix Laser etching system, they have the name of the manufacturer, serial number and part number inscribed on them. This unique identification sets each item apart and will later help to identify it, no matter who uses it or which part of the world it goes to.

Method behind UID marking

When so much care is taken to inscribe each item with an UID, we must pay importance to the fact that the material with which it is marked lasts the entire lifetime of the item. It should not come off under any circumstances. The UID bar code should remain on the item in a readable form. This is why it is imperative that the UID marking methodology is above criticism.

Many types of materials are used in different methods used in UID marking. A metal tag with a permanent adhesive is preferably used. We can also make use of durable polyester labels. Both of them are suitable for use in many different environments. Some other marking items are laser etch, dot peen, chemical etch and ink jet. All of them suit the purpose of direct part Unique Identification. UID marking can be used to make life easier for most people in the world.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Classification of Data Matrix Scanners

About the Data Matrix Scanner

Data matrix scanner provides a wide range of barcode reading applications for the users. The device consists of a lens, a light source, and a light sensor that converts optical impulses into electrical impulses. All the barcode scanners are designed with decoder circuitry that analyzes the image data of barcode that are provided by the sensor and sends the content of the barcode to the output port of the scanner. By incorporating true contact reading and high resolution imaging technology, the data matrix scanner aid to the barcode reading application including poor printing and damaged barcodes or data matrix.

Types of Data Matrix Scanners

The scanning methods of data matrix scanners are differentiated by the amount of operation manipulation needed for the purpose. And, the types of scanners are distinguished by their technologies.

Pen Type Scanner: The pen type scanners are designed to swipe the pen over the code. The wave form generated by the dark bars and light bars are decoded by the scanner.

Laser Scanner: The laser scanners are developed with the same technology as the pen type scanners. However, they use a laser beam as the source of light and the back and forth of the laser beam across the bar code is scanned with either a rotating prism or a reciprocating mirror.

CCD Readers: This type of readers use array of tiny light sensors in the head of the reader. Unlike the Pen Type Scanners, CCD readers measure the emitted ambient light from the bar code.

Camera-Based Reader: This is another type of data matrix scanner that uses a small video camera to capture the images of a bar code.

Omni-Directional Barcode Scanners: Unlike the traditional barcode scanners, they produce a pattern of beams in changing operations that allow the device to read the barcodes at different angles.

The 2-D Barcode Scanner

The 2D barcode scanners are advanced barcode reading devices that are able to decode the smaller and high density 2D barcodes. The device also stores the data in two dimensions instead of creating a series of black and white bars. The 2D barcode scanners are developed with both imaging and CCD technology to identify the 2D barcodes. Of late, the type of scanners is the newest genre of barcode scanners available. They can provide an advanced solution to barcode reading applications. The high resolution image technology also enables reading of poorly printed and even the damaged 2D barcodes.

2Dbarcode scanners are developed with the latest technology for most demanding applications. The versatile device can automatically distinguish between barcode and all major 2D symbologies. The device also sports timestamp feature. Most of the 2D barcode canners support mobile computers.

The 2D barcode scanner has advantage over the one dimensional barcode reader as it can decode the 2D barcodes. As the 2D barcode contain more information than the traditional barcodes, they are being used more frequently these day and they have almost replaced the 1D barcodes. Hence, the 2D barcode scanners are more functional with their advanced features.

Anodized Aluminum Blank Nameplate and its Benefits

Anodized aluminum blank nameplate is the most durable of all metals use for UID markings nameplates. It can withstand harsh climatic condition.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has adopted ISO marking standards for government contractors who want to submit their items to the UID registry. Of the MIL-STD-130M standard, ISO/IEC 15426 section 2 handles the 2-Dimensional bar coding nomenclature. The DoD has emphasized more on labels or plates mode of marking than direct part marking. As per the DoD mandate, 80% of the UID markings will be on nameplates or labels and rest 20% will be by direct part marking. Nameplates are traditionally made out of several metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and brass for this bar coding. But anodized aluminum blank nameplate offers superior durability. Due to its superior abrasiveness and heat and sunlight resistance quality, these aluminum nameplates are long-lasting materials that can be used for bar coding.

An aluminum nameplate is thin and flexible and that’s why it is durable. Even the metal is lightweight, it is quite strong. They can easily bend around the products. To make it excess heat, chemical and abrasion resistance, the Aluminum nameplates are anodized. As these anodized aluminum blank nameplates can withstand harsh climatic conditions including extended UV exposure with very little damage, they are ideal for industrial, commercial and aerospace industries use. After an aluminum nameplate is anodized, apart from the basic metal color, several other vibrant metallic colors including gold, copper, purple and even dark blue can be chosen for nameplates.

Made of durable anodized aluminum, the anodized aluminum blank nameplate can support up to 900°F-1200°F of temperature. Not only this, it produces a reliable clarity of reading the logo and product code info detail as the anodic layer of the aluminum protects the logo and other item info from high temperatures and chemicals abrasion. Embossing and serialized numbering on these nameplates are accomplished easily with low tooling costs. As these nameplates are required to withstand very high temperature, they are not recommended to be used with adhesives. The anodized aluminum blank nameplates should be used with mechanical fasteners or holes.

The anodized aluminum blank nameplate can be customized as per the requirement of the manufacturers. Recently a new form of anodized metal nameplate has been used. It is called photo anodized metal nameplate. These nameplates can withstand more extreme environmental conditions such as increased heat resistance of more than 1000F and more damaging UV rays. Bar codes and logos are reproduced photographically in these nameplates to provide maximum clarity with precise details. Like anodized aluminum blank nameplates, these are also sealed within the anodic layer of the aluminum which make them safe and durable for years to come. The new photo anodized nameplates are available with pressure-sensitive adhesive along with the basic mechanical fasteners.

The photo anodized metal nameplate is more productive than the anodized aluminum blank nameplate. As the former can photographically reproduce logos, black copy, and bar codes, it ensures accurate and reliable reads. It has optional intensification process to withstand increased heat and also has improvised image resistance for other environmental conditions. Specially matched adhesives are added bonus.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Classification of Data Matrix Scanners

About the Data Matrix Scanner

Data matrix scanner provides a wide range of barcode reading applications for the users. The device consists of a lens, a light source, and a light sensor that converts optical impulses into electrical impulses. All the barcode scanners are designed with decoder circuitry that analyzes the image data of barcode that are provided by the sensor and sends the content of the barcode to the output port of the scanner. By incorporating true contact reading and high resolution imaging technology, the data matrix scanner aid to the barcode reading application including poor printing and damaged barcodes or data matrix.

Types of Data Matrix Scanners

The scanning methods of data matrix scanners are differentiated by the amount of operation manipulation needed for the purpose. And, the types of scanners are distinguished by their technologies.

Pen Type Scanner: The pen type scanners are designed to swipe the pen over the code. The wave form generated by the dark bars and light bars are decoded by the scanner.

Laser Scanner: The laser scanners are developed with the same technology as the pen type scanners. However, they use a laser beam as the source of light and the back and forth of the laser beam across the bar code is scanned with either a rotating prism or a reciprocating mirror.

CCD Readers: This type of readers use array of tiny light sensors in the head of the reader. Unlike the Pen Type Scanners, CCD readers measure the emitted ambient light from the bar code.

Camera-Based Reader: This is another type of data matrix scanner that uses a small video camera to capture the images of a bar code.

Omni-Directional Barcode Scanners: Unlike the traditional barcode scanners, they produce a pattern of beams in changing operations that allow the device to read the barcodes at different angles.

The 2-D Barcode Scanner

The 2D barcode scanners are advanced barcode reading devices that are able to decode the smaller and high density 2D barcodes. The device also stores the data in two dimensions instead of creating a series of black and white bars. The 2D barcode scanners are developed with both imaging and CCD technology to identify the 2D barcodes. Of late, the type of scanners is the newest genre of barcode scanners available. They can provide an advanced solution to barcode reading applications. The high resolution image technology also enables reading of poorly printed and even the damaged 2D barcodes.

2Dbarcode scanners are developed with the latest technology for most demanding applications. The versatile device can automatically distinguish between barcode and all major 2D symbologies. The device also sports timestamp feature. Most of the 2D barcode canners support mobile computers.

The 2D barcode scanner has advantage over the one dimensional barcode reader as it can decode the 2D barcodes. As the 2D barcode contain more information than the traditional barcodes, they are being used more frequently these day and they have almost replaced the 1D barcodes. Hence, the 2D barcode scanners are more functional with their advanced features.

Anodized Aluminum Blank Nameplate and its Benefits

Anodized aluminum blank nameplate is the most durable of all metals use for UID markings nameplates. It can withstand harsh climatic condition.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has adopted ISO marking standards for government contractors who want to submit their items to the UID registry. Of the MIL-STD-130M standard, ISO/IEC 15426 section 2 handles the 2-Dimensional bar coding nomenclature. The DoD has emphasized more on labels or plates mode of marking than direct part marking. As per the DoD mandate, 80% of the UID markings will be on nameplates or labels and rest 20% will be by direct part marking. Nameplates are traditionally made out of several metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and brass for this bar coding. But anodized aluminum blank nameplate offers superior durability. Due to its superior abrasiveness and heat and sunlight resistance quality, these aluminum nameplates are long-lasting materials that can be used for bar coding.

An aluminum nameplate is thin and flexible and that’s why it is durable. Even the metal is lightweight, it is quite strong. They can easily bend around the products. To make it excess heat, chemical and abrasion resistance, the Aluminum nameplates are anodized. As these anodized aluminum blank nameplates can withstand harsh climatic conditions including extended UV exposure with very little damage, they are ideal for industrial, commercial and aerospace industries use. After an aluminum nameplate is anodized, apart from the basic metal color, several other vibrant metallic colors including gold, copper, purple and even dark blue can be chosen for nameplates.

Made of durable anodized aluminum, the anodized aluminum blank nameplate can support up to 900°F-1200°F of temperature. Not only this, it produces a reliable clarity of reading the logo and product code info detail as the anodic layer of the aluminum protects the logo and other item info from high temperatures and chemicals abrasion. Embossing and serialized numbering on these nameplates are accomplished easily with low tooling costs. As these nameplates are required to withstand very high temperature, they are not recommended to be used with adhesives. The anodized aluminum blank nameplates should be used with mechanical fasteners or holes.

The anodized aluminum blank nameplate can be customized as per the requirement of the manufacturers. Recently a new form of anodized metal nameplate has been used. It is called photo anodized metal nameplate. These nameplates can withstand more extreme environmental conditions such as increased heat resistance of more than 1000F and more damaging UV rays. Bar codes and logos are reproduced photographically in these nameplates to provide maximum clarity with precise details. Like anodized aluminum blank nameplates, these are also sealed within the anodic layer of the aluminum which make them safe and durable for years to come. The new photo anodized nameplates are available with pressure-sensitive adhesive along with the basic mechanical fasteners.

The photo anodized metal nameplate is more productive than the anodized aluminum blank nameplate. As the former can photographically reproduce logos, black copy, and bar codes, it ensures accurate and reliable reads. It has optional intensification process to withstand increased heat and also has improvised image resistance for other environmental conditions. Specially matched adhesives are added bonus.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Tesa secure Laser Labels and their Advantages

Due to their high temperature and harmful chemicals withstanding nature, Tesa secure Laser labels are highly recommended for UID marking and identification purpose.

What is Tesa secure?

Tesa secure is a packaging standard involving the Tesa tapes. As compared to the conventional coding, and marking methods, Tesa secure offers a cutting-edge latest technologically advanced marking method. Tesa secure fits into the unique identification (UID) marking standard. Mostly used for extensively shipment items packaging, Tesa tapes are popular for their high enduring and durability nature. They are robust, sturdy, high shear as well as age resistant. They ensure safety and durability of the items during storage and transit stage. The Department of Defense (DoD) has mandated to use Tesa Secure 6973 PV 3 laser labels for packaging.

There are different categories of Tesa tapes available which have various usages depending upon the surface of the packaging items and the nature of the transportation. Let’s have a brief overview about the categories of Tesa tapes.

  • Tesa Fastening Tapes

One of the most cost-effective and reliable tapes available; Tesa Fastening Tapes are frequently used for splicing, temporary fastening, permanent bonding as well as platemounting.

  • Tesa Masking Tapes

Tesa Masking Tapes have a more general purpose usage due to their high durability even in high-temperature condition. These types of tapes are mainly used in transportation, furniture manufacturing and metal finishing industries.


  • Tesa Packaging Tapes

These types of tapes are mostly used for better surface protection including palletizing and sealing. Some examples of this variety of Tesa tapes are TPP Tapes, Tear Tapes, Carton Sealing Tapes, and Filament Tapes.

  • Tesa Auxiliary Tapes

Due to their sheer resistance power and durability, these tapes have a wide range of usability. Polyethylene or cloth based Duct tapes, Paper bandoliering tapes, and transparent cellophane tapes are some varieties of these tapes.

The Tesa Secure laser labels can withstand extreme climatic conditions and harsh chemicals as the labels are processed on low power laser markers in both CO2 and Nd: Yag wavelengths. High standard of advanced tamper evident design of these Tesa Secure lasers prevent it from being removed in one piece once it is applied onto the surface. The adhesive quality of these labels is also of very high standard.

Embossed logos and microscripting are some of the advanced security features which have been incorporated in these Tesa Secure laser labels to stop counterfeiting or forgery of items. Due to its robustness and high durability, Tesa Secure laser labels are preferred over other varieties of nameplates. These labels are quite affordable and are easy to use. Unlike some other materials, Tesa Secure laser labels are free of any hazardous metals such as formaldehyde and asbestos. In addition, the Tesa Secure laser labels don’t contain any organic solvents or harmful acids and thus are quite safe to use. Because of these reasons, Tesa Secure laser labels are a popular choice among Government furnished item manufacturers.

Benefits of Tesa secure

The Laser-engraveable Tesa secure is temperature resistant and can withstand a temperature fluctuation from -50°C to +200°C or -58°F to +392°F. Also they are resistant to abrasion, grease, oils, and other type of chemicals. These laser labels can be applied easily onto the metal surfaces without the help of rivets or screws. easy peel and stick application makes the flexible usage of these labels Tesa Secure laser labels are even tamper evident. These laser labels can be customized to any shape and size and can also be engraved and die-cut in one easy step using Nd:YAG or CO2. Now even different colors such as black, silver and white of Tesa Secure laser labels are also available.