Thursday, March 15, 2012

Better Compliance for UID Labels with the Boeing UID Scanner

Unique identification, or UID, verification is necessary for high priced valuables. UID requires labels that are placed on products and parts owned, sold, or maintained by the government. This system was introduced in 2003 by the United States Department of Defense. The ultimate reason was to securely track the production and ownership of governmental assets and properties. However, to proceed with this, the government created a series of guidelines and regulations for implementing a Unique Identification code and Registry to record all necessary assets. This development created a high demand for reliable UID labels, or marking, and compliant UID scanners.

The need for UID labels

UID labels should contain all details regarding the manufacturing company, the product type, as well as include an item-unique, serial number, special codes for unique identification, and more. MIL STD 130 states these details throughout the documentation. Thus, the need for UID labels is not only restricted to tracking an item, but also to separate products into categories to maintain practical records. The categorization is primarily based on the value or price of an item.

The role of a UID scanner

A UID scanner reads UID labels. In this regard, the Boeing UID scanner has earned quality reviews from manufacturers. A Boeing UID scanner integrates the codification system with high-level data assessing, repair, and replacement needs. All this has been made possible with the application of advanced programming capability for unique item identifiers.

The Boeing UID scanner includes convenient features, such as:

• 2D Barcode support

• “Out-of-the-box” support for UID

• Visible ASCII 0-31 support

• UID validation with UII output

• Validation error reporting

• Custom UID parsing

• Setup software requirements

• Custom prefix and suffix definition

• On-board database lookup

• Photo capture

• Supports custom applications

All information is stored in a systemized manner and data can be easily accessed at a later time.

A quality product, Boeing UID scanner consists of a camera with fixed optics, illuminated lightening and hi-tech memory backup. However, when performing tests and checks the Boeing UID scanner should be properly handled.

With increasing alertness about UID labels, the Boeing UID scanner is considered beyond existing formats. This scanner can help today’s companies to meet with the stringent implementation of standards set by the Department of Defense. For more information, please visit http://www.id-integration.com/smartscan.htm and see what sets this high performance UID scanner apart from competing models.

The Advanced Features of a Lockheed Martin IUID Scanner

UID, or unique identification, bar codes are readable only with the use of a special device: A scanner. However, unlike regular scanners, UID scanners are a different in functional and operational activities. UID scanners have specific data and analytic performance. Production data contained on UID labels is recorded and assessed by the scanner. This helps to easily track products, items, and assets belonging to the government of the United States of America. The UID marking system was put in effect in order to prevent misplacement, misuse, and mismanagement of government possessions.

UID labels contain important information like a manufacturer’s ID, a manufacturer’s license, product type, code number, item-unique serial number, and date of manufacture. However, all of the information is not written in simple text, letters or numbers. Binary formats are used to codify the number in order to prevent forgery and duplicacy. Therefore, to read and record the binary data of UID labels a special scanner is needed. Lockheed Martin IUID scanner is one commendable model.

Why use a Lockheed Martin IUID scanner?

The new Lockheed Martin IUID scanner easily handles any UID concerns. This multitasking scanner includes many custom features.

These include:

• 2D barcode support

• “Out-of-the-box” support for UID

• Visible ASCII 0-31 support

• UID validation with UII output

• Validation error reporting

• Custom UID parsing

• Setup software requirements

• Custom prefix and suffix definition

• On-board database lookup

• Photo capture

• Supports custom applications

The Lockheed Martin IUID Scanner has reasonably justified its preference for UID labels in the market. There are several merits included with this scanner. While UID labels have their own set of guidelines, similarly a scanner has to comply with certain factors that authenticate the review process. Lockheed Martin IUID scanner astoundingly fulfills the requirements for compliance.

Lockheed Martin IUID scanner is perfect to help track data and assess quick information from the product. This, in turn, systemizes the entire chain included with UID labels: From reading unique codes to proof checking; to storing of valuable information that might be necessary at a later time. However, before one chooses any particular model it is wise to inquire about features and functions. It is also necessary to research the application process, as well as the advantages and utility factors of UID scanners. Compared to other UID scanners, the Lockheed Martin IUID scanner is fairly priced. For more information, please visit http://www.id-integration.com/smartscan.htm.

Understanding The Importance of MIL STD 130

A unique identification system, or UID, was created by the United States Department of Defense to securely track articles, properties, or any other sort of valuable that belongs to the government. Rigorous amendments have been created to update government doctrines relating to UID registry. Items must be aptly marked by manufacturers as specified by MIL SPEC 130.

Generally, it should be understood that not all military or commercial products are required to be a part of the UID registry. MIL SPEC 130 states essential parameters that qualify items for UID registry. There is a separate documentation for UID registry application. However, before analyzing the criteria for approval it is required to understand why UID registry is important.

MIL SPEC 130 explains that UID registry is important since without this system vendors and manufacturers would not be able to receive the necessary login numbers for their products and items. Only the United States government’s contractors and workers are allowed such facilities. The UID registry helps maintain smooth data management, serial processing, item evaluation, and more. This in turn helps maintain a well-registered registry of exports, imports, and selling of merchandise. UID registry allows records to be stored for a longer period of time without excessive paperwork.

There are several phases of unique identification processing. As per the guidelines of MIL SPEC 130, the UID registry application is forwarded to contactors or employees. Once an agreement is reached, UID labels are printed out using techniques directed by MIL SPEC 130. The UID registry can only function well when UID markings have been completed with permanent inkjet, laser, chemical etching, and other durable marking technologies. Permanency of UID labeling ensures the products will forever contain this unique code. To receive a UID label and enter the UID registry, certain parameters must be met.

These include:

• The asset evaluation and records of management data should be delivered along with the contract under the user’s identity code. Under the Department of Defense, the 5000.64 clause states that asset evaluation should be done following the guidelines set by the military unit of the United States that is MIL SPEC 130.

• In cases of contracts that are delivered at fixed rates, the net cost is to be decided by none other than the government.

• The UID registry should have information on the type of the item, the manufacturer’s code, the serial number of item, and more.

The importance of the UID registry can hardly be questioned when it comes to applying for governmental contract work. For more information about UID registry and MIL SPEC 130, please visit www.id-integration.com.

The UID Registry Helps Track Products

UID markings are unique identification numbers given to products that help identify assets, parts, and products used and produced by the United States government. According to the Department of Defense, all military products should contain UID markings.

MIL SPEC 130 is a protocol guideline pertaining to the UID registry and marking system. MIL SPEC 130 contains specific rules all contractors are required to follow while marking their products with UID labels and applying for the UID registry.

The need for the UID Registry

UID registry application is scrutinized by an official branch of the government. MIL SPEC 130 contains the essential guidelines that qualify a product for UID registry. The contract differs on the basis of item type, mass volume, production cost, and more. Items and products are categorized to avoid confusion. Every rule is thoroughly specified by MIL SPEC 130 in several clauses and articles.

UID Registry How-To

MIL SPEC 130 has several clauses that state the compliant marking methods and technologies for UID marking. MIL SPEC 130 also specifies that UID labels, or markings, should include a 2D data matrix barcode. This barcode can be easily detected with a UID compliant scanner. The UID scanner should be able to decode the barcode of the article.

It is required that the UID marking on each item be permanent and able to last a lifetime. This is an important consideration when a product is judged for UID registry issuance. Thus, UID markings should be created with high quality permanent ink, dot peen marking equipment, chemical etching, or laser etching; among other methods. This ensures durability of the markings. Such markings include a contractor’s license code, the item number, the product type, and the serial number. This information should be easily readable by a UID scanner. Also it is stated in MIL SPEC 130 that the nameplates should be placed in a visible area on the product.

In case a product has not been marked as per the mandate, then it is likely that it will face rejection and the entire production line may be cancelled. Therefore, manufacturers should be very careful to take adequate preventive measures to ensure proper markings before applying for the UID registry.

The objective of following such guidelines it this: To regularize a track report that will be convenient to handle for government officials. The introduction of UID has organized the whole system and improved security measures. The success of this program was even a catalyst for consumer-based manufacturers to implement their own tracking procedures. For more information about the UID registry, please visit www.id-integration.com.

Learn More about MIL SPEC 130

Proficient knowledge of MIL SPEC 130 and the UID process has become indispensable to manufacturers for the United States Military. UID refers to the unique identification system and requires a unique item code to be included on all products manufactured or distributed for use by the government. This system came into effect as a security measure to help authorities track important information on the location of a wide range of government assets. All the specifications, compliance standards, UID marking procedures, and registry applications are contained within the MIL SPEC 130 manual.

MIL SPEC 130 and MIL STD 129 describe all measures that qualify a product to be UID compliant. Several articles of MIL SPEC 130 thoroughly explain the procedure of UID marking, the role and involvement of the manufacturer, as well as the use of materials and machines for meeting compliance.

MIL SPEC 130 clearly states that a manufacturer will first have to comply with the regulations established by the Department of Defense and await approval from higher authorities. It is also important for manufacturers to check that their products meet all mandates and have been carefully plated with UID marks or tags.

The rulebook categorically contains a section on the approved type of marking method, or technologies, for compliant marking of UID infomration. The most common choices today, include laser printing technology, thermal transfer systems, dot peen stylus markers, inkjet printing, and chemical etching. These are permanent solutions that provide tag durability.

In addition, MIL SPEC 130 details all information that must be mentioned in the ID plate. These include:

• Manufacturer’s license

• Date of manufacture

• Expiration date

• Item type

• Item production number

• Item serial number

Such information is written in bar code format to comply with many automated processes and also to prevent item fraud. There are special types of 2D data matrix scanners that have a programmed feed stored in its hardware. MIL SPEC 130 explains that the main function of a UID scanner is to read the binary code format and store product records.

Before a contractor signs an agreement, they should be aware of the proper laws and regulations that describe manufacturing requirements and UID standards. If a company has applied to secure a government production contract, please read through the MIL SPEC 130 guidelines. There are various educative articles on the Internet that can help a manufacturer understand the subject completely. One can also refer to blogs and sites that deal specifically with UID integration and the supply process. Visit http://www.id-integration.com/uid-marking.htm for authentic information about MIL SPEC 130 regulations and other topics related to UID.

Basics for MIL SPEC 130 Compliance

Unique Identification (UID) as a system is regulated by MIL SPEC 130, a set of protocols standardized by the Department of Defense in the United States. These requirements state the rules for compliance for all related articles or product compliance procedures, credit rules for manufacturers and contractors working with the government, as well as qualification standards and storage. In short, MIL SPEC 130 contains everything that is responsible for consolidating national security.

The plan was devised with the view that a formal record of production data can be maintained within the government (only on national possessions). Items can be easily tracked through storage, import, and a consumer’s market. Therefore, each article registered with the government is given a special code or unique identification number. The full MIL SPEC 130 guidelines contain information relevant to the UID process as governed by the U.S. Department of Defense.

Not all items require UID labels. MIL SPEC 130 clearly notes essential guidelines that qualify an item for marking. It also specifies other guidelines about manufacturing details, item production numbers, serial numbers, substrate types, and compliant marking technologies. These readings are maintained in binary format to prevent duplicacy and fraud. Manufacturers and contractors must read and record 2D matrix codes in most cases and may also benefit with the help of a high performance scanner or verifier.

MIL SPEC 130 contains specifications about the type of scanner that a manufacturer should use to read a UID. The scanner’s software is programmed to verify codes and record statistics in an organized manner.

MIL SPEC 130 covers other essentials such as data printing type, where to place the title plate, what substance to use for permanent marking, and more. As per marking compliance regulation, all products with UID tags should be attached to easy to locate places so that a bar code scanner can properly read the print. Another important consideration to remember is that the ink used for numbering should be permanent.

For marking, all manufacturers have been given a range of choice including:

• RFID

• Thermal Transfer

• Laser printing systems

• Dot peen

• Chemical etching

• Inkjet printing

• Contact or offset printers

It is important that UID labels are incredibly durable on all products. A UID label must be made of a material that can endure all types of conditions. If the numbers are not placed correctly or there is a printing error, it is likely that the article or product will be cancelled, rejected, or removed from the production line. It entirely depends on the contractor to verify with compliance measures prior to a product’s launch. A beginner can refer to MIL SPEC 130 regulations to remove any doubt.

For more information, visit http://www.id-integration.com/docs/specs/UID_Basics_101.pdf or http://idintegration.blog.ca/2011/10/13/the-importance-of-mil-std-12007061/.