Becoming UID Compliant

When working with the Department of Defense, the MIL-STD-130 is a set of standards that is mandatory for labeling any item either owned by or in contract with the DoD. The MIL-STD-130 standards include a set of standards for UID compliance as well. These standards are also obligatory for all identifying labels used for DoD property. There are also various guidelines for the UID compliant labels as well in the MIL-STD-130 standards. Being UID compliant is an absolute requirement when working with the DoD.

One of the MIL-STD-130 requirements for UID labels is that all labels must contain a 2D data matrix code. This data matrix must also be ISO compliant as well. It is very important that the 2D data matrix meets the MIL-STD-130 standards or else the scanner used to read the label will have problems. These labels were designed to allow for all DoD property to be tracked and accounted for in a more efficient manner. The 2D data matrix used on these labels must also include a unique CAGE code. No two labels are to have the same CAGE code as well.

Another requirement of the MIL STD 130 standards is that all UID labels are to be permanent. All MIL STD 130 UID compliant labels must also be very durable as well. All labels once applied to an item, the UID for that item is not changed even if the item is modified or re-engineered during its lifetime. As per MIL STD 130 standards the UID for any item is also never reused for another item.

Regarding MIL STD 130 standards, UID labels can be made from various different materials or even permanently marked, directly onto the item in question. Some of these methods include dot peen engraving, ink jet printing, laser marking, or chemical etching. Other labeling options include a durable polyester label or a metal plate, which are usually attached with a permanent adhesive. All of these methods are MIL STD 130 compliant if using the proper 2D data matrix code with the proper CAGE code.

The main purpose for the various UID standards is to allow the DoD to track and account for all DoD owned or manufactured property efficiently. Since the MIL STD 130 standards are rather complicated it is best to contact the experts over at ID Integration (www.id-integration.com) for further assistance.