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.