TegoView streamlines ATA Spec 2000 RFID compliance

The Air Transport Association’s Spec 2000 standards call for labeling of aircraft parts so they can be tracked throughout their lifetime. RFID is an increasingly popular method of doing this, as the tags can be read with an automated reader without a direct line of site to the tag. The tags are durable and can withstand a range of environments. In addition, RFID tags are available with different amounts of memory. The high-memory tags in particular are able to contain more information than other types of labels. ATA Spec 2000 contains a number of details that must be followed in using these RFID systems, including entering specified data onto the tag in a prescribed format.

TegoView software can help simplify ATA Spec 2000 RFID compliance. In fact, Tego worked with other aerospace industry leaders to help develop ATA Spec 2000 RFID standards.

TegoView software works with a wide range of RFID readers including hand-held models. The software can be used from the very first step in the RFID tagging process. Even before the tag is affixed to the part, TegoView will record the part’s “birth record” onto the tag — information known at the time of the part’s manufacture. Later, maintenance updates can be written to the tag. Part information can be read and recorded in the field using a hand-held RFID reader equipped with TegoView — a network connection is not required. Yet TegoView can also be integrated into existing data systems.

Saving money, improving efficiency
 

The need for expensive “middleware” software is eliminated with TegoView. And because maintenance crews have immediate access to detailed part history, decisions about the part can be made quickly, which also saves time and money for an organization. For airlines, flight delays may be reduced and customer satisfaction increased.

TegoView software can report changes in a part’s condition, modification to the part, change in custody and removal from service. It can also indicate how much of a tag’s memory has been used and how much is still available. Parts can be searched for and located using information from their history. Another TegoView benefit is that the software can generate pre-configured automated reports. Built-in diagnostic features are also provided.

RFID solutions that incorporate TegoView lead to better asset management and lower inventory costs. Maintenance and repair is streamlined and less costly. And at the same time, Spec 2000 requirements are met much more easily.

IUID standards have common purpose

NATO’s ability to bring together the military forces of its 28 member countries to achieve a common goal is extremely powerful. There are, of course, a number of challenges when it comes to joining many disparate organizations to work together. One area where this becomes apparent is in the sharing of defense equipment. It can be difficult for just one defense department to keep track of all its assets, which may have lifetimes of decades and are spread among worldwide operations. Loaning the equipment to other organizations adds an additional layer of complexity.

Defense departments are turning to unique identification of items (IUID) to help solve the problem of tracking assets. Equipment that has a certain value and/or is considered mission critical receives an identifier that is globally unique and remains with the item for its entire life. Governments have developed standards that apply to all aspects of IUID labeling. In the U.S., the standard is MIL-STD-130; the U.K. has DEF STAN 05-132.

NATO has issued its own standards to bring even more consistency to IUID systems. The organization has released the Allied Unique Identification of Items Publication, or AUIDP-1, and an associated document, STANAG 2290. Individual defense departments refer to the NATO standards when developing their own IUID standards.

Topics covered by IUID standards such as MIL-STD-130, DEF STAN 05-132 and STANAG 2290 include what information to include in an item’s unique identifier and how the information should be formatted. The identifier is encoded in a 2D Data Matrix symbol that is either applied directly to the item or attached via a label or plate. The symbol is read using an IUID scanner. It’s crucial that departments use the same identifier format so the information can be read and interpreted by all users.

The standards address the appropriate size of the Data Matrix symbol and where it should be placed on the item it is identifying. There are also methods spelled out for verification of the data matrix symbol, to ensure it is readable.

The similar, but not identical standards for IUID labeling, along with the complexity of each, can be confusing for a contractor supplying equipment to a defense department. Consulting with a company that is an expert in this field may help. For example, ID-Integration Inc. has more than 12 years of experience in IUID systems and is well-versed in the various standards including DEF STAN 05-132 and STANAG 2290. For more information, visit www.id-integration.com.

NATO standards bring consistency to UID systems

Government defense departments have found many benefits of implementing Unique Identification (UID) systems for their mission-critical inventory. With UID, each piece of equipment is marked with a Unique Item Identifier (UII) in the form of a 2D Data Matrix symbol. The UII, which is read with an automated device, is then used to track the item throughout its lifetime.

For the U.S. Department of Defense, for example, the UID system is intended to improve management of a massive inventory that is spread across the globe. Not losing track of assets prevents unnecessary reordering of equipment and saves taxpayer money. Better tracking also improves the department’s combat readiness.

The British Ministry of Defence operates a similar UID program. Standards for the U.S. DoD program are spelled out in a document called MIL-STD-130; the British Ministry of Defence has a similar document labeled DEF STAN 05-132.

The picture becomes even more complex when different defense organizations are working together and sharing assets. To address this issue, NATO has developed its own standards for unique identification of equipment. The Allied Unique Identification of Items Publication, or AUIDP-1, was developed by a NATO task force and details the recommended methods to identify and mark items through Unique Item Identifiers and enter the data into a registry system. Doing so will improve “asset visibility, data exchange, and multi-national logistics operations,” AUIDP-1 states. More specifics are contained in a NATO Standardization Agreement, STANAG 2290.

When individual defense departments align their own UID standards, such as DEF STAN 05-132, with those of NATO, a cohesive system is created. This improves the efficiency of operations, and most importantly, enhances safety. Equipment can be located more quickly and moved to where it is needed. An item’s unique identifier can be linked to the item’s repair history and whether recommended maintenance has been performed. The use of automated systems cuts down on the amount of manual data entry, which leads to fewer mistakes.

The ability to share information about an item among organizations is a major benefit of utilizing UID systems. AUIDP-1 discusses the need for compatible information systems in order to share data. UID documents such as DEF STAN 05-132 go into extensive detail on how to implement a UID system. Topics covered include what information to include in the UII, the proper syntax to use, how to mark the 2D Data Matrix symbol and equipment, and specifications for human readable information that may accompany the symbol.

More information on various UID standards can be found at www.id-integration.com.

UID standards delve into all the details

Imagine dozens of defense departments trying to determine what military equipment is available to share and where it is located. This is a challenge faced by NATO and its 28 member countries.

To address this challenge, NATO has turned to the Unique Identification of Items, or UID, system for labeling and tracking mission-critical equipment. Items are labeled with a 2D Data Matrix symbol that contains a Unique Item Identifier (UII). An automated scanner is used to read the Data Matrix and retrieve an item’s identifier. The UII is entered into a registry, which can contain other critical details about the item such as its repair and maintenance history and warranty information. The idea behind UID is that the information for any piece of equipment can be quickly retrieved and easily shared. With UID, any individual item can be readily distinguished from all others, throughout its entire lifetime.

To bring consistency to the process, NATO has developed standards regarding UID systems. In particular, there is the Allied Unique Identification of Items Publication, or AIDP-1. A related document is NATO’s standardization agreement, STANAG 2290, which is intended to serve as the basis for implementation plans. Individual defense departments may have their own UID standards, such as the British Defence Ministry’s DEF STD 05-132, which incorporate the STANAG 2290 requirements.

Although individual DoD standards may be quite similar to STANAG 2290, they’re not necessarily identical. For example, the NATO standard allows the Issuing Agency Code to be included in the UID Data Matrix symbol, but DEF STD 05-132 discourages that practice because the information can be derived from another data field, the Enterprise Identifier.

Down-to-the-dot explanation

Suppliers and others working in the defense industry can find detailed specifications for UID systems in the various government documents. The standards specify minimum cell sizes for different methods of Data Matrix marking, including dot peen, laser and electro-chemical etching.

If text (also referred to as “human readable information) is to accompany the Data Matrix symbol, DEF STD 05-132 says it should be to the left of the symbol and list the item descriptor, NATO stock number and serial number. The NATO document states that a UII should contain only uppercase letters A through Z, numbers 0 through 9, the hyphen and the slash. The use of the letters I, L, O and Q is discouraged.

Information included on labels should contrast strongly with the background. The labeling method should not damage the equipment. The labels should be designed to last the life of the equipment.

For more information on UID standards, visit www.id-integration.com.

Attention to detail needed when implementing UID systems

Marking defense assets with unique identifiers that can be used to track the items throughout their lifetime is a straightforward concept. But when it comes to implementing Unique Identification of Items according to NATO standards, one must pay attention to numerous details. Many of these specifics can be found in two documents: AUIDP-1 (Allied Unique Identification of Items Publication) and a Standardization Agreement, STANAG 2290.

Benefits of UID

Unique Identification of Items (UID) is a standardized method for giving items a unique identifier that stays with them throughout their life. It’s useful for tracking ownership and location of an asset, which may be in use, in storage or in transit. AUIDP-1 also notes that UID can provide details of an asset’s age, condition, configuration, maintenance and repair history, and warranty status.

UID utilizes the 2D Data Matrix symbol for labeling items. The label is read with an automated device and provides a common format for storing and retrieving information among many different users. Errors are reduced as compared to manual data entry and the process is streamlined.

When to use UID

Implementing UID makes the most sense for items that are newly purchased. In that case, the benefits of UID will be realized throughout the item’s entire life for a greater return on investment. Items that are already in inventory might also be good UID candidates if their remaining life is substantial. Other factors to weigh include whether the item has significant value; is repairable; requires calibration or confirmation of disposal; or is mission critical.

Preferred UID methods

The Unique Item Identifier, or UII, assigned to an item must not change over the item’s life, even if other identifiers such as the part number change. It must be globally unique and cannot be reused, even if the item it’s attached to is disposed of.

Data associated with the UII is entered into a registry. Annex 6 of AUIDP-1 lists the recommended data elements to include. Some of these are: Unique Item Identifier; type of item (either end item or embedded item); whether it’s marked using UID Construct 1 or Construct 2; part number; serial number; batch or lot; description; and issuing agency code.

Methods for marking items include direct marking using laser, electro-chemical etching or dot peen indenting. STANAG 2290 contains standards for minimum cell sizes and quality levels for the various methods. The label should last for the expected life of the item, STANAG 2290 notes.

For further information, see www.id-integration.com.

RFID Tagging of Aviation Parts Doesn’t Need to be Complicated

Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, has revolutionized the labeling of flyable parts used in the aerospace industry. Like barcodes or 2-D Data Matrix labels, RFID tags are permanent identification markers that are read with an automated device, and stay with the part throughout its life. This is especially important for aircraft parts, which are always on the move and may have a lifespan of decades.

But RFID tags offer a number of advantages over barcodes and Data Matrix for labeling aircraft parts. Because they use radio waves, a direct line of sight is not required to read RFID tags. So, for example, someone can read RFID tags on aircraft life vests kept in under seat storage without removing each individual life vest and finding its tag. Reading devices can typically read multiple RFID tags simultaneously. This increases efficiency and saves time and money. In the example of checking all life vests aboard an aircraft, RFID tags reduce the time it takes to complete the task from hours to minutes.

Another advantage of RFID tags is that they can store substantially more information than barcodes. The tags will contain at minimum the part’s, “birth record,” — information available at the time the part is manufactured, including the component’s manufacturer, when it was made, part number, and serial number.

RFID tags can also store the part’s maintenance and repair history. While more expensive high-memory RFID tags are needed for this purpose, the extra expense is often worthwhile, as having the part’s maintenance records available with the part whenever it’s needed is a huge plus for anyone servicing the component.

Software helps meet ATA Spec 2000 RFID requirements

The Air Transport Association’s Spec 2000 standards include a specific format for information on RFID tags. Following the format doesn’t have to be a headache if one uses software designed for this purpose.

TegoView Software is fully compatible with ATA Spec 2000 RFID requirements for organizing tag data.

TegoView Software, which runs on standard RFID readers, makes it easy for users to initialize tags, write information to memory and display tag data in a user-friendly format. TegoView Software has additional benefits. A network connection isn’t required to run the software, making it ideal for use in the field. Records can be synchronized later when a network connection is available. A worker trying to find a part can use TegoView to locate it using tag information such as part number or warranty date — and then access the part’s complete history. TegoView also offers an option for storing graphics files on the tags for later retrieval.

A good source for more information on ATA Spec 2000 RFID is www.id-integration.com.

ATA SPEC and the Aviation Industry Maintenance Program

Automated data collection with barcodes is a part of the aviation product maintenance system. For product security, the ATA (Air Transport Association) emphasizes the importance of product management in the aerospace industry. The Air Transport Association provides extensive details of all requirements in their ATA SPEC standard. These specifications deal with the basic requirements for product marking and barcodes in Chapter 9.

Barcode standard as required by ATA

Two-dimensional codes are commonly used to mark aerospace industrial products. These are high density codes with machine readable data. Apart from 2D data matrix symbology this also permits RFID codes and multiple barcodes for item identification. The use of direct part marking, or DPMI technology, is also allowed. In DPMI technology, 2D codes are directly imprinted on the products’ or parts’ body. Direct part marking is machine-readable and allows a company to track a product throughout its lifetime.

Direct part marking and the ATA standard

Direct part marking includes information and data as specified by ATA SPEC with item- unique identification. Like unique identification, DPMI codes and labels have to include information such as:

• part number

• serial numbers

• types of products

• cost of products

• expiry time of a product

• enterprise identification code

• type of used verifiers

Materials to be used in barcodes

The Air Transport Association allows several types of materials to be used for nameplates. The materials are used for UID marking like aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, and polyester can be used for DPMI nameplates. However, the material should be substantial to outlast all environmental hazards. In addition, the material should be durable, easy to place on the item, and should be hardy. Like the unique identification marking process, ATA SPEC recommends quality and environmental tests for nameplates and labels.

Importance of the ATA standard

This standard approves the utilization of barcodes. Barcodes are approved and used by important organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), and many others. Product marking with labels or DPMI technology is beneficial to track products. This system also offers several other benefits, such as:

• Better consumer service: Using automated data collection is a time saving and convenient method. It allows the authority to easily track products during installation, maintenance, and replacement work. It is time saving because a user can record information instantly with the help of a single scan.

• Barcodes ensure product authenticity. The process also helps to identify data accuracy.

• Standards like ATA and UID are internationally recognized. As such, it increases product accessibility throughout the international market.

To learn more about these standards, marking processes, and labels, please visit www.id-integration.com.

The Purpose of IUID Labels

IUID labels contain item unique identification data that is required by all contractors manufacturing or distributing products and parts to the United States Department of Defense (DoD). IUID marking has been made mandatory by the Department of Defense to ensure the presence of quality in products, while also ensuring that all assets are fully trackable throughout the U.S. DoD. This particular identification standard has been created to continually track and analyze such items throughout their full lifecycle of use. All labels, or direct-part markings, must work in compliance with the guidelines that have been established by MIL-STD-130. Adhering to these specifications is required for successful government contracts.

services to customers and comply with the most up-to-date requirements established by the Department of Defense policies related to IUID. The Department of Defense has made it mandatory for all government suppliers and contractors who supply defense items to possess IUID markings in order to comply with contracted terms.

There are many requirements to be followed to be accepted by the DoD and some of these requirements are outlined below.

These globally recognized labels must be durable so that they are able to withstand friction, abrasion, chemical reactions, and all types of weather conditions. They must also be fade resistant and anti-counterfeit in nature. Moreover, the labels must be clear and distinct as they include the complete information about the affixed products. Marks and labels must remain legible and durable for the complete lifetime or lifecycle of the product.

Considering the nature of products for which these Department of Defense standardized labels are being used, the substrates used include a variety of materials from aluminum and polyimide to polyester and more. Laser and programmable stylus marking methods are also used in order to make these identification marks durable and resistant to rough conditions.

The Department of Defense has announced specific items that should include labels. According to its mandate, those items must possess a distinct and permanent identification throughout their lifespan. For any IUID service provider it has become essential to stay informed and remain in touch with resources that help them provide the right product with proper specifications.

Visit www.id-integration.com for more information about labels and specific requirements outlined by the Department of Defense. This website offers custom solutions for labels and other specifications required by the government.

The IUID Registry Works in Combination with Today’s IUID Compliance Process

As per the Department of Defense (DoD) mandate, it is essential that government contractors comply with IUID rules before shipping their products. 

If products do not meet requirements for IUID compliance, they may be subject to rejection. Thus, it becomes necessary for contractors to present required data regarding their contracted items to the IUID Registry. The contractors are bound to submit their data to the IUID Registry, as required by DFARS 252.211-7003 in their DoD contract. It is through this submission of information to the IUID Registry that it becomes easier and faster to track information for continued IUID tracking. Data submission can be completed by the contractors with the application of Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF), through the Global Exchange Service (GEX), or manually at https://www.bpn.gov/iuid/ . The WAWF is the standardized method of submitting this information and several helpful resources are available for those who wish to learn more about this process.

The IUID Registry is maintained by the Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS) and is currently the authorized location where all relevant data is captured and stored. Typical registry data for each qualifying item includes what an item is, its value, the item’s original owner, and acceptance details, among other important data. The IUID Registry website features a number of informative queries and reports based upon acquisition data and is subject to around 150 validations; including nearly 120 legacy validations, for accuracy. Furthermore, ninety-five percent of this data originates from WAWF data feeds as well as through XML submissions. Overall the use of automatic identification technology throughout these applications has drastically reduced the potential for user errors.

Product IUID labels contain essential information like a product’s manufacturer, serial number and part number. Depending on the nature of these items, labels or markings need to be made in such way that they can withstand tough conditions and constant exposure to friction and weathering. U.S. Department of Defense IUID markings on products are done with various technologies; such as laser marking equipment, programmable indenting systems, ink jet printers, and more. Often, many manufacturers choose to implement IUID verification solutions to improve their compliance efforts internally.

For more information about IUID compliance and registration, please visit the website of ID Integration at www.id-integration.com. They are able to create custom solutions for customers seeking compliance with the Department of Defense IUID mandates and offer a range of helpful articles and tips to simplify these processes.

What is an IUID Verification System?

The IUID mandate involves the assessment and identification of many articles, parts, products, and other assets, owned by the United States military. This identification system was initiated by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in 2003 and has been made mandatory for many DoD related items. The primary key to success with IUID compliance is in possessing a unique and unambiguous identifier permanently affixed to every part or product meeting MIL-STD-130 requirements. Currently, the required part mark consists of a Data Matrix ECC 200 code. This mark may be applied through a variety of recommended marking technologies; including dot peen, inkjet, and laser solutions.

All contractors must abide by these guidelines as detailed in MIL-STD-130 in order to maintain various government contracts. Today, there are a number of IUID verification systems available to assist manufacturers and other contractors with their compliance efforts.

Government contractors are required to meet the specifications outlined in all MIL-STD-130 guidelines. Noncompliance of these terms may result in contracted orders being cancelled. An in-house verification system, which has been developed to check the barcode on IUID labeling, is often a cost effective and time efficient solution for improved compliance. Additionally, such a verification process may also help to streamline internal production processes. Visit www.id-integration.com to learn more about how a IUID verification system can address your specific production and compliance needs.

What purpose does DFARS 252.211-7003 serve?

There are contractual clauses mentioned in Department of Defense (DoD) guidelines, which are extremely important for all organizations to heed who intend to supply products to the DoD. The DFARS 252.211-7003 clause stands for and is concerned with Item Unique Identification (IUID) of products. If you are a government contractor, you will want to pay special attention to this portion of the DoD guidelines for more specific details.

There are several IUID service providers operating in the United States who offer complete IUID solutions to their clients. They can help companies implement in-house marking and verification systems to improve compliance processes internally. Additionally, many of these system integrators can effectively assist companies wishing to implement marking and tracking solutions throughout all of their production processes for increased productivity and quality.

To research such services and to learn more about one of the best IUID service providers, log onto www.id-integration.com. ID Integration, Inc. is a leader throughout the identification marketplace and has extensive experience helping contractors and manufacturers navigate complex compliance applications; including MIL-STD-130, ATA SPEC2000, DEF-STAN 05-132, AS9100, and more.

What is ATA SPEC2000?

ATA stands for the Airline Transport Association. SPEC2000 is promulgated by the ATA is concerned with today’s automation methodology that is widely used in the aviation sector. This requirement for automated data collection has evolved through the need for marking aircraft parts and tracking maintenance and service throughout each part’s life cycle. This extensive tracking and data collection enables manufacturers throughout the aerospace industry to ensure higher quality production, improved safety, and timely maintenance – ultimately resulting in greater safety for all end customers.

ATA SPEC2000 includes extensive and well-formulated guidelines based on proven processes. Briefly, ATA Spec2000 specifications influence a broad range of factors throughout this industry and include compliance requirements for manufacturers producing parts and equipment used in aerospace as well as the maintenance processes. Compliant automated data collection (ADC) processes implement the use of a 2D data matrix bar code as well as RFID technology for identification of aircraft products and parts.

Airlines for America collaboratively manage the standards governing business-to-business interaction throughout the commercial airline industry. These standards include detailed specifications and guidelines for part marking, spares interchange, and warranty, among other relevant areas of this industry. SPEC2000 has completed chapters for each of the diverse disciplines it must govern, for example, Chapter 9 provides an explanation of part marking standards.

Though the specifications of ATA SPEC2000 are vast, the ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of passengers and the safety of the aircraft as a whole. Additionally, these specifications are designed to minimize any problems that the aircraft industry may experience in its supply chain. This specification helps to streamline the process while reducing costs associated with the industry. This method of information exchange has created vast improvements i and has reduced the time and money needed to effectively run aircraft operations. Members of the industry are encouraged to learn more about this and other specifications relating to the industry.

To learn more about ATA Spec2000, please visit www.id-integration.com. ID Integration creates custom solutions for customers who need to meet ATA specifications as well as government related compliance issues. Don’t take chances with complex compliance objectives instead ensure more successful ATA SPEC2000 guidance by partnering with an innovative leader in the identification and tracking industry. Our solutions enable contractors and manufacturers to streamline production processes while understanding the specifications required for optimal compliance in a wide range of industries. Visit us online to begin learning more today.

Common Facts about MIL-STD-130 Compliance

MIL-STD-130 is a standard implemented by the United States Department of Defense (DoD). It maintains full control over the requirements for Item Unique Identification (IUID) and covers relevant information that is associated with this identification and registration process. These guidelines lay down specific rules and procedures that ultimately regulate the purchase, registration, tracking, and distribution of a majority of government products, parts, and other assets. These rules are applicable to all manufacturers and contractors supplying products or parts to many U.S. government and military offices.

Moreover, this protocol established by the DoD, includes full specifications to regulate necessary processes and identification nomenclature; including compliant marking technologies, quality checks, maintenance documentation, and product storage or distribution processes. These guidelines help to ensure that government assets are manufactured with the highest quality assurance and delivered with fail-safes in place to secure greater safety for the United States through automation-assisted tracking.

Although a large majority of IUID labeling is required for DoD contracts, there are some cases where these specifications are not applicable to all products. These guidelines spell out the necessary information to assist manufacturers, or contractors, with determining whether a product requires IUID labeling or not.

A few other things of significance also find special mention in MIL-STD-130, such as item identification and production numbering, details of production, compliant marking procedures and substrate types. ALL IUID labels must also include a machine readable barcode to meet various automation requirements. In order to understand the specific information required on compliant IUID labels, there are detailed specifications provided in these standards that cover marking/labeling, compliant methods, nomenclature and materials.

According to the identification guidelines established by the Department of Defense, the use of scanners may help organizations to more easily maintain records for full compliance. Apart from this, it must be kept in mind that suppliers must use permanent marking methods for all identification. Government suppliers and manufacturers can choose from a variety of methods to mark their items; such as laser-marking technology, chemical etching, offset printing, indenting, and more. What matters the most is the long-term quality and durability of the labels or direct-part markings. In order to assure that they can withstand tough conditions this identification must be made of materials that are weather resistant, durable, and legible throughout the full lifetime of a part or product.

For more information, please visit www.id-integration.com to learn more about this standard and how to properly meet compliance.

The Ins and Outs of ATA Spec

ATA stands for the Air Transport Association. ATA Spec 103 deals with the qualities of jet fuel only. This compliance manual covers all aspects of these standards that help to maintain a quality maintenance program. The main motive of this document is to serve as a guide to the users. The users can learn about the techniques of storing jet fuel in a safer manner and can also learn about the distribution procedure of jet fuel. Indeed it is an important part of the UID process, which helps in tracking jet fuel distribution details.

By going through ATA Spec, a contractor will better understand the techniques and fail safes that are presently practiced throughout today’s aviation businesses.

? According to UID standards, this document is not an inclusive part of the business because of the huge diversifications of the operations of jet fuel at the airport.

? There may be different kinds of complexities and difficulties at different airports of jet fuel, so as per compliance, proper testing facilities should be there along with other additional scopes for improvement.

? ATA 103 is also known as a set of specifications for jet fuel quality control at airports.

? There is a correlation between the fuel track keeping and the quality of fuel, therefore some of the fuel industry is of the notion that ATA 103 must support either of these.

? AIDC stands for Automated Identification and Data Capture and it is a part of ATA Spec 2000. This technology helps organizations to execute, recognize, and identify all data, guidelines, and polices related to jet fuel distribution and usage. Some of the things that AIDC deals with are bar coding, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), as well as 2D Data Matrix that is normally utilized to categorize products and record information.

? For the past 30 years, barcode applications have become a popular method of tracking and coding labels. Barcode applications cover maintenance of transactions, monitoring sales, controlling inventory, shipping activities, and more essential activities.

? Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is used to identify specific circuits that include data that one can read from a distance instead of visiting an item up close. The process explains how the reading is made visible even from a great distance and how it can be displayed electronically.

These standards in place to ensure the safety of consumers and national security throughout the aviation industry. Learn more about the benefits of ATA Spec 2000 and how automated data capture can more easily facilitate compliance. Visit www.id-integration.com to learn more about today’s UID and Spec 2000 solutions.

UID System Requirements Learn More from Online Education Pages

Today’s UID identification system must follow a lot of quality and verification compliance specifications as mandated by the Department of Defence (DoD). A manufacturer of UID labels has to meet DoD specified standards. Some DOD recognized standards are MIL STD 129, MIL STD 130, ISO15415, and AS9132. Each of these standards focuses on different aspects of UID labels. There are specific recommendations regarding the UID registration process, marking and coding, data identification, data formatting, and UID barcodes, as well as size and fonts of labels. A supplier must meet all of these specifications. Any incorrect information or faulty procedures will lead to the potential cancellation or rejection of contracted work.

For beginners, it may be tough to understand this and its requirements. On the other hand, following procedures incorrectly may result in cancellation of registration. To avoid such situations, UID label manufacturers are advised to learn basics of leading UID systems. Education pages, eBooks, and informative sites are helpful in providing basic knowledge about UID. Any informative online resource can supply the basic facts and requirements of UID marking procedures.

Learn more facts from online resources:

• The regulatory standards of the UID marking procedure; like MIL STD 129, MIL STD 130, ISO15415, and AS9132 regulate the unique identification process. MIL STD 130 has several subdivisions, such as MIL STD 130 M and MIL STD 130 N. Each of these subdivisions highlights essential features of UID labels.

• UID applicants must go through the UID registration process. Online resources and eBooks provide complete guidance on UID registration including WAWF (Wide Area Work Flow).

• All government owned products, or parts, should meet DoD specifications at the time of delivery. Without knowing these specifications properly, it is impossible to deliver quality products. For instance, a manufacturer or UID product supplier must provide detailed information on the product type, marking procedure, enterprise number, date of delivery, used scanner, CAGE codes, units of measurement and more.

• There are also limitations regarding data formatting. 2D data matrix symbols are high-density barcodes that MIL STD 130 recommends contractors to use. According to this standard, programmable stylus markers, laser or inkjet printing, as well as direct-to-part marking can be applied to tag or identify a product. There are also other effective marking procedures.

To learn more about UID marking procedures, basic UID requirements, and quality management, you can refer to online resources that provide necessary DoD recommendations and protocols. Visit http://www.uid2go.com to learn more.

The Basic Criteria of MIL SPEC 130 UID Basics for Compliance

A unique identification code (UID) refers to universally identifiable data that provides unique identities to products and items. All Department of Defense (DoD) products and parts bear labels, or marked identification, containing unique data. The DoD regulates the features of these labels, the marking procedures, quality control, storage, and tracking. To ensure product visibility and traceability, the DoD has approved MIL STD 130 specified rules. MIL STD 130 specification enumerates the basic rules for unique identification marking procedures. These rules cover label affixation, encoding processes, types of marking, data formatting, and other aspects. Along with this, MIL SPEC 130 also specifies certain qualifications for label manufacturers and product suppliers.

Nameplates and tags: The DoD recommends contractors use metal nameplates made of aluminium, stainless steel or another durable metal. Data can be directly engraved on to the product shell. Polyester nameplates are also recommended for unique identification marking. Small products that have no space to accommodate direct engraving or nameplates can bear tags. In such cases, tags should include MRI and HRI codes, as well as data. All types of nameplates, tags and engravings should be of a permanent nature, meaning that it should last a product’s lifespan.

Data format and encoding process: Labels can be written in 1D data format or 2D data format. 2D data format is most preferable. These data formats are both machine and human readable. Labels have to undergo data validation and verification processes to ensure the authenticity of these codes. Apart from complying with MIL STD 130, unique identification labels must follow the guidelines stated in ISO15415 and AS9132.

Approved types of markings: A number of markers are approved by MIL STD 130. Any of the following can be applied to mark labels and nameplates:

• Ink jet marker

• Programmable stylus indenting

• Laser printing

• Chemical etching

• Embossing/Indenting

MIL STD 130 specifications for manufacturers and product suppliers: Manufacturers must apply for proper registration before supplying products to the government. Each of the product nameplates should bear a unique number and product code. Other information that should be included are:

• Part number, product number and manufacturer codes.

• Serial numbers, batch numbers scanner should meet the specifications mentioned in this article.

• Data matrix bar code (2D code).

• Enterprise identifier: DUNS, Cage, GSI Company Profile, etc.

To learn more about UID basics contained in MIL STD 130, visit http://www.uid2go.com/news.html.

Understanding the UID Registry and UID Verification Process

The U.S. Department of Defense has made it mandatory for all items owned by the government to contain UID labels or markings. These UID, or unique identification, labels help to serialize and manage all government properties and assets. The UID registry is an archive where all vital information about the product, its manufacturer, and other relevant information is kept. To complete UID registry, there are certain compliance standards declared in the MIL-STD-130 and DFARS 252.211-7003 that must be met or a product will fail and be rejected.

Decoding UID labels for verification

UID labels are a series of alphanumeric texts and bar codes placed on government properties that are essential for tracing the delivered products. Verification standards as stated in MIL-STD-130 help to keep track of items and manage them throughout their full lifetime. These labels also contain information about the manufacturer of the product, the nature of the product, and some details about the condition in which it should be used and the repair procedure of the product, which aids in tracking and the authentication process.

An indispensable tool for tracking and authenticating government items

The UID registry requires the necessary documentation related to any particular item that has been stored or exported. Thus it plays a major role in verification and tracking. As the UID registry contains all the important documents it aids in the tracking and authentication process by providing detailed information about the location of the item, its value, and its lifespan.

UID verification is done according to MIL-STD-130 standards. This standard states that it is mandatory to document all the necessary information about the product before receiving UID registry certification. Thereby, it can help in the authentication of an item by checking if it matches all the standards according to MIL-STD-130 and DFARS 252.211-7003.

The DFARS 252.211-7003 clause in MIL-STD-130 deals with item identification and evaluation. This information is also stored in the registry, which helps in the authentication of the value of the item and creates accurate audits for the DoD.

UID registry is an essential part of identifying, documenting, authenticating, and tracking all government goods that contain UID labels. For more information about labels and how these aid in the process of managing all government items, please visit www.id-integration.com. This site will thoroughly inform you on UID regulations and compliance mandates. It is regularly updated with new information that could impact your compliance.

Understanding the Basics of IUID Online

The concept of a UID label or marking and its various requirements has created much confusion among the contractors responsible for providing goods to the government. The Department of Defense has made it mandatory for all government items to contain IUID markings according to MIL-STD-130 standards. These standards are complicated and elaborate. Nonetheless, if the contractors ignore the compliance methods and fail to mark the items correctly, this can lead to cancellation of a contract. It is absolutely necessary for the contractors to have a complete understanding of the rules regarding IUID markings. One of the easiest ways to acquire the knowledge is to browse the Internet for information.

Defining UID labels

The UID (unique identifier) created by the DoD is a mark on all government items that helps in maintaining and serializing all government property. These labels are created according to the MIL-STD-130 standard.

Understanding this standard

There are a number of rules that must be followed while creating the marking. Some of these are discussed below:

• A major confusion that contractors face is whether to mark their items with UID labels or not. MIL-STD-130 states that only those items that are worth more than $5000 or urgently needed for a mission; as well as embedded products requiring identification must contain these labels.

• These markings must be permanent, scratch resistant, chemical resistant, and must be able to withstand harsh climates.

• They must be made of materials like brushed aluminium, polyimide, and polyester so that they can tolerate extreme climatic conditions.

• The labels must contain a 2D data matrix bar code and also some free text readable by humans.

• The placement of the tags must be done in a way to facilitate easy scanning.

• The labels must be intact until the expiry of the product.

• All labels must contain the serial number of the product, data qualifiers, ID of the enterprise, and a detailed description of the item. It should also contain the original part number, batch number, and serial number of the item.

• The linear code and the bar code must also maintain a strict quality standard.

These are just a few of the many standards mentioned. The Internet is invariably one of the easiest ways to understand and learn more about the labels as everything is written in an easy language and presented in such a way that makes it easier for people to understand the various aspects of UID. If you want to know more about UID applications, you can visit www.id-integration.com for more details.

Understand the Rules to Create UID Labels

A UID, or unique identifier, was developed by the U.S. Department of Defense in an attempt to track its products and properties. This identification helps to serialize and maintain all government properties and assets. The UID is created following certain rules and specifications mentioned in the MIL SPEC 130. It is an absolute necessity that all UID labels conform to the MIL SPEC 130 standards to be valid. Suppliers or manufacturers that supply products to the United States government must meet every standard detailed by the DoD. This is required to sell products to the government, but also helps to keep track of entities, maintenance, and distribution.

MIL SPEC 130 states the rules that ensure compliance. Some of the basic rules of compliance incorporated in this standard include:

• Not all government items are required to have labels. Only those that are equal to or more than $5000, are immediately needed for a mission, or an embedded product that requires permanent identification.

• UID labels must be permanent, as well as scratch and chemical resistant.

• All labels must contain a 2D data matrix bar code and also free text that can be read by humans.

• The labels must be made of materials that can withstand harsh climate conditions. Materials like polyester, polyimide, and brushed aluminium are most commonly used while making these labels. Laser etching and other methods are used to write on the labels as these techniques ensure permanence even under severe climate conditions.

• All labels must contain necessary information about the product in two parts. Construct #1 incorporates the serial number of the product along with the data qualifiers, the ID of the enterprise, and description of the item. Construct #2 incorporates vital details about the original part number, the batch number, and serial number.

• The linear code and the bar code must maintain strict quality standards. Linear bar codes and data matrix symbols should be a minimum grade B in the ISO 15416 and 15415. If the labels are using electrochemical etching or laser to mark, they must follow quality standards of SAE AS9132.

 

• The labels must be created in a way that they are readable and permanent.

These are some of the few basics for compliance in MIL SPEC 130. All labels must adhere strictly to these rules or they will not be considered valid. For a more detailed understanding of the rules for compliance, visit www.id-integration.com.

The Importance of UID Verification

The UID verification process plays an important role in the unique identification process. This process ensures accuracy of the marking process. Before nameplates come into use, a product manufacturer has to go through a verification process to ensure that all identification is within compliance guidelines. All government manufacturers should be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) prior to obtaining registration rights for the IUID Registry. Once a contractor receives these credentials, they will have the ability to log into the Registry for future data submission. Shipments with improperly identified and labeled parts are subject to refusal and even cancellation of contracts. Be certain to maintain full compliance by exploring innovative and helpful UID verification solutions.

Data and codes required for UID compliance:

• Serial number/Part number of products

• Manufacturer’s codes/enterprise numbers

• Details of the delivered products

• Details of the used data format

Function of UID verification devices

Verification devices basically perform two types of functions. These are:

• Verifying identification (machine readable formats)

• Quality checking of nomenclature and overall legibility

Code verification

Verification devices are able to read data and codes. Today’s verifiers are often able to verify if a nameplate contains the proper data, codes, and nomenclature. Verification devices can track the accuracy of the encoded data, font, size, numbering, and printing position. There are a number of affordable verifiers on the market currently. These are convenient and can be kept on-hand at any manufacturing location for improved compliance.

UID quality checking

Internal or external quality evaluations should also check the durability and permanence of all marks and nameplates to be resistant to weathering, harsh chemicals, and general wear and tear. Marks must remain legible permanent for the full lifetime of the represented product or part.

Unique identification marking specifications allow two types of data formats. These include 1D data and 2D data matrix. 2D data matrix format utilizes machine readable information that’s delivered in a small, condensed code. Under these guidelines, all the information given in this data format must pass through certified UID verification devices.

How do these verifiers ensure long-term compliance?

As per DOD rules, each code should be unique and permanent. To meet DOD demand, unique identifying labels contain machine readable information. Verification devices have the potential to detect even small defects in these codes. These products ultimately ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance success.

For long term compliance, it is essential to have a reliable verification device on-hand. When you have a verification device at your business, you can easily distinguish any faults or defects. Owning a data matrix verifier makes compliance much easier. Learn more about data matrix verifiers by visiting ID Integration, Inc. at www.id-integration.com.

Ensure Product Quality and Compliance within the UID Registry

The entire UID process emphasizes how to achieve specific and unique marking quality. The choice for UID marking procedures is most often approved by the United States Department of Defense (DOD). The DOD requires every military item and asset to be uniquely marked. Uniqueness is the main objective of product identification. The UID process has set guidelines to ensure uniqueness, legibility, and durability of nameplates and tags. A manufacturer or contractor must go through a registry process to ensure the uniqueness of a marked item. The UID Registry requires all nameplates to fulfill guidelines as outlined in MIL SPEC 130 and other relevant resources.

Objectives of the UID Registry

• To ensure product traceability.

• To ensure authenticity of government property.

• To secure the privacy of an organization.

• To reduce cost of item management.

• To ensure safety throughout maintenance.

The UID Registry requires a number of crucial data. The manufacturer must first obtain MIL SPEC 130 compliance prior to qualifying for registry submission. One must provide the following details for compliance:

• The type of product or parts one is liable to supply.

• The type of identifier that has been used to mark the product.

• A valid part number and serial number of the delivered item.

• Issued agency codes along with the enterprise identifier code number.

• MIL SPEC 130 sets specific depths, widths and lengths for each nameplate. During registration, one must provide details of these measured units.

Lack of compliance with military specified guidelines may lead to cancelled contracts.

Searching for help?

Today, there are a number of UID software solutions for DOD applications. These solutions help manufacturers to better integrate equipment for automated identification and data collection. Such improvements in automation can often assist these companies in achieving and maintaining compliance while also increasing production speed and quality. UID software enables these companies to eliminate the chance for human errors, while maximizing the potential by streamlining crucial production processes.

The UID Registry plays a major role in ensuring improved assets management and safety. In fact, the U.S. Department of Defense has greatly influenced much of the commercial market to implement similar identification and tracking standards to ensure consumer safety in the pharmaceutical, packaging, and other industries. To learn more about the benefits of registration and the unique identification process, log on to ID Integration at www.id-integration.com.