Learn About Gary Moe & ID-Integration

Gary Moe and ID-Integration became popular when the military decided to revise the identification system they used to mark US military property and component parts. This standard is referred to as MIL STD 130 and it is applicable to all the suppliers who provide items to the Department of Defense. A DoD integration expert; President, and Chairman of the UID supplier Alliance, Gary Moe, has introduced methods and solutions to meet this higher set of standards through his leadership of ID-Integration.

Poor inventory control and increased costs to maintain these stores led the military to a more controlled process for improved quality control and tracking of all assets and components. These improved standards require that each supplier manufacture the items they provide with a specific identification system. The system used for Gary Moe & ID-Integration usually includes 2D matrix bar codes with serial numbers, part numbers, and a Commercial and Government Entity Code, among many other specifications.

To streamline the entire process, the Department of Defense also made it necessary for suppliers to mark all shipping containers. The containers must to include a specific code and all these details are included in the Gary Moe and ID-Integration process for MIL STD 129 and MIL STD 130 readiness. This standard categorizes shipping containers into intermediate, unit, and exterior containers. Each container has to have a National Stock Number, part number, and item description. Exterior containers need to possess a serial number bar code, military shipment level, and direct-vendor delivery level among other items. The codes used should be readable by both bar code scanners and humans. Many companies rely on the professional assistance of Gary Moe and ID-Integration solutions for compliance.

Gary Moe and ID-Integration have the experience and knowledge to make DoD compliance easier for any organization. When choosing a company for such integration services, it is better to select one that has been around for a longer time frame. This will prevent expensive mistakes during the process.

The proven Gary Moe and ID-Integration solutions have been put in place to provide an improved opportunity for the Department of Defense to manage its manufacturing, distribution, and logistics processes. In the MIL STD 129 standards, there are two markings that are required. The first one should be legible to humans while the second marking must be readable by approved machines. Storage and retrieval of data is also an essential part of the solutions provided by Gary Moe and ID-Integration. Every item that is marked can be included in an organization's central database for thorough analysis and safety tracking.

The Revolution Created by Gary Moe & ID-Integration

It is common to hear about Gary Moe & ID-integration especially where the military is concerned. Unique identification techniques are vital for any large businesses and the Department of Defense has taken full advantage of this fact. The department currently requires all government supplied properties in the possession of contractors or manufacturers to be marked to meet with the requirements set in place with the MIL STD 130, identification standard. To comply with the standards set, there are certain considerations that organizations must keep in mind.

Gary Moe and ID Integration solutions are very flexible; especially when it comes to the marking methodology that is applied for displaying these unique identifiers. There are a large number of compliant marking technologies including laser printing, ink jet printing, chemical etching, indenting, and labeling or tagging; among many others. In many cases, the marking is applied directly to the part itself rather than on a tag that may have a little less permanence.

There are particular standards that need to be met for the UID nomenclature used including stringent bar code specifications. All of these standards are easily met with the expertise and guidance of Gary Moe and ID-Integration. The identification marking that is used must be permanent; or at least last the full lifetime, or lifecycle, of a part or product. A lifecycle is often referred to as the complete maintenance cycle of a part.

Gary Moe and ID-Integration provide all the means of securing a MIL STD 130 compliant setup. From identification markers to bar code scanners and other production equipment – they have the necessary solutions for all your DoD needs. In some cases, a product or part may already contain a unique identification number. Examples of such products include a vehicle with its very specialized VIN number as well as a cell phone’s serial number. These items already possess unique identification, so they are not required to repeat this process for compliance. Often these UID’s are simply included in the data capture and analysis stages to ensure proper compliance in all facets of the DoD’s stringent requirements.

It is not always easy to comply, but Gary Moe & ID Integration makes it easier to get started and can assist a company by handling many of the challenging details involved. For the best results, many business owners believe it is important to seek a company that offers such professional integration services.

Criteria of MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 Markings

According to the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 standards, identification requirements will typically vary. These variations are mostly associated with the different kinds of marking methods that may be used for identification and tracking of government property. Therefore, there are stringent requirements for all compliant MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 identification and tracking – even on specified shipping containers.

A large requirement MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 is placed on all shipping, or unit, containers. According to the standards under discussion, the markings must withstand the full shelf life of a given part or product. This is why they are placed on items that often deteriorate. These markings help to track the shelf life of a product. They will also indicate the date when the item should be tested and disposed of.

Unit containers must also have an NSN (National Stock Number) on the bar code. The details of the preservation methods, issued units, contract numbers, quantity, preservation date, item description, and part number must also be listed using plain text.

Finally, for these unit containers, or product markings, the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 standards also require the government or the manufacturer to assign unique serial numbers. This help in the identification and control of these units. They have to be assigned using clear and legible bar code formats.

MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 requires that intermediate containers are marked or labeled in a similar manner to that of containers as discussed previously. However, there are a number of minor changes that are made in here for products that include a serial number. In the case where items that have been numbered serially exceed 5-digits in length, then, the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 rules for exterior containers will be used.

For exterior containers, the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 specifications make use of a labeling format that is basically similar to that of unit containers. However, there are a number of requirements. One of the exceptions is that the description field of the UID marking will not be required.

Still, one will need to keep in mind that the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 standards will require the manufacturer or the government to convert the NSN, the CAGE code, and the contract number, for representation in approved bar code format.

To conclude, it is possible to gain a basic understanding of the MIL SPEC 130 & MIL-STD-130 specs through the internet. Much of this information is available as a free resource provided by the government. However, it always helps any business stay ahead, when they hire experts, like UID2GO to consult with them on their UID marking solution and the complexities of MIL SPEC 130 specifications.

Finding a Good UID Scanner- ID-Integration

Finding a good UID scanner for reading the complicated Department of Defense UID labels is made easy, by a company called, ID-Integration. See the ID-Integration website at www.id-integration.com to find a good UID scanner. The Department of Defense’s standard for keeping track of military property, by way of marking the item, is called the MIL-STD-130N. The MIL standard contains many government and non-government documents and books. The MIL-STD-130N has authority over any conflicts with the other documents and contains a complete list of documents in Section 2. The IUID or UID labels are easily read using a UID scanner. Find a good UID scanner for successful applications.

Section 1.3 of the MIL-STD-130N contains a list of items not requiring the markings, because they already have appropriate marking or UID labels (Unique Identification). The VIN number to a car or serial numbers of a cell phone would be a perfect example of this. If a UID label is needed, you will also need to find a good UID scanner for verification purposes at the very least.

The Department of Defense specifies that the IUID markings must be applied to identification plates, tags, or UID labels that are metal or hard plastic. Marking may also be made to the actual surface of the manufactured item. The IUID marking must be visible and readable, while in operation and use. UID labels are much easier to read using a UID scanner. The IUID marking must be permanent, during the life cycle of the item and it must remain readable after cleanings.

If the item is not big enough to include the entire UID marking specifications on a UID label, the item should be marked with at least the EID (Enterprise Identifier) and the PIN (Part or Identifying Number), Lot, or Batch Number. If an item is too small for any marking, the UID marking on the UID label should be on the packaging. MRI (Machine Readable Information) would be the Department of Defense’s recommended IUID marking method. If you are trying to find a good UID scanner, try the experts in technology at ID-Integration. Visit www.id-integration.com for more information.

Good UID labeling

MIL STD 130 is one of many standards used by the Department of Defense. A good portion of this standard involves UID labeling. Every UID label must be UID compliant as part of MIL STD 130 requirements. These standards were created to ensure that all DoD property can be tracked and accounted for when in use or in storage. Using the proper UID labeling will ensure that the items in question are accounted for and are properly tracked by the DoD. All UID labeling must meet all MIL STD 130 standards before being used.

When choosing a UID label, it is vital that the label is durable and is a permanent solution for the UID compliance process. Various types of UID labeling do exist for various different types of applications. Different types of materials used for UID labeling include aluminum, stainless steel, polyester and laser marked adhesive-backed tape. When choosing a type of material for a UID label, it would be best to consult with a UID label service provider on which material would be best for the application it will be used for.

Each UID label includes a 2D data matrix code, which is encoded with a unique identifier number. The 2D data matrix must also meet quality standards set forth by the ISO. The UID label must meet these additional ISO standards to allow for various scanners to be capable of scanning these labels. The MIL STD 130 standards require that all labels be UID compliant and must contain a 2D data matrix.

During the lifetime of the item the UID label must also maintain its 2D data matrix code legibility to allow for easy identification. Using a metal tag with a permanent adhesive or a suitable polyester label will work for many different environments but some conditions require a label using different materials.

All items currently owned or in contract with the DoD are required to have UID compliant labels. Also all UID labels must also meet all MIL STD 130 standards as well. These standards are considered obligatory by the DoD and must be followed. Since the MIL STD 130 standards can be rather complicated, it is recommended to consult with the experts over at ID-Integration (www.id-integration.com) for further assistance.

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.

DoD Will Reject Item Shipments Without Proper UID Labels

In the latest UID news, all military shipments must have Unique Identification ( UID ) markings and meet certain standards. Those standards are set out in MIL-STD-130N. It is important that all military property be properly marked with UID labels for inventory control purposes. It is not sufficient to simply count the number of M-16 rifles in a shipment and compare that number to a manifest. Each individual item must be tracked and UID labels make this task much easier.

The UID labels must be securely attached to each item and easily visible. The UID labels must conform to ISO 15343 in a 2D matrix. The UID image will not be readable by human eye so a UID scanner will be necessary. The UID image can range in size from 300 micrometers to more than 1 meter. UID labels must be able to contain a maximum of 2kb of data.

UID scanners used in warehouses will differ from the ones used in the field. Typically a portable handheld scanner will be used outside of the warehouse but, a smart phone can be programed to function as a scanner as well. It is therefore necessary that the UID labels be manufactured to very strict tolerances so that the UIDimages can be read whenever necessary.

While UID images and scanners may be very complex, they are critical to keeping the military functioning smoothly. If shipments do not have scanner readable UID labels , the Department of Defense will reject them.UID labels play a vital role in ensuring that supplies reach their appropriate destinations. Shipments failing to do so could have dire consequences for those in the field.

UID Compliance - Navigating the Waters without Hitting the Rocks

The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation 252.211-7003 ( DFARS 252.211-7003 ) sets forth the definitions and regulations of Item Identification and Valuation under MIL-STD-130N, the standard method of marking, identifying, and tracking military property owned by the Department of Defense. Under DFARS 252.211-7003 , all IUID (Item Unique Identification) markings, as well as marking placement, must adhere to a complicated set of guidelines. Marking specifications require a mark to be securely attached to an item with the use of metal or plastic identification plates, identification bands, identification tags or identification labels. Alternatively, DFARS 252.211-7003 marks can be applied directly to an object. The Id Integration website has additional information on MIL-STD-130N regulations.

The use of an MRI (Machine Readable Information) marking is preferred to allow as much room as possible for the amount of information to ensure a proper IUID. EID (Enterprise Identifier) numbers, PIN (Part or Identifying) numbers, batch number, and lot numbers are just a few examples of Types of IUID DFARS 252.211-7003compliant information than can be used with an MRI marking. There are also a few exceptions to the MRI marking standards such as COTS (Commercial Off The Shelf) items that are pre-marked with commercial and parts within an assembly or subassembly. DFARS 252.211-7003 specification regulates the quality as well as the content of MRI markings. Linear Bar Codes must adhere to ISO/IEC 15416 unless otherwise specified in the contractor or order. Data Matrix Symbols have several regulations including ISO/IEC 15415, IAM DPM-1-2006, and SAE AS9132.

Id Integration is dedicated to offering products and services designed to effectively and successfully navigate the complicated standards and regulations of DFARS 252.211-7003 . Id Integration offers many kinds of UID scanners such as UID barcode scanners and 2D parts scanners. The “Smart Scanner” is a low-cost, high-value, innovative UID implementation tool offered by Id Integration . In addition to performing the tasks of most standard bar code scanners and standard 2D UID scanners, the “Smart Scanner” from Id Integration also features UID validation error reporting, on-board database look-up, OCR text capability and photo capture. To ensure DFARS 252.211-7003 and MIL-STD 130N IUID compliance, consult the Id Integration experts for information on UID solutions, UID compliance and UID policy.

How to Understand MIL-STD-130 without Losing Your Mind?

If you are new to military standards your first question is likely to be: what is section 252.211-7003 talking about? And more to the point; what is a MIL-STD?

Do not worry you are not the first, and will not be the last person that is initially startled by these requirements.

Section 252.211-7003 requires items in a DOD (Department of Defense) project to follow specific item identification and valuation requirements. More specifically they must follow MIL-STD-130 guidelines.These guidelines are designed to ensure the Department of Defense can control the cost, compatibility, and consistency of all their items. Initially guidelines like those described in 252.211-7003 were restricted to military projects, but now they are used regularly by non defense organizations.

MIL-STD 130N is a set of requirements and standards that regulate the marking, identifying, and tracking of military property. Although as mentioned above other organizations are also using this set of standards.The purpose is to provide a set of minimum requirements for the design of a particular project. These regulations only apply to items that do not already carry a unique identification marking, as in the case of cars and cell phones.

These regulations are rather complex and are very specific about the type and format that is used. To illustrate, here are a few of the standards set by MIL-STD 130N.

All items under regulation 252.211-7003 must be marked directly on the surface or with an attached identification plate, band, tag, or label. The marking on the item must be easily visible during its handling or use. The tag or identification must be designed to last throughout the lifetime of the item, and withstand the effect of the elements and regular wear and tear. In the case that this is not feasible, due to lack of space then the basic information should be included.

252.211-7003 specifies that the basic information should include the Enterprise Identifier (EID), which identifies the organization that supplies or builds the item; the PIN, or part or identifying number; and the batch number of the article. In cases where even the basic information included in the IUID will not fit the specifications can be included in the packaging.

As you have probably noticed the standards required by 252.211-7003 are by no means simple to follow. That is why, if your organization needs to follow these strict regulations, you should contact experts like www.id-integration.com that will able to ensure you are complying with all relevant standards.

IUID Implementation

Item Unique Identification or IUID as it is known as, is the military specification for identifying each tangible item or asset and distinguishing it in inventory. The IUID specification calls for permanent labeling of each asset with a unique identifying string and barcode. The technology behind these markings is what ID-Integration covers. From barcode scanners to barcode tagging systems, ID-Integration handles the full range of IUID implementation in compliance with the Department of Defense.

IUID, also known by the designation MIL-STD-130, is being implemented so as to provide asset control to all the various items that the Department of Defense has in its inventory system. Each item is specified to having a permanent identifying tag affixed to the part, or in case of lot or batch items, an item batch number that identifies the entire lot of parts. These tags must be of a permanent nature that will last for the lifetime of the item. Each IUID label must be affixed in such a way as to allow the ID number to be scanned or read by an inventory control device such as a barcode scanner.

The specification by the Department of Defense for identifying inventory, also known as Spec. 525.211-7003 calls for the use of a unique two dimensional tag or marking, which allows the identification of the specific part or lot as the case may be. This 2-D matrix identifier must meet specific criteria in its composition according to normal industry standards for encoding. Each matrix tag must be in a unique and permanent format that will last for the life of the part being tagged.

ID-Integration can handle the implementation of IUID for your company from tagging systems to inventory control (barcode) readers. In the case of tagging systems ID-Integration can help in coming up with Department of Defense compliant tags that are fully compatible with the full range of IUID specifications. Since there are many different iterations for IUID compliance depending on size, type, or make of part, it can be difficult for manufacturers to develop a fully compliant labeling system. That is where the experts at ID-Integration can be of help, in threading the maze to fully compliant labeling for your product inventory.

UID Scanner: A Brief Overview

Every day there are hundreds of new technological gadgets and devices released onto the market. Some of them are extremely useful to society and the individual by providing useful convinces to our everyday life; although, some of these new inventions and technologies are not as useful. One such new technology that is useful to our everyday lives is the UID scanner. The UID scanner is a new device that was created the DoD (Department of Defense) to help track packages and other items that were shipped.

The true genius of the UID Scanner comes from the fact that it can easily integrate into any existing shipping business with little to no hassle and instantly increase the efficiency of any and all shipping processes. The UID Scanner works by scanning IUID labels on any surface or package and reads a 2D Data Matrix symbol by doing this it can easily be directly applied to specific tangible items to help facilitate item tracking in DoD business systems. This can easily help keep track of which items are were and help to prevent losing items or theft. The data can also be used for management, financial, accountability, and asset management purposes.

One of the devices that do the UID scanning is the Microscan UID DPM Verifier. The Microscan UID DPM Verifier is one of the many new UID scanners now available for purchase. The Microscan UID DPM Verifier provides many great features that should be expected in a UID scanner such as ISO/IEC 16022, ISO/IEC 15415, and AS9132 scanning. It also has an Ethernet port for connection to the Internet for the purpose of tracking packages and storing information. Another quality UID scanner on the market today is the Microscan UID LDP Verifier. Similar to the DPM verifier in purpose this UID scanner is visually different.

Anyone looking at new and emerging technologies in the world today should look no further than UID scanner technology. By allowing easy scanning and tracking of packages the UID scanner technology can ensure safe delivery and arrival and give accurate shipping times, while increasing the efficiently of the entire process.

The easiest way to decipher the MIL-STD-130N UID standards

Inventory and inventory tracking are a serious matter to any business, and the Department of Defense (DoD) is no different. The MIL-STD-130N is, essentially, a set of DoD standards that determine requirements and methods used for marking, identification and tracking of military property. Each item being tracked must carry a Unique Identification or UID. These standards apply to any property that is produced, issued or stored by or for the Department of Defense.

All items must carry some form of UID, whether it is an applied mark or an existing UID such as an electronic serial number or Vehicle Identification Number on a car. Whenever possible, Machine Readable Identification (MRI) or “barcodes” are the preferred form of UID. Regardless of the method used, numerous specifications cover the specifics of the type of UID, placement and information contained. Some of these standard specified criteria are:

• The type of material that the UID mark is applied to
• The method used to secure the UID marking to the item
• The location of the UID mark
• The visibility of the UID mark
• Permanency of the UID mark throughout the life expectancy of the item
• Ability of the UID mark to withstand environmental conditions
• The ability of the UID mark to withstand maintenance

The regulations regarding UID markings are also extremely specific. For instance the text size for a human readable marking must be 0.2 centimeters or 0.08 inches. All of the letters of the text must be in a sans-serif font and numbers should be in Arabic. The exception to this rule is the usage of Roman numerals, in which case you must turn to other documentation to determine what type of font to use. Text markings are also limited to 50 characters and should use the Data Matrix EEC 200 symbol using ISO/IEC 15418 semantics and ISO/IEC 15434 syntax, unless they are subject to DFARS mandated markings.

To cover all of the standards and regulations here would be an exhaustive process for both reader and writer. Suffice it to say that for the uninitiated, digging through the specifications of the MIL-STD-130N and its attached documentation to determine the correct marking for a product is a nightmare.

This is where ID-Integration steps in to save the day. Fortunately for us, the experts there live and breathe the MIL-STD-130N each day. Let them handle the tedious task of digging through the MIL-STD-130N to determine the nomenclature used, how tall it should be, whether it should be on metal or plastic and whether or not it should be a tag, label, band or plate. They’ll do what they do well and give you the opportunity to get on with doing what you do well.

How IUID Simplifies Inventory Management

How would you keep track of your possessions if they were spread across the Earth? The US Department of Defense (DoD) deals with this problem every day, and thus developed a set of standards for tracking their massive inventory. MIL-STD-130N, released on December 17, 2007, takes advantage of recent advances in barcode technology to ensure that their entire inventory uses Item Unique Identification (IUID).

IUID allows for better inventory control because each individual product is accounted for. Even individual parts used to assemble a finished product are accounted for during manufacturing, greatly minimizing the risk of loss. Though many products need tagging to fulfill IUID requirements, several industries already utilize IUID concepts. For example, every automobile has a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and thus a unique identifier, already. Products ranging from cellphones to firearms come with the idea of IUID built right into their serial numbers.

However, several products lack such careful cataloging. These require tagging with a method that will remain durable throughout the life-cycle of the item. Metal or stiff plastic plates take precedence over flimsier label materials. Stamping or etching the tag directly onto the item offers an even more durable solution. Some items, such as ball bearings, elude any of these methods. In these cases, it's acceptable to tag the item's packaging with the IUID instead. In the past, humans would need to read this tag, but these days computers have taken over much of the information processing responsibility.

Machine Readable Information (MRI) used to be encoded in linear barcodes, like the kind found on everyday consumer goods. Though still acceptable under MIL-STD-130N, linear barcodes have fallen into disuse in favor of two-dimensional barcodes. 1s and 0s are represented by black and white squares, which are then arranged into a larger square. This method offers numerous advantages, chiefly that large amounts of data can be packed into an incredibly small space. Currently, up to 50 characters will fit in the space of 3 square millimeters. This comes in handy since an item's tag grows with its history.

In addition to its IUID, each item's tag tells its story, identifying who has designed, manufactured, and repaired the item throughout its lifetime. Even items not requiring an IUID require this tracking information. In a way, these life stories become an IUID in and of themselves as items journey down their own unique paths. Still, giving each item an IUID right as it rolls off the line, like giving each baby born in the US a social security number, allows for easy cataloging before such life stories develop.

IUID concerns are far more complicated than the brief summary given here. For more information visit ID-Integration at http://www.id-integration.com

UID Registry: Uncover The Significance of UID Registry to DOD

The US Department of Defense (DoD) has attempted to increase its data quality, accuracy and visibility with the Unique Identifier (UID) registry. On July 29, 2003, Acting Under Secretary of Defense Michael Wynne stated that the goal of the UID system was to assist in DoD item tracking and asset management. The UID registry is the database storage area for all tangible items that make up the barcode identification system for military property.

The UID registry is the storage repository for military property with barcode markings. This system enables the DoD to track, update and record important information related to the these items. If a product recall were to occur, the UID registry could be used for replacement of defective equipment.

Just like many large organizations, the DoD runs numerous software and hardware platforms. The UID registry is a central clearing house to ensure standardization of data across all computing systems. The Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS) maintains the UID registry.

Barcode markings permit the DoD to track equipment, so they will always know its whereabouts. Updates can be made to database records; administrators can perform useful queries and searches based on the data components of the UID: type, contract and Issuing Agency Code (IAC). Other data components, like the unit acquisition cost, can be used in accounting documents for DoD financial management.

UID Registry Purpose

The UID registry permits consolidation of equipment data for DoD purposes. This government classification system has been gradually built up over time by requiring different vendor numbers for government contractors involved in military procurement. The UID registry attempts to create one key database for storage of item information in order to streamline the government contractor registration system.

Standardization across the entire DoD government procurement system is established by the UID registry, which will lead to improved item, finance and asset management. Auditing checks can be performed more easily with this uniform system. Military property, spread across the entire world, can be made more tangible with the UID registry.

UID Registry Importance

Accountants can update financial depreciation records with the lifecycle management tool - the UID registry. In the end, the UID registry should lead to reduced costs (improved financial management), due to a better understanding and more efficient approach to long-term inventory management.

The UID registry is vital to keeping track of DoD property, allowing for modification of data to achieve information management goals. It makes equipment location more tangible for DoD personnel who can ensure better data integrity, accuracy and quality.

The UID registry is a final storage area for the DoD barcode identification system, which allows for better data verification. It increases the reliability of data on military property that is used throughout the world.

Understanding MIL-STD-130

In December of 2007, the Department of Defense released an update to MIL-STD-130, the regulation governing the proper labeling of items in the military's inventory. This important set of standards ensures the efficient tracking and cataloging of every product and piece of equipment belonging to the United States government. By understanding a little background of this standard, you can ensure compliance with this important governing regulation.

First, it is important to understand that this regulation is constantly updated. Though the latest version of MIL-STD-130 was released on 17 December 2007, the previous version was released only two years earlier. This reflects the response of the Department of Defense to new technology, so understanding the emphasis and reasoning behind MIL-STD-130 is important to be prepared for its next iteration.

MIL-STD-130 is a specification of standardization already happening in the global marketplace. The regulation builds upon, and at times uses, standards and requirements from the International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, and the International Electro technical Commission, or IEC. The ISO/IEC guidelines help streamline and codify the unique labeling of all products, and MIL-STD-130 goes further to customize these standards for its own use. This reflects a realization by the DoD that rigorous standards are necessary now to ensure organization of millions of items in the future. MIL-STD-130 represents the continuing effort to incorporate this thinking into its procurement process.

Though MIL-STD-130 is demanding, it is also accommodating. The most recent update, called MIL-STD-130N, allows for several technologies to be employed in the process of marking items with a Unique Identification code, or UID. The first is a more traditional UID nameplate that meets specific criteria in text and location in order to organize items in the inventory. The second kind of UID marking is Machine Readable Identification, or MRI. There are two major kinds of MRI: barcode and data matrix. Barcodes are familiar to most consumers today, as they are present on just about all kinds of goods. Data matrix labels are used most recognizably by shipping companies, and these matrices hold a multitude of information as well. They use a square field of smaller black and white squares to code information.

For suppliers, understanding the technology and the code of the UID labels is essential to compliance. First, suppliers must allow for space for the various kinds of UID markings, since readability is a requirement of MIL-STD-130. Additionally, the Part Identification Number, or PIN, of a product must be considered to allow easy integration into the standards of MIL-STD-130.

Understanding MIL-STD-130 requires familiarity and experience with its implementation. ID-Integration is a leader in this field, having created various kinds of UID labels for use in DoD applications. The basics are important to understand, but the specifics of MIL-STD-130 are essential, and no one knows them better than ID-Integration.

IUID Marking Within the Department of Defense

In order to keep track of the wide variety of equipment produced, issued, and possessed by the military, the Department of Defense adheres to an identification standard known as MIL-STD-130N. One of the most important functions of this standard is the notation of requirements for proper IUID marking (Item Unique Identification), which grants every single item its own identity and history. Even items that are identical in production will have a unique number, setting them apart as specific and separate entities. This assigned identification will never be changed, and a suitable IUID marking ensures that this identity remains with the item.

One important set of requirements within the MIL-STD-130N details the appropriate location for applying an IUID marking to a piece of military equipment. First of all, the label must be easily visible and accessible during the item’s normal usage, and should remain so for the entire lifespan of the item. The IUID marking should be placed on a sturdy metal or plastic piece which can be attached to the item or even directly on the item itself when appropriate. This mark must also be sustainable throughout any repairs or cleaning the item might regularly go through. If there is no available space for such an IUID marking to be positioned, one may be placed on the actual packaging of the item.

While some instances allow for a text-based marking which would be readable by a human, the preferred form of IUID marking is the MRI (Machine Readable Information). A standard known as MH10.8.7 is followed when making MRI marks unless a partner association (such as NASA) follows its own marking protocol which is supported by the Department of Defense.

MIL-STD-130N also specifies the particular information which an MRI provides. An IUID marking must contain an EID (Enterprise Identifier) of the issuing organization or activity, a unique serial number, and the PIN (Part or Identifying Number) or batch number of the item.

In order to ensure the proficiency of the MRI system, the Department of Defense additionally denotes certain requirements towards the quality of an IUID marking. The MIL-STD-130N references specific protocols for inspecting the quality of an MRI mark both as a linear bar code and as a data matrix symbol.

Considering both the quantity and nature of the equipment used by the Department of Defense, the necessity of proper identification and tracking of these items is paramount. For this reason, such explicit standards as the MIL-STD-130N are required for the placement, information, and quality of any IUID markings within this system. However, this explanation has only touched the surface of what is clearly a complicated subject, and those seeking further information should turn to the experts at ID-Integration.

Functional Benefits of Direct Part Marking

Direct part marking is growing popular in many industries for its remarkable benefits.

Direct part marking involves marking the item or the part directly on its surface. Unlike the use of UID labels where the nameplates, tags or the labels with the UID codes are affixed or attached to the items, the direct part marking is a method of UID marking that uses different techniques to mark the item or the parts. Mostly preferred by NASA to mark parts of spacecraft, the direct part marking methods are often used in civil industry. Of late, this method is being used in a wide variety of logistics and processing companies to mark the parts and the items. The growing popularity of DPM is due to its numerous advantages and lower implementation cost.

Use and Implementation Results of Direct Part Marking

Generally, the direct part marking is used to mark the subassemblies and components within the automotive, aircraft, armament, electronic, pharmaceutical, petrochemical and medical industry and many other fields. The DPM marking method enhances efficient production management and goods traffic in conjunction with enhanced documentation of these processes. Along with goods traffic the marking method ensures reliable quality and efficiency of marking, better production and dispatch of goods. Apart from simplifying closed monitoring of the marked object starting from their production to withdrawal, direct part marking allows data integration and exchange between seller, manufacturer and career.

Benefits of Direct Part Marking

Direct part marking is popular due to the benefits that it offers. In fact, it provides all benefits of automatic identification technology starting from supporting efficient resource management to eliminating human error and accessing current information on assets. The new techniques of direct part marking is more durable in comparison to traditional labels for the technique allows to encode more information in a small area and the markings can withstand harsh external conditions. There are several other benefits of DPM

• Durability of the UID marking is the most prominent benefit of DPM. The new

technologies of DPM help to produce durable codes that can’t be removed, erased and faked.

• It allows a large quantity of data to get encoded on a smaller area- upto 3600 characters can be encoded.

• The two dimensional barcode marked on the items through direct part marking can be read at any angle.

• It is possible to use the DPM marking technology on various materials such as metals, plastic and glass.

• It has the ability to eliminate human and machine errors. The 2D data matrix barcode is 20% read correctly even if it is broken.

• The durable marking of the items ensures that the all information about the objects can be accessed easily by cracking the codes of the marking. It also helps tracking the items starting from its manufacture and acquisition to maintenance and repairing.

• The methods generally have low operation cost; at least the operation is cheaper than traditional methods of using labels.

• DPM can be used for marking even item of small size such as electronic subassembly. The data matrix barcode marking doesn’t affects it’s functionally.

• DPM improves work efficiency as the object identification and marking is completely automated.

• It is a faster implementation marking technology.

MIL-STD-129 Requirement Norms As Per The Dod Mil Specs

To standardize the military products, the US Department of Defence (DoD) has introduced certain DoD MIL Specs. The purpose of these DoD MIL Specs is to ensure that all defence related products are manufactured as per a common requirement standard and similar defence-related objective. They should also have proper compatibility with logistics systems.

MIL-STD-129 is one of the major standards of DoD MIL Specs meant for uniform military marking for shipment and storage. Ammunition and other military equipments that are supplied through shipments are clearly specified in the MIL-STD-129 standard. Contractors who want to supply their products are mandated to follow the instructions as per the standard for the application of numbers, labels, symbols, tags, and colors to expedite handling during shipment and storage.

As per the DoD MIL Specs, the MIL-STD-129 standard has made shipment container labelling exercise a bit more rigorous. While one set of labels is required for unit and intermediate containers, and another set is mandated for exterior containers.

The MIL-STD-129 requirements for unit, intermediate and exterior containers are discussed as follows.

For Unit Containers:

Serial Number Barcodes are assigned by the manufacturer or the Government for identification or control and only then can be listed. The serial numbers for each item in the container should be in clear barcode format.

Every minute detail about the barcodes such as National Stock Number (NSN) Barcode, quantity, part number, contract number, item description, unit of issue, date of preservation, and method of preservation code should be listed in plain text format.

As per the MIL-STD-129 standard, Shelf life markings are a must for deteriorative items. The Shelf Life Markings indicate the date an item needs to be tested or disposed of.

For Exterior Containers:

Here the basic label format is similar to that of unit containers, however as per the DoD MIL Specs, there are a few exceptions. Like the Contract Number, NSN, and CAGE Code must be in barcode format. Also item description which was there in unit containers marking is not necessary here. Besides these, certain additional labels are also required which are summarized below.

Military Shipment Label (MSL): both the DoD and contractors are mandated to address this special markings using a bar coded MSL. This label includes barcodes for the transportation control number (TCN), Piece Number and to and from Mark-For address information necessary to route shipments to defense users. A 2D-barcode that encodes all of the data on the label for automatic process is also included in this MSL.

Direct-Vendor Delivery (DVD) Label: According to the MIL-STD-129 requirement standard, vendors are required to follow this DVD shipments standard address marking with bar codes format. This DVD label includes the NSN and composite barcode, requisition TCN, Unit of Issue, Condition Code, made up of Quantity, Routing ID Code, Unit Price, and finally the Distribution Code.

Serial Number Barcode(s): As per the DoD MIL Specs, "SERIAL NUMBER LIST INSIDE" should be clearly marked on the identification-marked side of the exterior container. If more than five bar codes are there, two serial number lists shall be provided instead of a single one. The first serial number must be placed inside the container while the second one should be in the packing list.

The intermediate containers follow the same rules as that of both the unit and exterior containers.