Understanding UID Compliance and Verification
The unique identification system – also called UID marking – instrumentally helps the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to track physical assets and property which have been obtained by the department. The unique identification registration helps in smooth data management in the DoD’s efforts to keep track of items across the organization. It also serves to prevent piracy, duplicacy, misuse, and misplacement of commodities and valuables.
The entire process – from creating the UID, to marking equipment directly or affixing marked labels – is heavily regulated, with a number of rules that must be adhered to in order to remain in compliance. This assures better data management for the DoD, but can make the process more complex and difficult to manage for manufacturers struggling to keep up with the latest regulations.
The many regulations related to UID creation and marking are detailed in a protocol manual, referred to as MIL STD 130, created by the DoD. MIL STD 130 describes essential parameters for UID creation in order to maintain uniformity and integrity of the program. It also explains precisely which types of equipment are required to be marked, since not all military physical assets and items are subject to the unique identification program.
Before submitting UID data to the registry, it’s imperative to ensure that all MIL STD 130 standards have been met. The easiest way to do this is through the use of UID verification scanners, which scan an item’s unique “barcode” and test for compliance. Verification prior to submittal of items to the data registry ensures that manufacturers stay in compliance and good standing with the government, and don’t risk losing their contract due to repeated, unmet standards. The use of UID verification scanners ensure that the marking passes the error correction code (ECC) 200, that the 2D data matrix is Grade B, and confirms minimum print quality, among other things.
In order to comply with the standards, then, it’s recommended that all manufacturers purchase or lease a quality scanner or verifier. Alternatively, some companies provide verification services for use by manufacturers. Manufacturers can use these services to test their markings without investing in the cost of their own high-quality scanner, which can prove to be a significant cost savings. Verification is important in order to avoid non-compliance, which could result in rejection or termination.
To learn more about the advantages and functions of UID verification products and services, visit informational websites, like ID Integration Inc. at www.id-integration.com.
About The Author-
ID-integration provides complete solutions for MIL-STD-130 and UID verification related needs and can assist with complete UID policy in accordance with DFARS 252.211-7003.
Processing your request, Please wait....
