UID (Unique Identification): Basics for MIL SPEC 130 Compliance
MIL SPEC 130 explains a lot about the UID marking process. The UID marking process is a DoD initiative to enhance clarity, visibility, and traceability of military products. According to the U.S. Department of Defense each and every government asset needs to comply with MIL SPEC 130 item coding regulations.
Unique identification marking is internationally recognized. A UID-qualified item’s information is also encrypted inside high density, 2D barcodes. A part number, serial number, and manufacturer’s license code are just some of the information that is comprised to form unique identification for each item. Both UII and UID are guided and regulated by MIL SPEC 130. MIL SPEC 130 has provided the basic protocols and guidelines for UID compliance.
• MIL SPEC 130 explains the requirements and process for both machine readable information (MRI) and human readable information (HRI) on parts and products sold to the U.S. Government. MRI affiliated codes are efficient marking forms used for property management. An MRI affiliated data has to pass several compliance tests, right from the beginning of its manufacturing process to its final output. As such, MRI data has more authenticity than HRI data. Additionally, MIL SPEC 130 enumerates coding parameters for HRI data.
• UID coding system suffers from several limitations. MIL SPEC 130 requires unique identification codes or nameplates to follow rules on specific size, data type, content encryption technology, and so on. The product designer must provide details of label size, content, the application process, location, and details on materials usage and incorporate information within product definition data. As for contractual instruments, product designers have to point out the requirement of item marking and confirm that marking is done entirely following MIL SPEC 130 protocols.
• To comply with data encryption terms, an item designer must follow engineering documentation terminology as specified in section 3 and Appendix A. Section 3 of MIL STD 130 consists of all documentation terminology, while appendix A includes abbreviated forms of associated data.
• According to unique identification marking rules, 2D data matrix format is recommended. The 2D data matrix bar code format provides compacted manufacturing information within a high density bar code. This high density bar coding symbology should provide a unique and globally specific identification code.
The new MIL STD 130 imposes strict rules on the marking implementation process. The manufacturer or product designer must include a valid registration or certification by the DoD. The process of marking should go through complete data validation and verification processes. These processes should also meet standard compliance as provided in ISO: 15415 and AS9132.
To learn more regarding the UID label, visit the Web site of ID integration at www.id-integration.com.
About The Author-
ID-integration provides complete solutions for MIL SPEC 130 and UID labels related needs and can assist with complete UID policy in accordance with DFARS 252.211-7003.