Complete UID Soultion News
Industrial Benefits of UID Labels
posted on 05/15/2012 04:08 AM
Particularly in the present difficult economic time, every industrial organization needs to make use of cost saving techniques in order to reduce their production expenses. One cost effective business strategy is to maximize utilization of the company’s existing assets, rather than purchasing additional equipment. In order to do this effectively, an accurate and efficient asset management process must be employed. This will facilitate ease of tracking assets, as well as their current location and function. To operate a successful and profitable business, it is crucial to know:
• Where the company assets are,
• How these assets are being utilized, and
• How they are being maintained.
Most industries have found a solution in UID labels. In fact, property identification through the use of unique identification labels is the primary solution employed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to track of government and industrial assets used throughout the department. Use of UID labels helps the DoD manage asset storage, location and transfers, and maintenance more efficiently. The process reduces wasted time that can occur due to inefficient processes, thereby saving tax-payer dollars.
The DoD requires UID labels to meet certain standards. MIL STD 130 details marking regulations put forth by the DoD. The strict guidelines are imposed on these labels to maintain uniformity across the program, and to maintain a minimum level of quality of formatting, style, printing, marking illumination, and so on. In addition to standards relating to the creation of labels, MIL STD 130 also specifies the way in which they’ll be read. For example, UID data must be electronically readable by special 2D scanners. Apart from the basic required information like EID codes, lot number or serial number, and a part identification number (PIN), MRI data contains item specification, expiration date and some prior labeling information. The labels are designed to withstand harsh environments and weathering - and are intended to last for the entire lifespan of a product. MIL STD 130 describes very specific marking methodologies and quality assurance procedures in order to ensure the quality and uniformity of these identification codes. The quality assurance process includes profile verification, data validation, and print quality checking. Quality assurance checks should be followed regardless of the method used for printing the labels – whether it be laser printing, chemical etching, dot peen, or ink jet.
ID Integration can help you create labels that comply with DOD standards. Visit www.uid2go.com to learn more about the services they provide.
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What are the approved methods for MIL-STD-130 Marking
posted on 05/11/2012 03:40 AM
Unique Identification (UID) is an initiative of the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide a recognizable marking code on every product it owns or distributes. MIL-STD-130 details specific marking criteria and identification methods of military properties belonging to the DoD.
Item Unique Identification (IUID) is a process that requires each of these DoD items to be tracked with a specific and unique identification code. The purpose is to track any one of these objects throughout the organization. This code can either be affixed to the item with a permanent label, or marked directly on the product’s body.
The code must be in 2-dimensional data matrix and text format. This bar code is a high density barcode symbol. The data included is a combination of a part number and/or a serial number, along with the manufacturer’s or enterprise’s identification code number. When this is globally unique and unambiguous identification data is put on an item, it is called as unique item identifier (UII).
IUID, UID, and UII name-plating is completely regulated by the DoD’s standards for unique identification compliance. According to the standard identification protocol, each identification code must follow the given instructions.
• According to the MIL-STD-130, the identification code can be put on a nameplate, or securely fastened on a tag, or directly engraved on the product’s body. In each case, the data must last throughout the life time of a product and must withstand the approved nvironmental and cleansing process that is recommended for that particular item.
• The identification data must ndergo thorough quality checking both for data content and the print quality. Through a validation process, the data content is read and tested by an automated barcode reader to verify the IDs compliance. All UIDs must meet each specific standard as recommended by MIL-STD-130, ISO15415, and AS9132.
• The contractor or supplier of labels and tags must have a egistered number for each contract. The data is input into a UID registry database, which is the standardized data capture mechanism used to transmit data from the contractor into the DoD’s unique code register. The registry will maintain records for each item, including its actual owner and initial worth.
UID2GO.com is a manufacturer and printer of UID nameplates and labels, and is well versed in the steps required to remain in compliance with the program. To learn more about the services they provide, visit www.uid2go.com.
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Changed MIL-STD 130 Specifications Facts You Need to Know
posted on 05/10/2012 02:32 AM
The military standard 130 regarding the unique identification code has undergone several revisions. The new UID, MIL-STD 130 specification document refers to quality standards for unique identification codes and the encoding process to be applied during UID marking.
• According to MIL-STD 130 change 1, ISO -16022 is no longer the recommended print quality for bar codes. The new version includes the ISO/IEC 15415 standard as the approved print quality for unique identification code labels. In addition, code 128 is referred to as a symbol to be ranked according to ISO-15416 specifications. It requires a ‘B’ grade as a minimum passing category.
• The changed version of the MIL-STD 130 specification document emphasizes the use of ISO-15415 on print labels. It recommends the use of a single scan to obtain the overall grade. According to the new standard, symbol contrast, and modulation grading parameters are allowed to drop to a ‘C’ grade. Exceptions were added to do this. In addition, the ‘B’ grade is determined as the minimum grade for all other parameters. Change has been made regarding the use of a 2D data matrix symbol. For instance, the range of nominal x-dimension the data matrix symbol gets changes from 7.5 mil to 25 mil. In addition, a set of new rules has been applied to the linear bar code verification. The rules specify ‘B’ as a minimum grade. The process must go with a test aperture of 5 mil and a light source of 660 nm, per ISO-15416 quality specification.
• The updated UID specifications emphasize new rules for Dot Peen, Laser, and Chemical Etched codes. This new version allows AIM-DPM-2006 quality standards for identification codes. ’C’ has been named the minimum grade with no exceptions. As for illumination, the new version permits using multiple angles. Low angle illumination requires 30 degree lighting from four sides, any of the two sides, or any of the single sides.
• ISO 15415 is recommended as the accepted standard for Dot Peen, laser or Chemical Etched codes. As for lighting wavelength, there is a change from 660 nm +/-10 nm to 640 nm +/- 20 nm.
• The new MIL-STD 130 N allows the APM-DPM specification for all marking processes. It allows diffused or off-axis illumination as a light source. Another important addition is the curved surface rule. It requires the data matrix code to contain a maximum 32 percent of the radius.
Keeping up with the changes to the UID specifications can be difficult. To ensure your products comply with the standards, you may wish to enlist the help of a service provider like www.uid2go.com, who will ensure your nameplates and labels meet the latest standards.
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Interesting New Facts About UID
posted on 02/22/2012 12:38 AM
UID refers to the concept of item-unique identification. UID is most often involved in the integrated process of securing production and manufacturing data to items exclusively belonging to the government of the United States of America. This system came into effect as a security measure to help authorities store all relevant information on the whereabouts of government assets. All the specifications; compliance standards, UID marking procedures, and registry application details are well documented in the MIL STD 130 manual.
MIL STD 130 describes all measures that qualify a product to be a UID compliant. Specifically in its several clauses, sub-clauses, and articles MIL STD 130 has explained the procedure of UID marking, the role and involvement of the manufacturer, the use of materials and machines, the maintenance services, and more. MIL STD 130 clearly states that if a manufacturer fails to comply with the regulations established by Department of Defense (DoD) then their production contract may become void. To get the sanction for UID the contractors have to await approval from higher authorities.
As UID labels are used in tracking government assets and property, it is undesirable that the codes become illegible through their use in the field. So, there are more MIL STD 130 guidelines that specify how the markings of these UID labels are to be made permanent. MIL STD 130 categorically contains a section on the types of marking technologies to be used to create compliant and durable UID tags. Today, the most common choices for UID marking include; laser printing, thermal transfer systems, dot peen programmable stylus marking, and chemical etching, just to name a few. These are permanent solutions to UID durability.
Also MIL SPEC 130 lays out full details on the information that must be included within the number plate or part marking. These include some basics such as: The manufacturer’s license, date of manufacture, expiry date, item type, item production number, item serial number, and more. All information is also printed in bar code format to meet compliance of the automated processes throughout MIL STD 130 requirements and for improved security. The main function of a UID scanner as MIL STD 130 explains is to read this bar coded data and collect it for further analysis.
UID marking will continue to be a stringent requirement for all businesses working with the U.S. government. In fact, today, the use of identification marking and tracking systems has become of vital importance throughout consumer-based industry as well. These identification marks make it possible for companies to track and recall specific lots of manufactured product for enhanced safety to end-customers. Learn more about MIL STD 130 and UID marking by visiting UID2Go.com.
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Facts to Know About MIL-STD-130 Approved Methods for MIL-STD-130 Marking
posted on 02/22/2012 12:38 AM
MIL STD 130 contains certain regulatory clauses in regards to UID markings of compliances. UID or Unique Identification marking system is a mandatory set of specifications dictated by the U.S. Department of Defense. The mandate provides guidelines for product compliance procedures, credit rules for manufacturers, and contractors working with the government; including qualification standards and storage systems in order to prevent misuse, misplacement, and mismanagement of valuable items.
The UID markings, however, are not essential for all items. MIL STD 130 has laid down the essential criteria that will qualify an article to have UID label. It also specifies other guidelines on data to include on the UID label; including manufacturing details, item production number, unique serial number, substrate type, marking procedures, and more. Most compliant UID lables also include bar coded information as well. Today, manufacturers and contractors must read and record data in 2D matrix codes. MIL STD 130 also contains specifications on the types of scanners that a manufacturer should use for full compliance.
MIL STD 130 primarily requires an UID labeled article to undergo permanent marking. The UID labels being exclusively unique from one another require good marking in order to last a lifetime. MIL STD 130 refers to labeling technologies which include RFID, Thermal Transfer, and Laser marking systems, dot peen programmable indent stylus markers, chemical etching, and other technologies. These UID labels are often then subjected to a scanner which can read 2D data Matrix barcode for verification purposes.
MIL STD 130 also specifies how uniformity of UID marking is to be maintained while shipping products. As per MIL STD 130 all articles should bear easy identification markings before shipment. According to mandates of MIL STD 130, shipping vehicles transporting military goods are catalogued into units, with intermediate and exterior containers. However each container should be able to furnish some fundamental information or data; like the stock number, item number, and product code.
The importance of marking durability for UID labeling is of vital importance. If the identification marks are not properly executed or then there is a chance that the item will be rejected against the contract. So, it falls entirely on the manufacturer to verify and ensure compliance measures prior product launch. A beginner can refer to MIL STD 130 regulations to learn more on the dos and don’ts when applying for UID registry.
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Where to Get a Head Start on a Good UID Education
posted on 12/21/2011 12:57 AM
There are numerous resources available on the Internet, today, and those pertaining to UID and MIL-STD-130 are abundant. However, there are some providers that have worked hard to make helpful and informative resources available to anyone seeking MIL-STD-130 compliance currently. One such company is Jet City Laser, Inc. Visit their informative Web site at, www.uid2go.com, and view a wide range of useful details regarding just about every aspect of modern UID applications.
As far as specifications go, it’s important to seek out the actual MIL-STD-130 guidelines as mandated by the U.S. Department of Defense. Jet City Laser has made this very easy and posts links to many of these important documents. Additionally, they have a complete section of their Web site that features topics for furthering your UID education.
The “What’s New” section will provide excellent detail on many of the technological advancements that have happened in regards to UID equipment; including scanners, marking nameplates, and other relevant innovations. Review the headlines on this page for breaking news within this industry. Browse their project gallery for interesting excerpts of challenging applications for a wide range of corporations; including the American Basketball League. It’s easy to select various pictures of marks on a wide range of substrates by using the navigation pane on the left-hand margin of the page.
No matter how challenging the application the experts at Jet City Laser, Inc. have the experience and knowledge to help you develop a fully compliant MIL-STD-130 solution for your production. In fact, they have been leading pioneers in 2-D bar code technology, along with ID Integration, Inc., since 1994. Now, they are held as the authority in production of two-dimensional bar coded and compliant data for a wide range of specifications. These include; ISO 9001:2008 and AS9100B quality certifications, as well as the Air Transport Association's SPEC 2000 labels, and all MIL-STD-130 applications.
Get a head start on your UID education today, by spending some time browsing the site of these innovative experts for Military Spec applications. They are a trusted provider of a wide range of identification and verification solutions in some of the world’s toughest industries. Contact them today, for more information. Experience the difference that 100% quality control can bring to your bottom line and start learning more from the seasoned professionals at Jet City Laser, Inc. today.
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Some Tips When Considering MIL-STD-130 Marking Methods
posted on 12/21/2011 12:51 AM
Today, there are many choices for exceptional and high performance MIL-STD-130 marking. Full details on each approved method may be found within the most current version of MIL-STD-130 guidelines. For this article, we will learn some of the basics. Most MIL-STD-130 marking solutions are categorized according to technology. For example, there are laser marking systems as well as inkjet printers for in-line marking. Additionally, there are also programmable indent markers, contact printers, and a wide range of tag printing-and-apply systems.
Making the decision on the best MIL-STD-130 marking method for your company’s production is a difficult decision, indeed. There are many factors to consider and most begin with the substrate material of the part, itself. Many professionals recommend sample marking as the perfect starting point. Many manufacturers and distributors of leading-edge marking solutions have the ability to provide sample marks that are representative of what you might truly expect.
These sample marking processes, enable a manufacturer to see exactly how the desired mark will look, in a variety of marking technologies, for a better comparison. The best MIL-STD-130 sample marking departments will be able to not only provide generic sample prints, but reproduce the customer’s required mark and at a true simulation of line speeds, if the marking solution is to be fully integrated and automated throughout a plant’s production processes.
It is also important that companies not make the mistake of assuming that the current inkjet technology won’t produce permanent marks. This is not true. Today, there are numerous ink manufacturers with the ability to custom formulate special inks for unique applications. Laser marking has gained popularity in recent years and offers considerable savings in terms of consumables and energy. Now, it’s possible for MIL-STD-130 marking systems to achieve direct-to-part marking on a number of hard substrates; including metals.
If you’re currently considering which MIL-STD-130 compliant marking system will work best for your company, then take the time to investigate the many marking methods available. Starting out, request sample marking so that you can see how well different methods work for your application. Remember to consider the efficiencies and cost savings in the more modern marking methods; like laser marking and even inkjet printing. For expert assistance, visit www.uid2go.com home of Jet City Laser, Inc. Don’t navigate MIL-STD-130 alone; instead find the integrators you can partner with for a reliable and productive UID solution. Visit them online for complete UID education resources, samples gallery, and so much more.
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posted on 10/09/2011 11:49 PM
Unique Identification, or UID, is a requirement of the United States Department of Defense (DoD). This requirement is part of a bigger UID compliance process, whereby government property is identified, registered, and tracked through a unique identification number. Through the use of 2D data matrix bar codes and other identification methods, all marked parts are scanned and tracked through a series of procedures. This helps the DoD to better maintain the condition, safety, and maintenance of every asset in use today.
Every business that supplies materials to the U.S. government is required to comply with these enforced UID procedures. Current DoD standards are detailed in the MIL SPEC 129 and MIL STD 130 guidelines. MIL SPEC 129 specifications have been developed to streamline the shipping and transportation processes associated with various military shipments as well as stored goods. The UID label is a key component of this process and as part of MIL SPEC 129 also requires a specific nomenclature and manufacturing details to be provided.
Compliant UID marking is a requirement for successful business with the U.S. government today. There are many options available to enable each manufacturer to choose a solution that fits their production process best.
The first step of the UID compliance process is marking or printing according to the standards of MIL SPEC 129 and MIL STD 130. Next steps involve using the proper syntax and formatting. Scanning and tracking in order to check accuracy ensures proper registration of UID assets. Finally the identification process reaches an analysis and reporting phase, where UID data is submitted to various databases for thorough analysis.
Determining the best solution for UID compliance is a challenging process. Mistakes are costly and can even result in the loss of profitable contracts. If you’re searching for solutions to meet MIL SPEC 129 guidelines, then rely on the experts at Jet City Laser, Inc.
Jet City Laser, Inc is an experienced and diverse systems integrator of industrial identification solutions. ID integration provides both hardware and software solutions; while offering unbiased choices to customers for the best performance UID compliance.
This experienced integrator possesses a wide range of experience fielding MIL SPEC 129 applications and has extensive knowledge of today’s UID requirements. With their support for integrated marking systems, as well as most leading verification, scanning, and database interfacing tools for complete identification solutions, this company offers an unparalleled expertise in Department of Defense marking solutions.
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Best Protocols for UID Verification System
posted on 10/09/2011 11:49 PM
A UID verification system is often involved in the process of identifying articles, items, assets, and property exclusively belonging to the U.S. military. The need for such a process was generated in 2003 and is currently mandated by the U.S. Department of Defense in its guideline documentation known as MIL STD 130.
There are specific guidelines for a compliant UID verification system. For full details, those with government contracts should consult the details of all MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129 for UID marking requirements. The implementation of an effective UID verification system means that better quality testing can improve the surety that manufactured product will remain compliant with these DoD specifications. Generally before contracts are even handed out, participating manufacturers must agree to stringent terms and conditions. The use of a reliable UID verification system helps to ensure this is done.
In MIL STD 130, there are a number of specifications for UID. Here are some key elements of these guidelines:
• Every product or part that is sold to the government, or military, must possess a UID tag or label. In some instances, this information may also be directly marked onto the part.
• The furnished UID label must remain legible and durable for the complete lifetime of a product or part. If the part expires through regular maintenance intervals, then the UID marking must remain legible through this cycle-time.
• The UID label must contain specific information and be presented according to the nomenclature detailed in MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129 guidelines.
• The use of a UID verification system can reduce rejection rates for non-compliant parts.
Fundamentally a UID verification system helps to close the quality control gap in so many MIL STD 130 applications. Today’s advanced UID verification system is programmed to grade the UID label for legibility and compliance. Implementing such a fail-safe is highly recommended when dealing with government projects.
These MIL STD 130 specifications also provide guidance in recommended substrate materials for labeling or tagging as well as compliant scanning devices, marking technologies, inks and other consumables as well as well-respected UID verification system options.
Visit the experts at Jet City Laser to learn more about how a UID verification system may help you to meet Department of Defense specifications at www.uid2go.com. With everything from UID marking equipment to scanners and even cutting-edge RFID solutions, Jet City Laser offers a wide range of products to meet the most stringent application challenges.
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Facts to Know About UID Data Matrix Verifiers
posted on 07/25/2011 02:01 AM
The Unique Identification process (UID) is a U.S. Government initiated system, which states that the Department of Defense (DoD) is required to validate their assets, hardware, properties, and other possessions by codifying them in order to maintain a record of all manufactured, stored, and exported items. This program was instituted to secure the items from being misplaced or stolen by antisocial elements. The process was introduced as a centralized identification system of both domestic and internationally circulating products. One important criterion regarding the coding is that all items are secured by a permanent marking system. The identity code can either be a number or can be in a binary format. What is interesting is that all the records are data-fed. This means that in order to read and verify the information about the item or article, one has to place it under a 2D-matrix readable scanner, more commonly called UID data matrix verifiers.
How do the UID data matrix verifiers work?
The main function of UID verifiers is to read the label of the item that contains different codes pertaining to the item’s type, price, sub-category, manufacturer’s identity code, and the serial number of that particular item (which is unique in the case of each and every item). Apart from identity inspection of the specific article, UID data matrix verifiers also perform other functions that are required to render an object encoded. Quality control of the manufactured items is another important function of UID data matrix verifiers. Until and unless the items have been properly encoded, they cannot be presented to UID data matrix verifiers for quality check.
However, for the UID data matrix verifiers to be able to read the codes properly, meticulous attention must be paid to accurate numbering, legible labels, and proper positioning of the identity coding. If the marking is not properly performed, UID data scanners won’t be able to read information correctly. Such a failure would, of course, be a cause of concern with respect to the contract between the manufacturer and the Department of Defense.
By implementing the use of a UID data matrix verifier in-house, a manufacturer can rest assured that their identification is within compliance and fully legible. This will also help to resolve any problems with an application before a company is trying to make amends with the DoD for poor UID marking.
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