UID marking acts as a universal method of parts identification program. The Department of Defense has implemented this marking method to keep track of Govt. furnished items.

Unique identification or UID marking is a US Department of Defense (DoD)’s initiative program to keep track of all government furnished tangible assets through their useful life. For all solicitations issued on or after Jan. 1, 2005, UID marking is a mandatory DoD requirement. Today, UID marking has become a business-critical operation for all DoD contractors. This identification marking is globally unique and unambiguous, and ensures data integrity and data quality throughout life of the items. UID marking also supports multi-faceted business applications.

Starting from acquisition, deployment to the repair phase; UID marking helps achieving higher state of operational readiness. As it’s easy to keep track of all the defense related items, forgery and counterfeiting of parts can also be stopped. Thus not only logistics support, UID marking are helpful for better operational planning and system engineering.

Today, many industries, such as Automotive, Aerospace, and Electronics, have already implemented UID marking on their items and parts.

UID marking requirements:
As per the DoD policy, those items, whose

UID marking options:
Many contractors prefer to outsource their UID marking to subcontractors to facilitate the marking process. Outsourcing is a good short-term solution but for those contractors who supply the DoD very infrequently. But in-house compliance systems can bring UID marking operations in house and can be a cost-effective solution for those contractors who are required to submit to the DoD quite often.

In-house printing is the best long-term UID marking solution. Let’s have a brief analysis of various in-house UID marking methods available.

Label printing
This is one of the most common UID marking methods used by DoD suppliers. A permanent adhesive label is required to be affixed onto the items in this method. Direct-thermal and thermal-transfer on-demand printing methodology is used for mission-critical bar code labeling applications.

Advantages:

Offers cost-effective in-house marking option.
Can withstand temperatures up to 600° F.

Limitations:
The only limitation is this marking option is limited by capabilities of label media.

Direct part marking:
One of the most popular marking methodologies, this UID marking process involves stamping or etching symbols directly on the items. The marking process depends a lot on the structural tolerance and composition of the item.

Advantages:
Durability.
Effective use of the limited space area.
Can withstand extreme environmental conditions.

Limitations:
The marking process is extremely slow.
A bit expensive.
If applied incorrectly or is unreadable, the whole info about the item can go for a waste.

Data plates:
This form of UID marking isn’t used much frequently as expensive equipments are required to create the data plates. But these data plates can be useful for environments where adhesive can’t withstand the tough conditions.

Advantages:
Data plates are available in a variety of plastics and metals.
Durable and can withstand chemicals and other hazards.

Limitations:
Quite expensive.

Unique identification or UID is a universally applied method for parts marking. The DoD has mandated this method so as to keep track of Govt. furnished assets.

What’s UID?

UID is a part of DoD’s serialization tracking programs (SNTs). For all Government furnished tangible assets, Unique Identification or UID for each item is a must as per The Department of Defense (DoD) mandate. UID nameplates, UID labels, and UID tags are a must for items to be UID compliant. Also they need to withstand the rough climatic condition. The DoD devised this UID program to keep track of all info about defense related and embedded items. Starting from acquisition, repair, and to deployment, the DoD can easily trace any info about military items in much easier and faster way through this UID program.

To meet the UID registration standards, the Department of Defense has clearly mentioned which items are eligible to be UID compliant. Those items whose

• Unit acquisition cost is $5,000 or more
• Is serially managed, is mission essential or is a controlled inventory
• the item is a DoD mandated serially managed embedded item
• Designated by the Program office for permanent identification, are required to be marked by UID.

Stainless steel, Polyester, aluminum and laser marked Tessa tapes are most commonly used for UID labels. Some of the popular types of UID labels are Metal bar code UID labels, Polyester bar code UID labels, Foil bar code UID labels and Ceramic-Steel UID nameplates. These types of labels offer robustness and last for a long duration. Now many online stores even offer customized UID Tags and Labels. It doesn’t matter, what materials are used for UID labels, but they must meet the MIL STD 130 code standards.

All the product info such as serialized item number, part number, CAGE Code, manufacturing details are to be written in a 2dimensional data matrix code. As per a recently added clause, an additional batch or log number of the product is also required to be added in the 2D-datamatrix code.

UID registry submission process

It is essential that all the government as well as commercial manufacturers should register with Central Contractor Registration system (CRR) before they apply for registering with the UID registry. For Government Contractors or government employees, the DoD Program Manager facilitates special login access rights to the UID registry. All other users are required to register themselves. They can access the Controlled Access portion of the UID Registry only after they get login credentials from the UID registry.

There are certain things which the contractors should take care of while submitting to the UID registry. Item description should also be included along with the serialized item number, part number, and log or batch number. Initial acquisition info and any major modification info should also be mentioned clearly. Detailed shipment and delivery info about the acquisition of item should also be included in the list of submitted data. Contractor custody info and acceptance data should also be present in the accountability section of the info.

The Department of Defense now facilitated UID data submission via wide area workflow (WAWF). This technologically advanced and paperless mode of data submission to the UID registry is easy to approach. The UID registry is updated

automatically each time the data is submitted through WAWF. Contractors can not only transmit data electronically, they can acquire contract receipt too this WAWF. WAWF has made UID data submission process comparatively faster.

Laser marking is a type of Direct Part marking of products. This highly advanced marking method is used as a dynamic, highly adaptable process for high-speed character, graphic, logo, bar code and 2D Data Matrix marking. The laser marking method not only makes the marking permanent and highly readable but also discourages tampering. The Department of Defense (DoD) has mandated the use of laser marking for 2dimensional Data Matrix Symbols as per the MIL-STD 130M standard. As per a 1992 estimate, the DoD lost nearly $2 billion in inventory for improper marking method.

Laser marking is considered to be one of the most efficient marking methods that are used for marking identification number onto products. Apart from military equipment industries, several other industry groups including ISO9000 standard groups have made permanent part identification and Direct Part Marketing (DPM) compulsory to improve the traceability of their items. Laser marking improves the accuracy of inventory, decrease inventory management costs by reducing the workforce burden and enhance the efficiency and productivity by better product traceability.

Laser Marking Process

Laser marking provides an excellent method in counterfeit & forgery prevention, product tracking & identification. The materials used for Laser marking are usually lead and cadmium free and hence are environmentally friendly. The water based solutions are contact free & tamper proof and hence can withstand to abrading, scuffing & corrosion.  The process involves a highly concentrated energy from a very parallel beam of light being focused to a microscopic spot to create a variety of images. This laser marking can be very fast with up to 1000 characters per second. Better legibility of the laser marking through a color contrast between the mark and the base material.

Different types of markers are used for laser marking. Some commonly used laser markers are Diode-pumped lasers, Lamp pumped lasers, Fiber laser, Deep engravers and CO₂ lasers. One great advantage of laser marking over traditional marking is that laser marking can be done virtually on all types of metals, woods and even glass and plastic surfaces. Earlier there was a problem in marking for plastic surface items. But thanks to laser marking, now marking and engraving can be done even the surface of plastic items. Besides that, laser marking can also be done on aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, rubber, ceramics, wood and paper products.

Benefits of laser marking

• Highest Speed, Highest Contrast Marking for making Class A readable codes on all materials including bare and coated metals, ceramics, composites, plastics, pc boards and more. Marking can be done even on rough metal castings to smooth highly polished surfaces.

• Smallest to Largest 2D Matrix Codes can be marked with laser marking. It the most Flexible 2D Matrix making method used in the military industries.

• Laser marking is used for all combinations of 2D Matrix Codes as per UID compliant, MIL compliant, ECC200, etc.

• Laser marking has parameters such as “cell creation” and cell “fill” to adjust the properties and thereby assuring proper readability on all materials and surfaces.

Introduction

Tesa secure offers a cutting-edge alternative to conventional coding, and marking methods. The surface of Tesa secure is suitable for unique identification (UID) marking. Tesa tapes are one of the most frequently used materials for packaging of extensively shipment items. Even on difficult surfaces, these tapes offer high shear, age resistance thus ensuring safety and durability during storage and transit of items. Tesa tapes are robust, sturdy and are easy to handle. 

Before getting more into Tesa Secure 6973 PV 3 laser labels, let’s have a brief overview about different categories of Tesa tapes available.  

Tesa Packaging Tapes 

Carton Sealing Tapes, TPP Tapes, Filament Tapes and Tear Tapes are some varieties of Tessa Packaging tapes. They are used for sealing, palletizing and better surface protection.  

Tesa Auxiliary Tapes 

Tesa Auxiliary Tapes have a wide range of usability. Paper bandoliering tapes, polyethylene/cloth based Duct tapes and transparent cellophane tapes are included under this variety.  

Tesa Masking Tapes  

This type of Tesa tapes are used for general purpose as well as for high-temperature applications. Due to their high durability, these types of tapes are frequently used in used in metal finishing, transportation, and furniture manufacturing industries.  
 
 Tesa Fastening Tapes

Tesa Fastening Tapes are used for temporary fastening, splicing, platemounting and permanent bonding. They are very cost-effective and reliable.  

Reason of Tesa Secure laser labels durability  

As these Tesa Secure laser are processed on low power laser markers in both CO2 and Nd:Yag wavelengths, they can withstand harsh chemicals and extreme climatic conditions. They have exceptional adhesion qualities. In addition to these, an advanced standard tamper evident design has been incorporated which prevents the label from being removed in one piece once it is applied. To resist counterfeiting or forgery, features such as embossed logos and microscripting has been introduced which provide advanced security. Unlike some other nameplate materials, these laser labels are quite inexpensive. The Tesa Secure laser labels are free of heavy metals such as asbestos and formaldehyde and thus are safe to use. Also there is organic solvents remain in these laser labels. The temperature resistant adhesive used in these labels doesn’t contain any harmful acid and are safe to use. As compared to other nameplates, these laser labels are quite durable for long lasting use.  

Benefits of Tesa secure  

Temperature resistant 

The Laser-engraveable Tesa secure is temperature resistant. They can withstand a temperature fluctuation from -50°C to +200°C or -58°F to +392°F.   

Chemical resistant

Tesa Secure laser labels resistant to abrasion, oils, grease and many other chemicals. They are even tamper evident.  

Easily applied  

These laser labels can be applied easily. No rivets or screws are needed for applying onto the metal surfaces.  

Available in customized size

Tesa Secure laser labels can be customized to any shape and size. They are also available in different colors such as black, white and silver. They can be engraved and die-cut in one easy step using Nd:YAG or CO2.  

Economic price

Tesa Secure laser labels are durable and also very economical. They offer easy peel and stick application and hence are flexible to handle.  

What is inkjet part marking?

Inkjet part marking is a type of direct product marking (DPM) technologies. Direct part marking is a 2-dimensional barcode which gives lifetime traceability for components. These codes might look very small but it contains all the vital information about a product. As the codes are machine readable, any possible human error is removed. Even though so many direct part marking methods available, the inkjet part marking technique is largely used in the aerospace, electronics, automotive, lumber, home building products, food, medical and packaging industries. As compared to some other means of park marking, inkjet part marking provides better resistant for long duration. This marking produces the best quality marks possible on most building products.

For better part traceability; permanent standard barcodes, serial numbers and 2D barcode of any specific product is imprinted by the high quality inkjet part marking technique. The ink used in this of part marking is of very high quality is durable to high temperatures, water and chemical solvents. The printing is suitable for any kind of surface be it plastics, metals or glass. This part marking technique is safe to use as the process does not penetrate on the surface of the material. Hence there is no chance of damage of the material.

However with the Industrial manufacturing requirements for indelible direct part marking containing machine vision codes are growing exponentially another advanced technology based technique, laser marking method is gaining popularity these days over the conventional inkjet part marking method.

Laser marking and its advantage

As per the UID compliance norms, the tracking of every defense related product starting from day of its manufacturing until its entire life is enabled by the direct part marking process. There are many factors which contribute to the use of direct part marking. They are highlighted as follows.

• The increasing requirements for component traceability and product unique identification (UID)
• The favorable economics of high-performance, lightweight engineering plastics parts replacing traditionally more expensive metal parts
• The indelible, high-resolution alphanumeric and machine vision codes which the direct part marking produces

The latest laser marking process is the digital process technology used for part marking. Laser marking is ideal for products especially 3D plastic products as the process yields high-contrast indelible markings and does not require consumables or curing, thus making it less expensive. This method of marking is also very useful for micro-marking when there is limited surface area on a product. Alphanumeric, logos, or schematic diagrams; all can be printed even in the smallest size machine vision codes. The inkjet part marking (those done with Non-indelible inkjet) can’t achieve fine-line edge resolution, which is essential for machine vision, especially on small parts. As per the UID mandate, all items are required to be 100% human or machine readable irrespective of the size and complexity details of the actual marking. This is where laser marking has an advantage over the inkjet part marking.

Apart from the DoD military requirements, manufacturers of many commercial industrial products ranging from automotive, pharmaceutical, and packaging to electronic and consumer goods now aggressively into implementing this latest form of marking method.

Item Unique Identification (IUID) process is must for UID registry which is accomplished by UID labels and asset tags. The Department of Defense (DoD) has mandated the use of UID labels in all Government furnished property. As per the UID policy, all UIDs are to be reported to the DoD by submitting the data to the UID Registry. Recently the DoD has come up with software solution for this submission process. Now any new procurement of end item deliverables can be submitted at the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) web site, by clicking the UID tab and entering the appropriate information. Contractors can do data submission by inputting UID data into their current WAWF data entry process.

However for a successful submission, accuracy is crucial. Hence it is necessary to enter correct data elements such as the issuing agency code (IAC), concatenated human readable UID also called the UII, and the construct type such as construct #1 or construct #2. The concatenated human readable UID is the alphanumeric string of characters that is extracted from the bar code by scanning to decoding software.

Steps for UID Submission

There are several options of submitting data to the UID registry. One prominent option is to reformat the data in an XML transmission. The process involves the following steps.

Review the UID Registry schema

Make sure you are in the most up-to-date version (currently 3) of the UID Registry schema. There are certain changes such as embedded data and custody data in support of GFP present in the latest version. Before converting the file to XML, ensure that your external file from your property management database matches the elements required by the UID Registry.

Adjust to meet specific data format obligations 

Change the XML format to meet precise data format obligations. Usually it takes a longer period of time since a back and forth process with the UID Registry maintenance team is required. Another important aspect before submitting is to organize the data from specific property database. Depending upon your product, you should properly export the data to a separate file for manipulation.

Perform a submission directly to UID Test Registry

Once your data is formatted into a transferable XML document, you can submit the XML file directly to the UID Production Registry. At first the test registry at the UID needs to approve your data. Once it is done, you can directly send the file to a GEX certified VAN provider who make sure the XML file makes it to the UID Registry FTP servers.

Check the UID Registry web site

Usually it takes a day for your UID to be UID compliant and available on the UID Registry web site. So check the UID Registry web site only after a day of submitting to your VAN provider.

To ensure better understanding about the UID policy, the Department of defense has designed several UID Forums. These forums help both military personnel and DoD suppliers to understand the UID Policy compliance as per the DoD Memoranda and the issuance of the Final UID DFARS Rule.

Unique Identification of Items, or UID, introduced by the Department of Defense (DoD) acts as a common key for data-sharing and communication between suppliers and customers by improving the tracking efficiency method of items in a serialized way.  UID is a 2-D data matrix symbol with data scanned and translated into CAGE Code, Serial Number, and Part Number. Of these, CAGE codes play a significant role in the government contracts especially when registering in the UID registry.

What is CAGE Code?

CAGE Code or Commercial and Government Entity Code is a five-character ID number to identify the government contractors. Apart from the Department of Defense, these CAGE codes are used in DoT (Department of Transportation), NASA, and several other federal government agencies.

Those who want to apply for a CAGE code for their items needs to obtain a DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number before applying for DoD's Central Contractor Registration. The Federal government adds all contractors who achieve CAGE Codes in its distinguished panel.

Benefits of CAGE Codes:

• Chance to be added on the distinguished panel contractors of the Federal government list

• Help contractors submit for government bids and proposals

• Sign up for buyer-vendor matching services and spot potential buyers for itemized Products

CAGE codes are mandatory for all items that are to be submitted to the Government. After ensuring the proper coding, the next phase is to ensure proper packaging of the items so that they can endure extreme conditions. For packaging extensively shipment items, Tesa tapes have been highly recommended. Items packaged properly with Tesa tapes ensure their safety and durability during storage and transit. These Tesa Tapes offer high shear, age resistance even on difficult surfaces. Moreover they are easy to handle, robust and sturdy. Packaging with Tesa tapes are considered the suitable options for consistent opening envelopes and cardboard boxes. There are different types of Tesa tapes available.

Categories of Tesa tapes:

Tesa Fastening Tapes

 This type of Tesa tapes is reliable as well as cost-effective for temporary fastening, splicing, platemounting and permanent bonding.

Tesa Auxiliary Tapes

This type of Tesa tapes are used for a full spectrum of applications. Polyethylene/cloth based Duct tapes and Specialty Tapes which include transparent cellophane tapes, paper bandoliering tapes.

Tesa Masking Tapes

This type of Tesa tapes are extensively used in transportation, metal finishing and furniture manufacturing industries. There are General Purpose tapes, Fine Line and Temperature-Resistant Tapes available for superior cornering and high-temperature applications.

Tesa Packaging Tapes

For better surface protection, palletizing and sealing, a variety of Tesa Packaging tapes are used. They are TPP Tapes, Carton Sealing Tapes, Tear Tapes and Filament Tapes.

Important facts about Tesa tapes

• The Tesa tapes are safe to use. The adhesive material doesn’t contain any harmful acid which can be injurious for the health.

• There is no organic solvents remain in the Tesa tapes

• The tapes are free of heavy metals, asbestos and formaldehyde.

• The tapes are endurable even in extreme temperature and hence are safer to use.

What is DoD MIL Specs?

MIL Specs (also known as MIL-STD) are a set of military standards used by the U.S. Department of Defense to help achieve standardization objectives. MIL Specs are generally mandated to ensure that defense items meet specific commonality requirements, total cost of ownership, consistency, compatibility with logistics systems, and similar defense-related objectives. In 1994, the US Govt. had reduced the use of DoD MIL Specs for some time in favor of commercial standards such as Q9000. However, after 1995, a significant growth has been observed in the use of DoD Mil Specs especially after the DoD MIL Specs standard was revised to be used by non-defense Government and technical organizations. Hence, now other non-military organizations can also use the detailed DoD MIL Specs starting from design to manufacturing, and quality control to maintenance stages both for military as well as non-military-related products.

Today the detailed DoD MIL Specs are available on many website as free downloadable versions. Usually on official government websites the DoD MIL Specs are freely downloadable only if public distribution is permitted. However, proprietary standards developed by non-government organizations are required to be purchased.

What is MIL-STD-129?

Of all the DoD MIL Specs standards, the MIL-STD-129 is one of the most fundamental military standards required for uniform military products marking for shipment and storage. All military equipments and ammunitions supplied through shipments are mandated to be marked by a MIL-STD-129 standard compliant process. Separate instructions are specified for tagging, marking and labeling.

The DoD updates the MIL Specs standards on a timely basis. For instance, certain discrepancy was lately observed in the MIL-STD-129 standard. The marking system was not proper as a result of which there was a problem for shipments at Consolidation and Containerization Points. Hence, an updated MIL-STD-129 with revision P was introduced on January 16, 2006. This subsequent standard suggested to access DoD MIL Specs preferably from a Govt. website where comparison and catalogue necessary to determine the updated MIL Specs are available.

As per the MIL-STD-129 standard, the requirement varies for different types of shipment containers.

Criteria for Unit Containers:

Shelf life markings are a must for deteriorative items as per the MIL-STD-129 standard. Apart from informing about the start of self life, the Markings give indication about the date an item that needs to be tested or disposed of. A National Stock Number (NSN) barcode is a must for unit containers. Other than that, part number, item description, date of preservation, quantity, contract number, unit of issue, and method of preservation code details are also mandated to be listed in plain textual format. A Serial Number should be assigned by the manufacturer or the Government for identification or control and should be assigned in clear barcode format.

Criteria for Intermediate Containers:

The standard for Intermediate Containers is similar to the unit containers except the minor changes in serial number section. If the serial-numbered items are more than five, the rules of exterior containers are applicable for intermediate containers.

Criteria for Exterior Containers:

Even as the basic labeling format is same as the unit containers, per the DoD MIL Specs, there are certain exceptions. One such exception is that the item description marking is not required here. And the CAGE Code, Contract Number and NSN are mandated to be in bar-coded format.

What is Item Unique Identification (IUID)?

The Item Unique Identification (IUID) system plays a critical role in the identification and classification of items that are to be submitted to the Department of Defense (DoD). Treated as a universal method of parts identification by the DoD, the IUID helps in locating, controlling and valuing all the defense related qualifying assets. IUID requirements criteria are now integrated in the DoD financial improvement and audit readiness plans.

As per the UID Compliance norms, the IUID of items is mandated to be marked with a non erasable 2-dimensional data matrix for each qualifying item. A globally unique and unambiguous Unique Item Identifier (UII) is constructed to be encoded in the IUID data matrix. As the IUID marking is machine-readable, there is minimal chance of human error. The acquisition records and inventory is also improved. Apart from easy identification of items as per the UID Compliance setting, the IUID marking also helps accelerate the receipt and acceptance process, thereby making it easy for the DoD to submit payment to its vendors at appropriate time without making any further delay. The UID compliance has mandated all defense items to be registered with the IUID registry.

Criteria for submitting in the IUID Registry:

• Before registering with the IUID Registry, All the government manufacturing activities as well as commercial manufacturers are mandated to be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system.

• All users are required to register themselves to have login credential access rights of the IUID Registry. But for that, you need to be an U.S. Government employee or a Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to obtain the login access to the IUID Registry.

• For those who plan to conduct business with Government Furnished Property, submitting detailed info to the IUID system is a must.

As per the UID compliance, of the several standards used in IUID marking, the MIL STD 130 is the most fundamental item identification marking standard. Of late, certain changes were made to the original MIL STD 130. On December 17^th 2007, a new version of the standard (MIL-STD-130N) was officially released. As per the new MIL-STD-130N, specific criteria have been issued for marking requirements and identification methods of military items produced, stored, stocked, and issued by the Department of Defense.

Rules of the new MIL-STD-130N standard:

• Henceforth, the UID will be restricted to 50 characters only.

• For item identification marking, the MIL-STD-130N standard has criteria for both free text and machine-readable information (MRI) marking.

• Now labels which include name plates, data plates, and ID plates can be made up of metallic or non-metallic materials.

• The standard clearly states that a label may be of any similar or can also be of different material than that of the item to which it is affixed. This basically means that label of one material can be affixed to the identified item of another material.

• The verification is defined in the new

  MIL-STD-130N

  standard as “Confirmation by examination, and provisions of objective evidence, that the item identification marking requirements specified in this standard and the associated contract have been fulfilled.”

• A contractual warranty between the Government and the contractor expressing the nature, usefulness, or condition of the items in terms of hours, days, months, number of operations has to be according to the MIL-STD-130N standard.

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.

The Item Unique Identification (IUID) Registry is commonly known as the vital repository of IUID information. It has a critical role in the identification and classification of items that are at the disposal of the Department of Defense (DoD). Likewise, it also assists the DoD to find out the preliminary value of items during their acquisition, acquisition time, rightful custody and the marking process.

Unique Identification is a system designed and planned by the Department of Defense to differentiate one object easily from another through the entire life cycle process. The IUID has grown to become the most important part of the Department. The IUID has been useful to the DoD in capturing the value of items it buys, controlling these items during their use, and tracking counterfeiting of parts at regular intervals.

The IUID acts as a universal method of parts identification. It is the most significant element which assists the DoD to locate, control and value its assets frequently. Through its IUID policy, the Department of Defense has made it mandatory that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID).

As the DoD’s information systems have become more web-savvy, the IUID helps with financial integration, accountability systems, maintenance and life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from augmenting the quality of information available for management configuration, it will facilitate other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. In short, The IUID Registry facilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property.

Procedure of Submitting Data in the IUID Registry

All the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers ought to be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registering with the IUID Registry. If you plan to conduct business with Government Furnished Property, you must submit data to the IUID Registry. The users have to register themselves to get their login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry. Also, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to receive login access to the IUID Registry.

Rules to Be Applicable for IUID Registry

• All items for which the Government’s unit acquisition cost is $5,000 or more when the Government’s unit acquisition cost is less than $5,000 and the requiring activity determines that permanent identification is required.

• Ensure the delivery of IUID data to the IUID Registry and marking of UIIs on items purchased by the Department of Defense (including those for foreign customers), consisting of new equipment, major modifications, reprocurements of equipment and spares, by issuing solicitations that include the clause at DFARS 252.211-7003 or by alternative implementation that will result in marking and registration no later than 30 days after receipt of materiel.

• Purchases initiated by the Department of Defense and executed through the General Services Administration or other federal agencies shall comply with the UID policy

• Modernize acquisition, logistics, and property management Automated Information Systems with UII requirements including use of the IUID Registry.

The Item Unique Identification (IUID) Registry is considered as the central repository for IUID information. It helps the Department of Defense (DoD) identify the types of the item, and track the value of the item during its acquisition. The IUID information also helps track the acquisition time, and rightful custody (whether it belongs to the government or contractor).

The IUID is the key which assists DoD to locate, control and value its assets over time. Through its IUID policy, the Department of Defense has mandated that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID). The IUID acts as a universal method of parts identification. Unique Identification is a system devised and planned by the Department of Defense to easily distinguish one object from another throughout their life cycle process. The IUID has become an indispensable part of DoD. The IUID has been beneficial to the DoD to capture the value of items it buys, control these items during their use, and track the counterfeiting of parts over periods of time.

As the DoD’s information systems have become more web-savvy, the IUID helps with maintenance, financial integration, accountability systems and life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from adding to the quality of information available for management configuration, it will help in other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. Simply put, the IUID Registry facilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property.

Procedure of Submitting Data in the IUID Registry

All the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers must be registered with the (Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registration with the IUID Registry. If you are interested in doing business with Government Furnished Property, you have to submit data to the IUID Registry. The users must register themselves to acquire their login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry. In addition, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to receive login access to the IUID Registry.

What Data Must be Submitted to The UID Registry?

Some critical data that must be submitted to UID Registry includes:

Configuration:

Item Description

Part Number Changes

Embedded Items

Valuation:

Major Modifications

Initial Acquisitions

Accountability:

Custodial Contract Data

Contractor Custody Information

Acceptance Data

Pedigree:

Shipment and Delivery Information

Acquisition Contract Information

Serial Number

Original Part, Lot, or Batch Number

Methods of UID Registration:

The ideal data submission method is executed through the Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF), a Paperless Contracting environment. The WAWF helps contractors to transmit shipping notices electronically and DoD to perform both receipt and acceptance electronically. Novice users can reach WAWF on the Internet at https://wawf.eb.mil/ and follow the link called "Self Register to use WAWF (New Users)" to obtain access. When IUID data is transmitted as part of the WAWF submission, the IUID Registry will be automatically updated and no other contractor action is required.

What is IUID?

Unique Identification is a system devised and put in place by the Department of Defense (DoD) to distinguish one object from another throughout their life cycle process. The Item Unique Identification (IUID) helps the DoD capture the value of items it buys, control these items during their use, and track counterfeiting of parts over periods of time. IUID is an indispensable part of the DoD and acts as a universal method of parts identification.

Though its IUID policy, the Department of Defense has mandated that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID). Additionally, the Unique Item Identifier (UII) is regarded as the universally unique and permanent for the item during its entire cycle. IUID is the key which assists DoD to locate, control and value its assets again and again. Usually, UIIs are stored in the UID Registry with pedigree data associated with the item.

What is IUID Registry?

The IUID Registry is treated as the central repository for IUID information. It helps the DoD identify the type of the item, acquisition time, preliminary value during its acquisition, existing custody (whether it belongs to the government or contractor), and the marking process and other similar concerns.

As the DoD’s information systems have become progressively more web-savvy, the IUID will help with maintenance, integrating financial, accountability systems and life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from augmenting the quality of information available to configuration management, it will help in other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. In addition, IUID Registry facilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property.

Process of Submitting Data To The IUID Registry

You must submit data to the IUID Registry if you are a contractor with Government Furnished Property, or if your contracts require IUID Registry. You must register yourself to acquire login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry. As well, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to receive login access to the IUID Registry. This means that all the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers must be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registration with the IUID Registry. It’s a very secure system and access is only granted to specific entities.

Brief info about UID Label

The Item Unique Identification (UID) label is mandatory for all individuals who need to be UID compliant. The UID label is used for all the Department of Defense’s (DoD) identification requirements and serialization tracking programs (SNTs). The UID Labels, UID tags and UID nameplates you use should last long under difficult conditions and should not wear away. Selecting the right UID label is extremely important for achieving UID compliance.

However, the UID labels or plates must meet MIL STD 130 code standards.  There is however, a wide variety of materials to choose from. UID labelscan be made from stainless steel, polyester, aluminum or laser marked adhesive backed tape.  ID-Integration.com can help you make a decision.

All companies requiring UID labels, UID nameplates, and Mil-Std 130M UID compliance can be described in three broad categories which are stated as follows:

Full Resource Medium-to-Large Size Companies – These companies generally have all the available resources needed to fully implement Mil-Std 130M compliant labels and tags, UID verification and Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF) and UID registering processes. However, they still look for a UID partner that can help them choose appropriate UID equipment or process for their operation. These companies generally purchase stock UID labels and other parts from ID-integration.

Selective Resource Medium-to-Large Size Companies – Although these companies have adequate resources to implement the necessary equipment and processes for complete Mil-Std 130 UID compliance, they choose to partner with a vendor that can offer UID labels and UID nameplates including on-demand and verification reports in a timely fashion.

Limited Resource Small-to-Medium Size Companies – These companies have a Mil-Std 130 requirement but cannot afford to purchase thermal transfer printers, CO2 laser etching equipment or UID label verification equipment and qualified staff to cater to the UID orders. Therefore, they generally seek a reliable UID partner which can offer UID compliance labels, UID nameplates, verification reports and also a process to submit UID information to the WAWF and UID Registry. These companies generally require a full service solution from ID-integration. ID-integration takes care of and ensures complete UID compliance with all DoD standards.

Usually a wide range of electronics devices such as automotive keyless entry system or home audio equipments are marked with a unique coding standard called Data Matrix. 2D Data Matrix is widely used by manufacturers to build an automated tracking system that is machine readable, durable and facilitates unique identification of each product throughout its life cycle. The ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes are manufactured with the help of laser marking. They are one of the most cost-effective methods for tracking products and creating distinctive identification during the manufacturing cycle, sales distribution and after-sale warranty verification stages.  

Data Matrix codes are designed so that they can survive complex manufacture processes such as broad cleaning and wave solder, without affecting the circuit performance. This means that the codes’ extensive use in the manufacturing process is widely accepted. The ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes allow for a proficient means of storing alphanumeric character strings in a very small area of printed circuit board.

Advantages of ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes over conventional 1D barcodes are stated below.

·         Unlike the analog encoding of data in conventional barcodes, Data Matrix codes encode information digitally.

·         Data Matrix codes are scalable and can be printed in various levels of magnification. However, they are only limited by the resolution of the available imaging and printing techniques.

·         2D Data Matrix codes are the highest among all the 2D codes, enabling the placement of a large amount of information in a small area. They offer higher information density in comparison to the 1D barcodes.

·         Data Matrix codes offer built-in error correction techniques due to the fact that they have a high information density. The features are designed to allow complete recovery of the encoded message in the Data Matrix symbol even when the mark is missing or if the symbol is damaged up to 20 per cent.

·         Data Matrix codes easily hold low-contrast printing directly on the parts without the help of a label.

·         Data Matrix codes can be read by video camera, which essentially means that they can be read in any orientation. The conventional barcodes require a scanned laser beam to enable reading them.

The Item Unique Identification (IUID) acts as a universal method of parts identification. Unique Identification is a system devised and planned by the Department of Defense (DoD) to easily distinguish one object from another throughout their life cycle process. IUID has become an indispensable part of DoD. IUID has been beneficial to the Department in capturing the value of items it buys, controlling these items during their use, and tracking counterfeiting of parts over different periods of time.

The Unique Item Identifier (UII) is regarded as the universally unique and permanent for the item during its entire cycle. The IUID is the key which assists Department in its efforts to locate, control and value its assets over time. Usually, UIIs are stored in the Unique Item Identifier (UID) Registry with pedigree data associated with the item. Though its IUID policy, the Department of Defense has mandated that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID).

Brief info about IUID Registry

IUID Registry is considered the central repository for IUID information. It helps the DoD to identify the types of the item, its preliminary value during its acquisition, its acquisition time, its rightful custody (whether it belongs to the government or contractor), its marking process and other similar concerns.

As the DoD’s information systems have progressively become more web-savvy, the IUID assists with maintenance, integrating financial, accountability systems and the life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from increasing the quality of information available to configuration management, it will help in other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. In addition, IUID Registry facilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property.

Procedure of Submitting Data in the IUID Registry

All the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers must be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registering with the IUID Registry. If you want to do business with Government Furnished Property, you must submit data to the IUID Registry. The users must register themselves to acquire their login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry. In addition, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to receive login access to the IUID Registry.

Unique Item Identifier (IUID) acts as a universal system of parts identification. Unique Identification is a system devised and planned by the Department of Defense (DoD) to easily distinguish one object from another throughout their life cycle process. IUID has become an indispensable part of the DoD. 

IUID Registry is considered as the central repository for IUID information. It helps the Department to identify the types of the item, its preliminary value during its acquisition, its acquisition time, its rightful custody (whether it belongs to the government or contractor), its marking process and other similar concerns.

IUID is the key which assists the DoD to locate, control and value its assets and through their entire life cycle. It helps the DoD keep track of munitions, spare parts, and other items under its possession. Though its IUID policy, the Department of Defense has mandated that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID). IUID has been beneficial to the DoD in capturing the value of items it buys, controlling these items during their use, and tracking counterfeiting of parts at different periods of time.

As the DoD’s information systems have become more web-savvy, the IUID assists with maintenance, financial integration, accountability systems and life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from its incremental affects on the quality of information available for management configuration, IUID will help in other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. In a nutshell, IUID Registry facilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property. 

Method of Submitting Data in the IUID Registry

If you are interested in conducting business with Government Furnished Property, you have to submit data to the IUID Registry. To do so, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to get login to the IUID Registry. All the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers must be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registering with the IUID Registry. The users must register themselves to obtain their login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry.

The Unique Item Identifier (UID) laser marking method has become very popular.UID laser marking is considered to be one of the most efficient and fool-proof marking methods used for marking identification number onto products. Numerous industry groups including ISO9000 and other international manufacturing standards have made permanent part identification and Direct Part Marketing (DPM) compulsory to improve the traceability of their items.

As per the DoD’s mandate, UID marking is compulsory for all the items to be delivered to the Department with a unit acquisition value of $5,000.00 or above, including all embedded sub-assemblies, mission essential components or parts that are serially managed by the DoD. Furthermore, the format of the mark must conform to the requirement of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS). The product identification must be permanently marked directly on the part’s surface as per the directive of the Department of Defense (DoD).

Benefits to the DoD of UID Laser Marking

The UID laser marking 2D Matrix symbol on parts or sub-assemblies helps the DoD:

· Improve their inventory accuracy,

· Accurately source items on property,

· Decrease inventory management costs, improve access to part history during the design or lifespan of items, and

· Reduce workforce burden through augmented efficiency and productivity.

Advantages of UID Laser Marking

UID laser marking is one of the most permanent, reliable, high contrast, and versatile marking technology available for UID applications. The increasing popularity of UID laser marking applications can be attributed to the following advantages.

1. UID laser marking is an eco-friendly choice to silk screening, chemical etching, pad printing, mechanical engraving, stamping and a choice of other costly, lower quality processes.

2. Laser marking and engraving are an exclusive method to identify and decorate your product items.

3. UID laser marking has higher resolution than other methods, which makes it easy for embedding more data in the UID marks.

For different fields such as medical, ad specialties, and automotive, to the latest in UID code identification, serialization, and verification, UID laser marking is appropriate for a range of marking purposes.

The Item Unique Identification (IUID) Registry is known as the central bank of IUID information. It plays an indispensable part in the identification and classification of items that are at the disposal of the Department of Defense (DoD). Likewise, it also helps the Department to find out the preliminary value of the items during their acquisition, acquisition time, rightful custody and the marking process as well. The IUID Registry helps the DoD keep track of it’s inventory.

Unique Identification is a system designed and planned by the Department of Defense to differentiate one object from another through their entire life cycle processes. The IUID has become an essential part of the DoD. The IUIDhas been useful to the Department in capturing the value of items it buys, controlling these items during their use, and tracking counterfeiting of parts.

The IUID acts as a universal method of parts identification. It is the most important element which assists the Department in its efforts to locate, control and value its assets over time. In its IUID policy, the DoD has made it mandatory that all the qualifying items must be marked with two-dimensional Data Matrix which should be encoded with a Unique Item Identifier (UID).

As the Department’s information systems have become more web-savvy, the IUID assists with financial integration, accountability systems, maintenance and life cycle visibility of the items that are stored within it. Aside from enhancing the quality of information available for management configuration, it will help in other important matters such as operational planning, logistics support and systems engineering. In short,IUID Registryfacilitates joint, paperless management of DoD property.

Procedure of Submitting Data in the IUID Registry

All the government manufacturing activities and commercial manufacturers ought to be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CRR) system before registration with the IUID Registry.If you are serious about conducting business with Government Furnished Property, you have to submit data to the IUID Registry. The users must register themselves to obtain their login credentials and access rights before using the Controlled Access portion of the IUID Registry. Also, you have to be a government employee or an U.S. Government Contractor with approval from the DoD Program Manager to obtain login information for the IUID Registry.

These days a number of industry groups including ISO9000 and other international manufacturing standards have mandated permanent part identification and Direct Part Marketing (DPM) to boost the traceability of their items. Therefore, the Unique Item Identifier (UID) laser marking method bears immense significance in this scenario. The product identification must be permanently marked directly onto the part’s surface as per the directive of Department of Defense (DoD). Among all the methods used for marking identification number onto products, UID laser marking is considered to be the most efficient and error-free.

UID marking is compulsory for all the items delivered to the Department with a unit acquisition value of $5,000.00 or above, including all embedded sub-assemblies, mission essential components or parts that are serially managed by the DoD. In addition, the format of the mark must satisfy the requirement of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).

Advantage of UID Laser Marking

UID laser marking is one of the most lasting, dependable, high contrast, and versatile marking technology available for UID applications. The rising popularity of UID laser marking applications can be attributed to the following advantages.

1. UID laser marking is an eco-friendly option to silk screening, chemical etching, pad printing, mechanical engraving, stamping and various other costly, lower quality processes.

2. UID laser marking has higher resolution than other methods, which makes it easy for embedding more data in the UID marks.

3. Laser marking and engraving are a unique method to identify and decorate your product items.

 Therefore, for the different fields of medical, ad specialties, automotive, to the latest in UID code identification, serialization, and verification, UID laser marking is suitable for a variety of marking purposes.

Benefits of UID Laser Marking to the DoD

The UID laser marking 2D Matrix symbol on parts or sub-assemblies helps the DoD to improve inventory accuracy, accurately source items on property, decrease inventory management costs, improve access to part history during the design or lifespan of items, and reduce workforce burden through augmented efficiency and productivity.

Brief into about UID Registry

The (Unique Item Identifier) UID registry is a software system developed by the Department of Defense (DoD). It acts just like a database containing a bank of information on all the items that cater to the UID standards and criteria. In addition, it also facilitates the Department of Defense’s need to exercise a better visibility into their wide network of assets. If you want to comply with the DoD’s mandate for UID, you must submit all relevant and essential UID information to the UID Registry. The items to the UID Registry can be submitted in the following ways:

UID Registry Web Interface: you can submit your UID information through the UID Registry Web interface. The UID registry website allows you to type in all UID data directly. Though it’s a time-consuming, cumbersome and error-prone process it can be used efficiently in cases where you deal with a very low volume of UID shipments.

Direct UID Registry Transaction: You can submit all computer files that contain your UID information via the Internet but you must take adequate precaution regarding security while sending the files.

Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF) Web Interface: UID registry can also be done via the WAWF Web Interface. The WAWF system can accept the UID data with receiving reports and combo (2-N-1) documents. The WAWF system forwards all the UID data to the UID Registry.

UID Registry Data Elements:The UID registry data elements include contract and shipment numbers, product identifier (NSN/PN), the item number (CLIN) and unit cost of each marked item.

1. Fully constructed UID

2. UID Type (Construct 1 or 2)

3. IAC (Issuing Agency Code) which controls the Entity ID

4. Entity Identifier (such as CAGE) of company assigning the UID

5. Serial Number

6. Part Number (Construct 2 only)