uid2go

Innovation plays a significant role in driving business, which in turn drives our economy. Although an indelible mark is being made on nearly every aspect of modern life, few of us ever stop to reflect on how property identification through UID labels impacts us personally. They aren't overlooked in industry however, where asset tracking capabilities are crucial for operating a successful, profitable business. In today’s economy, there are definite cost savings that occur from maximizing the use of a company's assets. This means knowing where the assets are, how they are being used, and how they are being maintained and serviced. This can all be realized by using UID labels.

Many companies have been using asset tracking systems by way of UID labels, to keep better tabs of all of their assets since the 1950s. Metal plating, bar codes, and RFID tags are just a few of the ways that asset tracking can be accomplished. While the oldest and perhaps simplest method of creating UID labels is serialized metal plating, it is probably also the most durable. The embossed aluminum stainless steel and anodized aluminum plates are still manufactured and used to this day. These plates carry barcodes which are used almost everywhere, from simple office furniture to Department of Defense military helicopters.

Versatility is just one of the reasons that barcode technology has achieved such widespread use with the military and its UID labels initiative. Barcodes are a good way to automate what was formerly a manual asset tracking process. Companies that wish to implement a system but aren't sure if they want to go directly to barcode technology can print the barcodes on the tag and then just use only the human readable portion of the tag. They can do this until they are prepared to use a fully automated asset tracking system.

Once an automated barcode system with UID labels has been implemented, the benefits are twofold, comprising of accuracy and efficiency. In a traditional fixed asset example, manual methods would require somebody to go around and collect all of the asset information and then subsequently key it into a computer. This not only is inefficient, as it delays the transport of much-needed inventory, but prone to error. Studies have indicated that the error rate with a manual system can be as high as 1 in 300, while the error rate from an automated system is as low as 1 in 3 million.

Over the years, various materials such as polyester, polycarbonate, and specially formulated ceramics have been added to the list of durable materials used in modern UID labels. Since UID labels are one-of-a-kind and need to be durable, they are often subjected to strenuous environments which test their ability to maintain their accuracy over time. In this way, the military can fulfill its initiative of making UID labels accurate, durable, and versatile.

The United States Department of Defense's standard MIL-STD-130 encompasses specific standards mandated by the Department of Defense with regard to identifying, marking and maintaining accurate records of military property. All government contractors must comply with MIL-STD-130 regulations, which require that certain products be properly labeled with a Unique Identifier (IUID marking).

The IUID marking requirement stipulates that mandated items be labeled with a machine readable 2 dimensional data matrix bar code. Regardless of their composition, all items must meet specific printing and/or marking specifications. In addition, items subject to IUID marking must adhere to stringent specifications. Specifications require that all marking must be applied to either a stiff plastic or metal identification plate, and contain an identification tag, band or label. IUID marking must also be located where it is clearly visible and easily read, and markings must be permanent and impervious to normal environmental conditions.

IUID markings are composed of character strings, numbers, or sequential bits that are unique to the product being labeled. IUID marking regulations are rigorous, and must include details of the product’s geographic location, product size, serial number, agency code, a personal identification number and both contract and order numbers. Moreover, the specified data must be globally unique.

The IUID marking policy was established to improve asset management, lower the cost of item management, improve inventory management, improve item availability and provide the DoD with the ability to conduct concise audits. The standard is also used as a guide to ascertain governmental needs when designing specific contracts.

Through their expert input, Jet City Laser, experienced distributors of marking and reading technologies since 1994, provided the DoD with invaluable assistance in the development of Unique Identification techniques. Jet City Laser offers an ironclad guarantee on all of their products, including 100% verification that their nameplates and labels meet MIL-STD-130 requirements as well as a 100% guarantee that all product data is archived for future reference. The company further simplifies the complicated process of IUID marking by offering product registration in the UID Central Registry.

All nameplates and labels manufactured by Jet City are verified to be readable from 10 angles, an ideal solution for difficult to reach spaces, such as curved surfaces. In accordance with DoD regulations, all materials used in the production of IUID marking are 100% guaranteed to meet conformance specifications for all products that they service. In addition to the company's reputation for excellence in the industry, customers can expect exceptionally speedy delivery of their orders.

Those who must comply with IUID marking regulations need not worry about the complexities involved in complying with the mandate. Customers can rest assured that Jet City Laser and its partner company, ID-Integration, consider providing their customers with the proper specifications for their needs an integral part of their job.
Contact Jet City Laser for further information and expert advice on your unique needs.

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) MIL-STD-130 standard for Unique Identification (UID) marking has been established in order to allow for optimized asset, inventory and accounting tracking and control. The DoD has created detailed guidelines for product printing and marking for its tangible assets located around the world. It can quickly compile information collected from these identification codes for use in its centralized database. All government contractors must comply with these DoD standards when selling products to the military.

Basic UID marking parameters include unique identification numbers, bar codes and a 2D Data Matrix symbol. This combination of human-readable and machine-readable marking is used for the rapid accumulation of asset management information on physical military resources. This data can then be modified by military staff.

UID Marking Techniques

The military uses a wide variety of products, made of different material (paper, rubber and metal). Some products can be written on; others need specially made nameplates, labels and tags for quick identification. The DoD has established different UID marking standards for each of these product materials.

The DoD has established quality guidelines for each of the most prominent UID marking techniques: laser, mechanical engraving, chemical etching, ink jet, paint and epoxy base. The DoD demands high levels of legibility and durability in UID marking – the free text and symbols must withstand hazardous chemicals, inclement weather, natural decay and extreme temperature changes.

UID Marking Specifications

The DoD recognizes that because its products have different sizes and shapes, they require different UID marking standards. Many of these UID marking labels consist of multiple bar codes, identification numbers and 2D Data Matrix identification marks. The DoD has set up “preferred” labeling standards for optimum legibility and content; alongside alternate guidelines (when labeling space is more limited). Location and lettering type for the UID marking is also specified by the DoD.

Another variation in UID marking is found in the two constructs:
Construct One - Issuing Agency Code (IAC), Part Number and Traceable Number combined into one UID

Construct Two - Issuing Agency Code (IAC), Lot or Batch Number, Part Number and Traceable Number combined into one UID

Different labels are also regulated separately: Free text, Air Transport Association (ATA) and Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), for example. The UID marking for products sold to the military must be designed to specified requirements, which are continually being updated.

Ensure that you have top-notch quality assurance for your product labels, that fulfills DoD compliance regulations for UID marking and identification systems. The experts will read all of the important manuals and maintain the high standards you expect. UID marking is a complicated issue; so turn to the experts at Jet City Laser to help you comply with these standards.

Unique Identification Labels or UID Labels are used by the Department of Defense (DoD) in order to keep track of every piece of military property within their possession. MIL-STD-130 is the standard by which those items are marked. Jet City Laser was instrumental in the development of MIL-STD-130 which aides the government by specifying which items need UID Labels, as well as how and where they should be identified.

MIL-STD-130 requires that UID Labels are visible and can withstand normal environmental conditions throughout the life expectancy of the item. Most commonly, MRI (Machine Readable Information) will be used, however, some conditions require a less permanent UID Label and sometimes only essential information is marked such as the manufacturer’s EID (Enterprise Identifier) and the PIN, LOT, or batch number of the item. In addition, in the rare situation that there is no space available to place the MIL-STD-130 standardized UID Label, the mark is placed on the packaging. When MRI is inaccessible, there are separate requirements mandating the type and size of font to be used for all characters. UID Label protocols are further specified by various orders.

As is expected, there are exceptions to the MRI marking routine. COTS (Commercial Off The Shelf) items that are clearly marked with some sort of commercial identification may be exempt from UID Labels as long it will not result in identification difficulties. Individual parts may also be exempt from MRI UID Labels if they are not expected to be removed, repaired, or replaced. There are other circumstances, such as the UID labeling of a legacy item, that can merit exceptions.

There are other specifications regarding the required marking quality of an MRI:
-Linear Bar Code: ISO/IEC 15416 is the protocol for measuring the print quality of a linear bar code, unless otherwise specified in the contract or order.
-Data Matrix Symbol: Several protocols are available for measuring the print quality of a data matrix symbol that can be used at the supplier's discretion. Those protocols include: ISO/IEC 15415, AIM DPM-1-2006, or SAE AS9132. There are also specifications to be followed if a symbol is unacceptable for any reason.
-Marking Arrangements: Depending on the manufacturer's role in the designing and creation of the item, there are guidelines for the arrangement of the marking on the UID Label. Free text markings for units, groups, and sets are arranged by precise standards as well. All maintenance actions also require additional markings be added to the UID Label.

The DoD requires strict adherence to the guidelines and specifications set out in MIL-STD-130. Thankfully, these complex instructions have human handbooks, Jet City laser experts. A technical company that specializes in product marking and identification systems is best suited for providing essential information and support.

UID registry is regarded as central depository of IUID info. It follows a strategic valuation process for the entry of the items.

UID Registry is the source of IUID information and serves as central repository. It stores information about what the item is, how and when it was acquired, the initial value of the item, current custody (government or contractor), and how it is marked. The DoD information system has become net-centric and the data and information available in the UID Registry have become easier to access.

The information on the UID Registry has enhanced the quality of operational planning, systems engineering, configuration management, and logistics support. UID Registry stores, retains and provides historical as well as current data pertaining to the items that are uniquely identified by the DoD. To top it all, the system has introduced a paperless management for the DoD property.

The users are required to register in the UID registry in order to get login credentials and right to access UID Registry. Only the U.S. Government contractors and government employees are eligible to apply for the login credential to the Controlled Access part of the UID Registry . The government manufacturing activities and the commercial manufacturers are required to be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) system before registering with the UID Registry. As the UID Registry is responsible for proper management of DoD items, it follows a strategic procedure of evaluating the items.

Valuation of Items for the UID Registry

• The property accountability and management information system should carry both the IUID information and the value of the items that is going to be delivered under the contract. DoD Instruction 5000.64 has also mentioned that acquisition cost of the property should be the basis of its appraisal for the UID Registry.
• In case of the fixed price contracts, the total acquisition cost of the items to be delivered is the price determined by the government.
• In case of the cost type contracts, the acquisition cost of the deliverable items is decided by the estimated cost decided by the contractors at the time of delivery of the item.
• The acquisition cost of the items within the delivered items of the UID Registry doesn’t require to be identified.
• A delivered item to UID Registry may include embedded items such as components, parts and subassemblies. It is the responsibility of the main contractor to provide the contract requirements and appropriate specifications to the vendors for subcontracted subassemblies, parts and components. The contract requirements also include the IUID marking of the items where applicable.
• All IUID qualifying spare items delivered to UID Registry should be marked with appropriate UII data elements. The spares are purchased either through the prime or directly from the vendors.
• The DoD serially managed embedded items should be marked and registered by the prime. The spares are delivered to the UID Registry with their own UII.

The contractors can follow different methods of submitting IUID data to the UID Registry. However, it is essential for the prime contractors to make sure that the UID data elements entered to UID Registry are correct to get accepted.

The Department of Defense has allowed different options for the contractors to submit UID data to the UID Registry.

UID Registry is a software system, developed by the U.S. DoD, that acts like a database to help the management of DoD. It contains wealth of information about the DoD properties that comply with the standards of the department. UID Registry has simplified the process of DoD to access through the wide network of assets.

All tangible items of the Department of Defense are required to have a Unique Identification and the system has been implemented by the department to simplify the asset tracking process. It is mandatory for the prime contractors, who possess the property of the DoD, to mark the parts with UID to provide a globally unique identification code to the item. The contractors are also required to submit the UIDs to the DoD UID Registry .

The DoD has opened a few options for the contractors to submit the UID-

• Direct UID Registry Transaction
• UID Registry Web Interface
• WAWF Web Interface

Direct UID Registry Transaction

With the direct submission process to UID Registry , the DoD allows the contractors to submit the UID information and all the computer files regarding that via the Internet. For the direct submission methods, no acknowledgements or files will be returned. However, while sending the files, the contractors need to take adequate precautions pertaining to security.

UID Registry Web Interface

It is one of the ways for the contractors to submit the UID data to the UID Registry. With this process the contractors are allowed by the UID Registry to type in the data of the UID directly to the UID registry . It has been found as an error-prone, cumbersome and time-consuming process, but the contractors can use it effectively while dealing with very low volume of UID consignments.

WAWF Web Interface

The UID Registry allows the submission of UID data also through WAWF Web Interface. The Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF) accepts the UID data with combo (2-in-1) documents and receiving reports. The system forwards the UID data provided by the contractors to the UID registry. The Mil-Pac WAWF Support Library (WASup) supports the other electronic method of submission to UID Registry as a WAWF Receiving Report using the DD250. When the circumstances don’t permit the submission to UID Registry with a Receiving Report, direct submission of the UID data is the ultimate process. The basic data required for each marked item are the item number, product identifier, shipment numbers, and unit cost. Apart from these basic data, the additional information required are

1. UID Type (Construct 1 or 2)
2. Entity Identifier (such as CAGE) of company assigning the UID
3. IAC (Issuing Agency Code) which controls the Entity ID
4. Part Number (Construct 2 only)
5. Serial Number
6. Fully constructed UID

The information system of the DoD has become more web-savvy to enhance the quality accessibility and of information available for the management. The system has also improvised other functional areas such as system engineering, logistic support and operational planning. The paperless system of submission to UID registry has simplified the work of contractors as well as the DoD management.

While marking the DoD property under possession of the contractors with IUID, there are specific rules that should be followed by the contractors.

The DoD IUID registry provides access to and storage of data of all these properties under the possession of the department. The property under the possession of contractors includes both Contractor Acquired Property and Government Furnished Property. The DoD assigns an IUID to each of these items for the easier maintenance. The IUID has also simplified the methods of keeping tracks of the items.

There are certain rules to guide the assignment and marking of IUID to the property that are under the possession of the contractors.

• In case there is an existing IUID for the property, the contractors are required to use the same IUID for marking and reporting purpose.
• In case the Government Furnished Property provided to the contractors doesn’t have a previously established IUID, the contractors must establish an IUID according to the business rules and submit the IUID information to the DoD IUID registry.
• A concatenated IUID should be created for the property using Construct#1, Construct#2, or IUID equivalent recognized by DoD.
• For the incoming Government furnished property, the asset identification number may be used in place of serial number of the item to assign IUID.
• The IUID should include enterprise identifier along with serial number and unique property control number.
• For the items provided to the contractors by the Government for repairing, the Government should mention in the repair contract that the items should be marked with IUID before they are delivered to the Government.
• A virtual IUID is assigned to the property if the property has a unique identification but not physically marked with DoD compliant 2D data matrix symbols. The virtual IUID become permanent when there is necessary of physical marking of the item with a 2D data matrix code .
• While physically marking the property with the 2D data matrix symbols, it is important to note that they comply with the MIL-STD-130 standards. The contractors are required to maintain integrity in case the IUID of the property needs to replace a lost, damaged or destroyed mark with a replacement mark. It should contain the same IUID data elements as the previous one.
• The required IUID marking should be directly applied to the surface of the items or should be securely affixed to the items as identification tag, identification band or identification plate.
• If the items are provided to a contractor in bulk and they are low value items, a single IUID for the total quantity of item can be established. In such cases, prior to the deliver of the items from the contractor’s plants to a subcontractor or other location of the contractor, the contractor will conform to the specific procedure of traceability for future use.
• The main contractors are responsible for ensuring that the properties that are under the possession of the subcontractors are recorded in the IUID Registry of the Department of Defense.

As the IUID is the strategic system of the DoD to enhance the traceability of the property, it is the responsibility of the contractors to stick to the guidelines structured by the Department of Defense.

For all government furnished items that are submitted to UID registry , UID labeling or marking is essential. The UID registry was implemented by the Department of Defense (DoD) in November 2004 that aims to complete the process of unique identification naming for all tangible items by 31 December 2010. The unique identification labels are the convenient tools to identify each item. Also, it can help the DoD to keep record of the items, their acquisition, repair and maintenance. The DoD uses the UID levels as serialization tracking programs. Basically, UID registry is a software program developed to keep records of the tangible items according to the UID standards .

The process of UID registry Submission

Accuracy of data is considered as main criteria for a successful submission to the UID registry. First of all it requires an issuing agency code (IAC). Besides, the information of construct type such as construct #1, construct #2 is essential to mention. Concatenated human readable UID is another crucial info that should be present in each item. The concatenated human readable UID is accessed by scanning to decoding software from the 2D-matrix bar code.

There are different methods of submitting data to the UID registry. The most frequently used method is to reformat the data in an XML transmission way. The details of the steps in this form of submission are discussed bellow.

UID Registry schema Review

The most recent edition of the UID Registry schema available is 3.0. Before you convert your file to XML format for submission, it is essential to check whether the external files from your property management database is similar to that of UID registry requirements. The latest version of the UID Registry schema review has many changes supporting the GFP.

Adjustment in the Data format

UID registry requires a particular format of data and certain changes are in the data format is required to comply with the required format. It might be a time-consuming task as your entire format should match with that of the UID registry maintenance team. Again, you are required to export the data t specific manipulation file depending upon your product.

Submit directly to UID Test Registry

You need to submit your data, which is formatted into a transferable XML document, to the test registry before submitting to the UID registry. After you data is approved by the UID production registry you are allowed to send it to the GEX certified VAN provider. The GEX certified VAN provider ensures that you file reaches the UID Registry FTP servers.

Verify the UID Registry web site for the latest approval update

Once the files are submitted to the VAN provider, it takes at least 24 hours to reach the UID registry. The submission approval reports are available on the UID registry website.