When it comes to labeling military-issue equipment with a unique identifier (uid), the first thing a defense contractor would wonder about is what exactly needs to be tagged. Generally speaking, if the dod’s purchase cost is $5,000 or more per piece, the equipment needs to be tagged. However, there are also circumstances wheremarking assets under $5,000 is required. the product’s buyer will look at the less costly products on a case-by-case basis to see whether they’re mission-critical, controlled inventory items for whom life-cycle traceability is vital. Any uid marking requirements will be specified in the supplier’s contract. the dod gives recommendations on item identification in numerous publications; they may be accessible via id-integration.com, a website that includes a plethora of relevant information on equipment labeling. The equipment is assigned a unique identity in the form of a 2-D data matrix, which is a machine-readable bar code that comprises many pieces of information, including the enterprise identifier, serial number, lot or batch number, and issuing agency code. The unique identification is exclusive to a particular piece of equipment, as its name suggests. The identification of any other object will be unique. The device retains the identification for the duration of its life. The IDs are entered into a database so that history of an item may be conveniently accessed when required. The location, size, and positioning of the mark on the object are all covered in detail by the DoD guidelines. Once again, id-integration.com has further information on these subjects. Additional information on the various techniques for applying the data matrix symbol to the equipment may be found at id-integration.com. These include labels used for indirect marking as well as direct marking techniques like chemical etching. There is a large selection of labeling supplies available. Whether the data matrix will last the equipment’s lifespan and tolerate the external circumstances the asset will encounter should be the primary factor to be taken into account. Another choice that has to be made is when in the manufacturing process the uid label should be applied. and lastly, it’s necessary to confirm the data matrix symbol. Its readability is graded using technology and software to assist make sure it will endure the asset’s lifetime. Contractors may save time and money by collaborating with unique identification professionals like those at id integration inc.; this will facilitate a more seamless procedure. Thomas Henderson works on mil-std-130 programs as an applications engineer. Because of his background, he is an excellent resource for useful information on the difficulties associated with item unique identification. kindly follow me on Google+