UID Labels as Standardized by MIL-STD-130Unique 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

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.