Glossary - acronyms

2-D Symbol : The Data Matrix symbol is preferred for direct part identification marking. The symbols willl be applied in addition, and in close proximity to, the human readable identification (HRI) markings currently used. On new programs/projects the HRI and symbol marking shall be applied simultaneously and by the same method whenever practical. The Data Matrix symbol is a two-dimensional (2-D) matrix symbology approved by the Automated Identification Manufacturers (AIM) for direct part marking. The characteristics of Data Matrix symbol are defined within the Uniform Symbology Specification for Data Matrix.

2-D Symbol Content : The part identification data to be encoded in the 2-D symbol shall consist of a part number (PN) not to exceeding 21 ASCII characters followed by a space and a unique part traceability number. The traceability number will consist of the users Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code or NATO Supply Code for Manufacturers (NSCM) and unique seven-digit lot number or serial number, separated by an asterisk (ASCII separator). In instances where space is prohibitive, the PN can be excluded from the data content. These data encoding and marking options provide program managers with the ability to use a more damage-resistant symbol (larger data cells) over a greater range of part sizes.