FOREWORD

1. This standard is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the Department of Defense (DoD).
   
   
2. This issue of MIL-STD-130 provides increased insight and guidance for the implementation of machine-readable information (MRI) processes for item identification marking. Based solely on non-Government standards, MRI provides a valuable tool for asset management from acquisition through manufacture to logistics. However, application of human-readable (HRI) item identification marking is still necessary for many end users of the identified item. Finding the most effective use of both, either singly or in combination, is the prime responsibility of the acquiring activity.
   
   
3. This standard provides the criteria by which product designers develop specific item identification marking requirements. Product designers must include in product definition data specific requirements as to marking content, size, location, and application process. Simply stating in the product definition data that the marking be in accordance with this standard is not sufficient for initial manufacture and subsequent production of replenishment spare items.
   
   
4. Definitions provided in Section 3 and used throughout this standard are oriented primarily towards the product designer's use of prevailing engineering documentation terminology. Some conflict with terminology applied throughout the Automatic Information Technology disciplines may occur. Every effort has been made to ascertain potential conflicts and provide clear definitions for application in this standard and to cite the published source of existing definitions used.
   
   
5. Acquiring activities must also properly apply this standard in their contractual instruments. As with product designers, simply stating that items produced under a contract shall be marked per MIL-STD-130 is not sufficient. They must clearly state that item identification marking is required and that development of specific item marking requirements be based on the criteria provided in this standard.
   
   
6. Comments, suggestion, or questions on this document should be addressed to: MSG/MMF, 4375 Chidlaw Rd., Bldg 262, Rm S008, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-5006, or email to AFCode16@wpafb.af.mil. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the currency of this address information using the ASSIST Online database at http://assist.daps.dla.mil.