The Department of Defense (DoD) has initiated the Item Unique Identification Program (IUID) in order to improve the asset management program through uniquely identifying property, equipment, supplies and other operating materials. Unique identification nameplates are a part of this framework. The purpose of using unique identification nameplates is to uniquely identify military items globally and to provide better asset accountability and valuation through the life cycle of the item.

A high density 2-D (ECC 200) data matrix barcode symbol is basically used as mark in unique identification nameplate. By concatenating the string of specific data elements in the data matrix, a unique item identifier (UII) is derived which helps in identifying an individual item distinctly from all other items that the Department of Defense owns. These unique identification nameplates are machine readable and affixed permanently as a label or directly marked on the part.

As per the Department of Defence’s memorandum, all tangible personal property and Government Furnished Property (GFP) in possession of contractors that are issued after Jan. 1, 2004 are mandatory to have Unique Identification Nameplates and registration of the UII. Now onwards, for any product to be UID complaint, the DFARS 252.211-7003 clause provided in all solicitations ought to be fulfilled. In addition, the UID nameplates should meet the MIL STD 130 code standards. The DoD has set the target to have unique identification nameplates and marking on each military embedded asset by Dec 31, 2010.

Criteria for Unique Identification Nameplates
All tangible items delivered to The DoD are obligatory to have unique identification nameplates if they satisfy the following criteria:
· If the program manager determines that the item is a component to be uniquely identified.
· If the unit acquisition cost is more than $5,000
· The item is either a consumable item, controlled inventory, mission essential, or of material where permanent identification is required or is serially managed

The durability of unique identification nameplates is of vital importance, as they have to withstand extreme climatic wear and tear. These UID nameplates can be made from a wide range of materials such as polyester, stainless steel, aluminium or laser marked adhesive backed tape. Based on the type of materials used, unique identification nameplates can be categorized as follows.

· Custom itched UID Nameplates:

Etching provides a long lasting effect from any form of wear and tear especially when Epoxy inks are screen printed into the etched area of the metal or inset design.

· Embossing on UID Nameplates:

For outstanding quality of wearing out resistance, embossed dye stamp marks are used on a 3d relief on the surface of unique identification nameplates.

· Anodized finished Aluminum UID Nameplates:

As compared to natural aluminium, anodized finish provides a much harder surface to be used as unique identification nameplates.

· Serialized UID Nameplates:

Serialized or alpha-numeric numbers related to machine tags, warranty tags provide a unique identifier for each nameplate.

· Textured, Hard coated, Custom finish UID Nameplates:

Plastic nameplates coated with chemical resistant hard coats provide great durability against the extreme climatic conditions.