This standard and its related handbook, NASA-HDBK-6003, Application of Data Matrix Identification Symbols to Aerospace Parts Using Direct Part Marking Methods/Techniques (DPM), were developed to provide NASA and its contractors with instructions to safely apply Data Matrix identification symbols to aerospace parts using these new DPM methods and techniques. Both the standard and the handbook were created by representatives from the major automatic identification and data capture (AI/DC) manufacturers, Government, and aerospace user groups under a collaborative agreement with NASA. The standard has been approved by NASA Headquarters for use by all field installations, and is intended to provide a common framework for consistent practices across NASA programs.

Revision B of this standard included updates stemming from the Department of Defense (DoD)/National Center of Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) Retrograde Part Marking Program as approved by the Assistant Under Secretary of Defense, and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Data Matrix Direct Part Marking Flight Verification Program, which was sanctioned by the Flight Safety Critical Aircraft Part Problem Action Team (FSCAP PAT) and the U.S. Congress Aircraft Safety Committee. Revision B planning had called for the incorporation of information resulting from the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE), which exposed the Data Matrix Symbol markings to low-earth orbit (LEO) environments. However, due to delays in the retrieval of the MISSE experiment, information related to marking processes certified for LEO are to be incorporated into a later revision of this document. MISSE program information is included in Appendix A.

Purpose

This standard establishes uniform requirements for applying Data Matrix identification symbols to parts used on NASA programs/projects using DPM methods and techniques. Overall program/project requirements related to the use of the Data Matrix symbol include symbol criteria, marking method selection, marking surface preparation, marking location, protective coatings, marking environments, and mark-quality verification standards. This document does not specifically address the marking of human-readable characters or temporary part identification markings (bands, labels, or tags). On new programs, human-readable characters can be applied using the same marking methods defined in this standard. Data Matrix symbols can be added to parts used on existing programs if there is adequate area to accommodate the mark and the structural integrity of the part is not compromised.

This standard is intended to provide general requirements for applying Data Matrix identification symbols safely onto products using permanent DPM methods and techniques. The standard addresses symbol structure only as it relates to marking and reading limitations. Technical specifications related to the Data Matrix symbol are found in Automatic Identification Manufacturers (AIM) International, Inc., technical specification titled "International Symbology Specification – Data Matrix." Technical information on how to apply the markings is addressed in NASA-HDBK-6003.

Applicability

This standard is applicable to NASA programs/projects using DPM methods and techniques. In all cases when identification is being applied to flight hardware, the responsible Technical Authority shall approve the location of the mark and the method used to apply it.

This standard may be cited in contract, program, and other Agency documents as a technical requirement. Mandatory requirements are indicated by the word "shall." Tailoring of this standard for application to a specific program or project shall be approved by the Technical Authority for that program or project.

This standard explains the use of Data Matrix symbol marking to support updates to Automated Identification Technology (AIT) systems used to provide program managers with real-time hardware status. The standard provides engineering practices for NASA programs and projects. Human-readable markings applied to NASA aircraft maintained under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificate such as Part 121 or Part 135 shall comply with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Data Matrix marking shall be used to identify all flight hardware and ground support equipment, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Calibration items

• Critical fasteners

• Fracture-critical parts

• Hazard analysis items

• Items requiring periodic maintenance

• Limited-life items

• Pilferage items

• Repair-limited items

• Restricted-use items

• Safety-critical Items

• Temporary installations

• Other items identified with paint dots or assigned date codes, lot numbers, member numbers, or serial numbers (S/Is) for safety, reliability, maintainability, or quality assurance purposes, including items not currently serialized due to size limitations associated with the applications of human-readable marking.

This standard shall not be used for electrical, electronic, and electromechanical (EEE) parts identification and marking requirements due to concerns relating to electrostatic discharge and component degradation. EEE part marking and identification are addressed in the military standards for the specific part types.