What is Source Data? Source Data is the technical information required to codify fully an item of supply. It can be a drawing, specification or standard, or propriety information from a manufacturer's catalogue.
Why is it important?In order that only authenticated data regarding the item of supply is used for codification purposes and to clearly determine that the item of supply is unique.
Content of Source Data?
The extent of data required for full codification is governed by the requirements of the Item Identification Guide (IIG) used and the complexity of the item.
Data should include the following, where applicable, however this list is not exhaustive.
1. The Name of the Design Control Authority.
2. The Design Control Authorities Drawing/Part number or Standard/Specification Reference, (indicating definitive or non-definitive).
3. The Item Name. Where the Approved Item Name (AIN) refers to inherent properties, e.g. "Tube Assembly,Metal" or "Cable, Power, Electrical", or the AIN definition specifies properties, e.g. Cable, Power, Electrical is defined as "...working voltage of the item must be 300 volts or more, ...size of each individual conductor must be No 18 AWG (0.75 Sq mm) or larger...", this information must be supplied for the AIN to be used.
4. Nominal dimensions of length, width, height and diameter, with tolerances if applicable.
5. Basic Material (from which item is fabricated) and Surface Treatment (finish by which item is plated/dipped/coated), with their associated standards/specifications. See note 1 below.
6. Electrical Characteristics - Nominal voltage, current and/or rated power of the item, rated resistance, capacitance or Inductance.
7. Nominal pressure and temperature ratings, or operating frequencies.
8. Data should show distinguishing features, e.g. colour, shape, style, holes or slots, etc.
9. Include markings that indicate the primary purpose, function or application of the item.
10. Where items are threaded, include the size, type, class and direction.
11. Common mechanical parts, such as nuts, bolts, screws, washers etc should include all key dimensions, as these items are the most difficult to differentiate.
12. Assemblies should include parts lists and known NSN's of constituent parts. Cable assemblies should include cable core type and electrical ratings.
Note 1: The Design Control Authority is not required to disclose particulars of proprietary processes, manufacturing techniques or proprietary material specifications.
Defence Contract Clause 117
Click on the ink on the right hand side of this page to see Defence Clause 117 (DEFCON 117) - Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) - which lays down the conditions for supply of documentation for NATO Codification purposes.
This document makes it clear that where information is supplied by a Manufacturer and is marked to indicate its proprietary nature, it shall be used solely for Codification purposes and shall not, without written permission of the Manufacturer, be reproduced or disclosed to any third party.