scope:

The purpose of this standard is to standardize the formats for exchange of digital information between organizations or systems exchanging digital forms of technical information necessary for the development and logistic support of defense systems throughout their life cycle. The initial areas addressed by this standard involved the interface with computer technologies which are automating the creation, storage, retrieval, and delivery of hard copy forms of technical manuals and engineering drawings. This revision of the standard also addresses electronic product data, new packaging of data for electronic trade business transactions, and electronic product data technology. When this standard is referenced by contract, it shall only apply to contract data called out in the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL). Each item in the CDRL shall be annotated on the respective DD Form 1423 indicating that MIL-STD-1840 specifies the format for delivery. The content of the information to be delivered is defined by the Data Item Description (DID) referenced by the CDRL.

This standard addresses technical information which is part of the traditional technical data package used for item acquisition, technical information used to design, manufacture, field, and dispose of an item, and the technical documentation used for item support. This includes information such as product data, product acquisition and implementation information, and product support data. Product data includes engineering drawings and specifications, but also includes new and evolving digital data forms that define parameters, features, and characteristics which enhance product functionality in a defense system and provide the data in a platform independent form directly usable by computer applications. Product acquisition and implementation information includes parameters, part numbers and codes, and other data necessary to manufacture, assemble and/or acquire the defense system, its supporting components, spares, and other equipment. Product support information includes training and maintenance manuals with their associated illustrations, and other data needed to bring the defense system to, and maintain, a required state of readiness. This military standard also standardizes the format and information structures of digital data files used for the transfer and archival storage of technical information in digital form. The format, information structures, and transfer procedures established herein are applicable in all cases where the information can be prepared and received in the form of American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) text files, product definition data files, raster image files, or graphics files. The standard is not restricted in any way in its application.

intended Use: