DECEMBER 2003

Project 3A Released and Available to Members

Project 3A is a new general simulation test for individual packaged-products (70 kg./150 lbs. or less) shipped through a parcel delivery system. Just completed and released, the test is appropriate for four different package types distributed either by air or ground: standard, small, flat, and elongated.

To some extent, the new test is a combination of current ISTA Procedures relating to packaged-products for parcel delivery system shipment: 3C (standard), 3D (smalls, bagged), 2D (flats), and 2E (longs). But it is more than just a combination – first, the protocols for flat and elongated packages have been enhanced and upgraded from Partial-Simulation (2-Series) tests to General Simulation (3-Series) tests. Also, 3A uses latest information and data to configure the drop, random vibration, top load, and other requirements.

Since 3A is a “Project” (subject to further review and possible modification before becoming a “Procedure”), it will not replace the related other tests at this time. However, it certainly represents the most current and advanced approach to testing for parcel delivery system shipments. Effective immediately, packaged-products can be ISTA-Certified to the new Project 3A.

Project 3A is now available on the ISTA web site. It can be accessed from “Quick Clicks”, “What’s Happening”, or “ISTA Tests” on the home page, or Click Here for a direct link. Non-members can see an overview, while members can log in and then use “Procedure Search” to view and download a complete copy.

Latest Dimensions.04 Information on Updated Website

Dimensions.04, The International Forum on Transport Packaging, has its own website, with updated information and new features. Don’t miss this fantastic event, April 14-17, 2004! Visit the website to find out all about it, and to register.

Jointly presented by ISTA and IoPP, Dimensions is the largest annual conference dedicated to packaging and distribution professionals. It features an outstanding educational program plus exhibits, networking, and additional activities which are unsurpassed! Dimensions will be held at the Walt Disney World Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The new Dimensions website at http://www.dimensions-info.com is packed with information. You can see a full program schedule and download the complete brochure. There is a separate section about the speakers, including presentation titles, abstracts, and brief biographies. All the networking, social, and auxiliary events are listed and described: golf, CPLP Workshop, the Lab Council meeting, Welcome Reception, “It’s a Family Thing”, Exhibitor Receptions, and more. Links to hotel information, Disney attractions, the Orlando area, and Kennedy Space Center are included. For even further information and more details, check out the extensive FAQ section.

You can register for Dimensions through the website. “Early-Bird” registration (before the end of January) saves 10%, and discounts are available for multiple attendees from the same company. A block of rooms has been set aside for Dimensions, but please register early. Contact the hotel at 407-939-1020, and mention Dimensions to take advantage of our room block! April is spring-break and vacation time at Disney so don't delay in making all your travel arrangements.

Be sure to check the Dimensions website frequently, as new information is being posted all the time. You can access it directly at the address above, or from a link on the ISTA home page.

Say Aloha! at the Dimensions Welcome Reception
There’s always a Welcome Reception the first evening of Dimensions, and it usually sets the social tone for the rest of the conference. The ’04 edition should be a blast – a Polynesian Luau on the beach!

To be held on Cabaña Beach right at Coronado Springs, the Luau will feature a live band, a fantastic spread of food and drink, and lots of fun for all! A digital camera will be awarded to the person Best Dressed in island attire, so bring your wild shirts, grass skirts, and be ready for a great time (we can’t wait to see what Leon is going to wear!). This event is free to all registered attendees, and tickets may be purchased for guests.

New Web Page, Read All About Project 4AB

ISTA Project 4AB, the new web-based testing protocol which is currently under development, is fully described by a new web page on the ISTA site. There you can read about the history, status, and sponsorship of this important work.

Project 4AB first started as a concept in late 1999. A great deal of consideration over several years culminated in the creation of final detailed software flow charts in late 2002. The software is currently being written, and an “alpha” release for founding sponsors should be available soon.

The “Data Depot” is an integral part of Project 4AB, to provide the up-to-date distribution environment information needed. Data collection is underway, and anyone with data to contribute is encouraged to contact Bill Kipp.

A number of organizations have contributed to the 4AB Sponsorship Program, helping to offset the development costs. The new web page lists and thanks these sponsors, and explains the sponsorship program in detail.

Click to access the Project 4AB web page directly at http://www.ista.org/Testing/4AB.htm, or reach it from a link on ISTA’s home page.

Kodak Supports Project 4AB

Eastman Kodak Company has become a Founding Sponsor of ISTA’s Project 4AB. Kodak joins seven other companies in helping to fund Project development and the Data Depot.

Thanks to Kodak for their support. Click the logo to link to Kodak’s web site.

    
Other sponsors who are generously supporting
ISTA Project 4AB and the transport packaging community:

Founding Sponsors

      

Supporting Sponsors
          

Read the article above for more information on Project 4AB.

Try the ISTA Discussion Forum — Getting Started is Easy!

The Discussion Forum is an interactive message board on the ISTA web site for packaging professionals to discuss issues relating to the industry, get questions answered, find out additional information on ISTA and our testing procedures...or just catch up with colleagues, old and new.

Getting started is easy, just click on “Discussion Forums” in the upper right corner of the ISTA home page. Even if you’re not logged in, you can view the Announcements, Frequently Asked Questions to ISTA, Testing Discussion, and General Packaging Discussion.

If you want to participate (post topics or replies), you must register – but it takes just a minute and it’s free! The only required information is a user name, an e-mail address, and a password. Read the “Helpful User Hints” on the Announcements board for complete information, or click “FAQ” at the top of each screen.

To post a new topic, simply click on the board you wish to post to and then click the New Topic icon. To post a reply to an existing thread, simply click the thread and then click on the Post Reply icon. In either case, fill out the message section and then click Submit at the bottom of that page. That’s it!

Certain boards are only available to Members, and Usergroup members can have even further access. Contact Meredith Young at ISTA headquarters for permissions and information.

ASA Developing New Shock Test Standard

The Acoustical Society of America has established a Working Group to develop a new standard dealing with shock test requirements for electronic equipment. The goal is to produce a standard to define minimum acceptance test requirements for rack and shelf mounted electronic systems and other systems such as personal computers, data analyzers, and similar equipment purchased by industrial and government customers. The Group is looking for anyone with computer industry environmental testing expertise, or others who might be interested in participating. Contact the chair, Jennifer Marr, at marrjd@nswccd.navy.mil.