It is important to know the difference between Discrete and Non-Discrete Parts when you configure the system. On the advanced tab of the Part Definition Form you can define if Part Records will be Discrete or Non-Discrete.
- Discrete Parts
Discrete Parts are Part Records that can only have a quantity of 1. It is best to use the 'Discrete' option on the Part Definition if you want to have individual traceability for single tangible parts. You can make parts traceable by the NV Unique ID (Serial Numbers)
Some examples:
- Any part with an individual traceability requirement (anything with a serial number). Any other part can be defined as Non-Discrete.
- Non-Discrete Parts
Non-Discrete Parts are Part Records that can have any quantity larger than zero. It is best to use the 'Non-Discrete' option on the Part Definition if you have parts that do not need individual traceablity or if you want trace batches of parts.
Some examples:
- A batch of glue
- A bag of screws where you want to track just the part count, batch number and/or supplier
- Any other parts where traceability is not a requirement
Parts, Batches and Lots
The use of Discrete and Non-Discrete is closely related on how the system handles Individual Parts, Batches and Lots. Furthermore it is important to know if traceability is a requirement.
- Individual Traceable Part
Define the Part Definition as Discrete, and configure a Step Definition that will assign Unique ID's to the Part Records that will move through the Step.
- Individual Parts or Batch without traceability requirements
Because traceability is not a requirement it is recommended to define the Part Definition as Non-Discrete. This way multiple parts will be combined into a single Part Record, preserving system memory.
- Batch with Traceability Requirement
Define the Part Definition as Non-Discrete, and configure a Step Definition that will assign a Unique ID.
- Lot
A lot is defined as a grouping of individual traceable parts. So define the Parts as Discrete, and use a Lot to group the parts into a traceable lot.
Part Conversions
By using Input-Output Conversion on Step Definitions the Part Definition of Part Records can change when a Traveler moves out of a Step Definition, either to an other Step Definition or to Inventory. This way it is possible to convert Discrete parts into Non-Discrete parts and vice versa.
Some Examples:
Consumption
Discrete and Non-Discrete materials are consumed differently. A Non-Discrete Part Record can be consumed by multiple other Part Records, while a Discrete Part Record will always be consumed completely.