Trade · 6 pages · 12 min

Why a serial number identifies one unit

A serial number is given to a single unit so that unit can be told apart from every other unit of the same type.

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From the opening

A serial number is a unique identifier placed on one specimen of a product. Unlike a model or item number, it is not meant to be shared, so a record of sale, repair, or loss can point at that specimen alone. The opening covers one number stands for one unit, the model number is shared, and service records follow the serial.

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Inside

One number stands for one unit
The model number is shared
Service records follow the serial
A cloned plate can lie
Where the idea stops applying
A distinction worth keeping

Sources

Serial number as a unique identifier
Model number contrasted with serial number

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Why a serial number identifies one unit

From the opening

Inside

Sources

Also on the desk