What does “Noncurrent” mean for AMS Standards?

Here at Document Center, we often are asked very specific questions about standards.  Just yesterday, a client asked me about the AMS 2405.  He wanted to know what “Noncurrent” meant in the title.

“Do you remember the use of the phrase ‘Inactive for New Design’ in Mil Specs and Standards?” I queried.  And of course, because this customer has been doing business with us since the 1980’s, he certainly did.  “Noncurrent is the SAE equivalent status.”

However there are some subtle differences in the two terms.  A noncurrent standard is not recommended for new design, but still can be used.  A document that is inactive for new design cannot be used for new design.

So the AMS 2405 has not been recommended for new design since 2000, when SAE released the notice of noncurrent status  as AMS 2405 Revision C.  We looked to see if SAE had suggested another standard for new design, but no.   Our closest match was the AMS 2404.

It is not uncommon for standards users not to fully understand the administrative terminology that is used to describe the document by the issuing agency.  If you ever have any questions about the status of a particular document, please get in touch with us.  There are many situations where this type of confusion can negatively impact your business.

You can always use the Document Center webstore at www.document-center.com to place your orders and look up information on the standards you need.  But you can also contact us by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com) with any questions you may have.