Capture the complete plate

Take one straight, well-lit photo showing the entire nameplate, then a closer photo if small characters are difficult to read. Avoid glare and motion blur.

Look for these fields

• Manufacturer / brand
• Model or type
• Serial number
• Part or product code
• Voltage, frequency and phase for electrical equipment
• Power, current, speed or duty where shown
• Pressure, flow, temperature or capacity where relevant
• Manufacturing date or revision

Also photograph the actual component

A nameplate identifies the equipment, but the required spare may have its own label or casting. Photograph the component, connectors, mounting arrangement and any visible markings.