Abstract: The present invention involves enhancing machine-readable matrix symbol markings on substrate materials by the addition of magnetizable materials, and then, at a later time, taking advantage of the magnetic properties associated with the matrix symbol marking to read the marking using a magneto-optic reading apparatus. For example, the marking material may be mixed with a media having magnetic properties and applied to a component surface either via stencil or as backfill. The magnetic material enables detection with the aid of a magnetic-property detection apparatus. Once detected, the matrix symbol image is transmitted to a symbol decoder so that the information represented by the symbol can be provided to a user.

Abstract: The multipurpose earth drill is tractor mountable with hydraulic operators to allow using the weight of the tractor for downward pressure on an extensible shaft earth drill which may be an auger or rack bit, the drill being rotated using an extensible shaft from the power take-off of the tractor and moved upward and downward with a pair of hydraulic operators that allow minimizing the overall height of the unit. The auger and auger drive gears are completely enclosed for personnel safety.