Abstract: A device and system for eliminating repeated testing of optical components while manufacturing an optical assembly can include a high-performance optical component having a machine-readable identifier disposed within the peripheral area of its end face. The machine-readable identifier can be etched into the end face and can provide information about the component, such as any one of the following optical characteristics: orientation, manufacturing information, and dimensions and compositions of the materials of the optical component. The optical component can also have a plurality of machine-readable identifiers disposed within the peripheral area of its end face, where each can provide different information. Optical components can then be automatically and precisely aligned before being mated to form an optical assembly. A determination of the optical characteristics, information, and alignment of the components can be possible even after the components are mated together.