You can find and purchase DIN standards primarily through DIN Media, the official publishing house of DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung), and directly via the DIN website.
Official Sources for DIN Standards
The most direct and reliable ways to access DIN standards are through their official channels:
1. DIN Media – The Official Publishing House
DIN Media is the publishing house of DIN and the authoritative source for purchasing DIN standards. This includes individual standards as well as subscriptions to collections of standards from Germany and around the world. When you purchase from DIN Media, you are assured of receiving the most current and authentic versions of the standards.
- Direct Purchase: You can buy specific standards as needed.
- Subscriptions: For organizations that require frequent access, subscription services offer comprehensive access to entire collections or specific subject areas.
- Languages: Many DIN standards are available in German and English, sometimes other languages.
2. DIN Website (www.din.de)
The official Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) website, www.din.de, serves as a central hub for information about DIN standards. While the website itself doesn't directly sell the standards, it provides extensive databases to search for standards and guides you to DIN Media for purchasing.
- Standard Search: Use the search function to locate specific standards by number, title, or subject.
- Information: Find details about the scope of standards, their current status (e.g., active, withdrawn), and related documents.
- Links to Purchase: The website will redirect you to DIN Media or provide clear instructions on how to acquire the standards.
Other Avenues for Accessing DIN Standards
Beyond the official channels, several other reputable sources can provide access to DIN standards:
1. Specialized Standards Resellers
Various authorized distributors and technical document providers worldwide specialize in selling standards from multiple organizations, including DIN. These resellers often provide value-added services such as:
- Consolidated purchasing for various national and international standards.
- Customized collections or industry-specific bundles.
- Digital delivery options.
2. Technical and University Libraries
Many large public, university, and corporate technical libraries subscribe to extensive databases of standards. These subscriptions often include DIN standards, allowing patrons to access them for research or academic purposes.
- Access for Patrons: Check with your local or institutional library for access to standards databases.
- Interlibrary Loan: If a specific standard isn't available, interlibrary loan services might be an option.
3. Online Subscription Services
Several online platforms offer subscription-based access to vast collections of technical standards from various bodies, including DIN. These services are particularly beneficial for businesses and professionals who regularly need to consult a wide range of standards.
How to Find a Specific DIN Standard
To effectively find a DIN standard, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official DIN Website: Start your search at www.din.de.
- Use the Search Function: Enter the standard's number (e.g., DIN EN ISO 9001) or relevant keywords describing the topic.
- Review Search Results: The results will typically provide information about the standard, its status, and a link to where it can be purchased through DIN Media.
- Consider Your Needs:
- Single Purchase: If you need just one or a few standards, direct purchase from DIN Media is usually the best option.
- Frequent Access/Multiple Standards: Explore subscription services from DIN Media or reputable resellers.
- Research: Utilize technical libraries for occasional access.
By utilizing these resources, you can ensure that you are accessing accurate, up-to-date, and officially sanctioned DIN standards, which are crucial for compliance, quality assurance, and technical excellence.