October 3, 2024
BLUF: Nothing here is gospel truth, we just want to share some experiences and information on IT, computer, and other technical issues that seem to pop up on us at times. We are NOT the experts. What we can say as gospel however, is that personal information you provide on the pages must match your DEERS record information.
AFN Decoder Box - Register or Renew
- Go to the AFN website https://afnconnect.myafn.dodmedia.osd.mil/pw/, scroll to the bottom and click Continue
- Select Register and activate or renew my decoder’s registration (you can also Deregister or verify whether an encoder will work with AFN) and then click Next
- Select the type of Decoder box you have, enter the appropriate ID numbers, and click Next
- Fill in the information blocks, then select Agree at the bottom, and and click Next.
- Then wait for the email message they send you with instructions.
Example screens
AFN Helpdesk
Call +1 (951) 413-2339 / DSN (312) 348-1339 or email sathelpdma@mail.mil
Ensure you have your decoder's unique identification numbers, found on the label of the decoder
- Cisco decoders include the UA and TID numbers
- AFN7500HD decoders include the S/N and NSC ID numbers
- Harmonic decoders include the S/N and CAS ID numbers
ID.me
Creating an ID.me account and verifying your identity for the account is basically done in one of two ways: by using a U.S. Phone or via document uploads with a video call. The online process is pretty straight forward, just follow the buttons. The processes are lengthy and I noticed today, 4 Dec 2024, when helping someone else do this that the screens and options are slightly different than when I did it a few years ago. The overall process is the same, but different enough to where I am not adding screenshots or step by step procedures here.
To create an ID.me account you need an email address. If creating an account for your spouse, or rather helping your spouse in creating an account, they need their own email address. Can't use yours. Initially it is easy to create the account, which just requires simple info. But, the first time you log into it after it's created, such as using your ID.me account to log into Social Security, ID.me requires you to verify yourself, which is where the below options come into play.
- Using a U.S. phone: When using the U.S. Phone method they will have you take a picture of your documents with that phone, which is then sent to them.
- Video Verification Call: If you don't have a U.S. Phone, then select the other method of a Video Call, which will include uploading photos of documents, and then a video call to verify what you just submitted.
Documents
You will need a combination of several documents such as your Social Security card, Passport, Drivers License, W-2, 1099's, and others. The website has a list showing the options, but it isn't until you begin the process and get several screens in until you reach it. There is a SAVE & EXIT button along the way. If you SAVE & EXIT you will receive an email with a link that will take you right back to the spot you exited from.
