Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is DIME?

DIME is the acronym for Data Interchange for Materials Engineering. DIME is a web application developed by the California Department of Transportation, Materials Engineering & Testing Services (METS) to allow material testing laboratories the ability to easily submit sample information and test data to Caltrans' database via the internet. For a high level overview of DIME, please refer to DIME Overview.

DIME sounds great! How do I get started?

You can perform searches for information stored in the system without an signing in to DIME, but you will need an account to submit sample information and test results. Most users can simply reach out to their DIME organization manager and have them add you under the account. If you are unsure who your DIME organization manager is, you can search for your organization and request access. You may also request that a new DIME organization account be created if you do not currently have one.

Where can I get help for using DIME?

DIME is easy to use but help is here when you need it. We have a collection of help documents and instructional videos to give you an overview of the system, assist you in the submission of sample information, provide test results and inform you of other useful DIME features. If you still need assistance, you may send us a message.

Samples and Tests

What is a DIME Sample ID?

Please refer to the DIME Sample ID section on the DIME Overview and Definitions page for explanations and DIME Sample ID examples.

What is a DIME Test ID?

Please refer to DIME Test ID section on the DIME Overview and Definitions page for explanations and DIME Test ID examples.

Can I change the project associated with a sample after the sample is created?

Users with the role of organization manager can change the project associated with any sample that their DIME organization has submitted. In the project information section on any Sample Detail page, organization managers will find a link to change the associated project for that sample. Simply follow the instructions on the page to find and associate a new project.

How do I submit test results to DIME?

To submit test results on a DIME sample, please follow the instructions found on the How to Submit Test Results help page.

How can I request a new test method to be added to DIME?

Please refer to the DIME Supported Test Methods page under the search menu item from the main navigation. Search for the test method to see if DIME currently supports it. If you do not find the test method, follow the page's instructions to submit a request to add the test method to DIME.

DIME Accounts

Can I sign in to DIME with my Caltrans Employee ID?

You can use your Caltrans Employee ID (CTPass credentials or "S" number) to sign in to DIME, but you still need to have an account associated with your DOT email address. Most users can simply reach out to their DIME organization manager and have them add you under the account. If you are unsure who your DIME organization manager is, you can search for your organization and request access. Once you have an account, you may optionally use your Caltrans Employee ID and associated password to sign in to DIME.

What are the user roles in DIME accounts?

There are currently three defined roles for DIME accounts - Organization Manager, Data Administrator and Data Editor.

• Data Editor role allows an account to modify test results before test results are verified or published.
• Data Administrator can verify and supersede test records and also can delete sample and/or test records, in addition to all of the access rights of the Data Editor role.
• Organization Manager role gives an account the ability to manager users within a organization/laboratory, including modifying, editing, and deleting accounts, in addition to all of the access rights of the Data Administrator role.

For more information regarding roles: DIME User Roles and Permissions

How do I update my DIME organization account if a new company has acquired my company?

To update your DIME organization account after an acquisition, you must request a new DIME organization account. It is important to ensure that any samples and test records submitted after the acquisition are under the new company's account. The past published samples and test records are permanent records submitted by your previous organization.