A reference mark configuration for an interferometric miniature grating encoder readhead using fiber optic receiver channels is provided. The multi-step etching process is a Br-based etching operation with one step including nitrogen and a further step deficient of nitrogen. In further embodiments, the method includes using a combination of a three dimensional camera or laser and impression material to make a mold for use in making the custom glove former. The user then selects one or more of the highly-ranked hosts as an entry point into the network.